Clan Brown

Welcome back to "A Clan A Day Podcast," brought to you by bagtownclans.com. I'm your host, Colin MacDonald, and today, we’re delving into the rich history of Clan Broun, also known as Clan Brown. This name, one of the most common surnames in Scotland, carries a fascinating legacy rooted in a mix of Norman, Celtic, and Lowland traditions.

The name Broun, often seen today as Brown, originates from the Old English and Old High German word brun, meaning "brown" or "dark red," a descriptor of the physical traits of the original bearer. It also appears in Norman-French as le Brun, further highlighting its varied roots. The Brouns of Colstoun, the leading family of the clan, trace their ancestry to the Royal House of France, a claim supported by their use of the fleur-de-lis in their coat of arms. Their motto, Floreat Majestas, or "Let Majesty Flourish," reflects their proud and storied heritage.

The first notable Broun in Scotland’s history is Sir David Le Brun, who witnessed the laying of the foundation of Holyrood Abbey in 1128. His act of piety, donating lands to the abbey in exchange for prayers for his son, underscores the family’s long-standing ties to Scotland’s religious and cultural fabric. Over the centuries, the Brouns established themselves as prominent landowners and noblemen, particularly in East Lothian.

In 1543, George Broun married Jean Hay, the second daughter of Lord Yester, a significant union for the family. With this marriage came the famous Colstoun Pear, a mystical heirloom said to have been enchanted by Hugo de Gifford, the legendary necromancer of Yester. According to legend, the pear was endowed with magical properties to bring prosperity to the family as long as it remained whole. However, in the 17th century, a descendant succumbed to temptation, taking a bite of the pear, which then turned to stone. This act is said to have brought an end to the pear’s protective magic, symbolizing a shift in the family’s fortunes.

The Brouns of Colstoun played a significant role in Scotland’s turbulent history. Sir John Broun of Fordell commanded the royalist army during the Battle of Inverkeithing in 1651, underscoring the clan’s loyalty to the crown during the English Civil War. This dedication to the monarchy extended through the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, a defining period of Scottish history.

Patrick Broun of Colstoun, one of the clan’s most notable figures, was created a Baronet of Nova Scotia in 1686. Although his direct male line ended with his death, the title passed to a cadet branch of the family, ensuring that the Broun name continued to carry noble status.

The clan’s influence wasn’t confined to Scotland. A younger branch of the Brouns settled in Elsinore, Denmark, where they became prominent merchants. Even today, the Broun name can be found in Denmark, reflecting the international reach of this historic family.

While the Brouns of Colstoun trace their lineage to Norman and French nobility, the Brown surname also has other origins within Scotland. In the Highlands, some Browns may derive their name from britheamh, meaning “judge,” or from MacIlduin, meaning “son of the brown lad.” These Gaelic roots often link Browns to clans such as the MacMillans and Lamonts. For example, the “brown-haired MacMillans” of Kintyre were known as Mac’illemhaoil-dhuins. Similarly, during times of conflict, some Lamonts adopted the Brown name to obscure their identity. However, not all Browns can claim these associations, as genealogical evidence is needed to establish clan affiliations.

Today, Clan Broun is led by Sir Wayne Broun of Colstoun, the 14th Baronet. The chief’s arms are a striking red shield adorned with a chevron and three fleur-de-lis in gold, a proud reminder of the family’s claimed ties to the French monarchy. The clan’s tartans, including the Broun of Colstoun and Brown Dress Watch patterns, are cherished symbols of identity and heritage.

The Colstoun House near Haddington and Carsluith Castle in Galloway stand as enduring monuments to the Brouns’ legacy. These historic seats, alongside the famous Colstoun Pear, serve as touchstones for a family whose history is deeply intertwined with Scotland’s own.

Whether through their noble line in Colstoun, their military valor in Scotland’s wars, or their international influence in Denmark, Clan Broun’s story is one of resilience and adaptation. Their history spans centuries, rooted in a unique blend of Celtic, Norman, and Lowland traditions.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the history of Clan Broun. Be sure to visit bagtownclans.com for more on Scotland’s remarkable clans, and tune in tomorrow for another episode of "A Clan A Day Podcast." Until then, I’m Colin MacDonald, wishing you, Go n-éirí an bóthar leat.