Discover Clan Macpherson: Crest, Motto, and Highland Legacy

The current chief is James Brodie Macpherson of Cluny, sometimes referred to as the 28th Hereditary Chief, with Newton Castle serving as the modern clan seat. Historically, their traditional seat was Cluny Castle in Badenoch, a symbol of their longstanding roots in the Highlands.

The Macpherson Scottish clan does not have internal branches, but it is associated with several loyal families—commonly known as septs—who have played a vital role in the clan's history. These connected surnames include:

• Cattanach

• Clark / Clarke / Clerk

• Gillespie / Gillies

• Gow (Smith)

• Pearson

• Currie

• Ellis

The chief recognizes these families as "Associated Families" or "Cousins", rather than traditional septs, emphasizing their historical bonds through service, regional ties, or allegiance to Clan Macpherson.

This intriguing last name has Scottish roots and is an Anglicized version of the Gaelic term "Mac an Phearsain," where "mac" means son of and "pearsan" translates to parson, thus meaning "son of the parson."

• 1447: The earliest documented spelling of the surname is Alexander Makfersan, who served as a bailie to the bishop of Aberdeen during the reign of King James II of Scotland (1437–1460).

• 1490: Bean Makimpersone observed a bond between William of Rose and Duncan Makintosche, the leader of Clancattane

• 1538: David Makfassane received payment "for two guns made of metal."

• 1585: Donald Makpherson, the prior of Strathphillane, is cited as a witness and appears in the Black Book of Taymouth.

• 1677: The Church Records of Edinburgh document the wedding of Aeneas McPherson to Margaret Scrimgeor on April 19.

• 1683: The Church Records of Edinburgh also record Alex McPherson marrying Anna Robertson on March 29.

• 1784: John McPherson, born in Edinburgh, was a merchant who relocated to North East Canada.

The origin of Clan Macpherson is linked to the Celtic church, which permitted priests to marry. It is believed that the ancestor of the clan chiefs was a man named Muireach or Murdo Cattenach, who served as the priest in Kingussie, located in Badenoch.

The Macpherson family of Scotland is a member of the Chattan Confederation ( Clan Chattan). In the year 843, Gille Chattan Mor was the leader of Clan Chattan, and one of his descendants, who became the first leader of Clan Macpherson, was compelled to relocate to Lochaber by Kenneth MacAlpin, the first king of Scots. This chief may have served as the lay prior of Ardchattan and appears to have been named in tribute to Saint Cathan.

The story of Clan Macpherson's History cannot be separated from their role within the Clan Chattan confederation, where rivalry with the MacKintosh family often shaped alliances and disputes. While they eventually conceded the MacKintosh right to the title of "Captain of Clan Chattan," their loyalty in practice was minimal, and disputes over authority persisted.

According to tradition, Robert the Bruce once offered the chief of the MacPhersons the lands of Badenoch, provided he eliminated the Bruce's enemies, the Comyns. The task was said to have been carried out by Ewan Ban MacMhuirich and his three sons, an act that earned the family the enduring title of  "the Clan of the Three Brothers."

Over time, many branches of the MacPhersons developed, but the Cluny line rose to prominence:

• 1745: Euan MacPherson of Cluny became one of the most distinguished Highland leaders during the Jacobite rising, gaining renown for his skill and bravery.

• 1746–1755: After his estate was burned, he survived nine years in hiding despite a £1,000 reward for his capture, before eventually escaping to France with the loyal support of his clan members.

• American War of Independence (1775–1783): His son, Duncan MacPherson of Cluny, served in the British Army during this conflict.

• 1784: Duncan returned to Scotland and successfully reclaimed the family's forfeited estates.

Today, the clan seat remains at a grand castle in Blairgowrie, a lasting symbol of the resilience and enduring legacy of Clan MacPherson.

The crest and coat of arms of Clan Macpherson embody strength and heritage, serving as proud emblems of identity. Let’s take a closer look at each of these symbols and the meaning they carry.

The Clan Macpherson crest is one of the most distinctive symbols in Scottish heraldry, carrying deep meaning for the clan and its descendants. The wildcat sejant proper stands at its heart, a fierce Highland animal chosen to represent strength, independence, and an untamed spirit.

Surrounding it is the clan's famous motto, "Touch not the cat but a glove," a warning that mirrors the wildcat's nature—peaceful when unprovoked, but ready to defend with sharp claws when threatened. This Macpherson clan motto has been passed down for centuries, reminding you of the clan's reputation for loyalty, courage, and resilience.

The Macpherson clan tartan carries a strong sense of identity, weaving history, heritage, and style into one striking design. Its bold mix of deep red, dark navy, black, and touches of green and yellow makes it instantly recognizable. Over time, several variations have been created, including the Modern, Ancient, Weathered, Hunting, and Dress tartans. Each follows the same ancestral pattern but reflects a different tone.

Modern appears vivid and contemporary, Ancient uses softer natural shades that echo early dyeing methods, while Weathered offers a faded, vintage look. Hunting and Dress styles are often chosen for more specific occasions, linking everyday wear with formal Highland traditions. Together, these designs showcase the versatility of the Macpherson tartan patternwhile staying true to the clan's Highland roots within the historic Clan Chattan confederation.

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Explore the full range of Clan Macpherson tartan products at Tartan Vibes Clothing and proudly carry your heritage.