Clan Brown/Broun

Clan Brown/Broun (Brown/Broun Tartan)

Crest: A lion rampant, holding in the dexter paw a fleur de lis, Or
Motto: Floreat Magestas (Let Majesty Flourish)
Lands: Tweeddale
Historic Seat: Colstoun House, East Lothian
Clan Chief: Sir Wayne Broun of Coulston Bt

1. Clan Brown / Broun History

The surname Brown, in its more widespread form, is indeed quite common and typically relates to the color itself.

There's a fascinating connection between the name and the Celts, possibly stemming from 'brehon,' which was a term for a judge in ancient Celtic society.

In Scottish records dating back to 1128, we find Sir David Le Brun as a witness to the establishment of Holyrood Abbey, where he played a beneficent role.

Early Brouns often claimed descent from French nobility, as evidenced by their coat of arms adorned with three golden lilies.

Through strategic marriages, the Brouns forged alliances with influential families like the Hays, establishing roots around Haddington.

In 1686, Patrick Broun of Coulston was granted the prestigious title of a Nova Scotia Baronet, a distinction that has remained within the family to this day.

2. Clan Brown / Broun Tartans

Brown Ancient

Brown Modern

3. Clan Brown / Broun Crest & Coats of Arms

3.1 Clan Brown/Broun Crest

Worn by all of the name and ancestry

Crest Description:
A lion rampant, holding in the dexter paw a fleur de lis, Or

3.2 Clan Brown/Broun Coats of Arms

A note on Coats of Arms:

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

Coat of Arms of the Chief of Clan Broun

4. Clan Brown / Broun Places & People

4.1 Clan Brown Places

4.1.1 Carsluith Castle

Carsluith Castle, nestled in the heart of Galloway, boasts a rich history that dates back to the late 1400s or early 1500s, when it was first erected by James Lindsay of Fairgirth.

The castle then found itself under the stewardship of his son, Herbert Lindsay, who tragically met his fate at the Battle of Flodden in 1513. Subsequently, through the bonds of matrimony, Carsluith transitioned into the possession of the Brown family, who further fortified its walls, enhancing its defensive capabilities.

For generations, the Browns held sway over the castle until 1748 when they embarked on a journey to India, leaving behind the castle, now abandoned and cloaked in the mists of time. Today, all that stands are the haunting ruins of this once-mighty fortress.

4.1.2 Bruntsfield House

Bruntsfield House, situated in Edinburgh, was once a formidable stronghold associated with Clan Brown. The name "Bruntsfield" itself is derived from the Browns or Brouns, known as "Broun's Field." Richard Broun was the proprietor of the lands upon which the House was erected.

Eventually, these lands were granted to Alan Lauder of Haltoun in 1381. Throughout its history, Bruntsfield House has been intertwined with the legacy of Clan Brown, serving as a testament to their presence and influence in the region.

5. Associated Names

Although considered a clan in its own right, Broun is historically and presently recognized as a sept of Clan Douglas.

Additionally, it has connections with Clan Lamont and Clan MacMillan. The surname Broun has various spelling variants, including Broun, Brown, Braun, and Le Brun.