Clan Motto
The Clan Motto
"ne oublie" (do not forget) NEVER FORGET
The motto of the Graham Clan is Ne Oublie. It means “Never Forget.” Frequently we ask, “What are we never to forget?” Historians may have several reasons for this motto which may be based upon biblical teachings.
The colors for Clan Graham are gold (or) and black (sable). The armorial bearing for each Graham who is granted arms by the Lord Lyon King of Arms has a modified arrangement of the following: The gold shield and three gold scallops on a black field. Grahams who have not been granted arms may display a simple gold shield with three gold scallops on a black field.
His Grace, the Eighth Duke of Montrose, was Honored Guest at the San Diego Highland Games in 1997. The following are a few statements given in his address to the Clan Graham Society.
On the Graham Coat of Arms are three scallop shells. These represent pilgrimages of three Graham ancestors. The pilgrimages were made by mediaeval knights to the shrine Santiago de Campostila. Around 1230-1260, pilgrimages were made by two of the senior Dalkeith branches of the Grahams and this was marked by the inclusion of the scallop shells on the Graham Coat of Arms. Shells were used to collect alms for the poor.
More direct evidence has since been found of the sixth title holder of the Graham of Montrose family. Patrick Graham made two pilgrimages – 1352 and 1361. Official records show he was issued certificates of safe conduct through England.
“My hope would be that those associated with the name of Graham would be a repository of the best of traditions that we are asked not to forget, some of which are contained in the concept of chivalry, bravery, and Christian service to your fellow man.” His Grace, the Eighth Duke of Montrose.
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