Camelot International > Historic Roots


Hay

The Hays can be traced back to the 12th Century to a William de la Haye who arrived in Scotland and married a Celtic heiress. He was granted lands by William the Lion in around 1180. His grandson, 3rd Baron of Erroll, was co-Regent of Scotland.

The family were supporters of Robert the Bruce, and Sir Gilbert, 5th chief was one of the heroes of the Scottish War of Independence. Robert gave him Slains Castle in Buchan and made him hereditary Constable of Scotland. Later the belt, Earl of Erroll, was given to William the 9th chief.

The Hays lost a lot of men at Flodden, and in 1594, Francis the 5th Earl fought in alliance with Huntly at Glenlivet and defeated Argyll.

James VI blew up Slains Castle after realising that Francis was plotting with the Spanish. The castle was rebuilt in 1664.

In 1627. Sir George Hay was created Viscount Dupplin and Lord Hay of Kingauns and later recieved Earl of Kinnoul. The 9th and 10th Earls held the office of Lord Lyon until that role became standardised.

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