Scotland Laird of Aberdeen
The Lordship of Aberdeen
Aberdeen's lordship history is ancient, with the city receiving its royal charter from William the Lion in 1179. The city's strategic position on Scotland's north-east coast made it a vital stronghold, and Aberdeen Castle (now demolished) was a key royal fortress.
The Gordon family, Earls and later Marquesses of Huntly, were the dominant noble family in the Aberdeen region for centuries. Known as the 'Cocks of the North,' the Gordons commanded enormous military power and their feud with the Forbes family was one of the most violent in Scottish history.
The Earldom of Aberdeen was created in 1682 for George Gordon. The 4th Earl of Aberdeen served as Prime Minister from 1852 to 1855, leading Britain into the Crimean War. Haddo House, the family seat near Aberdeen, is now owned by the National Trust for Scotland.
Aberdeen and the Peerage
The Earl of Aberdeen (Gordon family) has held the title since 1682, now as Marquess of Aberdeen and Temair (created 1916). The 4th Earl was Prime Minister during the Crimean War. The Marquess of Huntly (also Gordon family) was the most powerful lord in the Aberdeen region.
Among the notable figures associated with Aberdeen, 4th Earl of Aberdeen was known for prime Minister. Marquess of Huntly, 'Cock of the North', also left a significant mark on the area's history.
View the full Peerage Hierarchy ChartNotable Lords of Aberdeen
Aberdeen is known as the 'Granite City' because its buildings are made from locally quarried grey granite, which sparkles with mica crystals in sunlight, giving the city an otherworldly shimmer.
Scotland Noble Surnames
Explore the noble heritage of Scotland's most prominent family names and discover their connections to the peerage.
Become a Laird or Lady of Scotland
While the historic lordship of Aberdeen is part of history, you can still legally hold the title of Laird or Lady of Scotland today. From just £55.
