Clan Balfour History, Motto, and Origins | Scottish Clan Balfour

Clan Balfour is an ancient Scottish family name most strongly associated with Fife, particularly the eastern Lowlands. The name Balfour is also seen in early records with related spellings such as Balfoure and Balfor, reflecting the lack of standardized spelling in medieval Scotland. As with many territorial surnames, the name developed from a specific place, and families who held or lived on that land gradually adopted it as a hereditary surname.

The name Balfour is generally understood to derive from the Gaelic “Baile Phuill,” meaning “the town of the pasture” or “village by the grazing land.” This agricultural origin places the family firmly within the rural and landholding traditions of medieval Scotland, where identity and power were closely tied to territory.

🏰 Celebrate Your Balfour Heritage

Are you a member of the Balfour lineage? We have curated a special collection of apparel, home goods, and custom gifts featuring the Balfour name and symbols.

View the Full Clan Balfour Collection Here or simply type "Balfour" into the search bar at the top of our site to see our latest designs.

The Rise of the Balfours in Fife

Early records place the Balfours in Fife as early as the 13th century. One of the most significant early figures was Sir Michael de Balfour, who swore fealty to Edward I of England in 1296 during the Wars of Scottish Independence. While such submissions were common at the time and often pragmatic rather than ideological, the record confirms the family’s established status by the late medieval period. Over time, the Balfours aligned themselves with Scottish royal authority and local governance rather than rebellion, which helped secure their long-term survival and prosperity.

The principal seat of the clan became Balfour Castle in Fife. Unlike Highland clans whose power was often measured in armed followers, the Balfours’ influence grew through law, land management, and service to crown and church.

Notable Figures and the Balfour Legacy

Several branches of the family emerged over time, including the Balfours of Burleigh, who became one of the most prominent lines. They were deeply involved in Scotland’s Reformation struggles and the later Covenanting movement. One of the most notable figures in clan history is James Balfour of Burleigh, who played a key role in the assassination of Archbishop James Sharp in 1679—an event that placed the family at the heart of Scotland’s religious conflict.

Despite moments of turmoil, the Balfours were also a family of scholars and administrators. Perhaps the most famous bearer of the name is Arthur James Balfour, born in 1848, who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and later as Foreign Secretary.

The Balfour Crest and Motto: "Forward"

The Balfour clan crest traditionally features a hand holding a dagger, symbolizing readiness, resolve, and personal responsibility. This imagery aligns closely with the clan motto, “Forward.” Unlike more poetic or symbolic mottos, “Forward” is direct and purposeful. It conveys momentum, determination, and the refusal to retreat in the face of difficulty. Historically, such a motto would have resonated in both military and moral contexts, urging action rather than hesitation.

Bring the Balfour Spirit Into Your Home

The legacy of land, learning, conviction, and leadership continues through those who carry the name today. Whether you are looking for a heritage gift for a family member or a keepsake for yourself, we invite you to explore our Balfour collection.

How to find your gifts:

1. Click Here: Shop the Balfour Collection 2. Search Above: You can also use the search bar at the top of this page and type in "Balfour" to see our blankets, mugs, and tees.