NAIRNE
Nairne
Overview: Nairne is a Scottish surname that is primarily associated with the regions of Perthshire and Fife in Scotland. The surname is believed to have originated from the town of Nairne in the Highland region of Scotland. It is considered to be a locational surname, deriving from the place name.
History: The Nairne surname has ancient origins, dating back to the medieval period in Scotland. It is thought to have been first used as a surname by individuals who hailed from or had connections to the town of Nairne. Over time, the surname spread to other parts of Scotland and beyond as individuals migrated and settled in different regions.
Variants: Variants of the Nairne surname include Nairn, Nairns, and Nairns.
Notable Individuals:
- Baron Nairne (Patrick Kier, 1723-1806): A Scottish Jacobite nobleman who was involved in the 1745 Jacobite Rising. He was captured following the defeat at the Battle of Culloden and sentenced to death, though his sentence was later commuted. He went on to play a role in the formation of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.
- Caroline Oliphant, Lady Nairne (1766-1845): A Scottish songwriter and poet best known for her Jacobite and Scottish songs, including "Charlie is my Darling" and "The Rowan Tree". She belonged to the Perthshire branch of the Nairne family.
Coat of Arms: The Nairne family coat of arms typically features symbols such as a shield with heraldic charges, a motto, and other elements that reflect the family's history and achievements. The specifics of the coat of arms can vary based on the branch of the Nairne family and individual preferences.
Modern Day: Today, the surname Nairne is found not only in Scotland but also in countries worldwide due to Scottish migration. Many individuals with the surname Nairne continue to celebrate their Scottish heritage and ancestral connections.
References:
- Black, G. F. (1946). The Surnames of Scotland: Their Origin, Meaning, and History.
- Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A dictionary of English surnames.
There are approximately 331 people named Nairne in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Nairne.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alexander
- Andrew
- Christopher
- Danny
- David
- George
- Henry
- James
- John
- Patrick
- Russell
- Stephen
- Terrence
Female
- Emma
- Helen
- Jane
- Jean
- Kelly
- Lesley
- Margaret
- Michelle
- Penelope
- Susan