List of Scottish clans facts for kids

Clan map of Scotland

Welcome to the world of Scottish clans! A Scottish clan is like a big family group, often sharing a last name and a long history in a certain part of Scotland. Each clan has its own special symbols, like unique patterns called tartans and special crest badges.

These crest badges are worn by clan members to show which clan they belong to. They usually feature a specific image (the crest) and a short saying (the motto) from the clan chief's coat of arms. Even though clan members wear these badges, the crest and motto themselves officially belong to the clan chief. Crest badges often have a strap and buckle design around the crest, which holds the motto.

Scottish crest badges, much like clan tartans, became very popular in the 1800s. People started wearing them on their hats to show their clan pride.

Highland and Island clans Lowland and Border clans

Clan name	Clan tartan	Crest image & Motto	Clan chief; and clan seat, or historical seat	About the Clan
Abercromby		Crest: A falcon flying upwards with bells. Motto: He seeks high deeds	Chief: none, armigerous clan (no recognized chief) Seat: Abercrombie, Fife
Abernethy		Crest: A black raven with red beak and legs. Motto: Salvation through Christ	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Abernethy, Perth and Kinross
Adair		Crest: A man's head, cut off and bloody. Motto: Loyal unto death	Chief: none, armigerous clan	The crest and motto come from the Adair of Kinhilt family's symbols.
Adam		Crest: A red cross with a pointed bottom, crossed by a sword. Motto: The cross gives me welcome rest	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Blair Adam, estate in Kinross-shire
Agnew		Crest: An eagle rising and looking backward. Motto: By wisdom not force	Chief: Sir Crispin Agnew of Lochnaw, 11th Baronet Seat: Lochnaw Castle, Dumfries and Galloway
Aikenhead		Crest: A half-savage man holding three laurel branches with fruit. Motto: We are born in a weak condition	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Aikenhead, Lanarkshire
Ainslie		Crest: A bare arm holding a curved sword, coming out of a cap. Motto: For country often, for king always	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Dolphinstone Castle (ruin), Jedburgh
Aiton		Crest: A hand pulling a rose. Motto: Roses plucked will give sweet smell	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Ayton, Berwickshire
Allardice		Crest: A half-savage man holding a scimitar. Motto: In defence of the distressed	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Allardice Castle, Kincardineshire
Anderson		Crest: An oak tree. Motto: Stand sure	Chief: none, armigerous clan	This motto has been used by the main Anderson family since at least 1664.
Anstruther		Crest: Two armored arms holding a pole-axe. Motto: I would have perished had I not persisted	Chief: Tobias Anstruther of that Ilk Seat: Balcaskie House, Fife	The motto refers to a story where an Anstruther prevented an assassination by acting first.
Arbuthnott		Crest: A peacock's head. Motto: Praise God	Chief: Keith Arbuthnott 17th Viscount of Arbuthnott Seat: Arbuthnott House, Arbuthnott, Aberdeenshire
Armstrong		Crest: An arm from the shoulder, armored. Motto: I remain unvanquished	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Gilnockie Tower, Dumfries and Galloway
Arnott			Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Arnott, Portmoak in Kinross-shire
Arthur		Crest: Two laurel branches in a circle. Motto: By fidelity and labour Plant badge: wild myrtle (bog myrtle), or fir club moss	Chief: John Alexander MacArthur of that Ilk Seat: Castle Kennedy House, Castle Kennedy, Wigtownshire
Auchinleck		Crest: An ear of rye. Motto: What is useful is valuable	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Auchinleck
Baillie		Crest: A boar's head, torn off. Motto: What is brighter than the stars	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Baird		Crest: A griffin's head, torn off. Motto: The Lord has done this	Chief: none	As of 2021, a petition for chiefship is being reviewed.
Balfour		Crest: An armored arm holding a baton. Motto: Forward	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Burleigh Castle
Bannatyne		Crest: A half-griffin holding a sword. Motto: Neither fast nor slow	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Bannerman		Crest: A half-man in armor holding a sword. Motto: For my country	Chief: David Gordon Bannerman of Elsick, 15th Baronet	The Bannerman family were historically the flag-bearers for the kings of Scotland.
Barclay		Crest: A hand holding a dagger, on a cap. Motto: Either to do or die	Chief: Peter Barclay of Towie Barclay and of that Ilk Seat: Towie Barclay Castle, Aberdeenshire
Baxter		Crest: A black lion standing on its hind legs, looking forward. Motto: Truth prevails	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Bell		Crest: A hand holding a dagger. Motto: I beir the bel	Chief: in the process, armigerous clan. Seat: Middlebie
Belshes		Crest: A greyhound's head, cut off, with a blue collar. Motto: Virtue shines unstained	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Bethune		Crest: An otter's head, torn off. Motto: Gracious	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Beveridge		Crest: A half-beaver coming out of a gold wall crown. Motto: By persevering	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Brucefield, estate in Fife
Binning			Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Barony of Binning, in the parish of Uphall, West Lothian
Bissett		Crest: An oak tree trunk sprouting new branches. Motto: That torn down regrows	Chief: none, armigerous clan	The main family line is believed to be Bisset of Lessendrum.
