A name of Biblical roots deriving from veneration of a mid-fourth to early-fifth century theologian and philosopher, "Austin" features prominently in the historical record.
Sharing a close bond of kinship with Clan Keith, they were frequently found on the battlefield fighting either English invaders or engaged in bitter inter-clan warfare, while in more peaceful times Herbert Austin rose from humble farming stock to become a pioneering vehicle designer and founder in 1905 of the Austin Motor Company.
On a note of infamy, John Austin was the notorious eighteenth-century "footpad", or highwayman, who has the dubious distinction of being the last man hanged at Tyburn, near the present-day site of Marble Arch, London.
The stirring tales of the Austins are recorded here.
