Barclay

The Barclay's of Mather in Kincardineshire could trace their name back to Alexander, who obtained these lands after marrying the sister of the Earl Marischal of Scotland. It was his son who began the tradition of spelling the name as Barclay, and the estate remained in possession of the Barclay's until 1580, when David Barclay had no option other than to sell his land. The chiefship was passed on to the descendants of James Barclay of Mill of Towie in the 19th Century.

Notable branches of the clan Barclay are the Barclays of Urie. Colonel David Barclay purchased the estate in 1647, and served under Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden. His eldest son, Robert became a famous Quaker, and in 1682 was appointed governor of New Jersey, but did not take up residence there.

Other branches of the family were the Barclays of Collairnie in Fife, of Peirston and Androssan. Also the Barclays of Tolly in Aberdeenshire who held their lands from the 12th to the 18th century. The famous Russian General: Field Marshall Prince Barclay de Tolly was descended from the family.