Collection: Ruthven

🏰 Clan Ruthven History

Clan Ruthven (pronounced Rivven) is an ancient Perthshire family of great distinction, whose history stretches back to the 12th century. The clan takes its name from the lands of Ruthven (meaning “place of the red river” in Gaelic) near Perth.

The family rose to prominence in the 13th and 14th centuries, and Sir William de Ruthven fought under William Wallace and Robert the Bruce in the Wars of Scottish Independence. The Ruthvens were staunch supporters of Scottish kings for generations and played significant roles in both politics and warfare.

One of the most famous (and controversial) events involving the clan was the “Raid of Ruthven” (1582) — when a group of Protestant nobles, including William, 1st Earl of Gowrie, kidnapped the young King James VI at Ruthven Castle. Though the king later forgave them, the family’s fortunes waned after the mysterious “Gowrie Conspiracy” of 1600, in which the Ruthvens were accused of plotting against the king. Their titles and lands were forfeited, though the name survived and continued through other branches.

A branch of the family later became the Ruthvens of Freeland, who were later restored in favor and produced the Barons Ruthven of Gowrie, a title that continues in the Peerage of the United Kingdom.

🛡️ Clan Crest

Your image shows the official Clan Ruthven crest badge, which features:

• A ram’s head couped sable (black), armed or (gold) — representing strength, determination, and perseverance.

• The ram symbolizes both the steadfastness and bold spirit of the clan through times of adversity.

• The crest is encircled by a belt and buckle, the traditional symbol of loyalty to a clan chief.

💬 Clan Motto

The Latin-Scots motto displayed is:

“Deid Schaw”
(“Show the deed” or “Prove by action”)

This phrase embodies the clan’s spirit of action over words — a hallmark of their history as warriors, statesmen, and survivors through turbulent centuries.

👪 Clan Septs and Associated Families

Families historically associated with or derived from Clan Ruthven include:

• Revan

• Rivven

• Revanne

• Riven

• Ruven

These variations emerged over time due to regional dialects and Anglicized spelling.

🧵 Clan Tartan

The Ruthven tartan is a beautiful sett featuring:

• Dark green and navy blue base,

• Crossed by fine red and white lines.

It is a dignified tartan registered with the Scottish Register of Tartans, reflecting both the strength and dignity of the clan’s legacy.

📜 Summary