Let me share with you the fascinating history of your family, the Gartshores, tracing back to the lands of Gartshore in Dunbartonshire, near Kirkintilloch. The name itself carries meaning, as ‘gart’ likely refers to an enclosure, while ‘shore’ is derived from the word ‘shaw,’ indicating a boundary. Therefore, Gartshore can be understood as ‘Boundary Enclosure.’ These lands hold great significance, situated on the north bank of the River Clyde within the ancient Kingdom of Strathclyde. It was during the reign of Alexander II that William Comyn, Earl of Buchan, granted the lands of Gartshore to one John son of Galfred between 1211 and 1231. John adopted Gartshore as his designation, becoming John de Gartshore, and from him, the majority of Gartshores would descend. The chiefly family came to be known as Gartshore of that Ilk, while the wider family maintained its connection to Dunbartonshire throughout the generations.

In 1594, John Gartshore of that Ilk served as a surety for the burgesses of Kirkintilloch, demonstrating the family’s involvement and standing within the community. During the turbulent reign of Charles I, Patrick Gartshore of that Ilk was recognized as a “gentleman of honor and a brave soldier.” He likely held the title of “Laird of Gartshore” and is recorded as a Commissioner on Loans and Taxes in 1643, a member of the Committee of War in 1647-48, and a Member of Parliament for Dumbartonshire in 1685-86. It is said that the family’s loyalty to Charles I caused them significant hardship, nearly leading to their ruin. Following Patrick Gartshore’s death without heirs, the estate and title passed to his brother James, who was a clergyman.

One notable figure in your family’s history is Dr. Maxwell Gartshore, the grandson of James Gartshore of that Ilk. He made significant contributions to the field of obstetrics through his extensive writings, which continue to serve as the foundation of modern obstetrics. In 1745, during the Jacobite Rebellion, the Laird of Gartshore was imprisoned by Charles Edward Stuart, also known as the ‘Young Pretender.’ This was in retaliation for a failed assassination attempt as the rebel army marched through Kirkintilloch. In 1813, the estate passed to Marjorie Gartshore, affectionately known as May. Despite having other Gartshore relatives, for unknown reasons, she bequeathed the estate to John Murray, a child who happened to be the fourth son of the Lord Lieutenant of Scotland. The condition of the inheritance was that he adopt the name Gartshore. Regrettably, John Murray Gartshore succumbed to heavy gambling and drinking, resulting in the loss of both the lands and the house. In 1879, they were acquired by Alexander Whitelaw, an industrialist.

Your family, the Gartshores, has a rich heritage rooted in the lands of Gartshore and their connections to Dunbartonshire. The tales of loyalty, resilience, and notable accomplishments make your family’s history a source of pride and inspiration.