Arnott Clan Collection

In the intricate weave of Scotland’s historical fabric, the Arnott Clan emerges as a compelling thread, embodying the resilience and adaptability of Scotland’s ancient families. Rooted in the lands of Kinross-shire and extending their influence across centuries, the Arnotts have left an enduring imprint on Scotland’s cultural, religious, and political landscapes. This essay explores the clan’s origins, historical evolution, symbols, and notable figures, illuminating their contributions to the nation’s storied past.

II. Origins of Clan Arnott

The Arnott surname, also recorded as Arnot, Arnote, Arnocht, and Arnatt, traces its origins to the lands of Arnot in the Portmoak Parish of Kinross-shire, southeastern Scotland. The name is territorial, derived from a place documented as early as 1105, linking the family to the region during Scotland’s medieval era. The etymology of "Arnot" is less certain, but it may relate to Old English or Gaelic terms for a landscape feature, possibly "eagle’s height" or a similar descriptive term tied to the local terrain. The Arnotts established themselves as a landed family by the 12th century, with records affirming their presence and influence in Kinross-shire.

III. Historical Evolution of Clan Arnott

A. Medieval Foundations

The Arnott Clan’s history begins in earnest in the medieval period, with their lands in Kinross-shire serving as the bedrock of their identity. In 1284, Michael de Arnoth is recorded as holding these lands, a testament to the family’s early prominence. By 1296, David Arnot of Fyfe rendered homage to Edward I of England, one of approximately 2,000 Scottish landowners compelled to swear allegiance during the Wars of Independence. This act situates the Arnotts within the turbulent politics of the time, navigating the shifting allegiances between Scotland and England. Around 1320, Matilda de Arnoth received confirmation of the island of Ellenabot in Loch Lomond, further expanding the clan’s territorial footprint.

B. Religious and Political Engagement

The Arnotts were not merely passive landowners; they actively engaged in Scotland’s religious and political spheres. In 1502, David Ernot, an archdeacon of Lothian, rose to become Bishop of Galloway, reflecting the clan’s influence within the Scottish Church during a period of religious upheaval. The name appears frequently in Edinburgh during the 15th and 16th centuries, with figures like George Arnot, a merchant burgess in 1627, indicating the clan’s urban presence and economic contributions. Hugo Arnot’s publication of A History of Edinburgh in 1816 underscores the family’s intellectual legacy, offering a detailed chronicle of the city’s past.

C. Adaptation Across Centuries

The Arnott Clan’s adaptability is evident in their persistence through Scotland’s changing landscapes. From their medieval origins in Kinross-shire, they maintained a presence in Fife—where lands were granted to John de Arnutis in 1429—and Ayrshire, where Edward Arnott was repledged to the burgh of Irvine in 1472. This geographic spread highlights their ability to thrive amid feudal conflicts, Reformation struggles, and the centralization of power under the Scottish crown. Though lacking a recognized chief today, rendering them an armigerous clan, the Arnotts’ historical resilience endures.

IV. Clan Arnott Crest and Motto

A. Crest Symbolism

The Arnott Clan crest features a crescent in gold (Or), a symbol rich with meaning in heraldry. The crescent often represents growth, renewal, and the promise of future prosperity, reflecting the clan’s aspirations and enduring spirit. Worn by all of the name and ancestry, this emblem serves as a unifying badge of identity.

B. Clan Motto

The motto "Speratum et Completum," translating from Latin to "Hoped for and Fulfilled," encapsulates the Arnott Clan’s ethos. It suggests a family driven by ambition yet grounded in the satisfaction of achieved goals, a fitting reflection of their historical journey from medieval landowners to influential figures in Scottish society.

V. Clan Arnott Tartan

Unlike many Scottish clans with long-established tartans, the Arnott Clan’s tartan is a modern creation, designed in 2017 by William Arnot. This bespoke tartan, not a stock woven pattern, incorporates the family colors of red, white, and black, alongside purple and green for heather and brown for the earth, symbolizing their connection to Scotland’s natural landscape. As a special weave, it underscores the clan’s distinct identity. In the absence of an official clan tartan prior to 2017, Arnotts may have worn district tartans such as those of Ayrshire or Perthshire, reflecting their historical ties to these regions.

VI. Prominent Figures of Clan Arnott

A. Michael de Arnot (14th Century)

Michael de Arnot, a garrison member at Edinburgh Castle in 1337, exemplifies the clan’s military involvement during the medieval period. Potentially the same Michael Arnoth linked to the lands of Kynglassy in 1340, his presence in key fortifications highlights the Arnotts’ role in defending Scotland’s sovereignty amid ongoing conflicts with England.

B. William Arnott (1800–1877)

A later figure, William Arnott, born in Fife in 1800, ventured beyond Scotland to Australia in 1847, seeking fortune during the gold rush. Though unsuccessful as a prospector, he leveraged his baking skills to establish a successful bakery in Newcastle, New South Wales, by 1865. His entrepreneurial spirit and legacy as the founder of Arnott’s Biscuits—a brand still renowned today—illustrate the clan’s adaptability and global impact.

VII. Conclusion

The Arnott Clan’s history weaves a narrative of steadfastness and versatility, from their medieval roots in Kinross-shire to their contributions across religious, political, and economic domains. Their crest and motto reflect a legacy of hope and achievement, while their modern tartan ties them to Scotland’s enduring traditions. Figures like Michael de Arnot and William Arnott embody the clan’s martial valor and innovative spirit. Though lacking a chief in contemporary times, the Arnotts remain a vital part of Scotland’s historical tapestry, their story a testament to the resilience of its people and the richness of its heritage.