sentences:  Although this medieval place name has been found in three other sites in south-east Scotland, the six modern variations of the surname – Hercus, Herkes, Harcus, Harkes, Harkess and Arcus come from the fourth medieval site today called Harcarse, in the parish of Fogo, Berwickshire, Scotland.The first recorded spelling of the family name is shown to be that of Adam de Harcarres, who in 1216, was elected Abbot of Newbattle and subsequently Abbot of Melrose.Alexander of Harcarse, knight, performed fealty to Edward I, king of England in 1297 and the arms of Harcarse of that Ilk [of Harcarse], are cited in the Scottish Arms 1370–1678.