Clan MacGregor: History, Crest & Coat of Arms, and Tartan

Nestled in the majestic landscapes of the Northern Highlands, Clan MacGregor is one of Scotland’s most renowned Highland clans and boasts a storied history filled with tales of courage, resilience, and cultural richness. Despite enduring adversity and persecution, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries, the Clan MacGregor have steadfastly preserved their heritage and traditions.

This article delves into the fascinating journey of MacGregor Clan Scotland, highlighting its significant contributions to Scottish history and its enduring legacy in modern times.

The Clan Gregor, also known as Clan MacGregor, traces its roots back to Scotland’s early 9th century, embodying a saga of bravery, clan rivalries, and perseverance against adversity. They maintained their resilience and identity through tumultuous times marked by power struggles and external pressures. Despite persecution, notably in the 17th and 18th centuries, the Clan MacGregor endured, holding steadfast to their heritage.

Additionally, they are recognized as one of Scotland’s earliest proponents of bagpipe music, a tradition dating back to the early 17th century. Today, they honor their heritage through cultural events, ensuring their traditions endure for generations.

The Clan Gregor once held extensive lands in Glen Orchy, Glenlochy, and Glenstrae. According to Iain Moncreiffe, the Clan MacGregor is of descent from an ancient Celtic royal lineage, and their heritage is traced through the Abbots of Glendochart. This noble lineage is subtly referenced in the clan’s motto: “Royal is my race.” Another tradition suggests that Gregor may have been the brother of Kenneth MacAlpin, although evidence supporting this is scarce; Scottish historian William Skene lends some credence to this tradition. It is speculated that the progenitor of the Clan Gregor may have been Griogair, son of Dungal, who was believed to be a co-ruler of Alba.

Contemporary historians generally concur that the inaugural chief of Clan MacGregor was Gregor of the Golden Reins. His son, Iain Camm One Eye, succeeded him as the second chief, likely before 1390. The barony of Loch Awe, encompassing a significant portion of Clan MacGregor lands, was granted to the chief of Clan Campbell by Robert the Bruce. The Campbells had constructed Kilchurn Castle, strategically positioned to control access to the western Highlands. They engaged in conflicts with the MacGregors, driving them further into their territories until they were confined primarily to Glenstrae.

Iain of Glenstrae, known as “the Black,” died in 1519 without direct heirs. Eian's succession was backed by the Campbells, and he married a daughter of Sir Colin Campbell of Glenorchy. Alistair, Eian’s son, fought in the Battle of Pinkie Cleugh in 1547 but died shortly after that. Colin Campbell’s refusal to recognize Gregor Roy MacGregor’s claim led to a decade-long conflict, with Gregor becoming an outlaw known for raids and hiding in remote glens. Captured and killed by the Campbells in 1570, his son Alistair inherited but couldn’t stop Campbell’s persecution, leading to the MacGregors’ moniker “Children of the Mist” due to their losses.

Additionally, John Drummond of Clan Drummond, the king's forester, was killed after hanging several MacGregors for poaching. The chief accepted responsibility for the killing, which was condemned by the Privy Council.

After two MacGregor Clan members were executed in 1603, Alasdair MacGregor retaliated by leading over four hundred men into Colquhoun territory. The chief of Clan Colquhoun, commissioned to suppress the MacGregors, amassed a force of eight hundred foot soldiers and cavalry, marching to Glen Fruin. MacGregor’s tactical split, engaging the Colquhouns while a second group attacked from the rear led to the deaths of over two hundred Colquhouns and their retreat into the Moss of Auchingaich. This conflict later saw a gesture of reconciliation in the late 18th century when the clan chiefs met and shook hands at the conflict site.

In April 1603, James VI of Scotland banned the MacGregor name, leading to the executions of Clan MacGregor leaders, including MacGregor, and eleven chieftains at Mercat Cross in Edinburgh by 1604. This marked a period of intense persecution for the clan, forcing many to adopt new names like Clan Murray or Clan Grant. They were relentlessly hunted with bloodhounds, driven from hiding in the heather, and scattered across the land.

Despite this, Clan Lamont of Cowal and Clan Chattan defied the persecution by offering aid and refuge to fleeing MacGregors. The Clan MacGregors remained loyal to the king during the Scottish Civil War, with two hundred men fighting alongside the Earl of Glencairn in Glencairn’s rising against the Commonwealth. Charles II later lifted the ban on MacGregor’s name, but William of Orange reinstated it after James VII’s deposition.

Rob Roy MacGregor, born in 1671, was a son of MacGregor of Glengyle but adopted his mother’s surname, Campbell, due to circumstances. Sir Walter Scott immortalized his daring life in the novel “Rob Roy”. Known for his audacious exploits, Rob Roy remained a thorn in the government’s side until he died in 1734. He actively supported the Jacobite cause during the Jacobite rising of 1715, conducting bold raids such as the one on Dumbarton, causing panic in the town. Rob Roy also led Clan MacGregor in the Battle of Glen Shiel in 1719. He is buried in Balquhidder churchyard.

