INFORMATION ON THE ALLARDICES

 

 

Provided by

Mr William Cowie of Allardice Castle, Inverbervie, Scotland

July 2000

 

 

 

 

 

CONTENTS

ALLARDICE CASTLE *

HISTORY OF THE ALLARDICES OF THAT ILK *

FAMILY CRESTS *

OTHER REFERENCES ON THE FAMILY OF ALLARDICE *

RESEARCH FROM RECORDS OF THE ALLARDICE FAMILY *

ALLARDICE CASTLE

 

Allardice Castle, formerly the property of the Allardices of that Ilk, a very ancient Kincardineshire family sits picturesquely on a dramatic, wooded and terraced rock spur protruding above the flood plain forming the floor of the deep valley of the Bervie Water about two miles north west of the Royal Burgh of Inverbervie.

The castle is remarkable and unusual for its extraordinary development of the prolific and intricate label mouldings supporting the turreted spiral staircases accessing the caphouse or watch chamber and upper floors and which are massively corbelled out from the main walls.

Other interesting features are the off-setting of the walling to the west and the huge chimney stack serving the great hall fireplace on the inner face of the courtyard. The walls rise to three storeys with the south facing watch-tower rising above them all. The basement floor of the original part of the building has a vaulted room, originally a gimel bolt (storage room). On the east side of the pend there is another vaulted room which would have served as a guard room and store. The more recently constructed west wing has an arched fire place at ground floor level some twelve feet wide with unusually an access to the upper floors off one comer inside the fire. This fire place would have been built as a kitchen in the mid 17 th Century. The first floor contains the original, though much altered Great Hall with its massive fire place and other public rooms with the sleeping accommodation being placed on the topmost storeys.

The south facing inner courtyard has carved sandstone pillars on its south west side with steps between which lead down to a garden beyond. This garden itself is raised some 6'0" to 8'0" above the surrounding land which is itself defensively terraced and stretches to the river beyond.

Since 1542 the time at which the current L-plan building was built many alterations and changes have been made to the original structure to the extent that the original plan form is only recognisable in part. The most original part of the building with its very thick walls runs from north to east and externally is the more ornate part of the structure with the west wing, which was built in 1762, being a more refined structure with thinner walls, larger windows and a large circular turret rising through three floors located at the westmost corner of the building.

The building is graced by a wide pend which completely penetrates the north east wing. On the outside this pend protected on the north east facade by a massive wooden door hung from huge wrought iron pintles is closed by a draw bar encapsulated within the exterior wall. The door itself is overlooked by shot holes which penetrate the bead or bottle and splay moulded sandstone door surround. On the inside the pend opens onto a delightful courtyard which it is believed would have been enclosed by the building on two sides and by a protective barmkin wall on the other two sides, the top of which would have been accessed from the great hall. The barmkin wall would have contained a gateway on its south east side opening onto the main access road from the ford across the Bervie Water below.

Sadly many features one associates with such buildings, the massive stone central staircase, the original front door, vaulted ground floor rooms, shot holes, etc. have been partially removed, presumably during the renovation work in 1762 in favour of the style of interior in vogue at that time and which still exists inside the building today. During the more recent renovation work from 1970 onwards many of the remains of the original features were located and are now accessible.

HISTORY OF THE ALLARDICES OF THAT ILK

 

Early History

The family of Allardice, or Allardes as it was written of old, ranks among the most ancient in the shire of Kincardine, Scotland. Although it is now impossible to connect the various persons bearing the surname prior to the 14th century, the importance and high standing of the race at an early period is beyond question. The history of this ancient family has never been elucidated and this may be advanced as an excuse for the publication of these notes which are merely tentative because no finality is to be obtained in genealogy.

The surname of Allardice has been derived from the lands which were originally known as Alrethes, Alredies, Alardis or Allardies. At a very remote period, the exact time is a mystery deep hidden in undated days, a charter of the lands was given to Walter the Scot whose designation seems to indicate that he was a native. He was certainly a noble of high rank and was succeeded by his son Walter who had a grant of the Lands from King William the Lion whose charter was recorded for preservation on 20th August 1703 (1203?). By this deed it appears that the lands were "held by the service of one archer with horse and habergeon, and performing common service as much as pertains to 13 oxgates of land as the charter of his father bears. From the time of this Walter until 1271 there is no record of the lairds of Allardice, and consequently nothing to prove that the subsequent owners of the lands were descended from him.

The chief seat of the Family of Allardice is Allardice Castle, a comparatively modem mansion, finely situated on the brow of the east bank of the Bervie, amid fine old trees, and overlooking Bervie vale, about a mile north of Inverbervie, Kincardineshire.

1271-1296

On 1st October 1271 Gilbert de Umphraville, Earl of Angus, granted to Alexander de Alredes, for his home and service a davoch of land called Inverquharity; to be held of the granter and his heirs in fee and heritage to the said Alexander and Walter his son and heir. The appearance of the name Walter suggests descent form the earlier lairds bearing the same name, but at best it is presumption and therefore uncertain.

1296-1364

The Alexander may be identical with the Alesaundre de Abberdash who in 1296 did homage to Edward 1. (Ragman Rolls p.157). During the reign of Robert the Bruce we find Walter and John de Allardes as men of note, while in 1337 Walderus de Allerdes had compensation for the destruction of his corn and cattle at the siege of Dunnottar (Exchequer Rolls I p.451). This loss is explained by the importance which King Edward attached to the possession of Dunnottar. On 23d March 1336 and at various dates during the next two months the English king issued letters empowering Thomas of Roscelyn to select carpenters, masons, smiths and archers in Norfolk and Suffolk and to proceed with them in haste to Dunnottar. These precautions were of no avail inasmuch that Sir Andrew Moray and his adherents soon obtained possession of the Castle during which operations the laird of Allardice may have suffered.

