Believed to have originated in Normandy, the Russell name is derived from the word Rous, meaning red. This name was common with families in the area and the family was not noted to have been in Scotland until the 12th century.
The family would eventually settle in Scotland however, and would become associated with the areas of Perth and Kinross, Clackmannanshire and Aberdeenshire.
It is in Aberdeenshire that the clan’s most recognisable historic clan seat would be located at Aden.
Clan Russell is armigerous – meaning that they do not currently have a clan chief.