Taylor Clan

Taylor Clan Crest: A hand holding a passion cross Gules.

Taylor Clan Motto: In Cruce Salus (Salvation from the cross).

History of Clan Taylor/Tailyour:
The surname of Taylor originates from the occupation of being a cutter of cloth, and it was in widespread use in early Scottish records. Alexander le Tayllur was valet to Alexander III in 1276, and Bryce le Taillur was taken prisoner when the English captured Dunbar Castle in 1296. Six persons of the name coming from Roxburgh, Edinburgh, Lanark, Dumfries and Angus, rendered homage to Edward I of England in 1296.

In early records the surname also appears as Cissor, and Macintaylor.  Towards the end of the 18th century, several families of the name of Mac-an-taillear considered themselves to be part of Clan Cameron, being descendants of Taillear dubh na tuaighe, 'Black Taylor of the Axe,' a son of the 14th Chief, Cameron of Locheil. A distinct Taylor tartan sett was designed in 1955 by Lieutenant Colonel Iain Cameron Taylor.

James Taylor (1753-1825) was born in Leadhills and became tutor to the sons of Patrick Miller with whom he collaborated on the fitting of paddle wheels to a vessel.  Zachary Taylor (1784-1850) was 12th President of the United States of America. Tom Taylor (1817-80) was Secretary of the Board of Health and wrote and adapted over a hundred pieces for stage performance.  Elizabeth Taylor (1932-  ), the celebrated American film star, has been known to claim Scottish descent.

Surname distribution in Scotland: The Taylor surname is most commonly found in Aberdeenshire (includes part of Banffshire and all of Kincardinshire), Aberdeen City, Moray (Elginshire), Highland (particulary so in Caithness and Sutherland), Perth and Kinross, and the Orkney and Shetland Islands.

Places of Interest:

Leadhills, Lanarkshire. The birthplace in 1753 of James Taylor, who was involved in the creation of paddle wheels for boats, and the subsequent application of steam on vessels.

Taylor Clan members display certificates.