1364-1376

In 1364 Thomas of Allerdes had a money grant, and five years later he had an annuity of 20/- out of the lands of Little Barras. It is as yet impossible to prove any relationship between Thomas and Walter, and the authentic genealogy begins with John who may have been son of Thomas.

1376-1426

On 1st September 1376 John confirmed a charter which had been granted by his father whose name is not stated - in favour of John called Harwer. The lands thus conveyed with those of Ardfrane in Buchan, the "reddends being a pair of gilt spurs in name of Blenet farm yearly at the feast of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary if asked and performing to our lord the King, and to other lords of the fee the services exigible from such a land". It is thus proved that the family held property in the district of Buchan at an early period. There is not much on record concerning the next laird.

1426-1451

SIR JOHN who was knighted. On 15th December 1426 the King confirmed to John de Allerdes knight the lands of the barony of Allerdes. He apparently had resigned his lands and the deed seems to point to his having contracted a second marriage for the lands were to be held to him and Margaret his spouse, and the heirs beget between them; then to Thomas the grandson of Sir John, and his heirs male with remainder to Hugh and David sons of the laird (Reg. Mag. Gigil. III, 68). The name of Sir John's eldest son appears nowhere.

1451-1473

THOMAS ALLARDICE of that Ilk succeeded his grandfather having sasine of the, family estates in 1451. (Exchequer Rolls ix., p.661). Notwithstanding this infeftment he had a prolonged struggle to retain possession of his inheritance, particularly of the Buchan lands which apparently had been re-cognosced from the Dempsters of Auchterdes. By a strange irony of fate there had been recognition of these lands, and the mass of documents connected with Thomas Allardice's efforts to recover them throw a flood of light on the legal procedure of the time. On 20th February 1458 there is a notarial instrument to the effect that within the church of St Giles Edinburgh the Bishop of Brechin refused "to allow the lands and goods of Thomas Allirdes of that Ilk - which had been recognosced" - to be repledged according to Thomas' request.

Another deed on 12th March following sets forth that Thomas Allardice of that Ilk appeared in the presence of King James and his Council, the prelates and nobles of the realm, then assembled in the Town house of Perth desiring that his lands of Auchterless, Balglassy and Ardgran which had been recognosced in the King's hands might be given to him to borch offering himself ready for his lands according to the custom of the country. The King acceded to his request and delivery of a staff which he had in his hands gave the lands to him in borch in presence of many nobles (Historical MSS 5th Report p.629). Allardice was subsequently pursued by the Dempsters for spoliation of the lands unjustly retaining the rents for twelve years according as he had been found liable, and had decree issued against him under testimony of the great seal.

 

The laird alleged that the charge and decree were false inasmuch that at their date there had been no session held at Edinburgh or elsewhere in Scotland. In a hilarious letter in the vernacular which he addressed to the King he declared that the trouble arose through wrong information and the partiality of Chancellor George Shoriswood towards Dempster who was his servant. There is nothing to show how the matter was finally arranged. Thomas married Elizabeth Irvine and died about 1473 leaving:

1. John his heir

2. James Allardice tenant of Cuchnie who married "a prudent woman" Jonet Betson. Jonet's prudence and zeal for her husband's interests led to a dispute between her spouse and the laird. For a time, perhaps through her influence, James failed in his duty towards his brother, but on 5th November 1495 he appeared before witnesses and faithfully promised to do his duty and service to the "honorable man John Allardice of that Ilk during all the days of his life". (lbid p.630)

1451-1511/1512

JOHN ALLARDICE succeeded his father in 1473 when he had sasine in Allardice, Auchterless, Ardley, etc. (Exchequer Rolls ix. 675) His father's experience of litigation was not without effect on this laird. He recognised the necessity of proceeding in orderly manner duly recording deed connected with his succession. Thus on 24th May 1474 he appeared in the Court House at Aberdeen where Walter Lindsay of Beaufort, sheriff of the shire, was "then sitting in judgment". Allardice craved "that a brieve of our sovereign lord for serving him heir to his father Thomas in two parts of the lands of Auchterless with,-the pursalbuts and their pertinents should be copied and transumed" - a desire which was granted. He married first Catherine, only daughter of Robert Arbuthnott of that Ilk and had Janet who married Alexander Irvine younger of Drum. A deed connected with their marriage is dated 12th June 1493 and six years later they were infeft in part of the lands of Auchterless the laird reserving power of redemption (Reg. Mag. ??? xii 392). John Allardice married secondly Elizabeth eldest daughter of James Gordon of Maughlie and had:

1. John who succeeded

2. Robert who on 3d November 1512 had a different charter from his brother of the half lands of Little Barras which grant had royal confirmation. (lbid xvii 117)

1511 - 1523

JOHN ALLARDICE of that Ilk succeeded his father before 8th January 1511-12. On that day he and Jonet Lundy his spouse were infeft in the lands of Leys and the south half of Little Barras in the barony of Allardice by charter under the great seal. Four years later, on 22nd March, he had licence under the privy Seal "to sell annai'zie or wedset" his lands and barony of Allardice. As he wished to redeem the lands of Auchterless from Alexander Irvine who had married his half sister, he appeared at Aberdeen on 5'h September 1522 with John his son and heir, and by open proclamation thrice warned 44 a noble man Alexander Irvine of Forglen Church of St Nicholas Aberdeen on Monday 31st November following, there to receive payment of the redemption money for the lands of Auchterless etc. He died before 26th September 1523 having had two sons by Jonet Lundy, John his heir.

