by Kim Johnson

Created on: January 06, 2008

Scott is a name of Scottish origins with a rich and colourful history. As a first name it was most popular in the 1960's, but hasn't been a name of choice since, although, it ranked 253 on the SSA list in 2006. It doesn't fare as well on the favourite names list at 1272. However as a last name it was held by Scottish clansmen, a prominent and enduring border family whose motto was Amo(I love). It was the 10th most popular surname derived at Argyll(Dalriada). It was first recorded in the charter of Selkirk in 1120 witnessed by Uchtred filius Scott which is why it was associated with the Gaelic in the Lowlands. Henricus le Scott was another charter witness in 1195. One Scottish laird of note Sir Michael Scott, the 2nd Laird of Baccleuch a supporter of Robert the Bruce fought with him on Halidon Hill in 1333. Michael Scott who was referred to as the "wizard" due to his reputation for magic was an unusual and infamous character who resided in the Tweed Valley in the 13th century. Author Sir John Scott built Scotstarvit Tower near Cupar Fife, a notable landmark in the 16th century. Of course, Sir Walter Scott(Scotts of Harden) 1771-1832 was renowned for his historic novels. Sir George Gilbert Scott 1811-1878 was a British architect who was responsible for the Gothic revival, the Albert Memorial and the restoration or design of many churches.

Amundsen-Scott Station in the South Pole, Antarctica to this day holds the current time for 1000 places worldwide. Roald Amundsen, a Norwegian explorer and Robert Falcon Scott(1868-1912), a naval officer were the first two explorers to reach the South Pole. Robert Scott arrived on January 10, 1912 shortly after Amundsen. Unfortunately, he and his party perished on their descent.

Fort Scott, Kansas was named after U.S. Army General Winfield Scott who has another claim to fame. He was referred to as the Great Scott in a May 1861 article in the New York Times. A term which later became famous meaning good grief or my goodness is believed to have originated with Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.

Of course, we have all heard of Scott paper products. A lesser known product which uses this nom du plume is Scott Canoe in Canada a premier company of canoes and kayaks which distributes internationally.

A name of strength, character and rich heritage, a name to be carried with pride.

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