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Scottish Tattoo Designs >> Cochrane

Cochrane Clan Tattoos - Tradition has it that the Cochrane ancestry goes back to a Viking invader who settled in Renfrewshire between the 8th and 10thy centuries. In keeping with the character of their traditional ancestor, took as their heraldic beast a boar; the three boars' heads adorning the chief's shield were said to mark the exploits of a warrior who is reputed to have slain three wild boars then terrorising the countryside.

The name of Cochrane may be the combination of two Gaelic words, meaning 'the roar of battle' or 'battle cry'. There is another, more fanciful explanation which states that, in ancient days, there was a great battle in which an early member of the family fought with such outstanding bravery as to bring about victory for his side. In recognition of his exceptional valour, his leader singled him out from the other warriors and clapping him on the shoulder, called him 'coch ran', meaning 'brave fellow'.

The first certain record of the name appears to be Waldev de Coveran, who appears as witness to a charter in 1262. William de Coveran is mentioned as a person of consequence in the Ragman Roll of 1296, rendering homage to Edward I of England. John de Coveran appears in 1346 as a witness in the election of an abbot of Paisley.

Clan Cochrane Motto: Virtute Et Labore ~ From Latin: By valour and exertion

See also: Claddagh, Thistle Tattoos, Scottish Lion Tattoo Designs, Welsh Dragon Tattoos, Scottish Tattoo Designs, Celtic Tattoo Designs, Family Crests, Horse