1523-1540

JOHN ALLARDICE - John's brother James is said to have married M Nicolson. He was killed at the battle of Pinkie 1547 and in accordance with the general act in favour of those who fell in battle, his nephew John was served his heir male in the lands of Balgownie (ibid).

1540-1547

JOHN ALLARDICE of Allardice was a minor at the time of his father's death. On 17th February 1540 he made provision for his mother Jonet Lundy who had a different interest in various lands which belonged to her late husband. He resigned all his lands on the 28"' May in the Palace of James V. within the Monastery of St Andrews in the presence of Cardinal David Beaton and others, and on same day on account of his good services he had a charter under the great seal uniting all his lands into a whole and free barony; the Manor house of Allardice, to which he was then making additions, was ordained to be the principal message of the barony. Like other northern lairds he granted a bond of manrent to George Earl of Huntly the powerful head of the Gordons. By this deed he bound himself "kyn, frendis, seruandis, tenantis and adherentis to gang and ryd with his lordship in oistingis and uder besines in peace and wayr" in preference to any other person, the Queen and her governors only excepted (Miscellany Spalding Club iv. P.208). On 29th May 1547 he exchanged the lands of Auchterless in Buchan for those of Pitcarle in Kincardine. He died fighting bravely against the English at Falside on 10th September 1547 (Exchequer Rolls xviii p.43 1). He married sometime before 14th July 1541, Margaret Erskine afterward Lady of Banff and had John his heir.

1548-1606

JOHN ALLARDICE of Allardice was ifeft in his father's and uncle's estates in 1548 although he had not yet attained his majority. On 20th November 1558 with consent of John Wishart of Pitarrow and Hog in Blairdryne his curators, he granted a charter in favour of Beatrice Keith daughter of William Earl Marischal infefting her in terms of their marriage contract in the dominical lands of Allardice with the mill, and in warrandice thereof granted various other lands. The Laird of Allardice was a knight of the shire and as such was present in the parliament of 1550 when the momentous resolution was adopted for abolishing papacy throughout Scotland.

For many years he lived at enmity with his mother Margaret Erskine perhaps for reasons connected with the second marriage and he persistently withheld her rents. The consequence was that she harassed him by every method permitted in law. Indeed so bitter was the strife that the relationship between them has been doubted. By letters before the Privy Council she charged George Earl Marischal to poind the corn and goods of Allardice, a task so disagreeable to the Earl that he raised an action of suspension. He was ultimately obliged to get surety that he shall obey the letters issued against him by Margaret Erskine Lady Pitcarle, and levy distraint upon Allardice's effects (Reg. Privy Council iv. P.234).

So bitter was the feeling she aroused in the family circle that her grandson who was her executor characterised her as "the maist venemous pestiferous serpent". She was buried in the Chapel of Holyrood where a flat stone bears the inscription: "heir lyis ane honorabil voman callit Margaret Erskine Lady Allardes and Banf xvii July 159-".

 

This laird was also involved in trouble with his daughter-in-law Barbara Forbes the wife of his eldest son and heir Robert who died within a year of his marriage. A curious contract proves that the lady was in the wrong for on 22nd July 1592 she pledged herself to come to the Kirk of Arbuthnott one special week day before noon ere the 21st August and there confess and acknowledge the wrong done to the laird of Allardice committed at the moss of Monymont and promise to be on friendly terms in all time coming. Alas, there is later evidence to prove that she availed herself of a lady's privilege and changed her mind, for the quarrel with her late husband's family was prolonged and bitter, the parties having to find sureties not to harm each other.

By Beatrice Keith the laird had several children. On 15th March 1586 there is a deed wherein one Honorabil woman Beatrix Keith Ladye Allardes "compeared before Robert Milne Notar publick" he beand lyand seik in his charmer at Inverbervie and requyrit and desyrit him to delyver to hir the infeftmentsis and lyferent securities of hir four balmis James, William, Thomas and Elizabeth soneis and dochtir to John Allardes of that Ilk ane of them be the said John their father of the lands of Powburn etc". The said Robert Milne answered and said to her "that treu it was the samyne infeftmentis and lyferent seasings are in his handis and that he was notar thereunto etc. and how soon that God recoverit him to his health, he suld extract the said infeftmentis and delyver them to hir (Allardice Papers).

The children of John Allardice were:

1. Robert married about 7th July 1586 to Barbara daughter of William Lord Forbes and died at Edinburgh 26th December 1587 with in a few months of his marriage. His relict subsequently married Alexander Hay of Dalgetty and Archibald Douglas of Banrthill. Isabel Allardice only child of Robert was served his heir on 17th November 1612 (Inquis. Gen) and became wife of John Gordon younger of Benholm.

2. John who succeeded to Allardice.

3. James of Kineff designated Tutor of Allardice. On 16th August 1683 he had a charter from John Stratoun fiar of that Ilk of the lands and barony of Wester Kineff in feu-farm (Reg. Mag. Sig. Lii. 252) His will is dated 17th November 1646.

4. William mentioned in the deed quoted above.

5. Thomas who married Elizabeth Ogilvie. Elizabeth married Dec. 1592 David Bait, Principal of Aberdeen University.

6. Margaret married first (? Before 1602) Alexander Beton Archdeacon of Lothian; 2nd October 1605 John Falconer of Ballendroe and died before Aug. 1610.

