Clan Irving: The Border and Highland Warriors of Loyalty, Courage, and Ancient Scottish Resolve
Clan Irving (also spelled Irvin, Irwin, Urwin, or Urvien) is a distinguished Scottish family with deep roots in the Borders and influential ties to the Highlands. Often connected historically — though separately from — Clan Irvine of Drum, the Irvings of Bonshaw forged their own proud identity as Border chiefs, Reiver horsemen, and loyal servants of the Scottish Crown.
Their motto, “Haud Ulta Segnitie” — “Not Slothful in Duty” — speaks to centuries of hard riding, fierce loyalty, and honourable service.
Origins and Early History
1. Border Beginnings
Clan Irving is traditionally associated with Dumfriesshire in the Western Borders, particularly around:
Ewesdale
Eskdale
Annandale
Canonbie
These valleys formed the heartland of the Irving chiefs.
2. The Irvings of Bonshaw
The earliest and most powerful branch is the Irving of Bonshaw, whose seat stood upon a strategic, defensible bluff overlooking the River Annan.
Bonshaw Tower — still standing — remains one of Scotland’s best-preserved Border peel towers.
3. Origins of the Surname
The surname likely derives from the Celtic river name Irvine or Irving, meaning “green water” or “fresh river.”
While some genealogies link the Irvings to the Irvines of Drum (and both share similar arms), most historians agree the two clans emerged independently in different regions of Scotland, each developing its own line of chiefs, history, and traditions.
Territories and Seats
1. Bonshaw Tower (Canonbie, Dumfriesshire)
The ancestral seat and iconic symbol of Clan Irving.
A classic Border fortress built for defence during the turbulent centuries of the Border Reivers.
2. Robgill Tower
Another Irving stronghold overlooking the River Kirtle.
3. Woodhouse Tower
One of several fortified tower houses held by different branches of the clan.
4. Additional Lands
Irving lands stretched through:
Annandale
Ewesdale
Northern Cumberland (after the Union of the Crowns)
These territories gave the Irvings control over strategic river passes and border routes.
Crest, Motto & Clan Symbols
Crest:
A savage (wild man) holding a tree — symbolising strength, independence, and a fierce defensive spirit.
Motto:
“Haud Ulta Segnitie”
“Not Slothful in Duty.”
A declaration of readiness and unwavering diligence.
Badge:
The clan badge is the holly leaf, representing:
Courage
Endurance
Protection
(Interestingly, holly is also used by Clan Irvine, reflecting historical parallels.)
Arms:
Typically featuring:
Holly leaves
Silver and red colours
Heraldic patterns similar to the Irvines but distinctly held by the Border line
Clan Irving Tartans
The Irving name has several officially registered tartans:
Irving of Bonshaw (Modern)
A bold sett with:
Navy blue
Forest green
Red
Subtle black lines
Irving Hunting
A darker, more muted tartan suited for outdoor wear.
Irving (Ancient)
Softer tones replicating early natural dyes.
These tartans reflect both the rugged border lifestyle and the clan’s enduring legacy.
Alliances and Feuds
Alliances:
The Irvings maintained close bonds with influential Border families, including:
Clan Johnstone (frequent allies)
Clan Maxwell
Clan Graham
Scott and Armstrong families (at times allies, at times rivals)
These alliances helped them survive the brutal centuries of the Border Reiver era.
Feuds:
Due to the turbulent history of the Borders, Clan Irving was often involved in regional conflicts:
1. Feuds with the Armstrongs
Occasional border disputes arose over cattle, territory, and reiver raids.
2. Clashes with English March families
The Irvings frequently defended their lands against English incursions.
3. Participation in Border Riding and Reiving
Like many Border families, the Irvings took part in cross-border raids, skirmishes, and local justice.
The Irvings in Scottish Warfare
1. Border Reiver Era (13th–17th centuries)
The Irvings were notable reivers and skilled light cavalry.
They served as riders, scouts, and defenders of the Scottish West March.
2. Wars of Scottish Independence
Irving men fought under various banners, often supporting:
Robert the Bruce
Their Border allies in Annandale
3. Battle of the Standard (1138)
Tradition states that Irving ancestors fought in early medieval battles long before the clan’s formal emergence.
4. Jacobite Risings
While the Irvings were Borderers and not Highland Jacobites, some clan members supported the Jacobite cause and fought in 1715 and 1745.
5. Modern Military Service
Irving descendants served with distinction in:
Royal Scots
King’s Own Scottish Borderers
Scots Greys
British cavalry and infantry units
Continuing a long martial tradition.
Notable Irving Figures
1. The Irvings of Bonshaw
A long line of respected Border lairds.
2. Edward Irving (1792–1834)
A charismatic Scottish preacher, theologian, and founder of the Catholic Apostolic movement.
3. Washington Irving (American branch)
The famous author’s surname derives from the same root, representing a branch of the family that settled in North America.
4. Sir Henry Irving (1838–1905)
One of the greatest actors in British theatrical history.
5. Sir Donald Irwin, Military Commander
Representative of the clan’s long-standing military tradition.
Clan Status and Modern Identity
Clan Irving remains a recognised Scottish family with its own independent heritage, distinct from (but historically parallel to) Clan Irvine of Drum.
Current Chief:
Captain Randolph George Irving of Bonshaw
Chief of the Name and Arms of Irving.
Clan Societies:
Active Irving associations exist in:
Scotland
Canada
USA
Australia
New Zealand
These groups preserve genealogical records, tartan culture, and the legacy of Bonshaw Tower.
Clan Irving Facts at a Glance
Clan Name: Irving / Irvin / Irwin
Region: Western Scottish Borders (Dumfriesshire)
Seat: Bonshaw Tower
Chief: Capt. Randolph George Irving of Bonshaw
Crest: Savage holding a tree
Motto: Haud Ulta Segnitie — “Not Slothful in Duty”
Badge: Holly
Tartan: Irving of Bonshaw Modern, Ancient, Hunting
Allies: Johnstone, Maxwell, Graham
Feuds: Armstrongs, English March families
Notable Members: Edward Irving, Sir Henry Irving
Status: Recognised Scottish clan with a chief
Conclusion
Clan Irving embodies the rugged courage, honour, and determination of Scotland’s Western Border families. From the fortified towers of Bonshaw to famous sons in literature, theatre, and theology, the Irvings remain a proud lineage with a strong sense of identity and duty.
Their motto — “Not Slothful in Duty” — reflects a centuries-old tradition of diligence, bravery, and steadfast loyalty.
Today, the Irving name continues to flourish both in Scotland and around the world as a symbol of resilience and Border heritage.