Ramsay Clan Crest

Clan Chief:           James Ramsay, 17th Earl of Dalhousie, Banff

Origin of Name:    Ramsaidh derived from The French name de ramesie.

Gaelic Name:       Ramsaidh (Ramsay)

Clan Crest:            A Unicorn's head

Clan Motto:           Ora et Labora (Pray and work).

Lands:                   Banff

The Ramsay Clan Crest is a Unicorn's head and the proud Ramsay clan motto, “Ora et Labora” meaning (Pray and work).The Ramsays are of noble blood, descending from a powerful Norman family who were courted to settle in Scotland by King David I. The King's esteem for the Ramsays is evidenced in his grant of lands in Midlothian to Symon de Ramesie after 1124. The Clan Ramsay flourished on their lands, and gained further royal favour through their resolute support of the Scottish Crown. 

The Ramsays supported the great Robert the Bruce in his quest to free Scotland from the shackles of the English overlords. Following the Scottish victory at Bannockburn in 1314, the Ramsays continued to champion the Scottish cause. One of Scotland's most historic documents, the Declaration of Arbroath, which affirms Scotland's independence, contains the signature of William Ramsay. His son, Alexander, a renowned knight, was made Sheriff of Teviotdale in 1342, until his position was usurped by powerful rival factions. Clan Ramsay was never hesitant to bear arms in defence of their homeland. The Ramsays defended their Dalhousie Castle against the massed troops of Henry IV of England so stoutly that the English were forced to abandon the siege and withdraw in 1400. In 1493, Alexander Ramsay laid down his life beside his monarch, James IV, fighting the English at the Battle of Flodden. However, the Clan's deeds were not simply limited to their bravery on the battlefield.

The Ramsays foiled an attempt on the life of James VI, when John Ramsay slayed the Earl of Gowrie and his brother as they endeavoured to kidnap the King. Such gallantry met with great rewards. The grateful sovereign bestowed John with the titles of Earl of Holderness and Viscount Haddington. His elder brother, George, was created Lord Ramsay in 1618. George's eldest son, William, was granted the Earldom of Dalhousie in 1633. The Ramsays were always prominent in the affairs of Scotland, holding important military and civil positions. Ramsays were involved in most of the great campaigns of the 18th and 19th Centuries, fighting in Europe, Canada and India. The 9th Earl acted as Governor of Canada from 1819 to 1828, and then was appointed as Commander-in-Chief of India. His son followed proudly in his footsteps, serving as Governor-General of India from 1847 to 1856. 
Clan Ramsay has also given rise to some great intellectuals and artists, including the 18th Century poet Alan Ramsay and his son, a celebrated portrait painter. 

The Chief of Clan Ramsay is the 17th Earl of Dalhousie, James Ramsay and the chief seat is Brechin Castle in Angus. Dalhousie Castle is still intact, and is now a hotel.

The Ramsay Clan Crest is a Unicorn's head and the proud Ramsay clan motto, “Ora et Labora” meaning (Pray and work).