1606-1642

JOHN ALLARDICE of that Ilk succeeded to his father before 2lst August 1696. He was involved in the dispute with his grandmother and sister-in-law. The character of Margaret Erskine he depicted in the very strong terms already noted. He was commissioner to Parliament during the years 1607-1612. By contract dated 14th May 1593 he married first Alison daughter of David Lindsay of Vayne and by charter on 23rd Sept. 1600 they were infeft in the lands and barony of Allardice with the pertinents.

He married second Helen, third daughter of Alexander Burnet of Leys (she afterwards married Sir Robert Graham of Mathieu) and on 29th July 1628 they resigned the lands of Scottistown and Powburn which had, in 1595 been granted to John Allardice and his then spouse Alison Lindsay. By Alison he had:

1. John his heir who died 2nd Nov. 1631

2. Elizabeth who by contract dated at Dundee 1st November 1616 became wife of Alexander Strachan younger of Brigtoun

3. James of Allardice eldest son of 2nd marriage.

4. Thomas of Duninald, Tutor of Allardice. In 1643 he was husband of Lady Agnes Lichton relict of Sir John Erskine of Dun. He had: Robert b. 2nd December 1648; Madory bap. 10th Feb. 1650; Helen bap. 27th April 1651; Jean bap. 18th July 1652; Kathrin bap. 28th Dec. 1653; Magdalen bap. 16th April 1655.

5. Catherine married about 1647 John Fullerton of Kinnaber. She was excommunicated along with her servant for adhering "to the scandalous errors of Quakerism". She died 28th Feb. 1670 and in the following year her husband published an account of her life and death.

6. Jean married before 17th Nov. 1646 William third son of David Beton of Creich.

7. Margaret wife of Thomas Gordon of Dalspro.

1641-1646

JAMES ALLARDICE of that Ilk was served heir to his father John on 27th May 1642 (Kincardine Retour). He took an active part with the Covenanters and as a result the royalists burnt his houses and wasted his lands. He was slain before 17th Nov.1645 resisting the Westland clans who had wrought such havoc in the Mearns. He seems to have been twice married. According to the parish Register on 7th Oct. 1635 the "Right Hon. James Allardes of that Ilk and Margaret Hauc. Ed (Halkete & Lady of Myreside in the parish of Elgin gave up their names to be proclaimed". Nothing has been discovered to show whether the marriage took place but his wife's name is generally held to have been Helen Erskine who afterwards married Captain William Bruce. James Allardice had issue:

1. John his heir

2. Helen bap. 29th Nov. 1642, wife of John Gordon of Collieston.

3. Elizabeth bap 11th Jan 1644

4. James a posthumous son. In July 1645 Thomas Allardice in Glassindrum 6 presentit ane child of umquihile James Allardes of that Ilk baptizil and callit James".

 

 

1647-1654

SIR JOHN ALLARDICE of that Ilk succeeded on the death of his father whilst a minor. An interesting petition to the Estates of 1647 shows how terrible was the fighting that took place in the Mearns. In his petition the Laird says his father "wes cruellie murthered be these wicked and merciless Irish rebels". And his whole estate burnt and wasted, so that no rent had been received since the death of the late laird: by whose death the whole estate with the marriage of himself wards in the King's hands. He therefore desired that he might have gift of his own ward and marriage without composition to be employed in the maintenance and education of his sisters Elizabeth and Helen and himself. That by Act of Parliament in 1640 the ward marriage and non-entries of those who should happen to be killed in the public service is ordained to be disponed gratis for the use of their children. Therefore the Estates in consideration that James Allardice of that Ilk "was cruellie murthered" and his whole estate burnt ordained warrant to the Earl of Crawford and the Lords of Exchequer to pass and expede the gift of the ward in terms of the petition (Acts of Parliament) Scot v).

1654-1671

JOHN ALLARDICE was served heir to his father on 12th September 1654 and by contract dated at Fetteresso on 26th Sept 1652 he became bound to marry the Lady Marie Graham elder daughter of John Lord Kilpont and sister of William Graham Earl of Menteith and Airth the lady to be infeft in the lands of Pitcarle (Airth Peerage Case p.32). Proclamation of the intended marriage was made on 5th October and three days later they were married at Arbuthnott. Sir John whose will is dated 27th Jan 1676 died in the following April his widow surviving until 2nd Dec. 1720. They had in order of seniority:

1. Mary born 8th August 1663 married 8th Dec.1681 Sir Alexander Oglivy of Forglen.

2. Helen born 5th Oct 1664 died unmarried of "old age" 12th Jan 1743.

3. Anna born 1st March 1666 married John Gordon of Breakley

4. John who succeeded, born 1667 died Dec. 1690 buried 9th Jan 1691

5. Jean born 8th Nov.1669.

6. George who succeeded his brother.

7. Margaret born 30th Nov. 1673.

1671-1697

JOHN ALLARDICE of that Ilk was bapt. 6th August 1667. In a charter under the great seal dated 26th May 1671 the lands and barony were settled upon him. On 17th October 1690 he entered into a contract of marriage with Elizabeth daughter of William Barclay of Balmakewan, and on the following day they were proclaimed. Ten days later they were married, but the laird died a few weeks after his marriage in December 1690. His lady pathetically acknowledged how grievously she was disappointed through his early death having dissolved the marriage, but she appears to have soon consoled herself with another husband - Wood of Drumlagair.

