Clan Bethune

Clan Bethune (Bethune Tartan)

Gaelic Name: Macbheatha
Crest: Crest Description: An otter’s head erased, Argent
Motto: De Bonnaire (Gracious)
Origin of Name: From town in Nord-Pas-de-Calais, France
Lands: Fife and Angus
Region: Markinch
Historic Seat: Balfour, Fife
Clan Chief: None, armigerous clan

1. Clan Bethune History

The origins of the name can be traced back to 12th-century France, originating from a town sharing the same name.

Evidence of its early presence is found in historical charters, with Robert de Betunia making an appearance as a witness between 1165 and 1190 in a charter of De Quinci.

During this period, variations in spelling such as Betun or Beton were common. By the 16th century, the name often encountered confusion with the similar-sounding Beaton.

John de Beton, a cleric from the diocese of Dunkeld, left his mark in history by witnessing a confirmation charter of the church of Ruthven to the Abbey of Arbroath circa 1211.

Not long after, David de Betun and John de Betun lent their signatures to a grant of land in Kerimor to the same property between 1214 and 1226. Moving forward, Andrew de Byetoine showed his loyalty by rendering homage at Forfar in 1296, followed by Sir David de Betune doing the same at Dundee.

Sir Robert de Betune pledged his allegiance at St Andrews in 1291, while Andrew de Betton of Perthshire followed suit by rendering homage in 1296.

Fast forward to 1395, Johannes de Beton contributed to an inquest on the marches of Kyrknes and Louchor. William Bettoun of Wosthall left his mark as a witness in 1526.

The Bethunes were not confined to history; their presence extended across Fife and Angus, where their name persists to this day.

The Seal of St Andrews proudly displays a cinquefoil in dexter chief alongside the inscription "S’Andree de Bettvne."

However, the most prominent figure associated with this name remains the Cardinal and Archbishop David Beaton.

2. Clan Bethune Tartans

While there isn't a registered Bethune tartan, individuals with the surname can opt to wear the MacBeth Tartan instead.


MacBeth modern

3. Clan Bethune Crest & Coats of Arms

3.1 Clan Bethune Crest

Worn by all of the name and ancestry

Crest Description:
Crest Description: An otter’s head erased, Argent

3.2 Clan Bethune Coat of Arms

A note on Coats of Arms: 

In accordance with Scottish heraldic law, a coat of arms is bestowed upon an individual, with the exception of civic or corporate arms. There is no concept of a 'family coat of arms'. The arms depicted below are personal to the individual granted them (excluding civic or corporate arms). Only the person who has been granted these arms possesses the right to utilize them.

BETHUNE (plain)
Azure, a fess, between three mascles, Or

Bethune of Balfour

Quarterly, 1st & 4th Azure a fess between three mascles Or (Bethune); 2nd & 3rd Argent on a chevron Sable an otter’s head erased of the field

Bethune of Creich

4. Clan Bethune Places & People

4.1 Clan Bethune Places

Corrie Fee, located in Glen Clova, Angus, in eastern Scotland, holds historical associations with Clan Bethune.

4.2 Clan Bethune People

4.2.1 Alexander Bethune (1804-1843)

The Scottish poet you're referring to is Alexander Bethune. He initially worked as a laborer but later became a turnkey at Glasgow Prison. In 1838, he published "Tales and Sketches of Scottish Peasantry," followed by "Scottish Peasant’s Fireside" in 1842.

4.2.2 Henry Norman Bethune (1890 – 1939)

Bethune, a Canadian physician with Scottish roots, left a lasting legacy as a medical innovator and staunch anti-fascist. His journey began amidst the tumult of the Spanish Civil War, where he served as a frontline surgeon.

Later, he joined the Communist Eighth Route Army (Ba Lu Jun) in the Second Sino-Japanese War, where his contributions to rural China's healthcare earned him praise from none other than Mao Zedong.

An outspoken advocate for communism and peace, Bethune's impact reverberates through history. In China, his memory lives on through numerous statues erected in his honor, a testament to his enduring influence.

5. Associated Names

The name Bethune is a recognised sept of Clan MacBeth