Clan Little: A Proud Legacy of the Scottish Borders
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Who Were the Littles of Scotland?
Clan Little may be small in name, but its legacy stands tall in the rich tapestry of Scottish history. Known as a Border clan, the Littles held lands in the wild and turbulent frontier between Scotland and England. From fierce battles and riding with the famed Border Reivers to deep-rooted ties in Dumfriesshire, Clan Little has a story worth discovering.
Whether you're a Little by name, blood, or spirit, your clan’s legacy is one of courage, independence, and unshakable pride.
Where Did Clan Little Originate?
Clan Little is a Lowland clan, traditionally associated with the Eskdale Valley in Dumfriesshire, just north of the English border. Early records trace the name “Lytill” as far back as the 12th century, with Richard le Lytle mentioned in documents from 1300.
The name itself may have been a nickname for a physically small person, but over generations, it came to represent a tight-knit and bold family group in the Borders—a region known for constant skirmishes and resilience.
Crest, Motto & Tartan
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Crest: A demi lion sable (black) holding a cutlass
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Motto: Concedo Nulli – “I yield to none”
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Tartan: Deep green and navy with bold black stripes—simple yet strong, just like the clan it represents.
The Clan Little crest is a powerful image of readiness and defense, and the motto sums up the Border spirit: fiercely independent and unwilling to back down.
Clan Little and the Border Reivers
The Littles were part of the infamous Border Reivers, a collection of riding families who raided across the Anglo-Scottish border from the late 13th to early 17th centuries. These were not lawless bandits but rather skilled horsemen and tacticians, navigating a land where central authority often failed.
Clan Little aligned closely with powerful neighbors like the Armstrongs, and they often banded together for protection, survival, and retaliation. Their motto “I yield to none” wasn’t just words—it was a lived reality in a brutal region.
Famous Places & Clan Lands
The ancestral territory of Clan Little lies in Meikledale, a beautiful stretch in Eskdale, Dumfriesshire. The clan’s chief once held these lands directly from the Scottish crown.
Though the Littles lost Meikledale in the 17th century, the area remains deeply symbolic. Today, a memorial cairn stands at Meikledale, honoring the legacy of Clan Little and their roots in the valley.
Is Clan Little a Sept of Another Clan?
Clan Little is recognized as a distinct clan in its own right and does not fall under a larger clan. However, due to shared territory and alliances, Littles were often closely connected to neighboring families like the Armstrongs, Elliots, and Irvings.
If you’re researching your ancestry and come across both Little and Armstrong ties, that connection is historically accurate and worth exploring.
Fun Fact: Not So Little After All
Despite the name, many members of Clan Little were known for their fierce presence and larger-than-life reputations. In fact, some Littles were tall and strong, giving rise to tongue-in-cheek stories about how the name was anything but literal!
Celebrating Clan Little Today
Many descendants of Clan Little now live in the United States, Canada, Australia, and beyond. Whether through Scottish festivals, genealogy, or family gatherings, the Little name lives on with pride.
Looking to honor your roots?
🎁 Explore our full collection of Clan Little gifts – from tartan apparel to mugs, blankets, and home decor.
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Final Thoughts
From their rugged roots in the Borders to their brave spirit and lasting legacy, Clan Little reminds us that family heritage isn’t measured in size—it’s measured in strength, pride, and story. Whether you wear the tartan, fly the crest, or pass down the name, you’re part of something powerful.
Are you a proud Little? Share your family story with us—we’d love to hear it! 👨👩👧👦💚