Blackadder			Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Old Tulliallan Castle, Kincardine, Fife
Blackstock			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Blair		Crest: A stag resting. Motto: I love the virtuous	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Blair, Ayrshire
Blane		Crest: The sword of Justice, standing upright. Motto: Peace or war	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Blyth			Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Lauderdale
Borthwick		Crest: A moor's head, cut off, with a silver and black wreath. Motto: He who leads	Chief: John Hugh Borthwick of that Ilk, 24th Lord Borthwick Seat: Borthwick Castle, Lothian
Boswell		Crest: A falcon with a red hood and gold bells. Motto: True faith	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Boyd		Crest: An upright hand with outer fingers bent inwards. Motto: I trust	Chief: Robin Jordan Boyd, 8th Baron Kilmarnock Seat: Dean Castle, Ayrshire
Boyle		Crest: A double-headed eagle with jagged edges, red and silver. Motto: The Lord will provide	Chief: Patrick Robin Archibald Boyle, 10th Earl of Glasgow Seat: Kelburn Castle, North Ayrshire
Brisbane		Crest: A stork's head, torn off, holding a knotted snake in its beak. Motto: God will give repose	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Killincraig, Largs, North Ayrshire
Brodie		Crest: A right hand holding a bunch of arrows. Motto: Unite Plant badge: periwinkle	Chief: Alexander Tristan Duff Brodie of Brodie Seat: Brodie Castle, Morayshire
Broun		Crest: A lion standing on its hind legs, holding a gold fleur de lis. Motto: Let majesty flourish	Chief: Sir Wayne Broun of Coultson, Bt. Seat: Colstoun House, East Lothian
Bruce		Crest: A blue lion standing. Motto: We have been Plant badge: rosemary	Chief: Andrew Douglas Alexander Thomas Bruce, 11th Earl of Elgin Seat: Broomhall Hall, Dunfermline
Buchan		Crest: A sun shining on a sunflower, on a red cap. Motto: Not having followed mean pursuits	Chief: David Buchan of Auchmacoy Seat: Auchmacoy House, Aberdeenshire
Buchanan		Crest: A hand holding up a ducal cap with a red rose, between two laurel branches. Motto: Hence the brighter honour Plant badge: billberry (blaeberry), oak, or birch	Chief: John Michael Baillie-Hamilton Buchanan of that Ilk and of Arnprior. Seat: Cambusmore House, Callander, Stirlingshire	A chief for Clan Buchanan was officially recognized in August 2018.
Butter		Crest: Two hands coming from a cloud, pulling an arrow in a bow. Motto: God directs	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Fascally, by Pitlochry, Perthshire
Byres		Crest: A cock looking backward. Motto: Safe by his own exertions	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Byses Castle (ruin), Haddington, East Lothian
Cairns			Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Mid Calder, West Lothian
Calder			Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Cawdor Castle, Nairnshire
Caldwell			Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Caldwell, East Renfrewshire
Callender			Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Callander, Stirlingshire
Cameron		Crest: A bundle of five arrows tied with a red band. Motto: Unite Plant badge: crowberry, or oak	Chief: Donald Cameron, Baron Cameron of Lochiel Seat: Achnacarry Castle, Fort William, Highlands
Campbell		Crest: A boar's head, torn off, with gold tusks and red tongue. Motto: Do not forget Plant badge: fir club moss, or wild myrtle (bog myrtle)	Chief: Torquhil Ian Campbell, 13th Duke of Argyll Seat: Inveraray Castle, Argyll and Bute	Bog myrtle loses its leaves in winter.
Campbell of Breadalbane		Crest: A boar's head, torn off. Motto: Follow me	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Breadalbane
Campbell of Cawdor		Crest: A swan with a gold crown. Motto: Be mindful	Chief: Colin Campbell, 7th Earl Cawdor Seat: Cawdor Castle, Nairnshire
Campbell of Possil		Crest: A boar's head, upright and torn off, with blue tusks and tongue. Motto: Do and hope
Carmichael		Crest: An upright hand and arm holding a broken spear. Motto: Always ready	Chief: Richard Carmichael of Carmichael Seat: Carmichael, South Lanarkshire
Carnegie		Crest: A thunderbolt with gold wings. Motto: Dred God	Chief: David Carnegie, 4th Duke of Fife Seat: Elsick House, Stonehaven, Kincardineshire
Carruthers		Crest: A flying angel. Motto: Ready and faithful Plant badge: Gorse	Chief: Simon Peter Carruthers of Holmains, Chief of the Name and Arms of Carruthers
Cathcart		Crest: An upright hand, cut off above the wrist, grasping a silver crescent moon. Motto: I hope to speed	Chief: Charles Alan Andrew Cathcart, 7th Earl Cathcart Seat: Gateley Hall
Chalmers		Crest: A lion's head and neck, black with a red tongue. Motto: Advance	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Charteris		Crest: A hand holding up a dagger. Motto: This is our charter	Chief: James Charteris, 13th Earl of Wemyss and 9th Earl of March Seat: Gosford House, East Lothian
Chattan		Crest: A wildcat leaping. Motto: Touch not the cat bot a glove Plant badge: wild whortleberry	Captain: Malcolm K. MacKintosh of Clan Chattan	This is a unique group of smaller clans, like Clan Macpherson and Clan Macbean, led by Clan Macintosh.
