William Forsyth, Heir of Dykes (1642)

From the Register of the Great Seal of Scotland, Volume IX, No. 1040

The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland is one of the richest sources for tracing noble and landholding Scottish families. Among its entries are the men and women who shaped Scotland’s history — including our Forsyth ancestors.

On 22 January 1642, we find the following reference:

“Wil. Forsyth, filium et heredem apparentem quondam Willelmi F. de Dykes…”
“William Forsyth, son and heir-apparent of the late William Forsyth of Dykes…”

In this charter, the Crown confirms a legal transaction involving lands in the barony of Monkland. While brief, the record provides critical genealogical and historical evidence:

• A Forsyth family at Dykes

• A father-to-son line of succession

• The Forsyths positioned among other landed families in Lanarkshire

• Recognition at the highest level of Scottish law and feudal authority

Though the charter’s main focus is a land conveyance to Jacob Hamilton of Boig, the Forsyth name shines through in its mention of inheritance — a reminder that Forsyths held respected status, property, and social standing in 17th-century Scotland.

Why this entry matters

For clan historians and family genealogists, each charter like this acts as:

• a proof point of Forsyth landholding,

• a link in our genealogical chain, and

• a document showing the Forsyth presence in central Scotland during a time of political and religious change.

It reminds us that the Forsyth story is not only told in legends and family tradition, but preserved in the official legal heart of Scotland’s history.

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The Unknown Forsyth Soldier of Toronto

Among the many faces of Forsyth history, sometimes the ones who speak the loudest are those whose names have been lost to time.

This photograph — purchased on eBay in 2008 — came from a Forsyth family album dated 1882–1895. The studio mark tells us it was taken at Superior Studio, 318 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Beyond that, nothing else was recorded. No name, no inscription, no hint of the life behind those steady eyes.

Yet even in silence, he tells a story.

He stands in full military dress: boots polished, tunic high-collared and secured with gleaming buttons, a bright white leather belt cinched at the waist. The cuffs bear pointed braiding, and shoulder cords rest rigidly against the fabric — all hallmarks of the Canadian Militia uniform of the late Victorian era.

Toronto, in the late 1880s and early 1890s, was home to several prominent militia units. His uniform style closely resembles that worn by:

• The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada, headquartered in Toronto

• Dark rifle-green tunic (often photographed as black in sepia)

• Distinctive white belt and military posture

• Shoulder cords and decorative cuffs common in the era

It is also possible he served in the Royal Canadian Dragoons or Toronto Field Artillery, but the tunic style and posture most strongly suggest the proud riflemen of Toronto’s volunteer force — men often called upon for ceremonial duties and local defense in a young and growing Canada.

Whoever he was, he stands with pride — the posture of someone ready to serve his country and honor his family name. His boots and gloves speak of careful preparation; his gaze, of commitment and quiet determination. We imagine him marching in Toronto parades, training on the drill fields near Fort York, perhaps even answering the call during moments of civil duty and national need.

And yet… his name is lost to us.

For now.

Can You Help Restore His Identity?

If you recognize this uniform, this studio, or — most importantly — this Forsyth soldier, we would love to hear from you. Help us bring a name, a life, and a legacy back into our shared Forsyth story.

📬 Do you know who this young Forsyth might be?
Please contact the Clan Forsyth Society USA and help solve this family mystery.

Proud of your Forsyth roots?
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John Forsyth in service of the Queen (Mary Stuart/Stewart)

John Forsyth in service of the Queen (Mary Stuart/Stewart)

Our clan history is woven throughout Scotland’s legal and royal archives — including the Register of the Great Seal of Scotland. The record highlighted today, dated 1557–1558, names Johannis Forsyth, who served as claviger to the crown — literally the “keeper of the keys.”

Keeper of the Keys was a trusted household or administrative role — not a merchant or farmer, but someone serving in a court-related capacity. This entry places a Forsyth directly inside royal administration during the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots, and connects him to the lands near Forres and Westfield in northern Scotland.

In the passage, land transactions involving the Innes family and Elizabeth Dunbar include a note that 5 pounds Scots were paid pro salario Johannis Forsyth clavigeri — “for the salary of Johannis Forsyth, the key-bearer.”

Yet again, Forsyth service to Scotland appears quietly — but unmistakably — in the nation's oldest state records.

Why this matters for Forsyth history

This entry provides:

✅ documented Forsyth royal service before 1560
✅ connection to high-status land transactions
✅ presence in northern Scotland government activity
✅ evidence of professional/administrative roles

It reinforces Forsyth status as servitors, officers, and crown loyalists in the 16th century — not merely landowners.

Proud of your Forsyth roots?
Preserve our history, support clan research, and connect with Forsyth cousins worldwide through membership in the Clan Forsyth Society USA.

