Agnew
Agnew Tartan Collection
Celebrate the hereditary sheriffs of Galloway with the Agnew tartan collection — inspired by Lochnaw Castle, the watchful eagle crest of Clan Agnew, and the clan's wise motto, Consilio Non Impetu.
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About the Agnew Tartan
The Agnew tartan is the cloth of a true Lowland clan from Galloway, in the far south-west of Scotland, where the Agnews of Lochnaw served as hereditary Sheriffs of Wigtown for more than four centuries. Unusually, the modern Agnew tartan was designed in 1976 by the clan's own chief, Sir Crispin Agnew of Lochnaw, and registered with the Lord Lyon in 1978 — making it a rare example of a tartan created by the very chief whose name it carries.
Whether you bear the Agnew name, descend from Galloway, or simply admire its cool, sea-misted palette, this collection brings the Agnew tartan into wearable apparel, everyday accessories, home decor and meaningful heritage gifts.
Agnew Tartan Pattern & Colours
The Agnew tartan is built on navy blue, black and green with crisp white lines and fine red accents — a restrained, dignified palette often said to echo Galloway's sombre moors and sea mists. The deep ground keeps it understated, while the white and red overchecks give the sett its quiet definition.
Who Is This Collection For?
The Agnew tartan collection is a meaningful choice for the Agnew family, descendants of Galloway and Wigtownshire, those with Scots-Irish ties across the North Channel, and anyone who values a distinctive Lowland clan tartan with genuine pedigree.
- Agnew family members
- Galloway & Wigtownshire roots
- Scots-Irish heritage
- Clan gatherings
- Birthday & Christmas gifts
- Everyday tartan style
Agnew Clan Heritage
Clan Agnew settled in Galloway by the 14th century, and in 1426 Andrew Agnew was made Constable of Lochnaw Castle, followed in 1451 by the powerful hereditary office of Sheriff of Wigtown — a post the family held for over 400 years. The chiefs paid dearly for their loyalty: Patrick Agnew, 4th of Lochnaw, died after Flodden in 1513, and Andrew, 5th of Lochnaw, fell at Pinkie in 1547. The origin of the name is debated, traced either to the Norman barony of d'Agneaux or to the Ulster bards of O'Gnimh.
The crest, an eagle issuant and reguardant, and the motto Consilio Non Impetu — "by wisdom, not by force" — reflect a family that rose through diplomacy and law rather than the sword. The line continues today under Sir Crispin Agnew of Lochnaw, 11th Baronet, a herald at the Court of the Lord Lyon and designer of the modern clan tartan, keeping a six-century Galloway story alive.
Agnew Tartan FAQ
Quick answers about the Agnew tartan, who can wear it, and why Agnew products make meaningful Scottish heritage gifts.
What is the Agnew tartan?
It is the clan tartan of Clan Agnew of Galloway, designed in 1976 by the chief Sir Crispin Agnew of Lochnaw and registered in 1978. The sett uses navy blue, black and green with white lines and fine red accents.
Who can wear the Agnew tartan?
Anyone can wear it. It is especially meaningful for people of the Agnew name, those with Galloway or Wigtownshire ancestry, and those with related Scots-Irish heritage.
Where does the Agnew name come from?
The origin is debated. One tradition traces it to the Norman barony of d'Agneaux; another to the O'Gnimh, hereditary bards of Ulster, whose name was anglicised to Agnew.
What does the motto "Consilio Non Impetu" mean?
It means "by wisdom, not by force" (or "by counsel, not by rashness"), paired with an eagle crest — fitting for a family of sheriffs known for diplomacy over warfare.
Is Agnew tartan a good gift?
Yes. Agnew products make thoughtful gifts for family members, clan gatherings, birthdays, Christmas and Scottish heritage celebrations, especially for those tied to Galloway.
Where was the Agnew clan seat?
Lochnaw Castle, near Stranraer in Wigtownshire, was the seat of the chiefs of Clan Agnew for over five hundred years, until it was sold in the 20th century.
Celebrate Your Agnew Heritage in Style
Discover Agnew tartan apparel, accessories and meaningful Scottish-inspired gifts that honour Galloway ancestry, the eagle crest and the clan's enduring motto.
View Agnew Tartan Products