Cheyne		Crest: A silver cross with pointed ends. Motto: Patience conquers	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Esslemont, Aberdeenshire
Chisholm		Crest: A hand holding an upright dagger, piercing a boar's head. Motto: I am fierce with the fierce Plant badge: fern	Chief: Hamish Chisholm of Chisholm
Clelland		Crest: A falcon on a glove. Motto: For sport	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Cleland, North Lanarkshire
Clephane		Crest: A hand holding a helmet. Motto: That I May Be the More Ready	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Carslogie, Fife
Cochrane		Crest: A silver horse walking. Motto: By valour and exertion	Chief: Iain Alexander Douglas Blair Cochrane, 15th Earl of Dundonald, 6th Marquess of Maranhão Seat: Lochnell Castle, Argyllshire
Cockburn		Crest: A cock crowing. Motto: He rouses us with song	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Colquhoun		Crest: A stag's head, cut off, with silver antlers. Motto: If I can Plant badge: hazel, or dogberry	Chief: Sir Malcolm Rory Colquhoun of Luss, 9th Baronet Seat: Rossdhu Mansion, Argyll & Bute
Colville		Crest: A hind's head, cut off at the neck, silver. Motto: I cannot forget	Chief: Charles Mark Townshend Colville, 5th Viscount Colville of Culross
Congilton		Crest: A bee. Motto: Much in little	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Craig		Crest: A knight on horseback holding a broken spear. Mottos: I have good hope Live for God and you shall have life	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Riccarton	The last chief died in 1823.
Cranstoun		Crest: A crane resting, holding a stone in its claw. Motto: Thou shalt want ere I want	Chief: David Cranston of that Ilk and Corehouse
Crawford		Crest: A stag's head, torn off, with a black cross between its antlers. Motto: I will give you safety through strength	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Crichton		Crest: A dragon breathing fire. Motto: God send grace	Chief: David Maitland Makgill Crichton of that Ilk Seat: Monzie Castle, Crieff
Crosbie		Crest: A tree trunk sprouting new branches from a mound. Motto: I shall rise again	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Cumming		Crest: A gold lion standing on its hind legs, holding a dagger. Motto: Courage Plant badge: cumin	Chief: Sir Alexander Penrose Gordon Cumming of Altyre, 7th Bt. Seat: Altyre House, Morayshire	The cumin plant is not native to Britain.
Cunningham		Crest: A unicorn's head, cut off, with gold horn. Motto: Over fork over	Chief: Sir John Christopher Foggo Montgomery Cunninghame of Kilmaurs, Baronet of Corsehill
Dalmahoy		Crest: A hand waving a sword high up. Motto: Without fear	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: barony of Dalmahoy, Midlothian
Dalrymple		Crest: A rock. Motto: Firm	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Dalrymple
Dalziel		Crest: A blue dagger, standing upright, with gold handle. Motto: I dare	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Dalziel
Darroch		Crest: On a red cap, a half-African man holding a dagger. 'Motto: Be watchfull	Chief: Duncan Darroch of Gourock
Davidson		Crest: A stag's head, torn off. Motto: Wisely if sincerely Plant badge: boxwood, or red whortleberry	Chief: Alister Davidson of Davidston	This clan is part of the old Clan Chattan Federation.
Dennistoun		Crest: An arm in a red sleeve, holding an old shield with a gold star. Motto: I repel adversity with fortitude	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Dewar		Crest: An armored arm holding a sword, coming out of a gold crown with strawberry leaves. Motto: What would one not do for his country	Chief: Michael Kenneth Dewar of that Ilk and Vogrie
Donnachaidh aka Clan Duncan aka Clan Robertson		Crest: A hand holding up an imperial crown. Motto: Glory is the reward of valour Plant badge: bracken, or fern	Chief: Alexander Robertson of Struan.	Fern is considered an older plant badge for this clan.
Douglas		Crest: A green salamander surrounded by flames, on a red cap. Motto: Never behind	Chief: none, armigerous clan	The Douglas-Hamiltons are heirs to the chiefship, but would need to change their name to Douglas to be recognized.
Drummond		Crest: A goshawk with spread wings, on a gold crown. Motto: Honour crowns virtue Plant badge: holly, or wild thyme	Chief: James David Drummond, 19th Earl of Perth
Dunbar		Crest: A silver horse's head with red bridle and reins. Motto: In readiness	Chief: Sir James Dunbar of Mochrum, 14th Bt. Seat: Mochrum Castle, Dumfries and Galloway
Duncan			Chief: none, armigerous clan	The Clan is currently led by the head of The Territorial House of Duncan of Sketraw.
Dundas		Crest: A lion's head looking through an oak bush. Motto: Try	Chief: David Dundas of Dundas	The current chief has not been heard from in over 30 years.
