Collection: Scrymgeour

🏰 Clan Scrymgeour History

Clan Scrymgeour (pronounced Scrim-jer) is one of the oldest clans of Angus and Fife, with roots reaching back to the 12th century. The name comes from the Old English “skrymsher” or “skirmisher,” meaning swordsman or warrior, which perfectly suits the clan’s origins and heraldry.

The Scrymgeours were historically Hereditary Standard Bearers of Scotland, a title granted by William Wallace and confirmed by Robert the Bruce after the Battle of Bannockburn (1314). Their hereditary duty was to carry the royal standard in battle and ceremonial events — a position of the highest honor and great danger.

The family’s principal seat was at Dudhope Castle, near Dundee, and later Fintry Castle in Angus. The chiefs held the title Constables of Dundee and were powerful in local and national affairs for centuries.

In 1668, the male line appeared to end, but in 1954 the title and chiefship were officially restored to Henry Scrymgeour-Wedderburn, later Earl of Dundee, thus continuing the ancient lineage.

🛡️ Clan Crest

The crest in your image depicts:

• A lion’s paw holding a crooked sword (scimitar), proper — a symbol of strength, courage, and readiness to defend.

• The belt and buckle surround indicates loyalty to the clan chief, a traditional feature of Scottish clan crests.

This crest reflects the clan’s martial heritage and its centuries-long duty as the king’s standard bearers.

💬 Clan Motto

The clan motto reads:

“Dissipate”
(“Disperse” or “Scatter”)

This derives from the clan’s ancient battle cry and reflects their historic role in breaking enemy ranks and carrying the fight forward — fitting for a family of royal standard-bearers and warriors.

👪 Clan Septs and Associated Families

Families and surnames historically associated with Clan Scrymgeour include:

• Scrimgeour

• Scrymgeor

• Scrymgeour-Wedderburn

• Scrymger

• Skrymgeour

Some families bearing the name Wedderburn are also considered part of the clan through later alliances and marriages.

🧵 Clan Tartan

The Scrymgeour tartan is an elegant pattern, typically composed of:

• Dark green and navy blue base,

• With fine red and white overstripes, symbolizing valor and loyalty.

It is registered with the Scottish Register of Tartans and remains in use by the Earl of Dundee and clan members worldwide.

📜 Summary