Baron of Blackhall explained

Royal Barony of Blackhall
Creation Date:	1395
Creation:	Baronage of Scotland
First Holder:	Sir John Stewart, 1st Baron of Blackhall
Present Holder:	Robert Brown Gillespie, 27th Baron of Blackhall, O.B.E.
Remainder To:	heirs male of the body lawfully begotten
Status:	extant
Motto:	"Oh Pilgrim Heart Forget Not The Cat"

Baron of Blackhall is a title of nobility in the Baronage of Scotland associated with the ancient lands of Blackhall, located in the parish of Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland.^[1]

Blackhall Manor

Blackhall Manor, the ancestral seat of the Barons of Blackhall, is a historic tower house in Renfrewshire. Originally built in the 16th century, the manor has a history that may trace back to a 12th-century structure granted to Walter fitz Alan, a Norman knight, by King David I. The property later became linked with the Stewart family, who held baronial courts there until the 18th century. After falling into disrepair, it was restored in the 1980s.^[2]

Robert Brown Gillespie, 27th Baron of Blackhall, O.B.E.

The current holder of the title is Robert Brown Gillespie, 27th Baron of Blackhall, a prominent figure who was awarded the Order of the British Empire for his contributions to public service. His tenure as Baron of Blackhall continues the tradition of leadership and active participation in civic duties.^[1]

Modern transition of baronage titles

The status of the barony changed significantly after the Scotland Act 2000, which redefined baronies as incorporeal heritable titles, no longer tied to land ownership. Despite these changes, the title of Baron of Blackhall remains a significant cultural and historical emblem for the Gillespie family.^[3]

Notable barons

Sir John Stewart, 1st Baron of Blackhall: The first known holder of the title, granted in the 14th century.
Robert Brown Gillespie, 27th Baron of Blackhall OBE: The current titleholder, recognised for his public service and contributions to the local community.

Arms

The coat of arms associated with the Baron of Blackhall is described as: "Argent a fess Gules between in chief a stag's head cabossed and in base a fleur-de-lis Sable." The stag's head represents strength and vigilance, while the fleur-de-lis is a symbol of purity and light. The family motto is "Oh Pilgrim Heart Forget Not The Cat," reflecting a long-standing dedication to serving the nation.^[4] ^[1]

References

Book: Burke's Peerage 107th Edition . Hugh Preskett . 2003 . 107th .
Web site: Blackhall Manor. 2024-09-03. Scottish Castles Association.
Web site: 8 December 2014 . Abolition of Feudal Tenure etc. (Scotland) Act 2000 . legislation.gov.uk.
Web site: The Arms of Robert Brown Gillespie, Baron of Blackhall. 2024-09-03. The Armorial Register.