Clan Riddell
| Clan Riddell | |
|---|---|
 Crest: A demi greyhound proper | |
| Motto | I hope to share |
| Profile | |
| District | Lowlands |
| Plant badge | Rye |
| Chief | |
 | |
| Sir Walter John Buchanan Riddell of that Ilk, 14th Baronet | |
| Chief of Clan Riddell, The Riddell of that Ilk, Baronet Riddell of Riddell | |
Clan Riddell is a Scottish clan from the Lowlands, known for its long history and continued leadership through the Riddell baronets. The clan’s lands and titles have changed over time, but it remains a notable name in Scottish heritage.[1]
Origins
[change | change source]The Riddell name may come from families who migrated from Gascony in France or from Ryedale in Yorkshire, England. A more common theory is that the name is of Norman origin. The first clear record appears in 1116, when a Gervase Ridale witnessed a charter of David I of Scotland. His son, Walter, later received land in Lilliesleaf, in Roxburghshire. In 1174, one of Gervase’s nephews was sent as a hostage after King William was captured. Over time, the family gained lands in Northumberland and Scotland.[1]
17th Century & Civil War
[change | change source]In 1628, Sir John Riddell was made a Baronet of Nova Scotia, and his lands became the barony of New Riddell. His third son, William, was knighted and fought in wars in the Netherlands. Another member of the family, Reverend Archibald Riddell, was imprisoned for refusing to give up his Covenanter beliefs—but he survived.
A later Riddell became wealthy as a merchant trading across the Baltic Sea and acquired land near Linlithgow. During the Civil War, he aligned with Oliver Cromwell’s forces and became friendly with General Monck.
18th Century to Today
[change | change source]Later generations of Riddells expanded into Argyll, gaining estates at Ardnamurchan and Sunart. In 1778, a James Riddell became the Baronet of Ardnamurchan. His descendant Sir Rodney Riddell was a soldier who served in New Zealand and Afghanistan.
The current chief of the clan is Sir Walter John Buchanan Riddell, the 14th Baronet of Riddell of Riddell, succeeding his father in 2010. The clan badge shows a demi-greyhound, the motto reads "I hope to share," and the plant badge is rye—symbols still recognised by its members.[2]
Legacy
[change | change source]Clan Riddell remains one of the Lowland clans with a living chief, and their history spans religion, trade, war, and service. From early charters to modern stewardship of their heritage, the Riddells continue to be part of Scotland’s rich tapestry of families and traditions.