Clan Boswell
Clan Boswell (Boswell Tartan)
Crest: A falcon Proper, hooded Gules, jessed and belled, Or
Motto: Vraye Foi (True Faith)
Lands: Berwickshire
Clan Chief: None, armigerous clan
1. Clan Boswell History
Let's explore the rich tapestry of the Boswells, also known as Boswall, a name that echoes through the corridors of Scottish history.
The tale begins with Robert de Boseuille, a figure intertwined with the reign of William the Lion, bearing witness to charters that shaped the land. Paganus de Bosseuilla, in a gesture of reverence, bestowed land upon the Abbey of Kelso in the verdant plains of Edenham.
As time wove its threads, the Boswells left their mark in battles and bonds. Walter de Boseville, captured in the tumult of Dunbar's clash, stands testament to their martial spirit.
William de Boswill, hailing from both Berwickshire and Roxburghshire, pledged homage in a unified gesture of loyalty.
Through the annals of Edinburgh's history, the Boswells thrived as custumars and burgesses, their influence stretching across the realm.
Roger de Boswell, in a tale of love and legacy, wedded Mariota, daughter of Sir William Lochore, forging ties that bound Fife to their lineage.
Come the 17th century, the Boswells intertwined their fate with Auchinleck, a name whispered in the winds of Scottish lore. Alexander, the 8th Laird, raised Auchinleck House from the earth, a testament to their prosperity.
And from these hallowed grounds emerged James Boswell, the 9th Laird, whose pen immortalized the life of Dr. Samuel Johnson in the annals of literature.
Thus, the Boswells weave a tale of heritage and honor, their legacy etched into the very fabric of Scotland's story.
Auchinleck House, nestled in the heart of East Ayrshire. Once the stronghold of the Auchinleck clan, this estate boasts a legacy dating back to the 13th century when a stout castle stood proudly upon its grounds.
Legend has it that the lands and noble title of Auchinleck passed into the hands of Thomas Boswell, a fortunate soul favored by James IV. As fate would have it, Thomas tied the knot with the daughter of Sir John Auchinleck, sealing their union with the promise of land and legacy.
The Auchinleck we know today took shape in the 1700s, a majestic mansion rising from the earth to become a symbol of the Boswell lineage. For centuries, it echoed with the footsteps of generations, each adding their own chapter to its storied halls.
Yet, as time flowed like the river Doon, the winds of change swept across Auchinleck. In 1986, the Boswell torch passed to new hands, marking the end of an era for this noble abode.
But though the Boswells may have departed, their spirit lingers still, woven into the very stones of Auchinleck House, a testament to their enduring legacy in the annals of Scottish history.
2. Clan Boswell Tartans
The Boswell tartan derives its colors from Colonel W. P. Boswell of Toberchurn’s Coat of Arms. However, as it is a restricted tartan, permission would be needed to weave it.
Therefore, Boswells can also wear the Tweedside, Ayrshire, or Fife District tartans, which reflect the areas associated with the clan.
Boswell tartan
Tweedside District
Ayrshire District
Fife District
3. Clan Boswell Crest & Coats of Arms
3.1 Clan Boswell Crest
Worn by all of the name and ancestry
Crest Description:
A falcon Proper, hooded Gules, jessed and belled, Or
3.2 Clan Boswell Coats of Arms
A note on Coats of Arms:
Under Scottish heraldic law, a coat of arms is awarded to an individual (with the exception of civic or corporate arms). There is no such thing as a ‘family coat of arms’. The arms represented below are personal arms (with the above exceptions). Only the individual granted these arms has the right to use them.
BOSWELL of Balmuto
Argent, on a fesse, Sable, three cinquefoils, of the first
Boswell – William Paret Boswell of Toberchurn
Lyon Register
Matriculated in 2001; Re-granted with Territorial Designation “of Toberchurn” in 2008
4. Clan Boswell Places & People
4.1 Clan Boswell Places
Balmuto Castle
Let's journey to the heart of Fife, where the ancient stones of Balmuto Castle whisper tales of centuries gone by. Standing tall since the 1400s, this castle began its life as a sturdy tower, a bastion against the winds of time.
Legend has it that the Boswells, through the ties of marriage with the Glen family, laid claim to parts of the Balmuto lands in the early 15th century.
Their bond was so strong that even James II himself, in a royal decree dated either 1439 or 1440, confirmed their ownership.
Through the ages, Balmuto Castle witnessed countless transformations, evolving from a humble tower into a grand mansion. Yet, like many ancient relics, it fell into disrepair during the tumult of the 20th century.
Enter Harry Boswell, an American with a passion for heritage. In the swinging '60s, he crossed the Atlantic to reclaim the glory of Balmuto.
With dedication and love, he breathed new life into its weathered walls, overseeing a meticulous restoration from 1974 to 1984.
Today, Balmuto stands proud once more, a testament to the enduring spirit of its guardians and the timeless allure of Scotland's historic treasures.
Though now a haven for its lucky inhabitants, its echoes still resonate with the whispers of centuries past.
4.2 Clan Boswell People
James Boswell, 9th Laird of Auchinleck (29 October 1740 – 19 May 1795)
James Boswell, a man of many talents and a true Scottish legend! He wasn't just your average lawyer; he was also a skilled author and diarist. But what really put him on the map was his masterpiece: the biography of none other than Samuel Johnson, the bigwig of English literature.
Yep, you heard that right! Boswell's claim to fame was his "Life of Samuel Johnson," a captivating read that hit the shelves back in 1791.
This wasn't just any biography; it was a deep dive into the life and times of one of the literary greats, penned by our very own Scottish wordsmith. So, next time you're browsing the bookshelves, keep an eye out for Boswell's work – it's a must-read for any literature buff!
5. Associated Names
Black offers two derivations of the name – either from a village or manor near Yvetot in Normandy, or from Beuzeville near Bolbec. The "sieur" or Lord de Bosville.