Clan Kirkpatrick

Welcome back to "A Clan A Day Podcast," brought to you by bagtownclans.com. I’m your host, Colin MacDonald, and today we delve into the fascinating history of Clan Kirkpatrick, a Lowland clan whose name has been etched into the annals of Scottish history with a motto as bold as their deeds: “I Mak Sikkar,” or “I Make Sure.” The Kirkpatricks were known for their loyalty, daring exploits, and fierce independence, traits that ensured their place in Scotland’s tumultuous history.

The name Kirkpatrick originates from the Church of St. Patrick in Closeburn, Dumfriesshire. This early religious connection lends a sense of sanctity to their origins, but the Kirkpatricks were anything but meek. The name evolved alongside the clan, with "Kirkpatrick" and "Kilpatrick" used interchangeably for centuries. The first recorded appearance of the family dates back to the 12th century when Ivone de Kirkpatrick witnessed a charter of the Clan Bruce. In 1232, Ivone secured a charter for the lands of Kelosburn from King Alexander II, solidifying the family’s foothold in the region.

Perhaps the most infamous moment in the history of Clan Kirkpatrick came in 1306, during the Wars of Independence. Roger Kirkpatrick accompanied Robert the Bruce in a dramatic confrontation with John "The Red" Comyn at Greyfriars Church in Dumfries. After Bruce fatally stabbed Comyn, he hesitated, unsure whether the wound was fatal. According to legend, Roger Kirkpatrick stepped forward, declared, “I Mak Sikkar,” and delivered the final blow with his dagger. This act not only secured Bruce’s claim to the throne but also immortalized the Kirkpatrick motto and crest, which features a hand grasping a bloodied dagger.

The Kirkpatricks distinguished themselves further during this tumultuous period. Roger Kirkpatrick joined an embassy to England in 1314, and the family was rewarded with additional lands at Redburgh. Later, in 1355, Roger led a daring campaign to reclaim both Caerlaverock and Dalswinton Castles from the English. However, his life ended in tragedy when he was murdered by his kinsman, Sir James Lindsay, during a private dispute in 1357. This violent episode reflected the volatile nature of medieval Scotland, where alliances often gave way to bitter rivalries.

The Kirkpatricks maintained their prominence under Sir Thomas Kirkpatrick, who in 1409 was confirmed as the baron of Closeburn and Redburgh by Robert Stewart, Duke of Albany. Their ancestral home, Closeburn Castle, became a symbol of their enduring legacy and remains a significant landmark to this day. The family’s reputation, however, was not without challenges. In 1526, a bloody feud erupted with the Clan Charteris, culminating in the murder of Roger Kilpatrick, son of Alexander Kilpatrick, at the hands of John Charteris and his kin. Such conflicts were commonplace, as the Kirkpatricks navigated the shifting landscape of power and loyalty.

By the 16th century, the Kirkpatricks were firmly established as landowners and military leaders. Sir Thomas Kirkpatrick’s grandson was captured at the Battle of Solway Moss in 1542, a testament to their continued involvement in Scotland’s armed struggles. In 1685, Sir Thomas Kirkpatrick of Closeburn was created a Baronet of Nova Scotia in recognition of his support for King Charles I during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. However, the family’s fortunes began to wane, and in 1783, Sir James Kirkpatrick, the 4th Baronet, was forced to sell the Closeburn estates due to financial difficulties.

Despite their declining influence in Scotland, the Kirkpatricks left an unexpected legacy on the international stage. William Kirkpatrick, from the Conheath branch of the family, became a successful merchant in Málaga, Spain. He married the eldest daughter of a Belgian baron, and his great-granddaughter, Eugénie de Montijo, married Napoleon III to become Empress of France. This remarkable twist highlights the far-reaching impact of this storied clan.

The Kirkpatricks are also associated with several notable castles. Closeburn Castle served as their ancestral seat and remains an iconic part of Dumfriesshire’s history. They also held Torthorwald Castle and Rockhall Tower, while Tynron Doon, another of their strongholds, is believed to have hosted Robert the Bruce after his fateful confrontation with John Comyn.

Today, Clan Kirkpatrick is recognized by the Court of the Lord Lyon as an armigerous clan, though they lack a recognized chief. The Kirkpatrick name is also a sept of both Clan Douglas and Clan Colquhoun, underscoring the interconnected nature of Scottish noble families. While their prominence in Scotland has diminished, the Kirkpatricks’ legacy endures through their contributions to Scottish and European history.

The story of Clan Kirkpatrick is one of loyalty, resilience, and bold action. From their role in securing Robert the Bruce’s throne to their far-reaching ties to European royalty, the Kirkpatricks remain a clan whose legacy demands attention. Their motto, “I Mak Sikkar,” is a fitting encapsulation of their determination and daring spirit—a trait that continues to inspire admiration centuries later.

Thank you for joining us today on "A Clan A Day Podcast." Be sure to tune in tomorrow as we uncover another chapter in the rich tapestry of Scotland’s clans. Until then, I’m Colin MacDonald, and as always, Go n-éirí an bóthar leat.