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Scottish Tattoo Designs >> Carmichael

Carmichael Clan Tattoos - The Carmichaels have been settled on the lands in the upper ward of Lanarkshire from which they derive their name, for almost eight hundred years. The lands of Carmichael (literally 'Michael's fort') were originally part of the broad Douglasdale territory granted to the Douglases by Robert the Bruce in 1321.

Robert de Carmitely resigned claims to the patronage of the church of Cleghorn around 1220. Robert de Carmichael is mentioned in a charter of Dryburgh Abbey in the year 1226. Later, other Carmichaels are mentioned in charters of the Douglas family until, between 1374-84 Sir John de Carmichael received a charter of the lands of Carmichael from William, Earl of Douglas.

This Sir John supported the Douglas faction in their struggle for power in Scotland and in their forays across the English border. The granting of this large piece of Douglas territory was undoubtedly a reward for the martial prowess of Sir John and the Carmichael men.

On March 22 1421, at the Battle of Beauge, Sir Jon rode in combat against the English commander and unhorsed him, breaking his own spear in the action. His victim was the Duke of Clarence, a Knight of the Garter and brother of Henry V of England. Carmichael's victory so demoralized the English that they fled from the field. To commemorate this deed, Carmichaels bear the broken spear as their crest.

Clan Carmichael Motto: Tout Jour Prest ~ From French: Always Ready

See also: Claddagh, Thistle Tattoos, Scottish Lion Tattoo Designs, Welsh Dragon Tattoos, Scottish Tattoo Designs, Celtic Tattoo Designs, Family Crests,