Upon 9th April 1691 she granted a discharge to George Allardice of that Ilk as heir to his brother John and to his mother Lady Marie as well as to his sisters, Mary, Ann and Helen.

1697-1709

SIR GEORGE ALLARDICE of Allardice succeeded his brother and was served heir to his father on 14th October 1697. On 21st December 1694 he received a right of reversion in the barony of Kilpont from William Earl of Menteith and Airth. In a curious memorandum there is a statement to the effect that the Marquis of Montrose having "impetrate a disposition" from the Earl of Menteith to his whole estate which disposition "was got by threatening even to the hazard of the Earl's life". The mother of the Marquis was also accused of having taken possession of the Menteith Charter Chest and carrying it off under silence of night without making an inventory or sealing the same. Sir George and Graham of Gartmore as councils of the Menteith family therefore propounded the query as to whether the action of the Grahams did not constitute a riot. Sir George Allardice was commissioner to parliament for the shire and became Master of the Mint. By contract dated 20th October 1692 he married Lady Ann Ogilvie daughter of James third Earl of Findlater. She was buried in Holyrood Chapel 27th September 1735, her will recorded 28th January 1736. Sir George died 5th October 1709 and had:

1. James who succeeded

2. William born 17 December 1700; died 1709

3. John baptised 11th December 1701; died before 25th July 1748

4. Mary married Andrew Hay of Mountblairy and had issue

5. Anna baptised 25th September 1695. Her will dated 27th August 1735

6. Helen born 18 July 1697; married Alex Lind of Georgie

7. Katrina born 15th October 1699; died unmarried 12 March 1744. Her will recorded 13th April 1744.

8. Elizabeth born 5th October 1703; buried 6th May 1705

1709-1748

JAMES ALLARDICE of Allardice was baptised 25th July 1693 and succeeded his father 5th October 1709. On 27th July 1719 he resigned his lands and had a new grant with remainder to his brother John; reserving the life rent of Lady Marie Graham his grandmother and Lady Ann Ogilvy his mother. He was Sheriff Principal of Kincardineshire. He married Mary daughter of Robert Milne of Balcoyllie by contract dated 31st May 1720 (she afterwards married Sir William Nicolson of Glenbervie). They had:

1. James baptised 30th January 1727

2. Mary married (contract dated 20th November 1758) James Macdonald Sheriff Substitute of Kincardineshire and died 4th January 1801).

 

1748-1765

JAMES ALLARDICE of Allardice born 29th January 1727 was served heir to his fatheron 17th July 1748. On 26th July of same year he had a charter of the estate. He married (contract dated 30th March and 7th April 1756) Ann only daughter of James Barclay, banker, London. She died July 1757 and he died 14th July 1765 leaving an only child.

1765-1833

SARAH ANN ALLARDICE last of Allardice born 13th July 1757. She married in December 1776 Robert Barclay of Ury who assumed the surname of Allardice. She was served heir to her father 5th February 1777. On 27th February 1785 she was served nearest and lawful eldest heir portioner general to her great-great-great-uncle William Earl of Menteith and Airth and died 7th July 1833. The following is a copy of inscription on a brass in choir of Arbuthnott Church:

"The Burial Place of the Family of Allardice of that Ilk who were Lords of the Barony of Allardice in this Parish since the Reign of King William the Lion in the Twelfth Century. This Tablet has been erected in memory of his Ancestors by Robert Barclay-Allardice, 1893".

Robert Barclay Allardice and Sarah Ann Allardice had issue:

1. Rodney (1782-1853)

2. James (1784-1803)

3. Mary (1789-1799)

 

FAMILY CRESTS

 

ALLARDICE OF THAT ILK AND BARCLAY-ALLARDICE

 

 

Allardice of that Ilk

Arms: Argent, a fess waved gules between 3 boar's heads erased sable.
(Silver/white shield, with a wavy red band between 3 black boars heads)

This crest was quartered and matriculated by Mrs Margaret Barclay Allardice in 1883 as follows:

Quarterly, 1 and 4, argent, a fesse wavy gules, between three boars' heads erased sable, armed and langued of the second (for Allardice of Allardice); 2. Azure, a chevron and in chief three crosses patee agent (for Barclay of Ury); 3. Quarterly i. and ii. argent on a chief sable, three escallops or ii. and iii. or, a fesse cheqy azure and argent, in a chief a chevronel gules (for Graham, Earls of Menteith and Airth). Mantling - gules, doubled argent. Crests - upon the dexter side, upon a wreath of the liveries, a naked man from the middle, in his dexter hand a scimitar all proper; and in an escroll over the same this Motto, "In defence of the distressed" (for Allardice),. and upon the sinister side, on a wreath of the liveries, a Bishop's mitre or; and in an escroll over the same this Motto, "In cruce spero" (for Barclay). Livery - light blue with white facings.

BARCLAY-ALLARDICE BARCLAY

 

FAMILY CREST - ROBERT BARCLAY-ALLARDICE 1883

ROBERT BARCLAY ALLARDICE, Esquire J.P. co. Cornwall, M.A., F.S.A. (Scot). Mayor of Lostwithiel 1899-1902 and 1904-6, Alderman of Lostwithiel 1903-1910, Born 1841, being the eldest son of the late Samuel Ritchie by his wife Margaret, who died August 17, 1903 (after wards Barclay-Allardice), only child and sole heir of Robert Barclay-Allardice, Esquire of Allardice and Urie, and assumed by Royal Licence in 1883 the surnames and arms of Barclay-Allardice.