Join the clan today:
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From Belfast to Bunker Hill: The Journey of David and Margaret Forsyth

By: Ivan Lancaster, Indiana (Article was published in the Griffin Jan 2011. Ivan is now deceased)

(Expanded and edited for context and historical background)

The story of David Forsyth and Margaret McGibbon is one of courage, survival, and hope—echoing the experience of many Forsyths and Scots-Irish families who braved the Atlantic in the 1700s.

They came from the Belfast area of Northern Ireland, where economic hardship and religious restrictions pushed many families to seek opportunity across the ocean. Between 1717 and 1775, tens of thousands of Ulster Scots—descendants of Scottish settlers in Ireland—migrated to the American colonies, bringing their Presbyterian faith, determination, and skills in farming and craftsmanship.

David and Margaret arrived before the American Revolution, unmarried but deeply devoted to one another. Margaret’s maid accompanied her on the voyage, but like many on those perilous crossings, she did not survive. As the ship entered New York Harbor, the maid—terrified of a sea burial—begged to be taken ashore for burial. David honored her last wish, a poignant act of compassion that set the tone for the family’s legacy of faith and perseverance.

The couple settled in Bunker Hill, Virginia (now West Virginia), where family tradition says David served in the Revolutionary War. Though his service has not yet been proven, the story of his long-delayed return—welcomed by the joyful barking of the family dog, Tige—has been passed down for generations.

After the war, David and Margaret journeyed westward by covered wagon and flatboat, eventually settling along Floyd’s Fork in Jefferson County, Kentucky. David was buried near the creek that sustained his family, and Margaret later joined her children who moved north into Johnson County, Indiana, in the 1820s—making them among Indiana’s earliest pioneer settlers.

Margaret rests in the Forsyth-Featherngill Cemetery in Nineveh Township, where her son David carried her by ox-drawn sled through the winter snow to her final resting place.

By 1920, their descendant Jennie Forsyth Jeffries compiled the family’s remarkable legacy in “History of the Forsyth Family,” preserving the story for future generations. Today, the Forsyth name remains woven into Johnson County’s history—with Forsyth descendants marrying into the Pritchard, Hollandbeck, Featherngill, and Daniels families, and even producing a Governor of Indiana, Roger D. Branigin.

As Ivan fondly notes, “The librarian in our county museum says, ‘Ivan is related to everyone in the county but me.’”

From Belfast to Bunker Hill, and from the Ohio River to Indiana’s heartland—the Forsyth story is one of enduring faith, resilience, and kinship.

WILLIAM BRADSHAW FORSYTH

When researching a new member’s ancestry, I stumbled across a dramatic tale from mid-19th-century Illinois. It involved William Bradshaw Forsyth, a Kentucky-born farmer whose quarrel over a missing calf escalated into a deadly feud, a sensational trial, and a sentence that nearly ended in the gallows. What began as a slander dispute turned into one of the most talked-about murder cases of the 1850s. Digging deeper, I uncovered newspaper reports, prison registers, and even the governor’s pardon that finally closed this extraordinary chapter of Forsyth history.

You can read the full story in our January 2019 Griffin newsletter

Are you a descendant of Forsyths?
🔗 Join Clan Forsyth Society USA to explore your heritage and connect with others researching the Forsyth name across the centuries!

Andrew Forsythe: A Merchant of Riga with Roots in Scotland (1663)

The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland is best known for land charters and confirmations, but sometimes it provides us with remarkable genealogical treasures. In March 1663, we find one such entry: a birth-brieve granted to Andrew Forsythe, merchant of Riga, in Livonia (today’s Latvia).

A birth-brieve was an official certificate of lineage—often requested by Scots abroad to prove their noble or respectable ancestry. For Andrew, this document established him as the lawful son of:

• John Forsythe of Dundee, merchant, and Margaret Rankine his wife.

• John himself was the son of Andrew Forsyth, citizen of Stirling, by his wife Margaret Robertsone.

• Margaret Rankine was the daughter of Walter Ranken, merchant of Dundee, and Margaret Clerk.

This record is invaluable because it links Forsyth families across three key Scottish towns—Dundee, Stirling, and Edinburgh—while also placing one of their descendants in the bustling trade hub of Riga.

Why Riga? During the 17th century, Riga was one of the great trading ports of the Baltic, connected with the Hanseatic League and prized for commerce in timber, tar, flax, and other goods. Scots merchants were well established there, forming part of a wider Scottish diaspora that stretched from the Low Countries to Poland and the Baltic states.

For Forsyth researchers, this 1663 birth-brieve shows:

1. Merchants on the Move – Forsyths were not only landholders but also active in international trade.

2. Genealogical Proof – The Great Seal entry confirms three generations of family connections, providing a chain from Stirling to Dundee to Riga.

3. Global Reach – It reminds us that Scottish merchants, including Forsyths, were deeply tied to European commerce in the early modern era.

In short: This charter isn’t just a dry legal entry—it’s a story of Forsyth merchants who carried their name, trade, and heritage from Scotland to the Baltic world.

