Clan

Bell

Pronunciation: Bell
Motto: I Beir the Bel (I bear the bell)

The motto reflects the clan's name and symbolizes leadership and alertness, traits necessary for survival and success in the tumultuous Border regions.

The Tartans

Tartan Variant
Campbell of Breadalbane
(Ancient)
Tartan Variant
Campbell of Cawdor
(Modern)
Tartan Variant
Campbell of Cawdor
(Ancient)
Tartan Variant
Campbell of Lochawe
(Modern)
Tartan Variant
Campbell of Loudoun
(Ancient)
Tartan Variant
Campbell of Loudoun
(Modern)
Tartan Variant
Campbell
Tartan Variant
Campbell
(Ancient)
Tartan Variant
Campbell
Tartan Variant
Campbell of Argyll
Tartan Variant
Campbell of Argyll NM
(Ancient)
Tartan Variant
Campbell of Argyll NM
(Modern)
Tartan Variant
Campbell of Argyll Ancient (non matching
Tartan Variant
Campbell of Argyll Modern (non matching
Tartan Variant
Argyll (Campbell of Cawdor)
(Ancient)

Introduction

Clan Bell is a Scottish Border clan, historically known for its role in the border reiving activities along the Anglo-Scottish border. The clan's history is marked by its involvement in the turbulent and often violent border skirmishes that characterized the region from the 13th to the 17th centuries.

Clan Bell: History, Heritage, and Legacy

Clan Bell is a Scottish Border clan, historically known for its role in the border reiving activities along the Anglo-Scottish border. The clan's history is marked by its involvement in the turbulent and often violent border skirmishes that characterized the region from the 13th to the 17th centuries.

Origins & Inception

Clan Bell originated in the Scottish Borders, an area known for its lawlessness during the Middle Ages. The name 'Bell' is believed to be of Norman origin, and the family settled in the area after the Norman conquest of England. The Bells became prominent as part of the border reivers, families who engaged in cattle raiding and feuding.

Clan History

Throughout the medieval period, the Bells were involved in the border reiving that was common among the Border clans. They were known for their fierce independence and skills in skirmish warfare, often clashing with both English and Scottish forces. The clan's fortunes waned with the pacification of the Borders by James VI of Scotland in the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

Clan Territory & Castles

  • Middlebie Parish
  • Gilnockie Tower

Famous Clan Members

Notable figures from Clan Bell include:

  • John Bell of Middlebie, a prominent figure in the 16th century border reiving.
  • Gilbert Bell, who was granted Gilnockie Tower for his services to the Crown.