Amoral bearings (L.O.) sable three escallops or; ii and iii., or a fesse chequy azure and argent in chief a chevronel gules (Graham c. 1542 Earls of Menteith and Airth). Upon the escutcheon is placed a helmet befitting his degree, with a Mantling gules doubled argent; and for his Crests, upon the dexter side, upon a wreath of the liveries, a naked man from the middle, in his dexter hand a scimitar all proper; and in an escroll over the same this Motto, "In defence of the distressed" (for Allardice), and upon the sinister side, upon a wreath of the liveries, a Bishop's. mitre or; and in an escroll over the same this Motto "In cruce spero" (for Barclay). Livery - light blue with white facings.

Married 1909, Beatrice Maud, elder daughter of W. H. Jeffery of Swete's House, Cornwall; and has issue - Mary Graham. Postal address - Rose Hill, Lostwithiel, Cornwall.

Club - Fowey Yacht (Fowey).

(The above mentioned Robert Barclay-Allardice claims the Scottish Earldoms of Strathearn, Menteith and Airth).

Robert Barclay-Allardice - Eldest son of David Stuart Barclay-Allardyce, Gentleman born November 21, 1845; assumed by Royal License in the year 1883 the surnames and arms of Barclay-Allardice; died 1915; married October 15, 1868 Fannie Foster, daughter of Edwin Day Elliot of West Brattleboroe, Vermont, in the United States of America.

Robert Barclay-Allardyce, Gentleman born 1869; married November 30, 1899 Jessie Darling, daughter of William Drown of Providence. Residence: 44 Belmont Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America.

OTHER REFERENCES ON THE FAMILY OF ALLARDICE

 

THE BARONAGE OF ANGUS & MEARNS

ALLARDICE of that ILK

SIR JOHN ALLARDICE of that ILK, wedded Mary, eldest daughter of Lord Kilpont (assassinated September 1644), eldest son of the first Earl of Airth, &c. She was served heir-portioner-general to the house of Airth and Menteith, by a jury in 1785.

Her great-grandson, James Allardice of Allardice, who wedded Ann Barclay (of Ury?) and died A.D. 1765, leaving an only child and heiress, Sarah Anne who wedded Robert Barclay Esq. of Ury by whom she left issue; and was succeeded by her son, Robert Barclay Allardice who, on his accession to the barony of Allardice, assumed the name and arms of that very ancient family.

The family of "Alrethes", "Alardis", "Allardies" or "Allardice" is so ancient that no one knows when they first acquired the estate. Their first charter is one of confirmation by William the Lion to the then possessor of the lands of "Alrethes", to be held by him by the same tenure as that of his father, who is denominated "Le Scot" - to wit, by the service of "Two Hobilers" (who were mounted archers). This is said to be the oldest charter of land now existing in Scotland. Nisbet writes, "From this time there is a series of writs in the hands of the laird of Allardice. He is the heir of line of the Earls of Airth and Menteith". - Vol.11 p.45 and Ragman Roll. Mr Barclay Allardice has a series of either one hundred and ten, or one hundred and twenty Allardice charters, with the seals on several.

ALLARDICE OF NEW DUNNOTTAR

ALEXANDER ALLARDICE Esq. Of New Dunnottar, Mearns, made his fortune abroad and on his return to his native country he purchased the estate of Dunnottar. He left an only daughter and heiress, Eleanor Allardice who married, 1st May 1814, the Hon Archibald Lord Kennedy (died Earl of Cassilis 12th August 1832) and by her (who died 23rd November 1832) he left issue nine sons and one daughter. The Countess of Cassilis lived to see her patrimonial estate alienated to General Nathaniel Forbes of Auchenrach.

ARMS - Argent, a fesse wavy, gules between the three boars' heads couped, sable.

CREST - A demi-savage, a-frontee, wreathed, holding in his dexter hand a scimiter, proper. MOTTO -In defence of the distressed.

CHIEF SEAT - was Dunnottar House, a fine mansion closely embowered amid finely wooded and extensive grounds and gardens about a quarter of a mile west of Stonehaven.

 

THE SURNAMES OF SCOTLAND (GEORGE F BLACK Ph.D)

ALLARDICE

Allardice, Allardes, of territorial origin from the old barony of Allardice in the parish of Arbuthnott, Kincardineshire. "It is not a very common name, but all who hold it believe in their descent from the old family which was settled for so long a period on the banks of the Bervie Water". The estate was sold in 1872 and now forms part of the Arbuthnott estate in the same parish. Nisbet says William the Lion gave charters of lands of Alrethis to a person who assumed that name. Alexander de Allyrdes, who witnessed a charter of the lands of Glack c 1294 is a doubtless Alisaundre of the county of Kincardyn who rendered homage in 1296. Walter de Allirdas was witness in Brechin in 1364, and Thomas de Allirdes had an annual pension of 20s from the lands of Lytilbarres in 1370. David de Allyrdes was scutifer of the duke of Albany in 1413, Sir James Allirdes was clerk of the king's treasury and archdeacon of Murray in 1476. James Alirdes was precendary of Torbolton in 1491 and John Allerdes of that Ilk was one of an assize in 1601. Among the old people of the locality the name is pronounced "Airdis". Allardes 1543, Allardash 1296, Allerdes 1481, Allirdasse 1415, Allyrdas 1496, Alyrdes 1443. Other forms are Alerdes, Alardyce, Alardice, Alirdes, and Allardais. It has become Alderdice in Antrim and Armagh.