Are you a descendant of Forsyths?
🔗 Join Clan Forsyth Society USA to explore your heritage and connect with others researching the Forsyth name across the centuries!

Forsyth and Scrymgeour: A Tale of Lands in Fife

When we explored the Register of the Great Seal of Scotland (Vol. IX, 1646), we found an important reference: lands once belonging to Alexander Forsythe of Nydie later passing to Hugh Scrymgeour. This was a fascinating glimpse of Forsyth influence in Fife and how property changed hands in the mid-17th century.

But the story doesn’t end there. In 1654, the Register of the Great Seal (Vol. X) revisits the same theme. The Protector granted lands that once again reference Forsyth holdings of Nydie and their connection to Hugh Scrymgeour.

The fact that these names reappear in charters separated by almost a decade underscores several points:

1. Continuity of Land Memory – Even when property passed from one hand to another, the record preserved the identity of earlier holders. For Forsyth genealogists, this is gold—proof that our name remained tied to specific territories across decades.

2. Interwoven Families – The Scrymgeours were hereditary sword-bearers of Scotland and powerful figures in Fife. Their repeated connection with Forsyth land shows that the Forsyths were part of the same circles of influence, at least in terms of landholding and royal record.

By placing the 1646 and 1654 charters side by side, we see a narrative of Forsyth presence in Nydie and its transformation under Scotland’s changing rulers. These mentions—small but powerful—remind us that Forsyth history is deeply embedded in the land charters of Fife, echoing alongside great names like Hamilton and Scrymgeour.Are you a descendant of Forsyths?

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William Forsyth: From Mutiny to Georgia

William Forsyth: From Mutiny to Georgia

Tracing the early Forsyths in America is never simple, but sometimes history leaves us a remarkable clue. One such story belongs to William Forsyth, quite possibly the first Forsyth in Georgia.

In 1743, William was among 38 soldiers pardoned from the Tower of London after a mutiny in the Black Watch regiment. Rather than face execution, they were sent to serve under General James Oglethorpe in Georgia. What might look like disgrace was, in truth, survival — a chance at a new beginning in the colonies.

Records show William Forsyth again in 1756 on the muster rolls in Georgia and South Carolina, and later as a land grantee in St. Patrick’s Parish along the Satilla River. Later Forsyth names appear on Georgia tax lists by the 1790s, suggesting William may have been the root of many Georgia Forsyth families.

This remarkable story reminds us how unexpected paths — even mutiny and imprisonment — could lead to lasting family legacies in America.

📖 You can read the full article with all the details in our April 2020 issue of The Griffin, available in the Members’ Archive.

Are you a descendant of Forsyths?
🔗 Join Clan Forsyth Society USA to explore your heritage and connect with others researching the Forsyth name across the centuries!

Alexander Forsyth of Nydie

One of the richest resources for Scottish history is the Register of the Great Seal of Scotland (Registrum Magni Sigilli Regum Scotorum), which preserves charters issued under the king’s seal. These charters record land transactions, inheritances, and royal confirmations—offering us a glimpse into the political and social fabric of Scotland.

We found this little snip of history in Vol 9.

1650. At Edinburgh, 8 April.
The King, with consent, has granted and quitclaimed to Thomas Hamilton of Brotherstaine, his heirs and assigns whatsoever (under lawful reversion), the lands of Dairsie, etc. (as in the charter of 1641, extending to Todhall); the twenty-fourth part of the town and lands of Kincaple (formerly occupied by John Mitchell); the sixteenth part of the same lands on the western side thereof (formerly occupied by David Forrester); and another sixteenth part of the same (formerly belonging to Alexander Forsythe of Nydie, and afterwards to the late Hugh Scrymgeour),within the regality of St Andrews, in the sheriffdom of Fife; with power to make conduits or drains within the said lands of Kincaple, etc.

“…part of the lands formerly pertaining to Alexander Forsythe of Nydie and afterwards to Hugh Scrymegour…”

This brief line tells us a great deal. First, it confirms that Alexander Forsythe held part of Nydie in the regality of St. Andrews, county of Fife—a region of significant importance in the 17th century. The passing of these lands into the hands of Hugh Scrymegour (a name tied to the hereditary sword-bearers of Scotland) reflects both the prestige of the estates and the shifting fortunes of landholders.

Why is this important for Forsyth history? Each mention helps us map Forsyth influence across Scotland. While some families left little written record, land charters preserve their presence and connections. In this case, the Forsyth name is woven into the legal fabric of property exchange, alongside notable families like the Hamiltons and the Scrymegours.

For genealogists, such entries may help confirm residence, relationships, or lines of descent. For historians, they illustrate the way lands were transferred through royal confirmation, debts, marriages, or political maneuvering.

In short: This 1646 record is another piece of evidence showing the Forsyth footprint in Fife—an enduring legacy captured in the official seal of Scotland’s kings.

