Graham Clan

Graham Clan Origin: It has been said that the Roman Antonine Wall was crossed by a Graham and that wall is at times referred to as “Græme’s Dyke.” However, no proof has been given about that theory. Records do show the listing of the Graham name in William the Conqueror’s Doomsday book. Sir William of Graham was one of the knights who accompanied King David I as he came to Scotland to claim his throne. He was a witness to the building of the Abbey of Holyrood in 1128. It is from this line descended the Montrose line of Grahams, one of the most distinguished families of Scotland.

Clan Location: Menteith

Graham Clan Motto: Do not forget (Ne Oublie)

The Grahams acquired land around the areas of Dalkeith in Midlothian. They were able gain the land near Auchterarder, by marriage into the Strathearn family, and Mugdock where they built their castle in 1370.

Timeline of Famous Grahams : Sir John Graham of Dundoff, also known as the “Richt Hand” of William Wallace or Graham with the Bright Sword, was killed at the Battle of Falkirk in 1298. His gravestone and effigy can still be seen in Falkirk Old Perish Church.
James IV granted the title Earl of Montrose to the 3rd Lord Graham in 1504. Nine years later in 1513, the 3d Lord Graham was killed at the Battle of Flodden. 

Historic Grahams

James Graham, the 5th Earl Marquis of Montrose: James Graham, the 5th Earl became Marquis of Montrose and as one of the greatest generals to live, the Graham name became famous. He supported King Charles I and put an end to the torture from the Calvanists and Campbell’s until September 13, 1645 when his army was attacked without warning. James escaped but his men and their families were tortured. In 1650, James was murdered in Edinburgh. Ten years later, when Charles II came to reign, he organized what is known as ‘Scotland’s greatest State funeral’ for James Graham. 

John Graham: John Graham, or Viscount Dundee, was known for his leadership through the Jacobite rising, he died at the Battle of Killiecrankie (27 July 1689)was fought between Highland Scottish clans supporting King James VII of Scotland (James II of England) & government troops supporting King William of Orange during the first Jacobite uprising. To his friends he was known as “Bonnie Dundee” and to his enemies as “Bloody Clavers.” Although it was a stunning victory for the Jacobites, it had little overall effect on the outcome of the war and left their leader dead. Their forces were scattered at the Battle of Dunkeld the next month.

James Graham, 1st Duke of Montrose 1707: In 1707 James, 4th Marquis became Duke of Montrose. In 1782, the Marquis of Graham repealed the Act of 1747, which prohibited the clans to wear their Highland dress. He later became the 3rd Duke of Montrose. 

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