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The medieval legend for the founding of this family had it that during a losing battle fought by King Kenneth II against the Danes in 971, a passing ploughman and his two sons saw the Scots, stopped them fleeing with the yokes from their oxen, and then charged into battle with their ploughshare, thus winning the day. William De Hay, the progenitor of this family, received the Barony of Erroll in the 12th century. He was cupbearer to King Malcolm IV of Scotland. Sir Gilbert, 5th of Erroll, a staunch supporter of Robert the Bruce, was appointed Hereditary High Constable of Scotland. In 1452 Sir William Erroll was created Earl of Erroll. The Erroll family took an active part in affairs of state. Slains Castle, Aberdeenshire, now in ruins, was the ancient seat of the chiefs. The office of Hereditary High Constable of Scotland is still held by the chief. The Hays of Yester descend from the family as the Earls of Erroll. The 8th Lord Hay of Yester was created Earl of Tweeddale in 1646. In 1694 the 2nd Earl was created Marquess of Tweeddale.