Are you a descendant of Forsyths?
🔗 Join Clan Forsyth Society USA to explore your heritage and connect with others researching the Forsyth name across the centuries!

Walter Forsyth and the University of Glasgow, 1664

The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland often documents land, inheritance, or family lineage. But in 1664, the record brings us into the academic world of Scotland—specifically, the University of Glasgow.

A charter granted at Whitehall on 5 April 1664 names several Regents (masters) of the University:

• Mr. John Young, Professor of Theology

• Mr. Patrick Young

• George Sinclair

• Walter Forsyth

• William Blair

These men, as Regents, were entrusted with significant responsibilities. The charter conferred to them and their successors the patronage of the churches of Caldar and Monkland, along with the rights, fruits, and dues connected to the parsonage and vicarage of Glasgow. These had formerly belonged to Anna, Duchess of Hamilton, and were transferred with the consent of her husband, William, Duke of Hamilton.

This entry tells us several important things about Forsyth history:

1. Academic Standing – Walter Forsyth was not just a landholder or merchant but a Regent (master) at the University of Glasgow, an influential role in shaping education and theological thought.

2. Religious Influence – The Crown entrusted Forsyth and his colleagues with the patronage of key churches in the diocese of Glasgow. This placed them at the intersection of education, religion, and royal politics.

3. Forsyth Legacy Expands – By the mid-17th century, the Forsyth name was present in trade (Andrew Forsyth in Riga), land (Alexander Forsythe of Nydie in Fife), and now higher education and church patronage (Walter Forsyth at Glasgow).

This 1664 charter highlights the diverse roles Forsyths played in Scotland’s society. From Riga’s trading ports to Glasgow’s lecture halls, their influence was felt not only across borders but also in shaping the intellectual and spiritual landscape of the kingdom.

In short: The Forsyths were more than just merchants and landholders—they were educators, religious patrons, and key figures in Scotland’s institutions

Are you a descendant of Forsyths?
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DAVID FORSYTH AND THE BATTLE OF FLODDEN

Five hundred and twelve years ago on 9 September 1513, in the fields near Branxton in Northumberland one of the greatest disasters in Scottish history took place. The Battle of Flodden.  Along with King James IV, much of his nobility and thousands of soldiers were killed. 

Among those who stood beneath the royal banner was David Forsyth of Carvichtoun. The Exchequer Rolls of Scotland note simply but powerfully:

“David Forsyth, who died in the conflict of Flodden under the banner of the late King James IV.” (Exchequer Rolls, Vol. 14,

In 1519–20, years after Flodden, the records show that David Forsyth’s son, also named David, was finally granted sasine — legal possession of his father’s lands. The entry reads:

“… sasine was given at Edinburgh, 28 January, to David Forsyth, son and heir of the late David Forsyth, who died at Flodden.”

To take up his inheritance, the younger David had to pay a relief — a feudal fee owed to the Crown by heirs. It was a solemn transaction: a son reclaiming his father’s place, not only in land but in memory.

The grief of Flodden found its way into song and ballad. Among the most famous is The Flowers of the Forest, a haunting lament that speaks of the young men who never returned:

“We’ll hear nae mair lilting at our yowe-milking,
Women and bairns are dowie and wae.
Sighing and moaning on ilka green loaning,
The Flowers of the Forest are a’ wede away.”

Though composed later (with versions dating from the 17th and 18th centuries), the song carries the sorrow of Flodden’s aftermath — villages left without their sons, Scotland bereft of its leaders. To this day, The Flowers of the Forest is played at memorials, funerals, and on Remembrance Day, a lasting echo of 1513.

Are you a descendant of Forsyths?
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Thomas Forsyth and the Lands of Struthers (1642)

Sometimes, a name tucked into a legal document opens a window into the lives of our Forsyth ancestors. Such is the case with Thomas Forsyth, who appears in a royal charter dated 9 August 1642, recorded in the Register of the Great Seal of Scotland.

In this charter, King Charles I confirmed a grant of lands to Joanni Sutherland of Kinsterie, including territories in the regality of Kinloss, Moray. Among the lands described are the lands of Struthers, and notably, a small adjoining parcel that had once been occupied by “Rob. Torries and Thomas Forsyth, alias Cowie.”

This reference may seem minor, but it tells us several things:

• Thomas Forsyth was active in this region of northern Scotland in the early 17th century.

• His alias, “Cowie,” likely refers to a territorial connection—a hamlet or estate name, possibly indicating where he came from or was associated with.

• The land he occupied was valuable enough to be noted in a royal confirmation of property, showing the Forsyths had a presence in matters of landholding or tenancy tied to the noble families of the time.

Source: Register of the Great Seal of Scotland, Volume 9, Charter No. 1270 (page 453), dated 1642.

🔍 Why It Matters

Records like this don’t just list property—they show where people lived, whom they were associated with, and how they were woven into the broader fabric of Scottish society. While Thomas Forsyth may not have been the noble recipient of this grant, his name endures in the legal memory of the land, and through it, we get a glimpse of the Forsyths in 17th-century Scotland.

