The inclusion of the Maxtons in the Clan Maxwell Society of the USA is based entirely on the fact that there was a common ancestor in the 12th Century. However, the Maxwells left the Roxburgh area (home of the Maxtons) early on, achieving their prominence and “clan” status in the Dumfries and Glasgow areas. Since the Maxtons either stayed in Roxburghshire or moved to Perthshire, both outside the Maxwell spheres of influence, it is doubtful that Maxtons ever actually “rode” with the clan.
The Maxton name derives from the barony of that name in Roxburghshire. It is thought that the name came from Maccus, the son of Undewyn, who obtained lands in that area during the reign of David I. The barony had passed out of the family by the end of the 12th Century.
