The Blair Family

History Highlights

• The term "Blair" is the genitive of a gaelic word, "Blar" meaning "field" or "battle field". 
• It is used widely for both places and surnames, one of the earliest known for the former being the Barony of Blair in Ayrshire granted by King William in the mid-12th century. 
• Association with Sir William Wallace
  • Sir Bryce Blair was an adherent of Sir William Wallace but was executed by the English at the Barns of Ayr in 1296.
  • His brother's son, Roger, was knighted by King Robert the Bruce for his services before & at Bannockburn. 
• Blair House at Dalry, Ayrshire was occupied continuously by the family between 1202 and 1980.