Discover the Clan Fraser of Lovat Crest & Motto: History and Meaning Unveiled

The Scottish clan system is steeped in history, tradition, and symbols. One such symbol that holds great significance for the Fraser of Lovat clan is their family crest. It embodies their values, heritage, and sense of identity. In this blog post, we will delve into the meaning and history of the Fraser of Lovat crest, their motto 'Je Suis Prest', and the cultural impact of this emblem.

Gaelic Name:  Friseal

Crest:  A buck’s head erased, Proper

Motto:  Je Suis Prest (I am ready)

Origin of Name:  French, fraisse (Strawberry)

Lands:  East Lothian, Aberdeenshire

Clan Chief:  The Rt. Hon. The Lord Lovat

The Fraser of Lovat crest holds great significance for the clan and is an important symbol of their identity and heritage. It serves as a reminder of their past, their values, and their contribution to Scottish history.

The red hand and boar's head are both featured prominently in the clan's tartan, further solidifying their connection to their emblem. The tartan also includes shades of green, blue, and white, representing the Scottish landscape, sky, and clouds.

Moreover, the Fraser of Lovat crest is proudly displayed on various clan memorabilia, such as flags, plaques, and clothing items, signifying their pride and loyalty to their lineage.

The Fraser of Lovat family motto, 'Je Suis Prest', translates to 'I am ready' or 'be prepared'. This motto reflects the clan's warrior spirit and determination to always be ready to defend their family, land, and honour.

Legend has it that Simon Fraser, 11th Lord Lovat, was on his way to meet King James IV of Scotland in 1513 when he encountered a messenger with an urgent message from the king. The messenger asked if Fraser was ready for battle, to which he replied 'Je Suis Prest', signifying his readiness and loyalty to the king. This event is said to have inspired the clan's motto, and it has been passed down through generations ever since.

The Fraser of Lovat crest dates back to the 12th century and has evolved over time. It consists of a shield divided into four quarters, each representing different aspects of the clan's history and values.

The boar's head in the first quarter symbolizes strength, courage, and fierceness in battle. It is also a nod to the clan's Norman origins as the boar was a common symbol in Norman heraldry. This quarter also features the Fraser family motto, 'Je Suis Prest'.

The engrailed cross in the second quarter represents the clan's Christian faith and the influence of the Church in their lives. It is also a reminder of their connection to the Knights Templar, who had considerable influence over the Fraser clan in the 12th and 13th centuries.

The third quarter features three crowns, representing the three ancient Scottish kingdoms of Dalriada, Strathclyde, and Pictavia. This quarter symbolizes the clan's history and ties to these kingdoms, as well as their position as one of the oldest clans in Scotland.

The fourth quarter is perhaps the most recognizable and significant part of the Fraser of Lovat crest. It features a red hand on a silver background, known as a 'dexter hand couped'. This symbol dates back to the 12th century and is believed to represent the legend of a Celtic warrior who sacrificed his hand to save his king. It also signifies the clan's loyalty, bravery, and determination.

The Fraser of Lovat crest has undergone several changes over the centuries, reflecting the clan's evolving identity and political alliances.

In the 16th century, the boar's head was replaced with a galley (a type of ship) to reflect the clan's support for Mary, Queen of Scots. However, this change did not last long, and the boar's head was reinstated in the 17th century.

During the 18th century, the clan's ties to the Jacobite cause saw the addition of a crown above the red hand, symbolizing their loyalty to the exiled Stuart monarchy. After the Jacobite defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746, the crown was removed from the crest.

In modern times, the Fraser of Lovat crest has remained relatively unchanged, with minor tweaks to the design and color. The current version features a gold shield, representing the clan's wealth and status, and a black engraved cross in the second quarter.

The Fraser of Lovat name has several variations, each with its own historical and linguistic significance.

1. Fraser: The most common form of the name, derived from the French word "fraisier," meaning strawberry. The strawberry plant was used in the early Fraser coat of arms.

2. Frazer: A variant spelling often found in historical documents and personal names. This variation highlights the phonetic evolution of the name over time.

3. Frizell: An older variation of the name, showing the adaptation of the name in different regions and historical periods.

4. Fresel: Is another historical variant that reflects the name's evolution and the influence of different linguistic traditions on its spelling and pronunciation.

The Fraser of Lovat crest shares similarities with other Scottish clans' crests, reflecting the interconnectedness of Scottish history and culture.

The red hand can be seen in other clan crests, such as the Munro and MacLeod clans, highlighting the shared Celtic heritage among these clans. The boar's head is also a recurring symbol in other clan crests, such as the Gordon and Campbell clans, showcasing the influence of Norman heritage in Scottish heraldry.

The red hand and boar's head combination is unique to the Fraser of Lovat crest, making it a distinct and recognizable emblem within the Scottish clan system.

The Fraser of Lovat crest has not only held significance for the clan but has also had a cultural impact beyond their family. One notable example is the use of the crest in the popular television series Outlander, based on the book series by Diana Gabaldon.

The main character, Jamie Fraser, is a member of the Fraser clan and proudly wears the Fraser of Lovat crest on his clothing throughout the series. This has brought attention to the clan's history and symbols, sparking interest and pride among those with Scottish heritage.

Additionally, the Fraser of Lovat crest has been featured in various media, such as films, books, and video games, further cementing its place in popular culture.

In conclusion, the Fraser of Lovat crest is more than just a symbol for the clan; it represents their values, history, and identity. From its origins in the 12th century to its modern-day iterations, it has served as a constant reminder of the clan's courage, loyalty, and determination.

The red hand, boar's head, and other elements of the crest hold deep meaning and have transcended beyond the Fraser of Lovat family to become an important part of Scottish cultural heritage. Today, the crest continues to be proudly displayed by members of the clan, keeping their noble lineage alive and honoring their ancestors who fought bravely under this emblem.