Clan Gunn

Welcome back to "A Clan A Day Podcast," brought to you by bagtownclans.com. I’m your host, Colin MacDonald, and today we’re diving into the extraordinary story of Clan Gunn, a hardy, martial clan with roots in the rugged and remote northern reaches of Scotland. This clan, renowned for their fierce spirit and Viking origins, carries a history that’s rich with battles, feuds, and a legacy of survival through the centuries.

The tale of Clan Gunn begins with Gunni, the Norse ancestor from whom the clan takes its name. Gunni was a grandson of the legendary Viking Sweyn Asleifsson, often referred to as "the Ultimate Viking." This lineage traces back to Olav the Black, King of Man and the Isles, who died in 1237. Gunni’s marriage to Ragnhild, a descendant of the Earl of Orkney, firmly established the family in Caithness, and from these Norse beginnings, the clan's story began to unfold. The Norse influence is significant in the identity of Clan Gunn. The clan’s territory, situated on the eastern and northern coasts of Scotland, is marked by place names that echo their Viking ancestry—names like "wick" and "dale" can still be found in the area, revealing the deep Scandinavian imprint on the region.

By the 15th century, the clan was led by George Gunn, also known as "The Crowner," or coroner, of Caithness. He was a towering figure in the north of Scotland, and his castle at Clyth served as a symbol of his power and influence. The Crowner was noted for his signature large silver brooch, a mark of his office, and his clan held significant sway during his time. However, it was also during George Gunn’s leadership that one of the most infamous feuds in Scottish history came to a head—the Gunns’ bitter and long-standing rivalry with Clan Keith.

The feud between the Gunns and the Keiths is one of legend, involving treachery, bloodshed, and a desperate battle for honor and survival. The story goes that Dugald Keith, a member of the powerful Keith family, coveted Helen, daughter of George Gunn. When she resisted his advances and prepared to marry another man, Dugald raided the Gunn stronghold, killing many of her family and abducting her. Tragically, Helen threw herself from the tower of Ackergill Castle rather than submit to her captor. This act of defiance set off a series of violent encounters between the Gunns and the Keiths, culminating in the infamous "Battle of Champions."

In 1478, both clans agreed to meet and settle their differences in a formal duel. Each side was to bring 12 men on horseback to the fight, but the Keiths, in an act of treachery, arrived with two men on each horse, doubling their numbers. Outnumbered but undeterred, the Gunns fought with fierce determination. Despite their courage, George Gunn and many of his clan were killed in the battle, and the Keiths emerged victorious—for the moment. The Gunns would have their revenge when George Gunn’s remaining son, James, ambushed and killed the Keith chief at Drummoy, avenging his father and restoring his family’s honor.

Following this period of intense conflict, the Gunns were forced to relocate from Caithness to Sutherland. Their new territory lay in the Kildonan region, where they thrived under the protection of the Earls of Sutherland. Even in this new land, the Gunns were not immune to feuds, clashing with neighboring clans like the Mackays and the Sinclairs. In 1585, the Gunns once again found themselves under attack—this time by both the Earl of Sutherland and the Earl of Caithness, who attempted to crush them between two forces. However, the Gunns, outnumbered but never outmatched in spirit, held their ground in a desperate and bloody battle, slaying over 140 of their attackers before retreating under the cover of darkness.

The strength and resilience of Clan Gunn were tested again during the Highland Clearances of the 19th century. Like many Highland clans, the Gunns suffered as sheep farming displaced the traditional way of life, and their lands in Kildonan were cleared. Many members of the clan were forced to emigrate to distant lands such as Canada and New Zealand, where they carried their fierce independence and warrior spirit with them.

Yet, despite these challenges, Clan Gunn endured. In the 20th century, the clan experienced a remarkable revival. In 1978, the feud between Clan Gunn and Clan Keith was officially ended, with a peace treaty signed at the Chapel of St. Tayrs—where the fateful meeting of the two clans had taken place centuries before. The Chiefship of Clan Gunn, vacant for over 200 years, was restored in 2015 when Iain Alexander Gunn of Banniskirk was recognized as the clan’s rightful leader.

Today, the Clan Gunn Society continues to preserve the proud history and heritage of this remarkable clan. From their Viking beginnings to their roles in Scottish clan feuds, the Gunns have left an indelible mark on Scottish history. Their story is one of fierce loyalty, unyielding determination, and a legacy that has survived the passage of time.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of "A Clan A Day Podcast," where we explored the powerful history of Clan Gunn. Be sure to tune in tomorrow as we delve into the story of another great Scottish clan. I’m your host, Colin MacDonald, and as always, go n-éirí an bóthar leat.