Clan Dunlop
The Dunlops were a landed family of nobility from the western region of Scotland, known for their historical influence and its strong association with the Gaelic-speaking culture of Scotland. The family has roots in ancient Scottish traditions and has been recognized for its role in the developing Scotland’s heritage over the centuries.
Clan status
Clan Dunlop is considered an Armigerous Clan because although James Stuart Wallace Dunlop holds the title of Chief within the family and is considered to be the current head of the clan — Clan Dunlop is lacking a recognized chief in the formal heraldic sense. However, the family has a distinct heritage and history hailing from the Kingdom of Strathclyde, as well as an established tartan, coat of arms, badge, and a coat of arms which IS acknowledged by the Court of the Lord Lyon.Etymology
The surname Dunlop is believed to be of Gaelic origin, derived from the place name Dun Lobb, meaning "fort of the hill or bend," or Dun Lòb, referring to a fortified hill in the area. This etymology reflects the geographical features of the area where the clan was established.The Dunlop family is thought to have originated from the area around Dunlop, North Ayrshire, where the Dunlop Castle once stood. The clan is believed to have been one of the early settlers in the region, and over time it became associated with the powerful and influential families in the area.
Early history
The family played a role in the early political developments of Scotland. The Dunlops were initially part of the larger network of Scottish Gaelic tribes that held lands in the Kingdom of Strathclyde before the Scots consolidated their power. The Dunlop family was connected with the surrounding noble houses, and its members were involved in various land transactions and feudal duties.The earliest known recorded mention of Clan Dunlop likely dates back to the 1200s where the Dunlap name was recorded on government documents. About this same time there are several additional findings of the surname on other documents relevant to the Dunlop family history.
Castle and seat
, located near the village of Dunlop, is considered the traditional seat of the clan. The castle was built in the 13th century by the Dunlop family and was strategically positioned on a hill overlooking the surrounding land.This structure was described as an important fortification in the region, though it no longer stands today. The Dunlop family was responsible for much of the area's local governance and played an important role in the region’s medieval politics.
Coat of arms
There seem to be several variations of the Dunlop Coat of Arms, however, the predominant theme features a two-headed eagle. The family's heraldic blazon for their coat of arms is generally described by Burke's Peerage in the following categories and styles:| Style | Description |
| Dunlop, of County Ayr. | Argent a two-headed eagle displayed Gules |
| Dunlop; | As the last, for Dunlop; 2nd and 3rd, counter-quartered, 1st and 4th, Gules a lion Rampant. Argent; 2nd and 3rd, Gules a Argent And Azure, all for Wallace. Crest — a dexter hand holding a dagger erected all proper. Motto — "Merito." |
| Dunlop, of County Ayr | Argent: A two-headed eagle displayed Gules in dexter chief point a mullet azure for difference. Crest — a rose slipped proper Motto — "E spinis." |
| Carmyle and Garnkirk | Argent: A two-headed eagle displayed Gules in dexter chief a rose of the last, a bordure Azure. Crest — a dexter hand holding a dagger in bend sinister proper. Mottoes — Above the crest: "Merito"; beneath the shield: "E spinis." |
| Rosebank, of County Lanark | Argent: A two-headed eagle displayed Gules beaked and membered Sable in chief a lozenge between two stars Azure. In base the sea waved Vert in dexter chief a rose of the last, a bordure Azure Crest — a hand holding a sword proper. Motto — "Merito." |
| Househill | Argent: A two-headed eagle displayed Gules in dexter chief point a martlet Azure for difference. Crest — a hand holding a sword proper. Motto — "Merito." |
Mottoes
The Clan Dunlop's primary motto is "Merito" which means "Deservedly"; and E spinis which translates to "From the thorns." This reflects the clan's resilient warrior spirit and the tenacity of its members throughout history.Tartans
The clan's tartan is distinctive, and characterized by a pattern of blue and black that signify their Scottish heritage.The first Dunlop Tartan was based upon the red and black tartan of our family's allied clan — the Cunninghams, however with minor details altered. Later, two additional tartans for "Dunlop Dress" and "Dunlop Hunting" were successfully approved.
Several dedicated Dunlop descendants worked diligently to help create the Dunlop Tartans. Richard Dunlop, was the second President of the Dunlop/Dunlap Family Society, and he was instrumental in undertaking the complicated and lengthy process of researching existing tartans, and then finding the path forward for designing, seeking approval, and registering the proposed tartans.
Notable members
The Dunlop family has produced several notable figures throughout Scottish history, including military leaders, scholars, and religious figures.One well-known member of Clan Dunlop was Lieutenant General James Wallace Dunlop 21st of that Ilk, who was a Scottish land owner and key military officer during the Napoleonic Wars, where he distinguished himself as a commander. He also served in the American Revolutionary War and in India.
John Boyd Dunlop was a 19th-century inventor and entrepreneur from Scotland who is credited with the invention of the pneumatic tire, which revolutionized the automotive industry. His work has had a lasting impact on both transportation and engineering.
Colonel Weary Dunlop was an Australian surgeon who gained notoriety for his exceptional leadership after his stint as a POW held by Japanese captors during World War II.