Are you a descendant of Forsyths?
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A FORSYTH WITH A BADGE: THE WILD WEST LIFE OF DEPUTY JOE

A Forsyth with a Badge: The Wild West Life of Deputy Joe

When I hear the name Forsyth, I think of my grandfather, Scotland, and the sound of bagpipes—not shootouts and outlaws in the American West. But sometimes Forsyth history comes with spurs and six-shooters.

While reviewing old family papers collected by Eddie Forsyth, I stumbled on a letter that opened the door to one of the most colorful Forsyths I’ve ever researched—Joseph Forsyth, U.S. Marshal, deputy sheriff, and frontier lawman. From Kentucky to Texas and New Mexico, Joe faced bandits, gamblers, and desperados... and lived to tell the tale (barely).

His story includes newspaper clippings of gunfights, manhunts, undercover assignments, and even a gold medal awarded by the New Mexico government.

🔍 Want to know what finally ended his career—or if it ever really did?

👉 Read the full story in the April 2018 issue of the Griffin Newsletter. This is one Forsyth tale you don’t want to miss!

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THE LEGACY OF WILLIAM WALLACE

William Wallace, one of Scotland’s most enduring national heroes, was born around 1270. His first known act in the Wars of Scottish Independence occurred in May 1297, when he assassinated William Heselrig, the English-appointed Sheriff of Lanark. Soon after, Wallace joined forces with fellow patriot Andrew de Moray.

That same year, the English occupied Stirling Castle. Wallace and Moray, familiar with the surrounding terrain, used the high ground—now home to the National Wallace Monument—to monitor enemy movements. On 11 September 1297, the Scots achieved a decisive victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge, though the triumph was bittersweet. Andrew de Moray was mortally wounded in battle and died two months later.

In the aftermath of Stirling Bridge, Wallace was knighted and named Guardian of Scotland, acting in the name of the deposed King John Balliol.

However, the tide soon turned. At the Battle of Falkirk in 1298, Wallace’s forces were overwhelmed by the English. Though he survived, the defeat led to his resignation as Guardian. He left Scotland for a time, returning around 1304.

Tragically, Wallace’s fight ended in betrayal. On 5 August 1305, he was captured near Glasgow by Scottish nobleman John Menteith and handed over to the English. Tried and found guilty of treason, Wallace was executed in London on 23 August 1305.

Although there's no firm evidence that Forsyths fought alongside Wallace at Stirling Bridge or Falkirk, the clan was certainly present in the region during that era. By the early 14th century, Forsyths were active under Robert the Bruce, with some rising to prominent local roles around Stirling Castle and Sauchie—territories deeply tied to the Wars of Independence..

📍 Source: The National Wallace Monument
🔗 William Wallace – National Wallace Monument

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The Remarkable Journey of Samuel Douglas Forsyth: From Virginia to Venezuela

You can read the full article written by Jason Richardson in the July 2023 issue of The Griffin

Samuel Douglas Forsyth, born around 1780 in Virginia, led a life full of adventure, transformation, and unexpected twists. Little is known about his early years, but records first surface in 1807 when he served as a Surgeon’s Mate to U.S. General James Wilkinson. However, Forsyth’s time in the military was short-lived, as he resigned from his post in 1808. Afterward, his life appears to have quieted for a time—until he reemerged in 1811, practicing medicine in Rapides, Louisiana. By then, Forsyth was already plotting his next move: Nacogdoches, Texas.

But this would prove to be just a stepping stone. Forsyth’s true journey began when he ventured to South America, where the winds of revolution were sweeping the continent. His role as a supporter of South American independence came into focus as he joined the Gutierrez-Magee Expedition of 1812–1813—an early filibustering effort against Spanish Texas. This was a bold move, as Forsyth found himself involved in the rising tensions between Mexico and Spain, alongside U.S. volunteers led by Augustus Magee and Mexican Republicans under Bernardo Gutierrez de Lara.

From Mexico to Venezuela: A Revolution’s Call

Forsyth’s commitment to independence didn't stop in Mexico. In 1813, he joined General José Alvarez de Toledo’s rebel army and eventually found his way to Venezuela. In 1816, during the height of the independence struggle, Forsyth was appointed as both a colonel and physician in Simon Bolívar’s army. Bolívar himself took note of Forsyth’s contributions, writing in a letter dated February 13, 1816:

"The bearer of this letter is Dr. Forsyth who I beg leave to recommend to your notice and protection."

This personal recommendation from Bolívar hints at Forsyth’s growing importance in the Venezuelan revolution. As a key figure in the struggle for freedom, Forsyth’s medical expertise, coupled with his military service, made him indispensable to Bolívar's forces.

