Clan Cockburn

A border clan of jurists and queen's men.

Motto

Accendit cantu

— He excites us with song

What does the Cockburn name mean?

From a place name near Duns in Berwickshire — likely 'cock' (woodcock or rooster) + 'burn' (stream).

The history of Clan Cockburn

The Cockburns are a Border clan, taking their name from a place near Duns in Berwickshire. Sir Alexander Cockburn de Langton became Keeper of the Great Seal of Scotland in 1390, and his son was created Great Usher in the Scots Parliament.

The family were staunch supporters of Mary Queen of Scots, and in 1568 lost their castle at Skirling, in Midlothian, in consequence.

Sir Alexander J. E. Cockburn served as Solicitor-General in 1850, Chief Justice in 1858, and Lord Chief Justice of England in 1859 — presiding over many of the most notorious trials of Victorian England, including the Tichborne case in 1873.

Notable bearers of the Cockburn name

Sir Alexander J. E. Cockburn, Lord Chief Justice

Frequently asked

What does the surname Cockburn mean?

From a place name near Duns in Berwickshire — likely 'cock' (woodcock or rooster) + 'burn' (stream).

Where does the Cockburn family come from?

Clan Cockburn was historically based in the The Borders of Scotland, in particular The Borders.

What is the Clan Cockburn motto?

The motto of Clan Cockburn is "Accendit cantu", which translates as "He excites us with song".

Who are some famous Cockburns?

Notable bearers of the Cockburn name include Sir Alexander J. E. Cockburn, Lord Chief Justice.