Clan Weir

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 and colorful history of Clan Weir, a name rooted in Norman heritage and woven through centuries of Scottish intrigue. From noble beginnings in Normandy to infamous tales of witchcraft in Edinburgh, the Weir legacy is a tapestry of resilience, influence, and even mystery.

The Weir name can be traced back to the Norman "de Vere," derived from places in Normandy, particularly in the Calvados region. The name itself stems from the Norse word "ver," meaning "station," a nod to the Viking influence in Normandy. The first Weir in Scottish history was Ralph de Vere, who joined King William the Lion during the 12th century. Captured alongside the king at the Battle of Alnwick in 1174, Ralph became a pivotal figure in the clan’s history, securing land in Roxburgh and cementing ties with the Abbey of Kelso.

The Weirs of Blackwood, the most prominent branch of the family, trace their origins to Ralph de Vere. By 1400, the family had firmly established their estate in Lanarkshire, with Rothald Weir receiving a charter confirming ownership of Blackwood. The Weirs expanded their influence, with offshoots such as the Stonebyres and Auchtyfardle branches, while also establishing a strong presence in the Highlands. Here, some MacNairs adopted the name Weir, blending Highland and Lowland traditions. This transformation of Mac Amhaoir into Weir marked the gradual disappearance of the Gaelic name.

The Weirs were not without their share of drama. In the 16th century, a longstanding feud between the Blackwood and Stonebyres branches culminated in the Stonebyres swearing allegiance to the Blackwood chief. Such feuds were emblematic of the turbulent relationships among Scottish families, with rivalries and alliances often dictating their fortunes.

Throughout history, the Weirs appeared in key moments of Scottish life. In 1296, Richard Wer signed the Ragman Roll, swearing fealty to Edward I, and in 1489, George Were was implicated in setting fire to the town of Dumbarton. These records highlight the Weirs’ enduring presence and their ability to navigate Scotland’s often perilous political landscape.

No figure in Clan Weir’s history is as infamous as Major Thomas Weir. Born in 1600 in Lanarkshire, Thomas served as a Covenanter and commander of the Edinburgh City Guard. Renowned for his religious fervor, Thomas shocked 17th-century Scotland with a dramatic confession of witchcraft and other heinous crimes. At a prayer meeting in 1670, he revealed his guilt, prompting disbelief among his followers. However, his sister Jean corroborated his tale, adding details of a demonic coach and supernatural events. Both were convicted of witchcraft, with Thomas burned at the stake and Jean hanged. Their home, known as “The Bowhead,” became shrouded in ghostly legends, adding a spectral chapter to the Weir story.

Despite this dark tale, the Weirs contributed significantly to Scottish culture and industry. William Weir, 1st Viscount Weir, was a pioneering industrialist and Secretary of State for Air during World War I. His company, the Weir Group, became a cornerstone of Scotland’s engineering industry.

In more recent history, Tom Weir and his sister Molly brought the name into the cultural spotlight. Tom, a beloved naturalist and broadcaster, captivated audiences with Weir’s Way, a series exploring Scotland’s landscapes. Molly achieved fame as an actress and author, cementing the family’s contribution to Scotland’s creative legacy.

Clan Weir holds a unique place in Scotland’s history. While armigerous—lacking a recognized chief—they are connected to several larger clans, including the Buchanans, MacNaughtons, and MacFarlanes. The clan motto, Vero Nihil Verius (“Truth, nothing but truth”), reflects their enduring values, and their crest, a blue boar atop a red chapeau, underscores their Norman roots.

For those tracing the Weir story, Blackwood and Stonebyres estates in Lanarkshire are key historical landmarks. The Bridge of Weir in Renfrewshire, named after the family, is another testament to their lasting legacy. Even today, the name Weir is most commonly found across Scotland, from Lanarkshire to Renfrewshire, reflecting the family’s deep roots.

The story of Clan Weir is a blend of Norman heritage, Lowland prominence, and Highland resilience. It is a tale of triumph and tragedy, innovation and infamy. Whether remembered for Major Thomas Weir’s dark deeds or the industrial achievements of Viscount Weir, the clan’s legacy remains a fascinating part of Scotland’s historical fabric.

Thank you for joining us on today’s episode of "A Clan A Day Podcast." Be sure to tune in tomorrow as we uncover the history of another Scottish clan. I’m Colin MacDonald, and as always, go n-éirí an bóthar leat.