Building a Legacy in Venezuela

After the revolution, Forsyth settled in Caracas, where his influence continued to expand. In addition to acquiring mercantile stores previously owned by Royalists, he became a key intermediary between the U.S. and the Venezuelan government, negotiating arms deals for Bolívar’s army. Forsyth also founded a real estate company—Lemmon, Forsyth, and Beste—and served as an interpreter for visiting U.S. officials, further cementing his status as a prominent figure in post-revolutionary Venezuela.

In 1819, Forsyth acted as an interpreter for U.S. Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry during his visit to Venezuela. Perry, who was negotiating an anti-piracy treaty with Bolívar’s government, stayed at Forsyth’s home while in Angostura. Unfortunately, during the return voyage to the U.S., tragedy struck: Perry succumbed to yellow fever, and Forsyth found himself treating the crew members, despite contracting the illness himself. Perry’s death made headlines, and Forsyth’s pivotal role in the situation was noted in the Evening Post of New York.

Diplomacy and the U.S. Mission

Forsyth’s diplomatic skills continued to serve him well. In 1820, he was dispatched with Manuel Torres to the U.S. to secure arms for Bolívar’s forces. In a meeting with President James Monroe and Secretary of State John Quincy Adams, Forsyth and Torres negotiated successfully, avoiding the intimidation tactics often used by their contemporaries. The diplomatic mission further solidified Forsyth’s standing, and in 1824, he hosted a dinner in Caracas for Bolívar, during which a portrait of George Washington was prominently displayed—likely one Forsyth acquired during his time in the U.S. or received as a gift from Commodore Perry.

The Final Years and Legacy

In the years that followed, Forsyth’s life in Venezuela remained one of growing influence and family. In 1826, he purchased a historic property, La Casa de Solorzano, which would later become the Museo de Arte Colonial Quinta de Anauco, a museum dedicated to Venezuela’s colonial history. Forsyth’s personal and professional legacy continued to evolve until his death in 1841.

Forsyth’s final resting place is at the British Cemetery in Caracas, where he is remembered not just as a U.S. citizen, but as a true participant in Venezuela’s revolutionary history. His life—from Virginia to Louisiana, Mexico, and ultimately Venezuela—offers a powerful narrative of dedication to a cause greater than oneself, spanning continents and histories.

A Lasting Legacy: Samuel Douglas Forsyth’s journey is a testament to the global spirit of revolution and the connections that shaped the course of history. His contributions in both the medical and diplomatic spheres during Venezuela’s fight for independence are still remembered today, and his story reminds us of the many unsung figures who played pivotal roles in shaping the world we know.

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William Forsyth: A 16th-Century Edinburgh Official

Every so often, the historical record gives us a glimpse of a Forsyth whose role reached into the heart of Scottish civic life. One such man was William Forsyth, who served as a customs officer—or more precisely, a custumar—in Edinburgh during the 1570s.

In a volume of Scottish financial records, we find:

“Forsyth, William, renders account of the custumar of Edinburgh…”
Dated 1 November 1574, the entry refers to a 4-month period of accounting from 15 August to 15 December 1573, during which William Forsyth handled duties on behalf of Robert Watsoun, who had resigned the post.

📦 What Was a "Custumar"?

In 16th-century Scotland, a custumar was an official responsible for collecting customs duties—fees paid on goods entering or leaving ports or markets. This position involved oversight of trade, taxation, and public finance. It was not a minor role, especially in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital and economic hub.

Forsyth’s duties involved major commodities such as:

• Wool and cloth (including 3 lasts, 3 sacks of wool, and 9661 dozen woollen cloths)

• Woolfells (sheepskins with wool attached—an important export product)

The total customs and duties accounted for during his brief term amounted to over £268, a substantial sum at the time.

💡 Why This Matters

This 1574 record places a Forsyth at the administrative center of Scottish commerce, responsible for managing and reporting large volumes of trade. It confirms that Forsyths were not only landholders and soldiers—but also played important roles in the early Scottish economy and governance.

Whether William Forsyth was appointed temporarily or was a trusted substitute during a transition, his presence in this record is a mark of status, literacy, and trustworthiness in a time when such positions were reserved for respected men.

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📖 Source: Exchequer Rolls of Scotland, Vol. 20 (Entry for Edinburgh, p. 150–151)

William Forsyth-Grant and Ecclesgreig Castle

William Forsyth-Grant: From Montreal to a Scottish Castle

William Forsyth was born on 10 February 1804 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, and baptized there on 11 March 1804. He was the son of John Forsyth and Margaret Grant.

Marriage and Family

William married his first cousin, Eweretta Jane Forsyth, daughter of Joseph Forsyth of Kingston, Upper Canada, likely before the birth of their first child in 1836. Together, they had six children:

1. Frederick Grant Forsyth (1836–1912)

2. Ann Gregory Forsyth-Grant Brigstocke (1839–1921)

3. John Joseph Forsyth (1840–1884)

4. William Forsyth-Grant (1843–1921)

5. Alice Ewertta Forsyth-Grant (1844–1924)

6. George James Forsyth-Grant (1847–1920)

A New Name and a Castle Inheritance

William later changed his name to Forsyth-Grant in order to inherit the estate of his maternal uncle, Frederick Grant. This estate, originally called Mount Cyrus, was located near St. Cyrus in Kincardineshire, Scotland. William renamed it Ecclesgreig Castle, a grand structure built from the remains of the old Mount Cyrus House in 1844.

