Clan Anderson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clan Anderson |
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| Mac Ghille Aindrais or Gilleaindreas | |||
Crest: An oak tree, Proper
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| Motto | Stand Sure | ||
| Profile | |||
| Region | unknown | ||
| District | Badenoch | ||
| Plant badge | An Oak Tree | ||
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| Clan Anderson has no chief, and is an armigerous clan | |||
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Clan Anderson is a Scottish clan. A "clan" is like a large family group, often with a shared history and traditions. The Lord Lyon King of Arms officially recognizes this clan. However, Clan Anderson does not currently have a recognized chief. This means it is considered an armigerous clan. Even without a chief, many people with the surname Anderson are part of this clan. Other names like MacAndrews, Andrew, and Andrews are also linked to different Scottish clans.
Contents
History of Clan Anderson
Where the Name Comes From
The name Anderson means "Son of Andrew." It comes from Saint Andrew, who is the patron saint of Scotland. This is why the name Anderson is very common all over Scotland. In Scottish Gaelic, the name is Gilleaindreas, which means "servant of Andrew." It's hard to say exactly where the Clan Anderson started because the name is so widespread.
Famous Andersons in History
In the 1500s and 1600s, many Andersons lived in towns like Peebles and Dumfries.
One famous Anderson was Alexander Anderson. He was a brilliant mathematician born near Aberdeen. He moved to Paris and wrote important books about Algebra and Geometry.
Another notable person was David Anderson of Finshaugh. He was a scientist and engineer. He became famous for using science to remove a large rock that was blocking the entrance to Aberdeen harbor. His wife, Jean Anderson, was known for her kindness and for giving money to help others.
Andersons in Later Years
In 1863, William Anderson wrote a well-known book called The Scottish Nation. This book shared the life stories of many Scottish people. In his book, he praised David Anderson for his engineering skills. He also mentioned that David's wife, Jean Anderson, was very generous. She helped set up a hospital in Aberdeen to care for and educate ten poor orphans.
In the 20th century, the name Anderson became famous for the Anderson shelters. These were special bomb shelters designed by John Anderson, 1st Viscount Waverley during World War II. They helped keep many families safe during air raids.
Clan Anderson Society
The Clan Anderson Society was started in 1973. It is very active, especially in North America. The society has a special room and historical displays at Wyseby House in Kirtlebridge, Dumfriesshire. In 2014, the society received its own Coat of Arms from the Lyon Court. This Coat of Arms features the motto "WE STAND SURE."
Families Linked to Clan Anderson
Since Clan Anderson doesn't have a recognized chief, there are no official "cadet branches." However, several important families are considered part of the wider Anderson group. These include the Andersons of Ardbrake, Kinneddar, Dowhill, and Candacraig. The crest used by the Andersons of Ardbrake is often used by other clan members.
Highland MacAndrews
In the Scottish Highlands, the surname MacAndrew is often linked to the Clan Mackintosh or the Chattan Confederation. MacAndrews were also connected to the Clan MacDonell of Glengarry. The names Andrew and Andrews are also considered part of the Highland Clan Ross.
Clan Profile
- Motto: "Stand Sure"
- Crest: An oak tree
- Gaelic Name: Mac Aindrais
- Badge: An oak tree within a belt and buckle design
- Lands: Historically found in Aberdeenshire, Banff, and Moray
- Origin of Name: "Son of Andrew"
- Tartan: The Anderson tartan was first recorded in 1815. It has a blue background and is one of the few Scottish tartans woven with seven colors.
Septs
These are surnames considered part of Clan Anderson:
- Andrew
- Anderson
- Andrews
- Gillanders
- MacAndrew
- M'Anderson
Images for kids
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Arms of Anderson of Ardbrake
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Arms of Anderson of Bruntstane
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Arms of Anderson of Bishopmill
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Arms of Anderson of Candacraig
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Arms of Anderson of Kinneddar
See also
