Family History
The surname Bell is of Anglo-Scottish origin, derived from the Old French bel, meaning "fair" or "handsome," or as a nickname for someone associated with a bell. Established throughout the Scottish Borders from the medieval period, Clan Bell became renowned as one of the great Border Riding families, respected for their resilience, loyalty, and independence. Today, the surname remains a proud symbol of Scotland's enduring Border heritage.
Tartan & Heritage
The Bell Tartan
The tartan shown here is the pattern selected for the Bell
family design in our heritage collection. Scottish surnames may have
connections to more than one tartan through clan, regional or historical
associations. This pattern is presented as surname-heritage artwork and
is not a claim that it is the only tartan associated with every
Bell family line.
Crest Badge & Clan Heritage
The Bell Crest Badge
The design shown here is presented in the style of a Scottish clan crest
badge, combining a heraldic crest and motto within a strap and buckle.
In Scottish tradition, the strap and buckle represents a clansman or
clanswoman’s association with the chief whose crest and motto are
shown. A crest badge is distinct from a coat of arms and should not be
understood as personal arms belonging to everyone who shares the
surname. Historical associations and heraldic designs may vary between
family branches and sources.