Forsyths in Stirling

The first documented presence of the Forsyth name in Scotland was the signing of the "Ragman Roll" in Berwick on 28th August 1296 by a William de Fersith. This was the document by which all the nobles, prelates, and those of lesser standing in Scotland were compelled to subscribe allegiance to Edward I of England after the failure of King John (Toom Tabard) to defeat the English. After this King Edward had the Honours of Scotland, Stone of Scone, and muniments sent to London, and over a period of time much of the historical documents was either lost or destroyed thus creating gaps in the Scottish historical records.

The next record is of Osbert, son of Robert de Forsyth, who received a grant of part of the lands of Sauchie in the sheriffdom of Stirling from King Robert the Bruce. Osbert fought against the English at Bannockburn and his land charted was confirmed in 1320. Osbert's son Robert was appointed King's macer in 1364 and Constable of Stirling castle in 1368, he died in 1370.

In 1364 the accounts of the "Customers" of Stirling were rendered by Fersith the Clerk who was probably Robert's brother and who was granted £100 per annum from the lands of the Polmaise Marischal by King Robert II. In 1418 Robert Forsyth rendered the accounts of the Burgh of Stirling and in 1432 his son Robert became Burgess of the city and a Bailie in 1470. Duncan and David Forsyth became Burgesses in 1479 and descendents of the family settled in Stirling and held civic office until modern times.