Clan Melville facts for kids

Clan Melville is a Scottish clan from the Lowlands region. A "clan" is like a large family group, often sharing a last name and a long history. This clan does not currently have a chief, which means it is known as an Armigerous clan. The Lyon Court in Scotland is a special court that helps manage and recognize clans and their chiefs.

History of Clan Melville

Where the Name Comes From

The name Melville comes from a place called Maleville. This place is in the Pays de Caux region of Normandy, France. The story of the Melville name goes back a very long time.

A person named Guillaume de Malleville was with William, Duke of Normandy. This was during the famous Battle of Hastings in 1066.

Coming to Scotland

Later, during the time of King David I of Scotland, the Melville family moved to Scotland. They were given land in a place called Midlothian. This land and its area were then named after the Melville family. This is how the name became important in Scotland.

Clan Castles

Clans often have castles or grand homes that are important to their history. These buildings show where the family lived and how they grew over time. Here are some castles connected to the Melville family:

• Melville Castle, located in Midlothian, was the original family home. It is known as their ancestral seat.
• Melville House, found in Fife, was once the home of important members of the family. These included the Lord Melville and the Earl of Melville.
• Glenferness House, located in the Highland region, is the current home of the Earl of Leven and Earl of Melville.