Barclay Clan: A Legacy of Norman Knights and Scottish Nobilit
The history of the Barclay name is a sweeping epic that stretches from the heart of Normandy to the rugged landscapes of Aberdeenshire and Kincardineshire. For those who bear the Barclay name, it represents a lineage of high-ranking advisors to kings, influential merchants, and fierce defenders of the Scottish realm. To walk in the footsteps of a Barclay is to embrace a heritage defined by both the sword and the pen.
The Norman Roots and the Rise of de Berchelai
The Barclay story begins in the 11th century with the Norman Conquest. The name is derived from "Berkeley" in Gloucestershire, England, where the family first settled after arriving from France. The transition to Scotland occurred in the 12th century when Sir Walter de Berkeley moved north during the reign of King David I.
King David I was known for inviting Norman knights to settle in Scotland to help modernize the kingdom’s administration and defenses. Walter de Berkeley quickly rose to prominence, eventually becoming the Great Chamberlain of Scotland under King William the Lion. This prestigious appointment set the stage for the Barclays to become one of the most influential landed families in the Northeast of Scotland.
The Towie Barclay and Ury Branches
As the family grew, two primary branches emerged that would shape the Barclay legacy for centuries: the Barclays of Towie and the Barclays of Ury.
The Barclays of Towie
Based in Aberdeenshire, the Towie Barclay branch built the formidable Towie Barclay Castle. This branch was known for its involvement in local politics and its unwavering support for the Scottish crown. Legend tells of a curse placed upon the castle, but the family’s resilience allowed them to remain a pillar of Aberdeenshire society for generations. Interestingly, a member of this branch, Michael Andreas Barclay de Tolly, became a celebrated Field Marshal in the Russian Empire, leading armies against Napoleon.
The Barclays of Ury
The Ury branch, based in Kincardineshire, became famous for a different reason. In the 17th century, David Barclay of Ury became a prominent convert to Quakerism. His son, Robert Barclay, wrote An Apology for the True Christian Divinity, which remains one of the most important theological works of the Quaker faith. This shift from warriors to thinkers and advocates for peace highlights the intellectual depth of the Barclay clan.
The Barclay Tartan and Symbols
The Barclay tartan is a striking design, characterized by its bold use of yellow and black against a green and blue background. It is a "hunting" style tartan, reflecting the family’s connection to the land and their status as landed gentry.
The clan crest features a "sun in splendor," symbolizing providence, glory, and the bright future of the lineage. The clan motto, Aut Agere Aut Mori (Either Action or Death), serves as a powerful reminder of the Barclay commitment to purpose and decisiveness.
Celebrating Your Barclay Heritage
Whether your ancestors were Norman knights, Scottish Lairds, or Russian Field Marshals, the Barclay name carries a weight of history that deserves to be celebrated. Wearing the Barclay tartan or displaying the clan crest is a way to bridge the gap between the past and the present, ensuring that the "sun in splendor" continues to shine for future generations.
Explore the Barclay Collection
If you are proud of your Barclay roots, you can find a curated selection of heritage items featuring the Barclay tartan and crest. From custom apparel to unique home decor, carry your history with you.