RESEARCH FROM RECORDS OF THE ALLARDICE FAMILY

PARISH OF FETERESSO - KINCARDINE

The grave of Anne Barclay, the eldest daughter of Robert Barclay of Ury, great grandson of Robert Barclay of Ury, author of the "Apology for the Quakers"; and Sarah Anne Allardice of Allardice, daughter and heiress of James Allardice of Allardice. She was born 13th September 1777 and died 29th October 1782.

To the memory of Robert Barclay of Allardice, Esquire 5th of Ury, great grandson of the Apologist who was born at Ury in 1731; and having acquired by marriage the estate of Allardice, thereupon assumed that additional surname. Inheriting from his father, Robert the Strong, symmetry of form and great muscular power, he excelled in all the athletic exercises. Succeeding to Ury on his father's death in 1760 while it was yet in the rudest condition he zealously devoted towards its improvement the energies of a vigorous mind, stored with a thorough knowledge of agriculture attained by assiduous study of its theory and practice in the best districts of England. Accordingly he brought into high cultivation about 2000 arable acres, planted 1500 acres of wood and executed the manifold operations connected with such works in a manner so unexampled and successful that his practice became the conventional standard over an extensive district and placed him in the foremost rank among Scottish agriculturalists. By the grant of feu rights on his estate of Arduthie he laid the foundation of the new town of Stonehaven and lived to see it become a populous and thriving community. By unanimous election he represented his native county in three successive parliaments. Distinguished by his loyalty and patriotism and honoured with the intimate friendship of the great William Pitt and other eminent statesmen of the time, he died at Ury 7th April 1797.

To the memory of Une Cameron wife of John Innes, Esquire of Cowie who was born in 1778 and died at Cowie September 1809. Mary born 1789 who died in 1799. James Allardice born in 1784 who died in the Island of Ceylon 1803. David, Major of the 28th Regiment of Foot who was born 1786 and died at Otranto in Italy in 1826. Rodney, born in 1782 who died in 1853. All children of Robert Barclay Allardice, Esquire of Ury and Sarah Anne Allardice of Allardice, heiress of line of the Earls of Airth and Menteith.

"In memory of Robert Barclay Allardice, Esquire of Ury and Allardice, heir of the Earls of Airth and Menteith born August 25th 1779 died on 1st May 1854 in the 75th year of his age"

"Robert Barclay Allardice of Ury born 25th August 1779 died 1st May 1854"

Robert Barclay of Allardice and Ury who died in 1797 contributed to "Archaelugica Scotica" a paper on the site of the battle of Mons Grampius.

Robert Barclay Allardice who died in 1854 was renowned for his pedestrian feats. He exercised a profuse hospitality and was a zealous agriculturalist.

"Scottish Monuments and Tombstones" - Chas Rodgers LLD - vol 2 9 (41) 06 GC 3

Jas Allardice 246-286
Sarah Ann

Patrick Torry - P. 187 Parish of Perth

PARISH OF LOGIE PERT (NE of Brechin)

On the north of the Parish church a burial aisle contains a marble tabled celebrating James McDonald Esq. Sheriff substitute of the county who died 23.8.1809 aged 83 also his wife Mary, daughter of James Allardice, Esquire of that Ilk; she died 4.1.1802 aged 75. Mrs MacDonald was aunt of Sarah Anne Allardice who died in December 1776 married Robert Barclay of Ury and who in 1785 was served heir portioner of William last Earl of Airth and Menteith, brother of her great great grandmother. On Mrs Barclay's death her eldest son, Mr Robert Barclay Allardice, took certain steps to establish his right to the Airth and Menteith peerages. He died in 1854 and his claim has been renewed by only child Mrs Margaret Barclay Allardice, who is seventeenth in lineal descent from David, Earl of Strathearn, eldest son of the second marriage of Robert II.

22nd Oct 1797 - this day baptised a daughter to Mr James Allardice, of the West Islands.

Feb 17 1798 - This aftemoon read the burying service for Mrs Allardice.

Feb 18 1798 - Mrs Allardice was buried this afternoon.

19 August 1801 - Supped wt Mr Allardice from ye West Indies who belongs to this place and his wife in his own house.

Jan 27 1806 - Christian Stratton was this day married to Mr D Allardice

1) Allardice or Memus

Robert Allardice merchant in Brechin, was treasurer of the city 1726-7 and Bailie 1728-30. Name also appears among councillors in 1732 - he died before 13 April 1739 when his son David, Merchant in Brechin was served heir general.

2) David Allardice, merchant in Brechin was councillor in 1740, 1744 – 45, Bailie 26 June 1747-51, again 1765-83, designated "elder" after 1770.

David Allardice of Memus, Bailie in Brechin was one of the undertakers for building the bridge over the west water on the Edzel road in 1771 commemorated on the inscription on the north wall. Bailie Allardice's house is still pointing out near the Meikle hill in Brechin. He was probable father of the after mentioned Robert of Memus - David, Merchant in Brechin and Dr John Allardice. He had also a daughter mentioned in 1748 - he probably died 1783.

James Allardice, tenant in Drums, Parish of Brechin was out in the "45 - he was after resident in Brechin and may have been a relation of the Bailie.

3) David Allardice, younger was a merchant councillor from 1771-84. The designation "younger" being dropped 1784 - described as Merchant in Brechin, he was served heir of conquest general to his brother, John Allardice - surgeon E.I.C.S. 6th April 1786. David Allardice was served heir of provision to his uncle Robert Allardice of Memus 18 July 1793.

