The
lands of Cockburn were in Berwickshire and the name became widespread in the 13th century.
In 1314 Sir Alexander Cockburn was killed at the Battle of Bannockburn and
his grandson, Alexander Cockburn, was Keeper of the Great Seal 1389-96. In 1595 Sir
William Cockburn was granted the Barony of Langton, Berwickshire and his descendant, Sir
Alexander Cockburn (1802-80) was Lord Chief Justice of England. Adam Cockburn of Ormiston
(1656-1735), Lord Justice Clerk was created Lord Ormiston. Henry Cockburn (1779-1854), son
of a sheriff of Midlothian, judge and man of letters was made Lord Cockburn in 1834.
COCKBURN: This name is of territorial origin being mentioned in late 12th century as Cukoueburn or Gowk's Burn in Roxburghshire. The Ragman Roll (1296) bears the name Peres of Cokeburne with seal of 'a cock walking'. The Roll was signed by 2 of the Cockburn family in allegiance to Edward I of England. In 1358 David II granted the Barony of Carriden to Sir Alexander de Cockburn who was Keeper of the Great Seal of Scotland (1389-1396). Main family were Cockburns of Langton whose ancestor, Sir William Cockburn, fell at Battle of Flodden in 1513. John Cockburn of Ormiston held hereditary office of Constable of Haddington and Lord Ormiston, 'The Curse of Scotland', was zealous in suppressing the 1715 Rising. Cockburns have given distinguished military and civilian service to their country. Sir Alexander Cockburn (4th baronet) was killed at Battle of Fontenoy. In 1815 the Rt. Hon. Sir George Cockburn GCB, Admiral of the Fleet, conveyed Napoleon to St. Helena. A senior Lord of the Admiralty (1841- 1846), he was also M.P. for various constituencies. Henry Cockburn (1779-1854), later Lord Cockburn (judicial title), was one of the most eminent judges of his time. |
