Clan Erskine

Earls of Mar — and 'Bobbing John', who led the '15.

Motto

Je Pense Plus

— I think more

What does the Erskine name mean?

From the lands of Erskine in Renfrewshire, just south of the River Clyde, held by Henry de Erskine in the reign of Alexander II.

The history of Clan Erskine

The family takes its name from the lands of Erskine in Renfrewshire. The Erskines supported Robert the Bruce, and his son David II appointed Sir Robert de Erskine Keeper of Stirling Castle. Robert later served as Lord Great Chamberlain of Scotland from 1350 to 1357.

His grandson was created Lord Erskine. From this branch descended the Earls of Kellie, and the 6th Lord Erskine was granted the earldom of Mar in 1565.

That earl became known as 'Bobbing John' for his frequent switches of loyalty. After raising an army of over ten thousand for James VIII, he led the Jacobite Rising of 1715 — to inconclusive effect.

Notable bearers of the Erskine name

John Erskine, 'Bobbing John', leader of the 1715 Jacobite Rising

Frequently asked

What does the surname Erskine mean?

From the lands of Erskine in Renfrewshire, just south of the River Clyde, held by Henry de Erskine in the reign of Alexander II.

Where does the Erskine family come from?

Clan Erskine was historically based in the Glasgow & Strathclyde and Stirling & the Forth Valley of Scotland, in particular Renfrewshire and Stirling.

What is the Clan Erskine motto?

The motto of Clan Erskine is "Je Pense Plus", which translates as "I think more".

Who are some famous Erskines?

Notable bearers of the Erskine name include John Erskine, 'Bobbing John', leader of the 1715 Jacobite Rising.