The History of Clan Douglas

Clan Douglas (from dubhghlais, meaning ‘black stream' in Gaelic) is one of the oldest and was once the most powerful of the Scottish Borders Clans. The clan's rich history provides not only the inspiration for our company name, but also many historical tales of shrewdness and valour.

Many of these tales are told of Sir James Douglas (the original ‘Black Douglas'), who proved himself to be both a popular leader and a canny tactician. Our favourite among these concerns the heart of Robert the Bruce, and the noble fate of Sir James.

As one of Robert the Bruce's most trusted comrades, the great Scottish hero king requested that on his death, Sir James should take his heart to the Holy Land. It was thus with great reverence that he was presented with a silver casket containing Robert's heart, by his son King David, which he then took into battle.

It was during his last battle that, gravely outnumbered and realising that death was inevitable, Sir James hurled the heart of his King into the massed ranks of his oncoming foes and charged, urging his followers to fight on to the death in the name of their King, their beloved Scotland and the families they left behind.

After the battle, the body of Sir James was found next to the casket containing the King's heart, and both were returned home to Scotland. The embalmed heart of Sir James still lies in the Douglas vault in the Kirk of St Bride, although the whereabouts of the rest of his remains are currently unknown.

It from the heart of the beautiful, rugged Scottish Borderland that Sir James called home that we draw not only the clear water that makes our cashmere so soft, but also the inspiration for our garments, and the patience to make sure every stitch is perfect.