The name Crawford is thought to be of Norman origin and is thought to have taken their name from the barony in Lanarkshire.

In 1127, Sir Gregan Crawford, helped save the live of the son of the Earl of Richmond, Reginald, who was a Norman knight. Sir Reginald Crawford was appointed sheriff to Ayr in 1296. His sister Margaret was the mother of Sir William Wallace, the famed patriot. The Crawfords rallied with Sir Wallace in his fight against English domination.

Main branches of this family also some from the family of the sheriff of Ayr -- they were known as "of Auchinames" and "of Craufurland". The Auchinames, who are thought to be the chief family, received a grant of their land in 1320 from Robert the Bruce.

During the 13th century Sir John of Crawford's daughter married David Lindsay, ancestor of the Earls of Crawford and Balcarres, the chiefs of Clan Lindsay. This is where the association between Crawford and Lindsay comes from.