Jan 27th 1806 - Christian Stratton my oldest daughter was married to Mr David Allardice esq. Formerly of Memus - in the county of Angus, now residing in Pittendrelch near Brechin. Her own choice.

April 16 1807 - At tea with Miss Allardice - who had accounts of her brother's death, Alex in India 2 Nov. last.

Mr Allardice 205.6.7

1816 May 16 - On Tuesday (?) last had a letter from my brother informing me of Mr Haggart's death two days before and asking me and Mr Allardice to go there to his funeral to happen on this day or tomorrow.

1817 Jan 9 - Baptised a daughter to Mr & Mrs Allardice in their own house before several of their friends - Ye child's name is Mary Isabell Spence.

1817 March 19 - Myself at Miss Allardice's performing ye funeral service over ye corps of her sister, Miss Mary.

1817 March 20 - Miss M Allardice was buried - I was not there, being unable.

1817 April 24 - This day baptised Mr D Allardice's son, David.

1817 Oct 25 - This day Mrs Allardice had another daughter, doing well with the child.

1817 Dec 2 - Mr & Mrs Allardice had a child baptised here named Christian Jean.

R Barclay Allardice

From register of Births, etc. in Episcopal Church, Brechin

THE ARMS OF ERSKINE OF DUN

The accuracy of the arms of Erskine of Dun on the Stirling Tombstone is supported by the fact that a memorial stone over the grave of Margaret Erskine - daughter of Sir Thomas Erskine of Brechin, second son of Erskine of Dun, and wife of John Allardice of that Ilk, in the chapel of Hollyrood Palace, bears upon the pale of the Erskine, a cross fitche, in base a crescent. The inscription on the stone is as follows "heir lyis ane honrabil woman callit Margaret Erskin, Lady Allardes and Banff XVII July 59 memento mori me".

This lady was married before 14 July 1542 to John Allardice of that Ilk, who was probably killed at Pinkie where his brother James was slain (bad reputation in her husband's family - maist venemous pestiferous serpent Margaret Erskyne).

Oct 21 – 1798 - Married ye Revered Mr Green of England to Miss Jean Allardice of this place.

A SCOTTISH MAYOR

The newly elected mayor of Lostwithiel, Cornwall is Mr Robert Barclay Allardice FSA Scot eldest grandson of the late Capt. Robert Barclay Allardice of Ury and Allardice, Kincardineshire and heir of line of the Earls of Menteith and Airth - Lostwithiel is one of the old Cornish Royal Boroughs who’s first known mayor Searlo Oneynte held office in the year 1290 - IPS first charter as a free borough is dated 13 July 1269.

1802 Dec 15'h - This afternoon married Mr William Allardice and Mrs Allardice who had a process before ye higher courts upon that subject these then years. Ye process went in favour of Mrs Allardice, and this evening ye matter was finally settled by a formal marriage before friends.

(in margin) Capt. Allardice

Feb 10 1809 - Preached a funeral service on account of Mrs Allardice's death.

David Allardice of Scetoquhy died at Flodden.

1811 Feb 7th- Myself in Brechin read the burying service over the corps of Mrs William Allardice.

John Graham eldest son of 7th Earl of Menteith, also Strathearne and Earl of Airth killed at the camp of Collace under Montrose 1644 - daughter Lady Mary Carhpharie) married 1661 Sir John Allardice of Allardice-(Knight).

John Lord Kilpont's daughter Mary married George Allardice of that Ilk.

SCOTTISH HISTORICAL REVIEW

Lady Marie Graham, mother of George Allardes of Allardes (Allardice of Allardice) who married Lady Anne Ogilvie, Lord Findlater's daughter.

Lady Marie Graham was the eldest daughter of John Graham Lord Kilpont, and sister of William Graham second Earl of Airth and Menteith. It is through her that the Allardices claim the Earldoms of Strathearn, Menteith and Airth.

Rest of above quotes from Scottish Antiquary - 13-14 1898-1900

No. 12 1896-8 p. 120

lbid fol 7027 January 1513-14.

Geofe E of Rothes became surety for the relict of David Allardes of Scetoquhy who died in the King's army.

1911 Scotia - Allardyce his Excellency the Hon Wm. Craig Governor of the Falkland Islands.

Scot Antiq - 15 1900-02

Burials in the Abbey of Holyrood house 27th Sept. 1735 - Interned in the Abbey Church - Lady Ann Allardice, Sister of the late Earle of Findlater, Chancellor of Scotland relit of Mr George Allardice of that Ilk, laying in the east end of the church close by the Duke of Hamilton's tomb.

Miscellany of the Spalding Club iv p.208

The Laird of Allardes Band 1543

Thou Allirdes of that Ilk (swearing to follow George Earle of Huntlie - Lord Gordon and Badzenoch) witnessed by Alexander Ogilvy of Strathavon, George Gardone in Camborrow and Master William Gordone - notar publik.

EXTRACTS FROM THE BURGH RECORDS OF ABERDEEN 1398-1570

Schyr James Allardes Provost of our Lady Kirk of the Heugh.

Spalding Club V

John Allardes - Bailie of Aberdeen 1698

Allirdes - de codem - Thomas p.265 + 272 - 1509.

Kinkardine - (Liber S. Thone de Aberbothoc - 1329-1536) PXLIII and with the feu duties of........ Scottistoun set in feu to John Allardes of that Ilk anno domino miltesimo quadringen - tesimo - tricesimo sexto.

Thomam de Allirdas - Forglen p.91

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