During the Jacobite rising of 1745, Clan MacGregor members fought at Prestonpans alongside the Jacobite army under the Duke of Perth. While some MacGregors were present at the Battle of Littleferry in 1746, they missed the Battle of Culloden due to their late arrival. Returning home after the uprising, Clan MacGregors boldly traveled through Atholl without interference, passing by Finlairg Castle, where the Clan Campbell militia openly defied Lord Campbell’s outposts. The persecution against the Clan MacGregor lasted until 1774, when the laws against them were repealed, ending their prolonged hardships.

To revive the clan’s pride, the chiefs sought reinstatement. A petition was signed by 826 MacGregors, affirming General John Murray of Lanrick as the rightful chief. General Murray was a MacGregor tracing his lineage back to Duncan MacGregor of Ardchoille, who passed away in 1552. His son, Sir Evan, played a significant role during George IV’s visit to Scotland in 1822. During this historic event, Sir Evan and his fellow clansmen were entrusted with safeguarding the Honours of Scotland, also known as the Scottish Regalia, representing the oldest crown jewels in the British Isles.

The combination of these symbols in the MacGregor Clan Crest not only honors the clan’s historical roots but also conveys enduring values such as readiness, resilience, and a connection to the fertile landscapes of their ancestral lands. The crest is a proud emblem, representing the identity and spirit of Clan MacGregor’s history across generations.

Clan MacGregor/ Clan Gregor

Gaelic Name: MacGrioghair

Crest: A lion’s head erased Proper, crowned with an antique crown, Or

Motto: ’S Rioghal Mo Dhream (My race is royal)

Origin of Name: Son of Gregory (Flocksman)

Badge: Pine

Lands: Argyll and Perthshire

Historic Seat: Bannatyne, Newtyle, Angus

Clan Chief: Sir Malcolm MacGregor of MacGregor Bt

The Clan MacGregor crest features an erased lion’s head, depicted in natural colors, and adorned with an antique crown. This symbolizes strength, courage, and nobility, reflecting the proud heritage of the clan. The motto S’ Rioghal Mo Dhream, meaning “Royal is my race,” further emphasizes the clan’s esteemed lineage and noble ancestry. Together, these elements encapsulate the spirit and identity of Clan MacGregor, instilling a sense of honor and pride among its members.

The Clan MacGregor Coat of Arms features a shield in Argent, displaying an oak tree eradicated in a bend sinister in its natural color. The oak tree, symbolizing strength and endurance, is surmounted by a sword with a pommel positioned in a bend. At the point of the sword, an antique crown is depicted in Gules, representing nobility and leadership. This combination of symbols embodies the proud heritage and warrior ethos of Clan MacGregor, highlighting traits such as valor, resilience, and royal lineage.

Overall, the MacGregor Clan Coat of Arms encapsulates the enduring legacy of the Clan MacGregor, depicting their proud heritage and unwavering dedication to their values and principles.

Every clan has multiple variations of its tartan, which can be quite bewildering for those unfamiliar with the system.

Prominent Members of Clan MacGregor encompasses many figures who have left indelible marks on Scottish history and culture. Among them, Rob Roy MacGregor stands out as a legendary folk hero who was celebrated for his defiance against oppression during the 17th and 18th centuries. Another notable figure is Sir Malcolm MacGregor of MacGregor, the 24th chief of Clan MacGregor, who is pivotal in guiding the clan’s traditions and legacy into the modern era.

Additionally, Alasdair MacGregor of Cardney, known for his contributions to the design of the Clan MacGregor tartan, holds significance within the clan’s history. Furthermore, Sir John Murray MacGregor’s leadership and dedication played integral roles in maintaining the honor and heritage of Clan MacGregor during the 19th century. Collectively, these prominent members exemplify the resilience, pride, and enduring spirit of Clan MacGregor.

📜 Please also see more clan chiefs at clangregor.com

In conclusion, the legacy of Clan MacGregor stands as a testament to resilience, heritage, and enduring pride. MacGregor Clan in Scotland has demonstrated unwavering loyalty to its traditions and values through centuries of challenges and adversities. Through the centuries, prominent members such as Rob Roy MacGregor, Sir Malcolm MacGregor of MacGregor, Alasdair MacGregor of Cardney, and Sir John Murray MacGregor have upheld the clan’s traditions, values, and cultural identity.

Their contributions and leadership have ensured that Clan MacGregor remains a symbol of pride and unity, embodying the determination and loyalty that defines Scotland’s historic clans. As custodians of a remarkable legacy, Clan MacGregor continues to inspire generations with its storied past and enduring heritage.