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Clan Johnstone

also Johnston

The fighting Johnstons of the Western Borders.

Motto

Nunquam non paratus

— Never unprepared

What does the Johnstone name mean?

Multiple 'John's towns' exist in Scotland, but the surname is first recorded in Annandale, Dumfriesshire, in 1174.

The history of Clan Johnstone

The earliest record of the surname is in 1174 — one John of Johnstone in Annandale, Dumfriesshire. In 1296 Sir John of Johnstone of Dumfries pledged allegiance to Edward I of England.

Of the various 'John's towns' across Scotland, it was the fighting Johnstons of the Western Borders who became the most powerful. During the Civil War the clan supported the Royalist cause of Charles I.

In 1633 Charles I rewarded their loyalty by granting the chief a lordship. By the 1700s the Johnstone chief had been raised further, to Earl of Annandale and Secretary of State.

Frequently asked

What does the surname Johnstone mean?

Multiple 'John's towns' exist in Scotland, but the surname is first recorded in Annandale, Dumfriesshire, in 1174.

Where does the Johnstone family come from?

Clan Johnstone was historically based in the Ayrshire & Galloway of Scotland, in particular Galloway.

What is the Clan Johnstone motto?

The motto of Clan Johnstone is "Nunquam non paratus", which translates as "Never unprepared".

Is Johnston the same family as Johnstone?

Yes. Johnston is historical spelling variants of the Johnstone name. They share the same lineage and clan affiliation.

Neighbouring clans