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One possible, and fairly likely, source of the name Wallace is from Wallensis, a Latin word used to generally describe Celts ranging through Normandy, Wales and the Strathclyde area of central Scotland. It was also used more particularly to describe the Britons of Strathclyde. In any case the first recorded "Wallace" of note was Richard Wallensis, who in 1174, was granted the extended lands of Riccarton, Ayrshire. He was a vassal of Walter Fitzallan, the Steward of Scotland. The word vassal in this instance did not denote a menial status. Through the land agreement with the Steward (later the Stewarts) the Wallaces became influential landowners, enjoying a comfortable lifestyle for those times. Soon after another branch began nearby in Elderslie, Renfrewshire, headed by Sir Malcolm Wallace, great-grandson of Richard Wallensis. Sir Malcom had a son, William, who was to become Scotland's most famous patriot, dedicated to achieving independence for Scotland.William's family refused to bow to the English king, Edward I, and so from an early age, he spent his life in hiding from the English. While still a young man, he become involved in uprisings against the English and his talent for military tactics soon earned him the support of some Scottish nobles. However he was eventually betrayed and handed over to the English. He was brutally executed in London in 1305 but the spirit of independence, that he had engendered, lives on to this day. A monument was erected to him within sight of Stirling Castle, in 1896 and he continues to be one of the best known historical figures of Scotland.With the death of Sir William Wallace, who died without leaving an heir, the Elderslie line also died. Numerous territorial branches sprang up, but few of these still exist. Beyond Wallace country an impressive group of namesakes have forged a proud inheritance. |