Oliphant Coat of Arms Record & History

The Oliphant family name has deep roots in the history of Scotland, appearing in official records as early as the twelfth century. The name is believed to have originated from the Old French word "olifant," which means elephant, and it was likely brought to the British Isles by Norman settlers. Over time, the family established themselves as prominent landowners and political figures, particularly in the regions surrounding Perth and Edinburgh. By the mid-eighteenth century, the Oliphants were well-integrated into the social fabric of Scotland’s capital. Records from 1748 confirm their continued presence in Edinburgh, a time when the city was a bustling center of trade and intellectual growth. Throughout these centuries, the family played a consistent role in the local administration and the evolving cultural landscape of the Scottish Lowlands.

The Oliphant family name has deep roots that stretch back through centuries of English and Scottish border history. While the name is often associated with northern regions, records confirm that members of the family were firmly established in the county of Cumberland by 1620. During this period, the borderlands were a rugged environment where families often held land and participated in local governance. The name itself is thought to have evolved from a nickname related to the elephant, likely brought to the British Isles by settlers who admired the strength and exotic nature of the animal. As these families moved through the northern counties, they integrated into the local agricultural and social systems of the time. By the early 17th century, the Oliphants in Cumberland were part of a complex society that was transitioning away from the lawless raiding culture of the past toward a more settled life under the English crown.