Clan Trotter facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clan Trotter |
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| Motto | In Promptu (In readiness) | ||
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| Alexander Trotter of Mortonhall | |||
| Chief of Clan Trotter | |||
| Seat | Mortonhall | ||
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Clan Trotter is a Scottish clan from the Scottish Borders area of Scotland. A clan is like a large family group, often with a shared history and a chief. The Trotter clan has a long and interesting history, with members known for their speed and loyalty.
Contents
History of Clan Trotter
Where the Name "Trotter" Comes From
The name Trotter likely comes from the French word trotier. This word means runner or messenger. There's a story that a brother of Lord Gifford got this name. He was very fast at delivering a message to James III of Scotland.
The main leaders of the clan in the Scottish Borders were the Trotters of Prentannan. This area is in Berwickshire. They often joined the Clan Home on their trips across the border. These trips were sometimes raids or battles.
Another part of the clan, the Trotters of Mortonhall, have owned their land for a very long time. They claim to have held it since the time of Robert II of Scotland. He was a king who ruled Scotland a long time ago.
Clan Trotter in the 1400s and 1500s
The Trotters of Catchelraw were another important part of the clan. William Trotter of Catchelraw was a knight. He was given special permission by the king to help keep peace on the Borders. This happened in 1437 and again in 1450. His grandson later became the treasurer for the city of Edinburgh.
A leader of the Clan Trotter died in a big battle called the Battle of Flodden. This battle took place in 1513.
Clan Trotter in the 1600s
The Trotters of Catchelraw were strong supporters of Charles I of England. He was the king during the English Civil War. They were punished for helping James Graham, 1st Marquess of Montrose in 1645. Montrose was a famous general who fought for the king.
A family member who was a direct descendant of the Trotter killed at Flodden fought in another battle. He fought for John Graham, 1st Viscount Dundee at the Battle of Killiecrankie in 1689. His grandson was Reverend Robert Trotter. He was a smart scholar who wrote important books about the life of Christ. These books are still studied today.
Dr. John Trotter also had strong feelings for the Jacobite cause. The Jacobites supported the Stuart kings. Dr. Trotter helped treat Scottish soldiers who were hurt while fighting in England.
Clan Trotter in the 1800s
Robert Trotter of Bush was a very important person. He was the Postmaster General for Scotland. This means he was in charge of all the mail services. He passed away in 1807.
In 1815, Thomas Trotter of Mortonhall was a soldier. He was killed while fighting in the famous Battle of Waterloo. He was serving with his group of Dragoons, who were soldiers on horseback.
Clan Chief Today
The current chief of Clan Trotter is Alexander Richard Trotter of Mortonhall. He is also the 5th of Charterhall. He holds important roles like JP and DL. These roles mean he helps with law and order and represents the Crown in his area.
Clan Symbols
- Arms: The clan's coat of arms has a special design. It shows a red stripe between three black stars and a blue crescent moon. It also has a black chevron between three black boar's heads.
- Crest: The crest is a knight in armor. He is holding his horse.
- Motto: The clan motto is "In promptu". This means "In readiness" in Latin. It shows the clan is always prepared.
- Supporters: On either side of the shield are a red lion and a white horse.
See also
