Map of Scotland showing where the Mcfarlin arms are recorded
The Mcfarlin arms were recorded in Dumbarton, c. 1780.
Dumbartonshire sat where the Clyde meets the Highlands, guarded by a royal castle. Families held land in return for service, and service in arms brought a shield with it.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Scotland in this period.
George III of Great Britain
Sovereign of the period
George III of Great Britain
1760–1801
Reigning in Scotland when the Mcfarlin arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Scotland
Scottish heraldry is unique because it treats a coat of arms as a piece of personal property protected by law. Only one person can own a specific design at any given time. When a family grows, the head keeps the original shield while other relatives must apply for their own distinct version with slight changes to prove their specific identity.
Granting authority
The Court of the Lord Lyon acts as the official body that regulates and controls all heraldic matters throughout Scotland.
How they got arms
Individuals obtain a legal right to their arms through a formal petition process that confirms their identity and family connection.
Where arms were recorded
All valid coats of arms are officially entered into the Public Register of All Arms and Bearings starting from 1672.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Dumbarton.
Origin & History of the Mcfarlin Family in Scotland
The surname McFarlin is a variation of the Scottish Gaelic name Mac Pharlain, which translates to son of Parlan. The name Parlan is derived from the ancient name Partholon, which has deep roots in early Irish and Scottish mythology. By the late 18th century, the family had established a notable presence in the town of Dumbarton. Located at the junction of the River Leven and the River Clyde, Dumbarton was a vital center for trade and shipbuilding during this era. Families living in this region were often involved in the maritime industry or local craft guilds that supported the growing Scottish economy. As the family settled in this historic town, they became part of the local community fabric, contributing to the development of the area during a time of significant industrial change in Scotland.
Mcfarlin Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Mac Pharlain
Son of Bartholomew, derived from the Aramaic name meaning son of Talmai.
This name
McfarlinA Scottish patronymic surname signifying descent from a person named Bartholomew.
also spelled
McFarlane
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Black, George F., The Surnames of Scotland: Their Origin, Meaning, and History, 1946
National Records of Scotland, Old Parish Registers of Births and Baptisms, 1780
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
saltireResolution, and St Andrew's cross
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
saltireResolution, and St Andrew's cross
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