In the 1841 census, William (age 35), listed as a merchant, was living at Mount Cyrus with his uncle. By 1851, he was head of household at Ecclesgreig Castle, listed as a “Landed Proprietor.”

Later Life and Death

In the 1861 census, William was living in Fritwell, Oxfordshire, England, still head of household. He passed away on 18 October 1863, and is memorialized at Ecclesgreig Burial Ground in St. Cyrus. Probate for his estate was granted on 11 May 1864 in England.

Legacy

Ecclesgreig Castle remains a notable landmark in Aberdeenshire, with local lore suggesting it may have inspired Bram Stoker’s depiction of Dracula’s castle. Through his inheritance and name change, William Forsyth-Grant cemented the Forsyth connection to this historic site.

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 Sources

1) Quebec, Canada, Vital and Church Records

2) The Encyclopedia of Canada

3) Scotland Census 1841, 1851

4) England Census 1861

The Act of Proscription: A Blow to Highland Culture—and the Forsyths Felt It Too

The Act of Proscription: A Blow to Highland Culture—and the Forsyths Felt It Too

When we think of cultural oppression, we often look to sweeping laws that target identity, expression, and tradition. For the Scottish Highlands, one of the most infamous examples was the Act of Proscription of 1746, a direct response to the Jacobite uprising and a calculated effort to dismantle the Highland way of life.

What Was the Act of Proscription?

Passed in the wake of the Battle of Culloden (April 16, 1746)—the final and brutal defeat of the Jacobite forces—the Act of Proscription began on August 1, 1746.  It was designed to suppress any future rebellion by stripping Highlanders of their ability to arm or distinguish themselves culturally.

The Act included:

• A ban on wearing Highland dress, such as kilts and tartan.

• A prohibition on bearing arms without a royal license.

• Harsh penalties, including imprisonment and transportation (forced exile), for violators.

• An expansion of earlier laws, like the Disarming Act of 1715, which had followed the first Jacobite rising.

It was not simply a military tactic—it was cultural erasure. The law aimed to destroy clan loyalty and dismantle the Highland clan structure by weakening its symbols and traditions.

The Act’s Impact on Highland Families

The penalties for breaking the law were severe. A first offense for wearing tartan meant six months in prison; a second offense brought transportation to the colonies for seven years. This caused lasting trauma, leading many Highland families to hide their heritage or emigrate.

Clan leaders who had once rallied under banners of shared identity now faced the dismantling of their communities. The loss of Highland dress wasn’t just aesthetic—it was spiritual, ancestral, and political.

Were the Forsyths Affected?

While the Forsyths were a Lowland clan, they weren’t isolated from the impact of the Act of Proscription.

• Some Forsyths lived in Highland fringe areas, including Moray and Banffshire, where the line between Highland and Lowland identity blurred.

• Forsyths who supported the Jacobite cause—either directly or through sympathies—would have seen their kin suffer under the Act's penalties.

• The cultural shift and crackdown on Scottish identity affected all Scots who valued their heritage. Even Forsyths who weren’t Highlanders by geography were Highlanders by spirit.

It’s worth noting that many Forsyth families emigrated to North America in the years following the Jacobite defeat, joining a wave of displaced Scots looking for freedom to preserve their traditions—and start anew.

Reclaiming What Was Lost

The Act of Proscription was repealed in 1782, but by then, much of the damage had been done. Entire generations had grown up without their ancestral dress or clan gatherings.

The Repeal went as follows:

“Listen Men. This is bringing before all the Sons of the Gael, the King and Parliament of Britain have forever abolished the act against the Highland Dress; which came down to the Clans from the beginning of the world to the year 1746. This must bring great joy to every Highland Heart. You are no longer bound down to the unmanly dress of the Lowlander. This is declaring to every Man, young and old, simple and gentle, that they may after this put on and wear the Truis, the Little Kilt, the Coat, and the Striped Hose, as also the Belted Plaid, without fear of the Law of the Realm or the spite of the enemies.”

 Today, Scottish clans—including the Clan Forsyth Society USA—celebrate what was once forbidden. We wear our tartan with pride, share our history openly, and honor those who endured the efforts to silence their identity.

Are You a Forsyth Descendant?

The Forsyth story—like Scotland’s—is one of resilience. Join us to reconnect with your roots and help keep our history alive.

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Forsyths of the US Revolutionary War

Carolyn Forsyth Smith, an officer of the Clan Forsyth Society USA, conducted extensive genealogical research into Forsyth family members who served in the American Revolution. Her efforts uncovered 31 Forsyths (with spelling variations such as Forsythe and Forsaith) who answered the call for liberty.

