Clan Stewart
also Stuart
From High Stewards to the throne — the royal name of Scotland.
Draft entry · awaiting community review
Motto
Virescit vulnere virtus
— Courage grows strong at a wound
What does the Stewart name mean?
From the office of 'High Steward' of Scotland, held hereditarily by the family from the 12th century until they themselves became kings.
The history of Clan Stewart
The Stewarts take their surname from the hereditary office of High Steward of Scotland, held by the family from the 12th century. Walter, the 6th High Steward, married Marjorie Bruce, daughter of Robert the Bruce — and their son became Robert II in 1371, founding the royal House of Stewart.
The Stewart kings ruled Scotland for over three centuries, and after 1603 the united crowns of Scotland and England — until the deposition of James VII and II in 1689. The exiled line continued through James Francis Edward (the 'Old Pretender') and Charles Edward Stuart ('Bonnie Prince Charlie') to the death of Henry, Cardinal York, in 1807.
Beyond the royal line, branches such as the Stewarts of Atholl, Appin and Bute remain among the most numerous and widespread clans in Scotland.
Notable bearers of the Stewart name
- Robert II
- Mary, Queen of Scots
- Bonnie Prince Charlie
Frequently asked
What does the surname Stewart mean?
Where does the Stewart family come from?
What is the Clan Stewart motto?
Who are some famous Stewarts?
Is Stuart the same family as Stewart?
Editor notes
- · Verify motto attribution; multiple Stewart branches use different mottos.