Ratray History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Scotland

Etymology of Ratray

What does the name Ratray mean?

The Ratray surname was a habitational name, taken on from the name of a feudal barony in the former county of Perthshire. Today, Blairgowrie and Rattray is a town and twin burgh in Perth and Kinross. Rattray Head (Rattray Point) is a headland in Buchan, Aberdeenshire.

Early Origins of the Ratray family

The surname Ratray was first found in Perthshire (Gaelic: Siorrachd Pheairt) former county in the present day Council Area of Perth and Kinross, located in central Scotland, where they held a family seat from early times and their first records appeared on the early census rolls taken by the early Kings of Britain to determine the rate of taxation of their subjects.

Early History of the Ratray family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Ratray research. Another 146 words (10 lines of text) covering the years 1650, 1666, 1684, 1692 and 1743 are included under the topic Early Ratray History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Ratray Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Rattray, Rattry and others.

Early Notables of the Ratray family

Sylvester Rattray (fl. 1650-1666), Scottish medical writer, a native of Angus, descended from Sir Sylvester Rattray, of Rattray Castle, Perthshire. He was one of the ambassadors sent to London to treat with Edward IV, and exerted great influence at the Scottish court...
Another 42 words (3 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Ratray Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Ratray migration to the United States +

Ratray Settlers in United States in the 19th Century

Alexander Ratray, who arrived in Pennsylvania in 1842

The Ratray Motto +

The motto was originally a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first began to be shown with arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. Thus the oldest coats of arms generally do not include a motto. Mottoes seldom form part of the grant of arms: Under most heraldic authorities, a motto is an optional component of the coat of arms, and can be added to or changed at will; many families have chosen not to display a motto.

Motto: Super sidera votum
Motto Translation: My wishes are above the stars.