Collection: Weir

🏴 Clan Weir (also known as Veitch or Vere)

The Clan Weir is a historic Lowland Scottish family with deep roots in Lanarkshire, particularly associated with the barony of Blackwood, near Lesmahagow. Though never a large or widespread clan, the Weirs have a long and proud heritage characterized by loyalty, service, and a fierce independence of spirit.

🛡️ Clan Crest Description

The Weir crest badge depicts a boar passant azure (blue), armed and langued gules (with red tusks and tongue), standing upon a chapeau (cap of maintenance).

• The boar is a symbol of bravery, tenacity, and unyielding courage — an animal that will fight to the death when cornered.

• The chapeau signifies nobility and loyal service, as it was traditionally worn beneath the coronet of a peer.

The crest is surrounded by the traditional belt and buckle, indicating allegiance to the chief of the clan.

💬 Clan Motto

“Vero Nihil Verius”
(“Nothing Truer than Truth”)

This noble Latin motto reflects the clan’s devotion to integrity, honesty, and steadfastness in both principle and action. It embodies the Weirs’ historical reputation as trustworthy allies and upstanding Scotsmen.

📜 Historical Background

• Origins: The name Weir is derived from the Old English “Were” or Norman “de Vere”, meaning “a dam or fish weir.” The family likely has Norman roots, with early records suggesting descent from Ralph de Vere, who settled in Scotland following the Norman conquest.

• Early Establishment: The Weirs were granted lands in Blackwood, Lanarkshire during the reign of King David I (1124–1153). These lands would remain central to the family for centuries.

• Blackwood Weirs: By the 15th century, the Weirs of Blackwood had become the principal family, known for their loyalty to the Scottish Crown. They fought in many of Scotland’s wars of independence and served as justices and landholders.

• Distinguished Figures:

  • Sir George Weir of Blackwood was knighted for his service to the Crown.

  • Major Weir (1600–1670), known as the “Wizard of the West Bow,” was a controversial figure whose life ended in infamy — though his dark legend did little to tarnish the clan’s honor overall.

  • The Weirs of Stonebyres were also a prominent branch, noted for their contribution to Scottish law and governance.

🪶 Symbolism and Meaning

The boar, a recurring heraldic beast in Scottish arms, represents a warrior’s courage and fierce defense of home and kin.
The blue coloring (azure) signifies loyalty and truth — virtues directly echoed in the clan’s Latin motto.
Together, the imagery and words of the crest form a powerful declaration: honor and integrity above all.

👑 Clan Characteristics

⚜️ Legacy

Though the Clan Weir was relatively small, its members left an enduring mark on Scotland’s civic and military life. From the Blackwood estates to the courts of law and the battlefields of Britain, the Weirs became synonymous with truth, faith, and fortitude.

Their proud motto, Vero Nihil Verius, continues to symbolize their commitment to integrity — the truest heritage of any Scot.