Dunlop		Crest: An upright hand holding a dagger. Motto: Deservedly	Chief: James Stuart Wallace Dunlop, Dunlop of that Ilk. Seat: Dunlop, in Cunningham, Ayrshire
Durie		Crest: A gold crescent moon. Motto: I trust	Chief: Andrew Durie of Durie
Edmonstone		Crest: A swan's head and neck. (Formerly a camel's head). Motto: Virtue increases honour	Chief: Sir Archibald Bruce Charles Edmonstone of Duntreath, 7th Bt Seat: Duntreath, Glasgow
Eliott		Crest: An armored hand, cut off at the wrist, holding a cutlass. Motto: Boldly and rightly	Chief: Margaret Eliott of Redheugh Seat: Redheugh, Roxburghshire
Elphinstone		Crest: A lady, from the waist up, in red, holding a tower in her right hand and a laurel branch in her left. Motto: Cause caused it	Chief: The Rt Hon. Lord Elphinstone
Erskine		Crest: A hand holding up a dagger, on a red cap. Motto: I think more	Chief: James Thorne Erskine, 14th Earl of Mar and 16th Earl of Kellie
Ewing		Crest: A half-lion standing on its hind legs, holding a star. Motto: Boldly	Chief: none, armigerous clan	The Ewing coat of arms dates back to 1566.
Fairlie		Crest: A lion's head, cut off, gold. Motto: I am prepared	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Fairley, Ayrshire	The Fairleys of Braid have arms in several old records.
Falconer		Crest: An angel praying, surrounded by a laurel wreath. Motto: Live that you may have life	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Farquharson		Crest: A half-red lion holding a sword, on a red cap. Motto: By fidelity and fortitude Plant badge: Scots fir, red whortleberry, or foxglove	Chief: Alwyne Farquharson of Invercauld	This clan is part of the Clan Chattan Federation.
Fenton			Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Fenton, Dirleton, East Lothian
Fergusson		Crest: A bee on a thistle, on a red cap. Motto: Sweeter after difficulties Plant badge: little sunflower	Chief: Sir Charles Fergusson of Kilkerran, 9th Bt.
Fleming		Crest: A goat's head, torn off, silver with gold horns. Motto: Let the deed shaw	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Fletcher		Crest: A half-blue bloodhound with a red tongue, wearing a gold ducal crown. Motto: God for us	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Glenorchie, Argyll	Many Fletchers moved to the US and Canada after the Highland Clearances. The last chief died in 1911.
Forbes		Crest: A stag's head with ten antlers. Motto: Grace me guide Plant badge: broom	Chief: Lord Malcolm Nigel Forbes, 23rd Lord Forbes Seat: Castle Forbes, Aberdeenshire
Forrester		Crest: A hound's head, torn off, with a red collar. Motto: Blaw hunter blaw thy horn	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Corstorphine Castle (demolished), Corstorphine, Lothian
Forsyth		Crest: A blue griffin standing, with black claws and beak, and a gold crown. Motto: A repairer of ruin	Chief: Alister Forsyth of that Ilk
Fotheringham		Cotto: Be it fast Crest: A lion's paw holding a scimitar. Motto: Disperse	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Powrie, Inverarity, Forfarshire
Fraser		Crest: A mound with strawberries, leaves, and fruit. Motto: All my hope is in God Plant badge: yew	Chief: Flora Fraser, 21st Lady Saltoun
Fraser of Lovat		Crest: A buck's head, torn off. Motto: I am ready.	Chief: Simon Fraser, 18th Lord Lovat Seat: Beaufort Castle, Aberdeenshire
Fullarton		Crest: An otter's head, torn off, red. Motto: Light in darkness	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: barony of Fullarton, Ayrshire
Galbraith		Crest: A bear's head, cut off, silver with a blue muzzle. Motto: Gentler because of the obstruction	Chief: none, armigerous clan	The chiefs were the Galbraiths of Culcreuch, but their line cannot be traced since about 1700.
Galloway		Crest: A mound with sun rays, between two corn ears, topped with a small gold cross. Motto: Higher	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Gardyne		Crest: Two hands joined, holding up a small gold cross with a pointed bottom. Motto: Troubles are connected with the cross	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Gardyne Castle
Gartshore		Crest: An eagle with spread wings. Motto: Renew my age	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Gartshore, Kirkintilloch, Dunbartonshire
Gayre			Chief: Reinold Gayre of Gayre and Nigg
Ged		Crest: A pike fish's head. Motto: It sustains, it enriches, it pleases	Chief: none, armigerous clan	The crest (a pike fish) is a play on the clan name Ged, which means pike in heraldry.
Gibsone			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Gladstains			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Glas			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Glen			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Glendinning			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Gordon		Crest: A stag's head with ten antlers, coming out of a gold crown. Motto: Abiding, Steadfast Plant badge: ivy	Chief: Granville Charles Gomer Gordon, 13th Marquess of Huntly Seat: Aboyne Castle, Aberdeenshire
Graham		Crest: A falcon killing a stork. Motto: Do not forget Plant badge: spurge laurel	Chief: James Graham, 8th Duke of Montrose Seat: Buchanan Castle, Stirlingshire
Grant		Crest: A burning hill. Motto: The rock of alarm Plant badge: pine (Scots fir)	Chief: James Patrick Trevor Grant of Grant, 6th Baron Strathspey
Gray		Crest: A gold anchor. Motto: Anchor fast anchor	Chief: none, armigerous clan	In 1950, rules were made that people with double-barrelled names could not be clan chiefs.
