Kerr

There are two tales of the origins of the Kerrs. The first, is that they hail from Anglo-Norman origin, descended from two brothers who settled in Roxburgh in the 14th Century and the second claiming that the name comes from a Celtic word meaning strength.

One of the branches of the Kerrs: the Kerrs of Cessford were Wardens of the Marches and prominent in Border conflicts. They were given old Roxburgh by James IV, and also fought on the side of James VI at Langside in 1568. Sir Robert gained the title of Lord Roxbughe in 1600, later elevated to the earldom of Roxburghe and appointed Lord Privy seal in 1637. Through marriage Sir William Drummond became the 2nd Earl of Roxburghe and assumed the name Ker. John. The 5th Earl became Duke of Roxburghe. The line ended when the 3rd Duke died. The death of the 4th Duke, Lord Bellenden lead to a bitter and vicious contest for the issue of the title. Sir James Innes eventually succeeded as 5th Duke and assumed the name Ker.

A Ker was given the title of earl of Lothian in 1606.