If you have the surname Grant in your family tree—or you are simply curious about where the name comes from—you are in good company. As part of my series on Scottish surnames, this is a Scottish name rooted in the Highlands.
In this article, I take a closer look at the origins, meaning and history of the name.
So, let’s get started!
Grant Last Name Origin & Meaning
The surname Grant has several possible origins. One theory suggests that it comes from the Norman French word grand, meaning “tall” or “large,” probably a nickname for a tall or imposing individual.
Another possibility is that it comes from the Gaelic word grannda, meaning “ugly” or “ill-favoured”.
Which one do you prefer?
Early Grant Surname History
The first Grants are recorded in Scotland in the 13th century, during the reign of King Alexander III. They were originally from the Borders before moving northwards in the Strathspey area.
Rise of the Clan Grant
By the 16th century, Clan Grant had become a major power in the Highlands. One of the most notable clan chiefs was Sir James Grant (died 1630). He expanded the clan’s influence and ensured its prosperity. Consequently, the clan’s principal seat became Castle Grant, located near the town of Grantown-on-Spey, which was founded in the 18th century.
During the Jacobite risings of the 18th century, the Grants mostly supported the Hanoverian government. However, some individual clan members did join the Jacobite cause.
The current Chief of Clan Grant is The Rt. Hon. Sir James Patrick Trevor Grant of Grant, 6th Baron Strathspey, who carries the title of Chief of the Name and Arms of Grant.
Clan Grant Tartan
Their tartan is a bold and distinctive pattern, with dark green, navy, and red stripes. Apparently, the colours symbolise loyalty and strength. There are several recognised tartans, including the traditional Grant tartan and the “Red Grant” variant.
The Grant Clan Family Crest
The Grant crest features a burning hill. This is probably a reference to the traditional method of raising the clan in times of war. It is surrounded by the clan motto: “Stand Fast, Stand Firm, Stand Sure.”
Variation of the Grant Surname
The surname Grant has not really changed over time. However, names were often written phonetically by clerks, leading to slight differences in spelling.
Searching for records under alternative forms such as Grante, Grantt, Grandt, or even Le Grant can help your research.
Notable People with Grant Surname
There are many individuals with the Grant surname who have achieved prominence such as:
- Ulysses S. Grant (1822–1885) was the 18th President of the United States and General of the Union Army during the American Civil War.
- Sir James Augustus Grant (1827–1892) was a Scottish explorer who, alongside John Hanning Speke, was best known for his expeditions in East Africa in search of the source of the Nile.
- Captain Robert Grant VC (1837–1874) was s Scottish officer in the British Indian Army who was awarded the Victoria Cross for gallantry during the Siege of Delhi.
- Cary Grant (1904–1986) was one of Hollywood’s most famous leading men. Born Archibald Alec Leach, he chose “Grant” as his stage name.
- Amy Grant (b. 1960) is a well-known American singer-songwriter who best known for her contemporary Christian music.
The Grant name is also well known in the world of Scottish whisky. Based in Dufftown, in the heart of Speyside the Grant’s Scotch Whisky was established in 1887 by William Grant. It is still family-owned after 6 generations of the Grant family.
Closing Words
Today, the surname Grant can be found across the Scottish diaspora in countries such as Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.
If you have a Grant connection in your family, or stories of famous or little-known Grants you would like to share, feel free to leave a comment below!
Thank you for joining me on a journey into another Scottish surname.
Please remember to leave a comment below or if you want me to write about a Scottish surname.
Good luck with your family history research.
Until my next post, haste ye back.
Enjoyed this post?
Keep up-to-date with my latest posts and tips below:
We hate SPAM & promise to keep your details safe.
Image Credits: Ann Harrison, Reuse Image :: Geograph Britain and Ireland; © Crown Scottish Register of Tartans; William Grantt (1831-1884) – Find a Grave Memorial
You may also like...
The Story of the Grant Surname
The Grant surname is prominent in the Scottish Highlands, with Castle Grant serving as the historic stronghold of Clan Grant.
The Life of a Tollkeeper
A tollkeeper was a person who collected road fees from travellers. This old occupation was prominent during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Cameron Surname: Origin, Meaning & History
The Cameron surname has Gaelic origins and it is associated with Clan Cameron, one of the most influential Highland clans.