Gregor		Crest: A lion's head, torn off, with a gold antique crown. Motto: My race is royal Plant badge: pine (Scots fir)	Chief: Sir Malcolm Gregor MacGregor of MacGregor, 7th Bart.	This is the clan of the famous historical figure, Rob Roy MacGregor.
Grierson		Crest: A silver fetterlock (a type of shackle). Motto: More secure by this Plant badge: Scottish bluebell	Chief: Madam Sarah Anne Grierson of Lag	This clan includes Sir Robert Grierson, known as "Auld Lag", who inspired a character in a Sir Walter Scott novel.
Gunn		Crest: A hand holding a sword. Motto: Either peace or war Plant badge: juniper, or roseroot	Chief: Iain Alexander Gunn of Banniskirk	The crest and motto here are not from the chief's official symbols.
Guthrie		Crest: A hand holding a drawn sword. Motto: I stand for the truth	Chief: Alexander Guthrie of Guthrie
Haig		Crest: A rock. Motto: Tyde what may	Chief: Alexander Douglas Derrick Haig, 3rd Earl Haig Seat: Bemersyde, Roxburghshire
Haldane		Crest: An eagle's head, torn off, gold. Motto: Suffer	Chief: Martin Haldane of Gleneagles Seat: Gleneagles, Perthshire
Haliburton		Crest: A black man's head, cut off at the shoulders, wearing a helmet. Motto: Watch well	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Haliburton, Berwickshire
Halkerston		Crest: A falcon's head, torn off. Motto: I endeavour in difficulties	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Rathillet, Fife
Halket		Crest: A falcon's head, torn off. Motto: Faith is sufficient	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Pitfirran, Fife
Hall		Crest: A Talbot dog's head. Motto: Live, so that you may live	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Liddesdale, Roxburghshire
Hamilton		Crest: An oak tree with fruit, cut by a saw, coming out of a ducal crown. Motto: Through	Chief: Alexander Douglas-Hamilton, 16th Duke of Hamilton
Hannay		Crest: A black cross with a pointed bottom, coming out of a crescent moon. Motto: Through difficulties to higher things	Chief: David Hannay of Kirkdale and of that Ilk.
Harris			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Hay or Leith		Crest: A falcon flying, coming out of a crown, with gold bells and straps. Motto: Keep the yoke Plant badge: mistletoe	Chief: Merlin Sereld Victor Gilbert Hay, 24th Earl of Erroll
Henderson		Crest: An arm holding a gold star, topped by a blue crescent moon. Motto: Virtue alone ennobles Plant badge: cotton grass	Chief: Alistair Donald Henderson of Fordell
Hepburn		Crest: A silver horse's head, cut off, with a red bridle. Motto: Keep tryst	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Heron		Crest: A half-silver lion holding a red cross with a pointed bottom. Motto: By bravery	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Heron, Kirkcudbrightshire
Herries		Crest: A stag's head with ten antlers, silver. Motto: The Lord has given	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Hogg		Crest: An oak tree. Motto: A good name gives strength	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Newliston House, Kirkliston, Lothian
Hogarth		Crest: A pegasus (winged horse). Motto: Sincerity gives wings to strength	Chief: William Hogarth Seat: Berwickshire and later Firhil
Home		Crest: A lion's head, torn off, silver, on a red cap. Motto: A home. A home. A home. Plant badge: broom	Chief: David Douglas-Home, 15th Earl of Home
Hope		Crest: A broken globe with a rainbow coming from clouds. Motto: But hope is unbroken	Chief: Sir John Hope of Craighall, Bt.	The motto is a clever play on the clan name "Hope".
Hopkirk		Crest: An upright armored hand, cut off at the elbow, pointing to a silver crescent moon. Motto: I hope to prosper	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Horsburgh			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Houston		Crest: A sand-glass. Motto: In time	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Houston, Renfrewshire
Hunter		Crest: A greyhound sitting, wearing an old gold crown. Motto: I accomplish the hunt	Chief: Pauline Hunter of Hunterston Seat: Hunterston
Hutton			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Inglis	Demi Lion.	Motto: Nobilis Est Ira Leonis	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Innes		Crest: A boar's head, torn off. Motto: Be traist Plant badge: great bulrush	Chief: none, armigerous clan	The Duke of Roxburghe could be the chief, but he uses the name Innes-Ker.
Irvine		Crest: A bundle of holly with nine leaves, tied with a red band. Motto: Flourishing both in sunshine and in shade	Chief: Alexander Irvine of Drum, 27th Baron of Drum Seat: Drum Castle, Aberdeenshire
Irving		Crest: An armored arm holding a holly branch with seven leaves. Motto: Yielding under no winds	Chief: Rupert Irving of Bonshaw Seat: Bonshaw Tower, Dumfriesshire
Jardine		Crest: A spur wheel with six points. Motto: Beware I am present	Chief: Sir William Murray Jardine of Applegirth, 13th Bt.
