It is believed that the name Halkett derived from the lands of Halkhead in Renfrewshire. Sometimes -et is used as a suffix meaning -wood, this means that the name could, in fact, originate from a place called Hawkwood near Strathaven in Lanarkshire.  There are a number of variations of the name Halkett.  These include Halket, Halkit, Halkhet, Halkette, Haket, Hacet, Hackett, Hakkett, Holkat, Halkhead, Halkhaide, Halkheid and Halkheide.

 

The family of Halkett has been associated with the estates of Pitfirrane Castle near Dunfermline, Fife, Scotland from the late 13th century.

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The family of Halkett played its part in the history of Scotland, it was representative of a relatively large class of lairds or barons, whose interests were with their estates and local government, and to preserve what they had acquired in those times.  The Halkett's were of sufficient good standing to intermarry with similar nobility, and the daughters married into the ranks of lairds and merchants around Dunfermline.  As was the custom at the time, the first-born son would inherit the title and estate, while the later sons entered the military (both for Scotland and Holland), the clergy, education or became merchants in the local towns of Dunfermline, Dysart and Kirkcaldy.  Nevertheless, they did play their part on the stage of history – either as companions to their Kings or as the cavalry leaders against them.  Many gave their lives in the defence of their country against her enemies.