This name originates from the barony of Rattray, which has belonged to the family since the 11th century. Eustace Rattray, the 6th Laird was charged with treason for an alleged part in a plot to depose Robert I (1274 - 1329). These charges were later dropped.
Sir Silvester Rattray, ambassador to England in 1463, inherited lands in Atholl around the village of Fortingall and so caused friction with the Stewart family, Earls of Atholl. A marriage between John Stewart, the then Earl of Atholl and the grand daughter of Silvester, allowed the Stewarts to claim part of the Barony of Rattray. The quarrels over this land cost the lives of at least one Laird of Rattray, Patrick, who had set up a new home at Craighall. In 1648 the Lands of the Rattrays were consolidated into one title, the barony of Craighall - Rattray which also reclaimed the lands taken by John Stewart.
The Rattrays were Jacobites offering refuge at Craighall for fellow supporters. John Rattray, son of Thomas the Primus of Scotland c.1739, was Bonnie Prince Charlie's personal physician.
