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This name is of local origin from the lands or barony of
the same name near the junction of the rivers Ore and Levev in the parish of
Markinch, Fife.This name is found in many mediaeval manuscripts in Scotland
and examples of such are a John de Balfure, who appears on an assize in 1304
and is the first of the name in record. William de Balfure witnessed a
charter by Duncan, earl of Fife between 1331 and 1335. Like their Irish
Kinsmen many Scots were forced to seek emigration after the 1745 Rebellion
and above all clearances of whole populations by landlords during the 19th
century. Other examples of some of the most prominent of the name are Sir
James Balfour (1583) author of Balfour's Practicks; Robert Balfour
(1550-1625) philosopher and Greek, and last but not least, James Arthur
Balfour (1848-1930) statesman and philosopher, created Earl Balfour of
Whittinghame.
Found an
article about the genealogy of Balfour Bethune which we've added here as a
pdf file for download.
Download the account here |
