Earl of Arran (Scotland) facts for kids

James Hamilton, 2nd Earl of Arran

The Earl of Arran is a special title in Scotland. It's important not to mix it up with a similar title, the Earl of Arran in Ireland. These two titles are for different places: the Scottish one is named after the Isle of Arran in Scotland, and the Irish one is named after the Aran Islands in Ireland. The Scottish Earl of Arran title is now part of the bigger title of the Duke of Hamilton. The Irish title is held by a different family, the Gore family.

What is the Earl of Arran Title?

The title of Earl of Arran has been created several times in Scottish history. A "peerage" title means it's a noble rank given by the king or queen. These titles often come with special rights and duties.

Early History of the Title

The old symbol (coat of arms) for the Earls of Arran. It shows a ship called a "lymphad."

Long ago, there was a very old, traditional title of Earl of Arran. It was linked to Lochranza Castle on the Isle of Arran. The old symbol for these Earls was a special ship called a "lymphad" on their coat of arms. Today, this ship symbol is still part of the coat of arms for the Duke of Hamilton.

The Official Peerage Title

The coat of arms for the Duke of Hamilton, which includes the symbols for the Earl of Arran.

The official title of Earl of Arran was first created in the Peerage of Scotland in 1467.

• The first person to be given this title was Thomas Boyd. He received it in 1467 but lost it a few years later around 1469.

• The title was created again in 1503 for James Hamilton. His family kept the title for many years.

• Later, in 1581, the title was given to Captain James Stewart.

• In 1609, the Hamilton family got the title back.

• In 1643, the Hamilton family received the title of Earl of Arran again, along with the higher title of Duke of Hamilton. Since then, the title of Earl of Arran has usually been held by the person who is also the Duke of Hamilton.

Who Were the Earls of Arran?

First Creation (1467)

• Thomas Boyd, 1st Earl of Arran (died around 1472) – He lost his title in 1469.

Second and Third Creations (1503, 1643)

These titles are closely linked to the Duke of Hamilton. You can find more information about them by looking up the Duke of Hamilton.

Images for kids

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  James Hamilton, 2nd Earl of Arran

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  The old symbol (coat of arms) for the Earls of Arran. It shows a ship called a "lymphad."

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  The coat of arms for the Duke of Hamilton, which includes the symbols for the Earl of Arran.

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  James Hamilton, 4th Earl of Arran