Johnstone		Crest: A winged gold spur. Motto: Never unprepared Plant badge: red hawthorn	Chief: Patrick Andrew Wentworth Johnstone of Annandale and of that Ilk, 11th Earl of Annandale and Hartfell
Keith		Crest: A roebuck's head with gold antlers, coming out of a gold crown. Motto: Truth conquers	Chief: James William Falconer Keith, 14th Earl of Kintore Seat: [1] Keith Hall, Aberdeenshire
Kelly			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Kennedy		Crest: A dolphin swimming. Motto: Consider the end Plant badge: oak	Chief: David Thomas Kennedy, 9th Marquess of Ailsa
Kerr		Crest: The sun shining brightly, gold. Motto: Late but in earnest	Chief: Michael Andrew Foster Jude Kerr, 13th Marquess of Lothian
Kincaid		Crest: A three-towered silver castle, with an arm holding a sword coming from the middle tower, wearing Kincaid tartan. Motto: This I'll defend	Chief: Arabella Kincaid of Kincaid
Kinloch		Crest: A young eagle perched and looking up at the sun. Motto: Not degenerate	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Kinnaird		Crest: A crescent moon with a star coming from it, surrounded by two palm branches. Motto: Wandering lights deceive	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Kinnear		Crest: Two anchors crossed. Motto: I live in hope	Chief: The clan has a senior male, Malcolm MacIntyre Kinnear; armigerous clan
Kinninmont		Crest: A green oak tree. Motto: I shall stand	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Kirkcaldy		Crest: A man's head looking upwards. Motto: Truth is the strongest	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Kirkcaldy, Fife
Kirkpatrick		Crest: An upright hand holding a dagger dripping blood. Motto: I make sure	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Laing		Crest: A dove holding an olive branch in its mouth. Motto: Mercy is my desire	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Lammie		Crest: A hand holding a shepherd's crook. Motto: By various fortunes	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Lamont		Crest: A hand, cut off at the wrist. Motto: Neither spare nor scorn Plant badge: crab-apple tree, or trefoil or dryas	Chief: The Rev. Father Peter Lamont of that Ilk
Langlands			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Learmonth			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Leask		Crest: A silver crescent moon. Motto: I grow by virtue	Chief: Jonathan Leask of that Ilk.
Lennox		Crest: Two crossed broadswords behind a swan's head and neck. Motto: I'll defend	Chief: Edward Lennox of that Ilk
Leslie		Crest: A half-griffin, with gold beak and wings. Motto: Grip fast	Chief: James Malcolm David Leslie, 22nd Earl of Rothes
Lindsay		Crest: A swan's head, neck, and wings, coming from an old gold ducal crown. Motto: Endure boldly	Chief: Anthony Robert Lindsay, 30th Earl of Crawford and 13th Earl of Balcarres
Little		Crest: A half-black lion with silver saltires, holding a cutlass in one paw and a silver saltire in the other. Motto:Concedo nulli or Fidei coticula crux	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Lockhart		Crest: A boar's head, torn off, silver with a red tongue, on a red cap. Motto: I open locked hearts	Chief: Ranald William Angus Lockhart, 26th Baron of Lee
Logan		Crest: A human heart pierced by a nail. Motto: This is valour of my ancestors Plant badge: furze	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Logie			Chief: none, armigerous clan
Lumsden		Crest: A bare arm holding a sword, coming out of a gold crown. Motto: Love endures delays	Chief: Gillem Lumsden of that Ilk
Lundin		Crest: A red lion coming out of a gold crown, holding a sword and a thistle. Motto: By the grace of God I am what I am	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Lyle		Crest: A gold cock with red comb and wattle. Motto: An I may	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Lyon		Crest: A lady from the waist up, richly dressed, holding a thistle, within a laurel wreath. Motto: In thee o Lord have I put my trust	Chief: Michael Fergus Bowes-Lyon, 18th Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne	The crest refers to Sir John Lyon's marriage to Princess Jean, daughter of Robert II of Scotland.
MacAlister		Crest: An upright armored arm holding a dagger. Motto: Boldly Plant badge: common heath (Scots heather)	Chief: William MacAlester of Loup and Kennox
MacAlpin/e		Crest: A boar's head. Motto: Remember the death of Alpin Plant badge: pine (Scots fir)	Chief: none Commander: Michael T. McAlpin, Armigers: eight MacAlpine armigers	No chief's arms have been officially recorded.
MacAulay		Crest: A boot, cut off at the ankle, with a spur. Motto: Danger is sweet. or 'Sweet Danger' Plant badge: pine (Scots fir), or cranberry	Chief: none, armigerous clan Seat: Ardencaple Castle, Argyll & Bute	No chief's arms have been officially recorded.
MacBain		Crest: A grey half-wildcat, with a red Highland shield on its left foreleg. Motto: Touch not a catt bot a targe Plant badge: boxwood, or red whortleberry	Chief: James McBain of McBain	This clan is part of the old Clan Chattan Federation.
