The history of this tartan is closely tied to the Clan Keith, one of the most powerful clans in Scotland. They take their name from the lands of Keith in West Lothian, which were granted to them by King David I around 1150. The clan held the hereditary title of Great Marischal of Scotland until 1715. They were involved in various significant events, including feuds with neighboring clans and the Jacobite uprising. The Keith Tartan, known as "Keith and Austin," has both modern and antique versions. The tartan sett was devised by an Austin and shared with the Keiths. The history of this tartan is a reflection of the rich and complex heritage of the Clan Keith, which has played a prominent role in Scottish history.

What does Keith mean in Scottish?

Keith is a Scottish name of Gaelic origin that means "wood" or "from the battleground". The name shares the same derivation as Clan Keith and was originally associated with the Celtic warrior goddess Cethlenn, who was revered for her bravery and scented flowers. They were descended from Robert, an early Chieftain of the Catti tribe, and possibly one of the earliest settlers in Scotland. The surname derives from a toponym, Keith Marischal in East Lothian, possibly containing the Brittonic element cet "woods, forest."

When did the Keith clan start?

The Keith clan is one of the oldest clans in Scotland, with its oldest traceable ancestor being Hervey de Keith, who was active from 1159 to 1185 during the reign of David I. They acquired estates in Buchan, Kincardine, and Lothian through marriage to the heiress of Sir Alexander Fraser in the 14th century. They were historically one of the most powerful clans in Scotland, holding the hereditary title of Great Marischal of Scotland until 1715. The clan feuded for many years with the Clan Irvine and fought with the Gunns for many years in land disputes in Caithness. The current chief of Clan Keith is Sir James William Falconer Keith of Urie, 14th Earl of Kintore, 14th Lord Keith of Inverurie, and Keith Hall, 4th Viscount Stonehaven, 4th Baron Stonehaven, 5th Baronet, 6th of Ury.

What part of Scotland is the Keith Clan from?

The Keith Clan is from the lands of Keith in East Lothian, Scotland. The clan held the hereditary title of Great Marischal of Scotland until 1715. The 3rd Lord Keith was created Earl Marischal in 1458, and the 5th Earl was the richest nobleman in Scotland. The clan's history is associated with significant events and figures in Scottish history, such as the Battle of Bannockburn and their support for the Jacobites during the 1745 Uprising. They were known for their feuds with other clans, such as the Gunns and the Irvines. The Clan Keith Society USA is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of the clan.

Are there any famous historical references to the Keith tartan?

The Keith tartan is associated with the Clan Keith, one of the most powerful clans in Scotland. The clan's historical references date back to the 12th century when King David I granted the lands of Keith to the Keith ancestors. The clan played a significant role in Scottish history, such as the feud with the Clan Gunn and their involvement in the Wars of Scottish Independence, particularly their support of Robert the Bruce. The Keiths also held the hereditary title of Marischal, later Great Marischal of Scotland, and were involved in various significant events and conflicts throughout the centuries. The history of this clan is well-documented in scholarly works and is a part of the rich tapestry of Scottish clan history.