Let me share with you the captivating history of your family name, Bannerman. The origin of the name is rooted in a remarkable privilege held by your ancestors—the honor of carrying the royal standard during the tenth and eleventh centuries. This prestigious position is vividly depicted on your family’s coat of arms. Legend has it that a significant event unfolded when the king arrived at the River Spey, facing a formidable enemy force on the opposite bank. The enemy, confident in their protection from the rising flood waters, believed they were safe. Advised to wait until the waters subsided, the king, fueled by fury at the sight of the enemy, defied the counsel and spurred his horse forward. It was then that Sir Alexander Carron, a chamberlain, seized the royal standard and fearlessly crossed the waters in pursuit of his sovereign, with the rest of the Scottish army closely following. The enemy force, confronted by this unexpected turn of events, was compelled to flee. In recognition of Sir Alexander Carron’s valor, he was appointed Standard Bearer to the King. Remarkably, this prestigious role has been passed down through his descendants, including your family, who continue to hold this honor to this day.

In 1367, Donald Bannerman was granted lands in Aberdeenshire by King David II. As a condition, the family was tasked with building a chapel where a weekly mass would be said for the soul of Robert the Bruce, the King’s father. During the War of the Three Kingdoms, the Bannermans remained steadfast in their support of the Royalist cause, which unfortunately led to the loss of their lands. However, in due course, Sir Alexander Bannerman had their lands restored and was bestowed with the title of Baronet of Nova Scotia by King Charles II in 1682. His youngest son, Patrick, staunchly supported the deposed Stuart monarchs and rallied behind the ‘Old Pretender’ in 1715. Notably, he served as the Provost of Aberdeen and presented a loyal address from the town to James VIII at Fetteresso, warmly welcoming him back to his ancestral kingdom of Scotland. Delighted by the resolute loyalty shown, James promptly knighted Provost Bannerman. Sir Alexander, Patrick’s son, joined Prince Charles Edward Stuart with 160 men and fought at the Battle of Culloden. Although he survived the battle, he eventually made his way to France in search of safety.

Sir Alexander Bannerman made a name for himself beyond his military endeavors. He served as a Member of Parliament for the city of Aberdeen from 1832 to 1840 and later held the positions of governor in the Bahamas and Newfoundland. John Bannerman, known as Baron Bannerman of Kildonan, became one of Scotland’s esteemed rugby players, earning 39 caps for his country. Sir Donald, the thirteenth Baronet, honorably served in the Cameron Highlanders during both the First and Second World Wars. His son is the current chief of the Bannerman family, carrying the legacy forward with pride.

Your family’s history is filled with bravery, loyalty, and notable achievements, woven into the tapestry of Scottish heritage. It is a heritage to cherish and embrace, for it speaks of the valor and accomplishments of your ancestors.