Derived from the Norman word for “Evil Genius”, the Maitland clan are believed to have been descended from one of the followers of William the Conqueror when he came to the British Isles in 1066.
The clan would go on to establish themselves in and around the Borders of Scotland. It is here in the south-east that the clan would establish their traditional seat, Thirlestane Castle, near Lauder. This castle is still the family’s prime property in Scotland.
The current clan chief of clan Maitland is The Rt. Hon. Ian Maitland.