Such deeds did not go un-noticed as the author John Stewart wrote in his book ‘The Grahams’

The whole gallant history of the Grahams shows us that, to the enemies of what they believe to be right and true, a pride of Grahams is more dangerous than a pride of Lions… It is remarkable that the early Grahams were one and all exceedingly capable men. In an age when the reputation of many great public figures, alas, that of most of the Scottish nobility, were sullied by deeds of violence, and often deeds of blackest treachery, it is refreshing to find that the Grahams stand out as loyal and true to the causes they espoused. Their story is not one of rapid rise to power through royal favor, or even at the expense of their peers, but rather a gradual steady rise based on their undoubted ability and worthiness, which seems to have endured from one generation to another.

After nearly three centuries of loyal service the family were finally rewarded and Patrick Graham of Kincardine was created a peer of the realm in 1451. William, 3rd Lord Graham, sat in the first parliament of King James IV (1472-1513) and was created Earl of Montrose. He fell along with his king at the battle of Flodden Field. The 2nd Earl of Montrose was one of the few great men of his age to stay loyal to Mary Queen of Scots while his son converted to the new faith during the turmoil of the Scottish reformation. King James VI (1566-1625) made him chancellor of Scotland in 1599. John Graham, 4th Earl of Montrose held several high offices climaxing before his death in being appointed president of the privy council.

James Graham, 5th Earl and 1st Marquis of Montrose is perhaps the most celebrated chief of the clan. Simply refered to throughout history as ‘The Great Montrose’ his exploits during the wars of the three kingdoms are now legendary. Commanding several loyal highland clans he took on the armies of the covenanters in what ranks as one of the most daring campaigns in miltary history. He was eventually captured and executed in 1650.

James Graham, 4th Marquis of Montrose was created 1st Duke of Montrose in 1707 in thanks for supporting a new Union with England. He is perhaps best remembered for his feud with Rob Roy MacGregor who defaulted on a loan he had taken from Montrose to purchase cattle. This was to last over a decade. The fact that the Grahams played no official part in the Jacobite risings allowed James Graham, 3rd Duke of Montrose to repeal the 1747 law that banned highland dress.