This name derives from the old manor of Lumsden in the parish of Coldingham, Berwickshire. The name first appears when Gillem and Cren de Lummisden attested a charter granted to the Priory of Coldinhame by Waldeve, Earl of Dunbar, between 1166 and 1262.

The Lumsden lands are first mentioned in 1098 when Edgar, King of Scots and the son of Malcolm III refounded Coldingham Priory in the county of Berwick Gillem and Cren de Lummisden are the earliest recorded owners of the lands.

In 1296, Adam de Lumisden of that Ilk and his son Roger de Lummesdene, did homage to Edward I of England and thier names appear on the Ragman Roll.

Adam was the first recognized chief of the Clan and from him decended Gilbert. Around 1328 Gilbert de Lumsden married the heiress of Blanerne, he later adoped her crest of a white-taled eagle devouring a salmon. This crest is still used by the Fife branch of the family.

The Lunsden Castle of Tillcairn has been restored by the present Baron of Cushnie.