Tracing the Anderson name: a journey from Dumfries to Wyseby

The earliest known reference to the name that eventually became "Anderson" dates back to Fitz Andreu, the son of Andrew, documented in Dumfries during the 13th century. In the 12th and 13th centuries, surnames were not common. Records mostly contained individuals' names, often linked to being captured or involved in battles. These references were often brief, particularly when associated with a king or notable person of the time. Typically, only a name and place of origin were provided.

For example, Radulfus de Ver was captured alongside Scottish King William the Lion during the Battle of Alnwick in 1174. This marked the first mention of the name that evolved into "Vere." If he hadn't been a close knight to the king, he might have remained unknown. Therefore, we know that the Andersons were in the vicinity of Dumfries.

Other Andersons also held lands on the Black Isle, just north of Inverness, in Rosshire, and at Candacraig (home to an Anderson family from around 1581 to 1866) in Strathdon. Many families historically owned land in the southern parts of Scotland and even in Northern England. The control of the southern border of Scotland constantly shifted until the 15th century, with the Border Reivers in charge.

The De Brus family, whose castle was at Annan, later acquired estates in the Highlands after the River Annan flooded. They relocated their main castle seat to Lochmaben, surrounded by the loch and protected by a moat. Its inland location spared it from tidal waters, unlike Annan.

When we delve into the Norman invasion history, it primarily focuses on the Lowlands of Scotland, with land distribution following the Norman Conquest in 1066-1071 and the Battle of Hastings in 1066. This allocation led to the rise of the De Brus family and culminated in Robert the Bruce's victory at the Battle of Bannockburn.

In 1306, at Greyfriars Church in Dumfries, Bruce murdered his rival Comyn and later that year had himself crowned King at Scone. Fitz Andru of Dumfries was recorded before these events. Therefore, although we had lands in the Highlands, the earliest records, similar to the Bruce family, are linked to the Dumfries area.

Our Clan Anderson Society's Scottish seat has been based at Wyseby for 34 years, with a Clan Room of History and Display since 1989. Wyseby holds historical significance due to its association with the Clan Anderson and its proximity to Dumfries, Bruce, and Irvine connections. Additionally, Wyseby is my home and has been the base for our Clan Anderson Society for many years.

Considering the historical timelines, Wyseby is the most relevant location for our seat.

Author: Hope Vere Anderson, Baron of Bannockburn (f/ Clan Chief)