MacGowan (McGowan)
MacGowan Family Tartan Collection
Celebrate the MacGowan name with a Scottish heritage tartan — the old name of the smiths, "son of the smith," honoured on both sides of the Irish Sea, worn with a fitting tartan.
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About the MacGowan Family Tartan
The MacGowan name comes from the Gaelic Mac a' Ghobhainn, meaning "son of the smith" — the smith being the honoured metalworker, the blacksmith or armourer, of the old Gaelic world. As an occupational name rather than a single clan with its own chief, MacGowan is most fittingly worn with a district or heritage tartan, and those descended from a particular clan may wear that clan's tartan.
The name arose independently wherever a smith's family took his craft as their surname, and is found across both Scotland and Ireland, where the parallel Gaelic Mac Gabhann gives the same meaning. This collection brings a fitting Scottish tartan into apparel, accessories, home decor and heritage gifts.
MacGowan Tartan Pattern and Colours
This collection draws on the iron greys and charcoal of the forge, warmed by a glow of ember orange and lined with black — strong, honest colours fitting for the old name of the smiths, the craftsmen who worked the metal at the heart of every Highland community.
MacGowan Heritage
In the Gaelic world the smith was a figure of high honour, for on his skill depended the tools of the field and the weapons of the warrior; some smiths were reckoned to possess almost magical craft. Families who followed the trade often took the name Mac a' Ghobhainn, "son of the smith," and so the MacGowans arose in many districts of Scotland.
In Scotland MacGowans are linked with several clans, including the MacphersonS of Clan Chattan, and are found across the Lowlands and Highlands alike. In Ireland the parallel name Mac Gabhann, sometimes turned into Smith or Smyth, was strong in County Cavan. Wherever it is found, the MacGowan name carries the honest pride of the old craft of the smith.
Who Is This Collection For?
This collection is made for those of the MacGowan and McGowan name, families of Scottish and Irish descent, those proud of the old craft of the smith, and anyone who wishes to honour the name with a heritage tartan.
- ✓ MacGowan and McGowan family
- ✓ Scottish and Irish roots
- ✓ "Son of the smith" heritage
- ✓ Family gatherings and reunions
- ✓ Ancestry and heritage gifts
- ✓ Everyday heritage tartan style
How to Wear MacGowan Tartan
A MacGowan heritage tartan works well across caps, shirts, hoodies, scarves, ties, jackets, blankets and keepsake gifts. A district or heritage sett is easy to style, making it suitable for everyday heritage wear, family occasions and meaningful gifts.
MacGowan Family Tartan FAQ
Quick answers about the MacGowan name, the tartan its members wear and why it matters for heritage shoppers.
Does MacGowan have its own clan tartan?
MacGowan is an occupational name meaning "son of the smith" rather than a single clan, so it is most fittingly worn with a district or heritage tartan; those descended from a particular clan may wear that clan's tartan.
What does the name MacGowan mean?
It comes from the Gaelic Mac a' Ghobhainn, "son of the smith" — the smith being the honoured metalworker or blacksmith.
Is MacGowan Scottish or Irish?
Both — the name arose in Scotland as Mac a' Ghobhainn and in Ireland as Mac Gabhann, each meaning "son of the smith."
Is MacGowan linked to any clan?
In Scotland MacGowans are associated with several clans, including the Macphersons of Clan Chattan, reflecting the smiths who served them.
Who can wear the MacGowan tartan?
Anyone of the MacGowan or McGowan name, or of Scottish or Irish descent, can wear a suitable district or heritage tartan.
Is MacGowan tartan a good gift?
Yes. A heritage-tartan MacGowan product makes a meaningful gift for the family and for those honouring their roots.
Carry the MacGowan Name with Pride
Discover heritage tartan clothing, accessories and gifts for the MacGowan family — honouring the old craft of the smith on both sides of the Irish Sea.
View MacGowan Tartan Clothing