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Berwickshire is the home of the Cockburns who derive their name from a placename near Duns. There is record of Cockburns in Berwickshire in the 12th century. Sir Alexander Cockburn was Keeper of the Great Seal between 1389 and 1396. Sir William Cockburn of Langton was granted the Barony of Langton in 1595, together with the office of Principal Usher. Later, some dispute having arisen, the office of Principal Usher was, about 1641, jointly shared with Colonel Cunningham's life-rent in the joint office, the 2nd Baron Langton received a new grant of the office. Cockburn of Ormiston was an important branch of the family.