Clan Wallace

Clan Wallace is a Scottish clan from the Lowlands. It is best known for its connection to Sir William Wallace, a leader in the Wars of Scottish Independence. The clan does not have a recognised chief today, but its name and symbols remain widely known.Way, George of Plean; Squire, Romilly of Rubislaw (1994). Collins Scottish Clan & Family Encyclopedia. Glasgow: HarperCollins (for the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs). pp. 338–339. ISBN 0-00-470547-5.

 Origins 
The name Wallace is thought to come from the Old English word for "Welshman" or "foreigner". In medieval times, it was used for people from the old kingdom of Strathclyde or from Wales. The family’s earliest lands were in Ayrshire.

 History 
The most famous member of the clan is Sir William Wallace, who fought against English rule in the late 1200s.Hendrie, Bill Fyfe (1997). The Wallaces. Lang Syne Publishers Ltd. ISBN 1-85217-058-1. He became a Guardian of Scotland after the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297. Though later defeated and executed in London in 1305, he became a symbol of Scottish resistance.

In later centuries, members of Clan Wallace served in the Scottish and British armies, in politics, and in trade. The clan also spread overseas, with many Wallaces settling in North America, Australia, and New Zealand.

 Castles and seats 
Historically, the Wallaces held Craigie Castle in Ayrshire. Other lands linked to the clan included properties in Elderslie and Riccarton.Coventry, Martin (2008). Castles of the Clans: The Strongholds and Seats of 750 Scottish Families and Clans. Musselburgh. pp. 586–587. ISBN 978-1-899874-36-1.

 Crest badge and motto 
Clan members may wear a crest badge with a raised arm in armour holding a sword. The motto is "Pro Libertate", which means "For Liberty".

 Tartan 
The Wallace tartan is mainly red and black, with some yellow lines. It is one of the most recognised tartans in Scotland and is worn by people around the world.

 Legacy 
Today, Clan Wallace has active societies in Scotland and abroad. The name is remembered in monuments, such as the National Wallace Monument near Stirling, and in books and films that tell the story of William Wallace.

 References 

Category:Scottish clans