MacBrayne			Chief: none, armigerous clan
MacDonald		Crest: On a gold crown, an armored hand holding a red cross with a pointed bottom. Motto: By sea, by land Plant badge: common heath (Scots heather)	Chief: Godfrey James Macdonald of Macdonald, 8th Baron Macdonald of Slate
MacDonald of Clanranald		Crest: A three-towered silver castle, with an armored arm holding a sword coming from the middle tower. Motto: My hope is constant in thee Plant badge: common heath (Scots heather)	Chief: Ranald Alexander MacDonald, Captain of Clanranald
MacDonald of Keppoch		Crest: A red eagle with spread wings, crowned with a gold ducal coronet. Plant badge: common heath (Scots heather), or white heather	Chief: Ranald Macdonald of Keppoch
MacDonald of Sleat		Crest: An armored hand holding a red cross with a pointed bottom. Motto: By sea, by land	Chief: Sir Ian MacDonald of Sleat, Bt.
MacDonell of Glengarry		Crest: A raven perching on a blue rock. Motto: The rock of the raven Plant badge: common heath (Scots heather)	Chief: Ranald MacDonnell of Glengarry
MacDougall		Crest: An armored arm holding an upright red cross with a pointed bottom, on a red cap. Motto: To conquer or die Plant badge: bell heather	Chief: Madame Morag MacDougall of MacDougall
Mac Domhnaill		Motto: Stand with honor	Chief: Steven Mitchell of Clan Mac Domhnaill
Macdowall		Crest: A lion's paw, torn off and upright, holding a dagger, coming from a gold crown. Motto: To conquer or die	Chief: Fergus D. H. McDowall of Garthland
McDowell		Crest: A gold lion standing on its hind legs, crowned red, holding a red cross with a pointed bottom. Motto: Fear God Fear of God	Chief:
MacDuff		Crest: A half-red lion holding an upright broadsword. Motto: God assists Plant badge: boxwood, or red whortleberry	Chief: none, armigerous clan
MacEwen (or MacEwan)		Crest: An oak tree trunk sprouting. Motto: I grow strong again	Chief: none, armigerous clan	This motto comes from the McEwen baronets' symbols, not the clan chief's.
Macfarlane		Crest: A half-savage man holding a broadsword and pointing to an Imperial Crown. Motto: This I'll defend Plant badge: cranberry, or cloudberry	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Macfie		Crest: A half-lion standing on its hind legs. Motto: For the king Plant badge: pine (Scots fir), oak, or crowberry	Chief: none, armigerous clan	The motto is said to refer to Alpin, the father of the first traditional king of Scots.
Macgillivray		Crest: A wildcat sitting and looking forward, with one paw on the ground and its tail curled. Motto: Touch not this cat	Chief: none, armigerous clan Plant badge: boxwood, or red whortleberry	Part of the Clan Chattan Federation. In 2016, Iain MacGillivray was elected Clan Commander.
MacInnes		Crest: An arm holding a bow, wearing Clan Aonghais tartan. Motto: By the grace of God and king Plant badge: holly	Chief: none, armigerous clan	This motto and crest come from a modern coat of arms granted in 1961.
MacIntyre		Crest: A hand holding an upright dagger. Motto: Through difficulties Plant badge: common heath (Scots heather), or white Heather	Chief: Donald R. MacIntyre of Glenoe Seat: Glenoe, Argyll and Bute
MacIver		Crest: A boar's head, cut off, gold. Motto: I will never forget	Chief: none, armigerous clan	Both the crest and motto are very similar to the Campbell clan's symbols.
Mackay		Crest: An upright arm, cut off at the elbow, holding a dagger. Motto: With a strong hand Plant badge: great bulrush, or broom	Chief: Æneas Simon Mackay, 15th Lord Reay
Mackenzie		Crest: A burning hill. Motto: I shine not burn Plant badge: variegated holly, or deer's grass	Chief: John Ruaridh Grant MacKenzie, 5th Earl of Cromartie Seat: Castle Leod, Ross-shire	The crest and motto come from the Macleods of Lewis. The Mackenzie chiefs are also called "Baron Macleod of Castle Leod".
McKenzie of Torry		Crest: None Motto: He shall conquer	Chieftain: Keith Ngamphon McKenzie of Torry Seat: Torry
Mackie		Crest: A raven. Motto: Endeavour	Chief: none, armigerous clan	Derived from the arms of Mackie of Larg, the main branch of the clan.
Mackinnon		Crest: A boar's head, torn off, holding a deer's leg in its mouth. Motto: Fortune assists the daring Plant badge: pine (Scots fir) or St John's wort	Chief: Madam Anne Mackinnon of Mackinnon.
MacKinlay			Chief: none, armigerous clan	United States President William McKinley was a member of this clan.
Mackintosh		Crest: A wildcat sitting and looking forward. Motto: Touch not the cat bot a glove Plant badge: red whortleberry, bearberry, or boxwood	Chief: John Lachlan Mackintosh of Mackintosh	Clan Macintosh leads the Clan Chattan Federation.
