Walkinshaw Family History & Ancestry
Allow me to narrate the intriguing saga of your family, the Walkinshaws, whose roots intertwined with the lands of Renfrewshire, a region where the name Walkinshaw held the significance of ‘the copse of the fullers.’ Your family’s lineage traces back to the esteemed Judge Douglas, a prominent figure in the Earldom of Lennox. In 1235, Judge Douglas made a momentous exchange, trading his holdings in Knock, including the Paisley Abbey, for the Walkinshaw lands. This marked the dawn of your family’s legacy as hereditary foresters to the High Stewards of Scotland, a role celebrated in your coat of arms.
The principal line of your family flourished until 1636 when James Walkinshaw of that Ilk passed away. His cousin, John Walkinshaw of Garturk, took the mantle and continued the legacy as ‘of that Ilk.’ The male line encountered its conclusion with Gavin Walkinshaw, succeeded by his sole daughter, Robina. Amid the seventeenth century, a branch of the family, led by John Walkinshaw, secured the lands of Camlachie and Barrowfield near Glasgow. By 1688, the Walkinshaws had evolved into prosperous ‘Sea Adventurers,’ a reflection of their success in maritime endeavors.
The Walkinshaws’ loyalty to James VIII, the ‘Old Pretender,’ marked a pivotal juncture. The family’s participation in the Battle of Sheriffmuir led to John Walkinshaw’s capture and imprisonment in Stirling Castle. Yet, his ingenious escape, aided by a clothing swap with his wife, earned him a pardon in 1717. However, the family’s wealth waned during these turbulent times.
John Walkinshaw married his cousin, Katherine, and together they welcomed ten daughters into the world. Among them, Clementine Walkinshaw shines as an enduring figure due to her association with Prince Charles Edward Stuart. Their paths crossed at Bannockburn House, near Stirling, where the alluring Clementine captured the Prince’s heart. Their relationship led her into exile, where, though they never wed, she bore him a daughter named Charlotte in 1753. Despite the couple’s eventual separation, your family’s legacy intertwined with history as Charlotte gained recognition from her father. In 1784, Prince Charles declared her legitimate, bestowing upon her the title of Duchess of Albany and the prestigious Order of the Thistle. Clementine’s story took a different turn, as she lost her possessions during the upheaval of the French Revolution and found her final resting place in Switzerland in 1802.
Thus, your family’s journey weaves through the intricate fabric of history, marked by resilience, loyalty, and a legacy that continues to shine brightly.
The Family Crest
Wherever in the world you live, embrace your family heritage and adorn your home with a timeless symbol of your family legacy with our crafted Family Crests.
Family Crest Motto: IN SEASON
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