Clan Boswell facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Clan Boswell
Crest: A falcon Proper, hooded Gules, jessed and belled Or
Motto	Vraye foi (True faith)
Clan Boswell has no chief, and is an armigerous clan

The Clan Boswell is a historic Scottish clan from the Lowlands of Scotland. A clan is like a large family group, often with a shared history and a chief. The Lord Lyon King of Arms officially recognizes Clan Boswell. However, the clan does not currently have a chief. This means it is known as an Armigerous clan, which is a clan without a recognized leader.

History of Clan Boswell

Early Origins of the Boswell Clan

The leaders of Clan Boswell are believed to have come from Normandy, a region in France. Historians suggest the name "Boswell" might come from a village or estate near Yvetot or Bolbec in Normandy. A leader named Lord de Bosville was reportedly one of the Norman commanders. He fought in the famous Battle of Hastings in 1066.

Later, a person named Robert de Boseuille was a witness to important documents. This happened during the time of William the Lion, a Scottish king. Robert is thought to have been among the knights who traveled to Scotland. They came with David I of Scotland after he had spent time at the English court.

Boswells in the Wars of Scottish Independence

During the Wars of Scottish Independence, the Boswell clan played a part. These wars were a long period of fighting between Scotland and England. Clan chief Walter de Bosville was captured by the English. This happened at the Battle of Dunbar (1296). In the same year, William de Bosville showed loyalty to England.

However, William's son, Richard de Bosville, supported Scotland. He received land near Ardrossan from the famous Scottish king, Robert the Bruce.

16th Century Battles and Knights

The 16th century saw the Boswell clan involved in the Anglo-Scottish Wars. These were conflicts between England and Scotland. Sir Alexander Boswell of Balmuto, a clan chief, died fighting. He was killed at the battle of Flodden in 1513. His son, David Boswell, also died in battle. This happened at the battle of Pinkie in 1547.

Later, John Boswell of Balmuto was made a knight. This special event took place at Stirling Castle on August 30, 1594. It was part of a celebration for the baptism of Prince Henry.

17th Century and the Civil War

The 17th century brought the English Civil War. Many members of the Boswell family fought in this conflict. They supported the Royalist cause, meaning they were loyal to the king. Sadly, many Boswells lost their lives fighting. This occurred at the Battle of Worcester in 1651.

Notable Boswells in the 18th Century

The 18th century saw several important members of the Boswell family. Alexander Boswell (judge) became a judge in 1756. He was known as the 8th Laird of Auchinleck. He took the special title of ‘Lord Auchinleck’.

His son, James Boswell, became very famous. He was the 9th Laird of Auchinleck. James Boswell is best known for writing the biography of Dr. Samuel Johnson. A biography is a book about someone's life.

James's son, Sir Alexander Boswell, 1st Baronet, was also important. He was the 10th Laird of Auchinleck. He was given the title of a baronet in 1821. Another notable Boswell was Robert Boswell. He worked as a Writer to the Signet. He also served as the temporary Lord Lyon, King of Arms, from 1795 to 1796. The Lord Lyon King of Arms is the official who deals with Scottish heraldry and clans.

Clan Boswell Profile

• Arms: Argent, on a fess Sable three cinquefoils of the First
• Crest: A falcon Proper, hooded Gules, jessed and belled Or
• Motto: Vraye foi (True faith)

See also

• Scottish clan
• Armigerous clan
• Boswell (surname)