Clan Johnston / Johnstone: The Fierce Border Clans of the Scottish Lowlands
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Clan Johnston / Johnstone: The Fierce Border Clans of the Scottish Lowlands
In the untamed lands between Scotland and England, where lawlessness once reigned, few clans held as much power and notoriety as Clan Johnston—also known as Johnstone, with variations including Johnstoun, Johnstoune, and Johnstowne. This formidable Border clan was known for its unwavering loyalty, strength in battle, and fierce independence.
Whether you're descended from the name or intrigued by tales of Border Reivers, the story of Clan Johnston is a thrilling chapter in Scottish history—and one still felt today.
History and Origins of Clan Johnston
The name Johnston (later spelled Johnstone) is derived from the lands of Johnstone in Annandale, Dumfriesshire, where the family held estates as early as the 12th century. The name literally means “John’s town.” The clan rose to prominence quickly, becoming powerful landowners in the Scottish Borders, a notoriously turbulent region.
By the 14th century, the Johnstons had become one of the most dominant Border clans, often clashing with neighboring families—especially their bitter rivals, the Maxwells. Their power grew not through noble bloodlines, but through strength, cunning, and martial skill.
In 1633, Sir James Johnstone was elevated to 1st Earl of Hartfell, cementing the clan’s aristocratic standing.
Crest and Motto
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Crest: A winged spur
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Motto: Nunquam non paratus – "Never unprepared"
This motto perfectly reflects the clan's roots as a Border Reiver family—always ready to defend, retaliate, or ride under cover of night. The winged spur symbolizes swift movement and readiness for battle.
Notable Figures from Clan Johnston
Clan Johnston has produced many significant figures in Scottish and global history:
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James Johnstone, 1st Earl of Hartfell (1602–1653) – Fought in the Civil War and supported King Charles I.
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Field Marshal Sir William Johnstone – Served in the British Army and held command roles in the 19th century.
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Sir Archibald Johnston, Lord Warriston (1610–1663) – A prominent Covenanter, lawyer, and statesman, though he was later executed for treason.
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George Johnstone (1730–1787) – A Royal Navy officer and colonial governor.
Today, the name Johnstone/Johnston is found worldwide, with many descendants unaware of the warrior blood that runs through their veins.
Castles and Landmarks
The Johnston clan built and defended several strongholds in the Borders:
🏰 Lochwood Tower
The ancestral seat of Clan Johnston, Lochwood Tower was a formidable 16th-century fortress in Dumfriesshire, surrounded by dense woods. It was burned by the Maxwells in 1585 but later rebuilt.
🏰 Raehills House
Located near Moffat, this elegant 18th-century mansion became the home of the Marquess of Annandale, a title still held by Johnston descendants today.
Fierce Rivalry: The Johnstones vs. the Maxwells
One of the most famous clan feuds in Scottish history was between the Johnstones and the Maxwells. The feud culminated in the Battle of Dryfe Sands in 1593, where the Johnstones decisively defeated and killed Lord Maxwell.
The feud carried on for years, reflecting the brutal, retaliatory nature of the Border Reivers and the deeply personal loyalties of the time.
Spelling Variants and Clan Connections
The surname has several variations, including:
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Johnston
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Johnstone
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Johnstoun
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Johnstoune
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Johnstowne
Although these variations may seem different, they all trace back to the same powerful Border clan.
Clan Connections:
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The Johnstones were considered a leading Border Reiver clan, not tied to any Highland confederation.
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Some distant links exist between the Johnstones and the Douglas and Maxwell families through marriage and political maneuvering—though often as allies-turned-enemies.
The Johnston Tartan
The Johnston tartan is a bold pattern of deep blues, blacks, and greens, with hints of red. It symbolizes both the rugged landscape of the Borders and the fierce pride of the family.
Whether worn at formal gatherings or displayed in your home, the tartan is a timeless tribute to a name that was always ready for anything.
Fun Facts About Clan Johnston / Johnstone
✨ Border Reiver Legacy – The Johnstones were among the most feared Border Reivers. Their ability to raid and retreat swiftly earned them a legendary status in southern Scotland.
✨ The ‘J’ Mystery – The original name was often spelled Johnstoun or Jonestoun, and older documents don’t always use the letter "J", which was uncommon in early Scots language.
✨ Hollywood Name? – Many actors and public figures in modern America and the UK with the surname Johnston/Johnstone may have distant links to this Scottish warrior clan.
✨ Still Noble Today – The current Chief of Clan Johnstone holds the title of Marquess of Annandale, though the peerage had periods of dormancy and legal disputes over the rightful heir.
Modern-Day Clan Johnstone
Today, the Johnstone/Johnston surname is carried proudly by tens of thousands of people across Scotland, the UK, the United States, Canada, Australia, and beyond. The Clan Johnstone Society continues to promote heritage and genealogical connections, and the Johnston name is still revered at Highland games and ancestry festivals worldwide.
Whether through art, politics, military service, or everyday acts of family pride, modern descendants carry on the legacy of being “never unprepared.”
Explore Your Johnston Heritage Today
Looking for a way to connect with your ancestry? Our store features a wide range of Clan Johnston / Johnstone gifts, including t-shirts, mugs, blankets, flags, ornaments, and more—all proudly displaying the crest and tartan of your clan.
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Conclusion: Nunquam Non Paratus – Never Unprepared
Clan Johnston’s legacy is one of resilience, strength, and fierce loyalty. From the battles of the Borders to the modern-day celebrations of Scottish ancestry, this clan has never backed down from a fight—or a challenge.
If you bear the name Johnston, Johnstone, or any of its spellings, you are part of a long-standing tradition of readiness, boldness, and enduring pride.
Celebrate it. Share it. Wear it.