These patriots hailed from across the American colonies and served in militias, regular army regiments, cavalry units, and even in naval and supply roles. Their service stretched across 11 original colonies, showing that members of the Forsyth family were present and active on many fronts during the fight for independence.

Below is the list Carolyn compiled, based on regimental records, military rosters, and pension applications:

📜 Revolutionary War Forsyths by State & Regiment:

Connecticut

• Latham Forsyth

• William Fosyth

Delaware

• James Forsyth

• William Fosyth – Hall's Regiment

Kentucky

• John Forsyth – Russell's Regiment, Cavalry, Volunteers

• John Forsythe – Russell's Regiment, Cavalry, Volunteers

Massachusetts

• Andrew Forsyth – 2nd Regiment

• Jesse Forsyth – 8th Regiment

Mississippi Territory

• Andrew Forsythe – 2nd Fitzpatrick Regiment, Militia

New Hampshire

• David Forsythe – 2nd Regiment

• David Forsyth – 2nd Regiment

• Johnathan Forsythe – 2nd Regiment

New York

• William Fosyth – Hardenberg's Regiment, Militia

• William Fosyth – Janson's Regiment, Militia

North Carolina

• Andrew Forsyth

• Hugh Forsyth

Pennsylvania

• James Forsyth – 12th Regiment

• James Forsyth – 10th Regiment

• John Forsyth – (unspecified unit)

• John Forsyth – (unspecified unit)

• Mary Forsyth – 3rd Regiment (❗An intriguing and rare female name in the records—worth further investigation!)

• Robert Forsyth – 5th Regiment

Rhode Island

• Andrew Forsythe – 1st Regiment

South Carolina

• Hugh Forsyth – 4th Regiment, Artillery

• Joseph Forsyth – 5th Regiment

• Joseph Forsyth – S.C./Virginia

Virginia

• Daniel Forsythe

• Hugh Forsythe – 4th, 8th, and 12th Regiments

• Jacob Forsythe – 3rd, 4th, 8th, and 12th Regiments

• Robert Forsyth – Continental Army

• Robert Forsyth – Continental Troop, Lee's Legion

Other/General Service

• Caleb Forsyth – Navy, Commissary General of Military Stores Dept.

• Isaac Forsythe – Military Stores

• James Forsyth – Continental Army, Spencer’s Regiment

These names represent only a portion of the Forsyth legacy in early American history. Some families continued to serve in later wars, while others helped shape the young republic through civil and political leadership.

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Mary Branagan, the daughter of Anne Forsyth and George Branagan

Mary Branagan, born in August 1833, was the daughter of Irish parents, Anne Forsyth and George Branagan. At the age of 23, Mary was secretly baptized into the Mormon Church and ran away from her home in Dublin, Ireland to join the Mormon converts on their way to a new life in Utah. Amazingly, Mary travelled alone and she was the first woman to pull a handcart across America, a huge accomplishment!

Converts like Mary were part of a larger wave of Irish Latter‑day Saints who emigrated amidst economic hardship and famine. The church in Ireland began seeing conversions in the 1840s and 1850s

She can be found in the Church History Biographical Database: https://history.churchofjesuschrist.org/chd/individual/mary-branagan-1834?lang=por&timelineTabs=all-events&utm

She  lived out her life in Springville, Utah as a teacher. This article was found in the Utah Enquirer on March 28, 1890 that mentions her. https://newspapers.lib.utah.edu/details?id=1410873&q=%22mary+b+crandal%22&sort=rel 

She married Spicer Wells Crandall on 2 March 1857 in Salt Lake City. 

In this Deseret News transcript of the Emigrants that left Florence, Iowa on 5th June 1856.  Mary is found in the “Handcart Company” that left on June 9, 1856.  Crandall is shown as one of the Counselors. https://history.churchofjesuschrist.org/chd/transcript?name=transcript-for-emigrants-for-utah-deseret-news-6-august-1856-176.

Mary also is said to have written this  autobiography, which offers insight into the everyday life, struggles, and faith of pioneer women. See her story in the Young Woman’s Journal.

• The beginning” pages 259-267Mary B. Crandal, "Autobiography of a Noble Woman", Young Woman's Journal, March 1, 1895.

• Continued from page 267 (page 322 to 323: Mary B. Crandal, "Autobiography of a Noble Woman", Young Woman's Journal, April 1, 1895.

• Continued from page 323 (pages 387 to 388Mary B. Crandal, "Autobiography of a Noble Woman", Young Woman's Journal, May 1, 1895.

• Continued from page 388 (pages 427 to 428) Mary B. Crandal, "Autobiography of a Noble Woman", Young Woman's Journal, June 1, 1895.

Mary was an active leader in her local community, until her death in 1919. https://newspapers.lib.utah.edu/ark:/87278/s6nc7644/10254984

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