The family was founded in 1070, during the reign of Malcolm III Canmore, King of Scotland, when Bartholomew, Queen Margaret’s chamberlain, married Beatrix, sister of the king. The surname was first recorded in the 13^th century and was taken from their principle areas of influence, the Parish of Leslie in Aberdeenshire. The restored Leslie Castle occupies the site of the first fortified residence.

This family, though small in number, produced many famous persons who, throughout the ages, contributed to Scottish culture and history. Included in this list were knights of the Crusades, those who were instrumental in winning conflicts and those who commanded armies; as well as clergy, artists, educators and representatives of most other fields of endeavour. There were many branches, of which the two main ones, the Rothes line and the Balquhain line, continue to this day. Many Leslies emigrated in the 16^th, 17^th, and 18^th centuries. Many went first to Ireland and later they or their descendants immigrated to North America, becoming part of the great Scotch-Irish influx so important in America’s early development. Leslies and sept members today are found all over the world.