Clan Barclay: Crest, Motto, History & Proud Scottish Roots

Clan Barclay is one of the most enduring and fascinating families in Scottish history, with roots that stretch back over 900 years. What if your heritage is connected to such a powerful legacy? If you’re a Barclay—or fascinated by Scotland’s rich tapestry of clans—you’re in for a story as bold as a Highland charge. 

From their Norman origins to their central role in medieval Scotland and their enduring legacy today, Clan Barclay has shaped politics, religion, and even finance (yes—Barclays Bank!). Anchored in Aberdeenshire and rooted deeply in the Scottish clan system, the Barclay family of Scotland is more than a surname—it’s a symbol of pride, resilience, and heritage.

Visual symbolism tells us a lot about a clan's values, and Clan Barclay’s crest and motto are no exception. The official crest features a hand holding a dagger, displayed atop a chapeau doubled Ermine, representing readiness for action and noble authority.

Their Latin motto, “Aut Agere Aut Mori”, translates as “Either action or death". It’s a powerful statement. It captures the clan’s historical tenacity—refusing to stand idle in danger or injustice. This Clan Barclay motto echoes through battles, diplomacy, and even modern pursuits. Barclays continues to stand out as doers, not watchers.

So, where did Clan Barclay come from? Like many great Scottish clans, their story starts far from the Highlands— in Normandy. The original family name was de Berchelai, and they first settled in Gloucestershire, England, after the Norman Conquest. Over time, the name evolved into "Barclay" as the family’s influence grew.

By the 12th century, Barclays were already making their way into Scotland, likely encouraged by kings like David I, who invited noble families from England to help modernize and fortify his realm. One of the earliest known Barclays in Scotland, Richard de Berkeley, pops up in 1162, and his relatives—like Robert and Walter—quickly rose to powerful positions, including Chamberlain of Scotland.

But that wasn’t the only wave. In the early 13th century, a second branch of the family, led by Roger de Berkeley of Dursley, settled in Fife and Perthshire. His descendants founded the main Barclay lineages we know today through marriage and land deals—Towie, Kilbirnie, and Brechin.

The result? A clan with not one origin story, but many. That’s what makes Barclay genealogy so fascinating.

If there’s one thing that defines the Barclay clan history, it’s their fierce involvement in Scotland’s turning points. They weren’t bystanders—they were shapers of history.

As we enter the late medieval period, the Barclays had spread across Lanark, Ayr, Fife, Perth, and Aberdeenshire, establishing themselves as provosts, sheriffs, burgesses, and landowners. But let’s not sugarcoat it—they weren’t saints.

One of the most infamous stories tied to the Barclay name? The boiling of Sheriff John Melville in 1421 was orchestrated by George Berclay of Mathers and his allies. Melville, known for his harsh law enforcement, made one too many enemies. Legend says he was invited to a hunting party… only to be thrown into a cauldron and boiled alive. Yes, you read that right. It’s one of those tales that feels more myth than fact—but sometimes reality is just that wild in Scotland.

At the same time, the clan was consolidating power. In 1516, Walter Barclay of Towie was granted a royal charter, uniting lands into the Barony of Barclay, and later building the now-iconic Towie Barclay Castle.

And David’s legacy didn’t stop there. His son, Robert Barclay, became one of the most influential Quakers of the 17th century. His book “An Apology for the True Christian Divinity” challenged the religious norms of the day and caught the attention of King James II. Talk about making waves.

Let’s talk tartan—because every clan needs a proud visual identity, right?

The Barclay tartan is a beautiful blend of tradition and individuality. Like many Scottish clan tartans, it comes in several variations, including the modern, ancient, and hunting styles. With deep blues, greens, and reds, the tartan of the Barclay clan reflects its Lowland heritage. Still, it retains the boldness associated with Highland patterns.

Whether worn on a kilt, scarf, or sash, the Clan Barclay tartan makes a statement: one of ancestral pride and timeless style. It’s not just for ceremonies—you can wear it to connect with your heritage in everyday life. After all, what better way to say “I know where I come from?"