Family History
The surname Forbes is of territorial origin, deriving from the ancient lands of Forbes in Aberdeenshire. One of Scotland's most distinguished Highland families, Clan Forbes became renowned for its military leadership, loyalty, and influence throughout the northeast of Scotland. Today, the surname remains a proud symbol of Scotland's enduring heritage and noble tradition.
Tartan & Heritage
The Forbes Tartan
The tartan shown here is the pattern selected for the Forbes
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
Forbes family line.
Crest Badge & Clan Heritage
The Forbes 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.