Welcome back to "A Clan A Day Podcast," brought to you by bagtownclans.com. I'm your host, Colin MacDonald. Today, we venture into the Highlands to explore the rich history of Clan Macpherson, a storied clan with deep roots in the rugged terrain of Scotland and a member of the famed Clan Chattan Confederation.
Clan Macpherson, or Clann Mhuirich in Gaelic, meaning "Children of the Parson," has a history that is both ancient and fascinating. The clan traces its lineage back to Muireach, or Murdoch Cattenach, who was the parson of Kingussie in Badenoch in the 12th century. This ecclesiastical origin is unique among Scottish clans, reflecting a blend of religious devotion and martial prowess. The Macphersons are descendants of the early chiefs of the Clan Chattan, a confederation that also includes the Mackintoshes, Davidsons, and Shaws, among others. The Macphersons claim to be the rightful heirs to the chiefship of the Clan Chattan, a claim that has been the source of much contention and historical debate.
The origins of Clan Macpherson are closely tied to the legend of Gille Chattan Mor, the great servant of St. Cattan. Gille Chattan Mor was a key figure in the formation of the Clan Chattan Confederation, a powerful alliance of clans in the Scottish Highlands. The Macphersons, through their ancestor Muireach, played a central role in this confederation, especially in their native Badenoch. They are often called the "Clan of the Three Brothers," referring to the three sons of Ewan Ban Macpherson: Kenneth, Iain, and Gillies, who each led different branches of the clan.
One of the most notable early events in the history of Clan Macpherson is their involvement in the Battle of Invernahavon in 1370. This battle was part of the ongoing feud between the Clan Chattan Confederation and the Clan Cameron. A dispute arose between the Macphersons and the Davidsons, another member of the confederation, over who should take the prestigious right flank in the battle. The Mackintosh chief, who was also the chief of the Clan Chattan Confederation, sided with the Davidsons, causing the Macphersons to withdraw in protest. This withdrawal allowed the Camerons to gain an advantage, but the Macphersons were eventually persuaded to return, helping to secure a victory for the Clan Chattan Confederation.
Throughout the centuries, the Macphersons were known for their fierce independence and martial prowess. During the Scottish Civil War in the 17th century, the Macphersons supported the Royalist cause and fought alongside the Marquess of Montrose. Ewen Macpherson of Cluny, the clan chief, was a staunch supporter of King Charles I and played a significant role in several key battles, including the Battle of Tippermuir and the Battle of Aberdeen. The Macphersons' loyalty to the Stuart monarchy continued into the 18th century, where they were active participants in the Jacobite uprisings.
Ewen Macpherson of Cluny, known as Cluny Macpherson, emerged as one of the most prominent leaders during the Jacobite rising of 1745. Initially reluctant to join the Jacobite cause due to his oaths to the government, he eventually led 600 Macphersons to support Prince Charles Edward Stuart. The Macphersons fought bravely in several battles, including the Skirmish of Clifton Moor, where they held the rear guard during the retreat to Scotland. Unfortunately, they arrived too late to participate in the decisive Battle of Culloden, a moment that could have potentially changed the outcome of the rebellion.
Following the defeat at Culloden, Cluny Macpherson became a wanted man, and his estate was burned by government troops. For nine years, Cluny evaded capture by living in hiding among his people, who remained fiercely loyal to him. The government offered a substantial reward for his capture, but no one betrayed him. Cluny eventually escaped to France in 1755, where he died in exile the following year. His dedication to the Jacobite cause and his ability to evade capture for so long made him a legendary figure among his people.
The Macphersons are also known for their deep cultural heritage. Cluny Castle, the seat of the clan, is home to numerous relics of the Jacobite cause, including the Black Chanter of Clan Chattan, believed to have mystical powers and said to have fallen from the heavens. The clan's motto, "Touch not the cat but a glove," serves as a warning to others to beware the Macphersons' fierce and unyielding spirit.
Today, the Clan Macpherson Society continues to honor and preserve the clan's history and traditions. Led by their current chief, Jamie Macpherson, the 28th Chief of the Macpherson Clan, the society actively promotes Scottish heritage and works to keep the spirit of the clan alive.
Thank you for joining us on this journey into the past with Clan Macpherson. Be sure to tune in tomorrow for another episode of "A Clan A Day Podcast." I'm Colin MacDonald, and as always, Go n-éirí an bóthar leat.
Clan MacPherson