Maclachlan		Crest: A castle on a rock, coming out of a crown with strawberry leaves. Motto: Brave and faithful Plant badge: rowan (mountain ash), or lesser periwinkle	Chief: Euan Maclachlan of Maclachlan.
Maclaine of Lochbuie		Crest: A laurel branch and a cypress branch crossed, topped by a battle axe. Motto: To conquer or die Plant badge: bilberry (blaeberry), bramble, holly, or black berry heath	Chief: Lorne MacLaine of Lochbuie
MacLaren		Crest: A black lion's head, torn off, with a gold antique crown, between two laurel branches. Motto: The boar's rock Plant badge: laurel	Chief: Donald MacLaren of MacLaren and Achleskine
MacLaurin		Crest: A lady from the middle upwards, holding a child. Motto: Bi'se mac ant' Slaurie	Chief: none, armigerous clan
MacLea or Livingstone		Crest: A half-man representing Saint Moluag, with a gold halo, green cloak, holding a staff and a blue cross. Motto: Hill of fire	Chief: Niall Livingstone of Bachuil	The motto refers to a hill on the Isle of Lismore.
Maclean		Crest: A silver castle with battlements. Motto: Virtue mine honour Plant badge: crowberry or holly	Chief: Major The Hon Sir Lachlan MacLean of Duart and Morvern, Bt.
MacLellan		Crest: A bare arm supporting a black man's head on the point of a sword. Motto: Think on	Chief: none, armigerous clan	The crest refers to a story where a MacLellan killed an Irish bandit.
MacLennan		Crest: A half-piper wearing Clan Maclennan tartan. Motto: While I breathe I hope Plant badge: furze	Chief: Ruairidh MacLennan of MacLennan
Macleod		Crest: A black bull's head with gold horns, between two red flags. Motto: Hold fast Plant badge: juniper	Chief: Hugh Magnus MacLeod of MacLeod Seat: Dunvegan Castle, Isle of Skye
Macleod of the Lewes		Crest: The sun shining brightly. Motto: I birn quhil I se Plant badge: red whortleberry	Chief: Torquil MacLeod of the Lewes
MacMillan		Crest: Two hands holding and waving a two-handed sword. Motto: I learn to succour the unfortunate Plant badge: holly	Chief: George MacMillan of Macmillan and Knap
Macnab		Crest: The head of a savage looking forward. Motto: Let fear be far from all Plant badge: stone bramble, or common heath (Scots heather)	Chief: James Macnab of Macnab
Macnaghten		Crest: A red castle with battlements. Motto: I hoip in God Plant badge: trailing azalea	Chief: Sir Patrick Macnaghten of Macnaghten, Bt.
MacNeacail	MacNeacail Tartan	Crest: A hawk's head, torn off, red. Motto: Scorrybreac (the clan chiefs' castle)	Chief: John MacNeacail of MacNeacail and Scorrybreac
MacNeil		Crest: A rock, on a red cap. Motto: To conquer or die Plant badge: dryas, or trefoil	Chief: Ian R. MacNeil of Barra	The plant badge might be for the McNeills of Gigha. Both Lamonts and MacNeils claim descent from the same O'Neill ancestor.
Macphail		Crest: A stag's head, torn off. Motto: Be mindful Plant badge: red whortleberry	Chief: none, armigerous clan	This clan is part of the Clan Chattan Federation. MacPhails can be found with Clan Macintosh or Clan Cameron.
Macpherson		Crest: A wildcat sitting. Motto: 'Touch no the cat but a glove' Plant badge: white heather, boxwood, or red whortleberry	Chief: Sir William Macpherson of Cluny	This clan is part of the old Clan Chattan Federation.
Macquarrie		Plant badge: pine (Scots fir)	Chief: none, armigerous clan
Macqueen		Crest: A heraldic tiger standing on its hind legs, ermine, holding an arrow. Motto: Constant and faithful Plant badge: boxwood, or red whortleberry	Chief: none, armigerous clan	Part of the Clan Chattan Federation. The chief's family is believed to have moved to New Zealand.
Macrae		Crest: An arm holding a sword. Motto: With fortitude Plant badge: club moss	Chief: none, armigerous clan	Club moss may refer to the Mackenzie clan's symbols, showing the Macrae's close ties to them.
MacTavish		Crest: A boar's head, torn off, gold with a red tongue. Motto: Not forgetful	Chief: Steven MacTavish of Dunardry	This clan was considered part of Clan Campbell until 1997. The motto is a response to the Campbell chief's motto.
MacThomas		Crest: A half-wildcat standing on its hind legs, looking forward, holding a green snake. Motto: I Will Overcome Envy with God's Help	Chief: Andrew MacThomas of Finegand
Maitland		Crest: A red lion sitting and looking forward, crowned, holding a sword and a blue fleur de lis. Motto: By wisdom and courage	Chief: Ian Maitland, 18th Earl of Lauderdale
Makgill		Crest: A phoenix rising from flames. Motto: Without end	Chief: Ian Arthur Alexander Makgill, 14th Viscount of Oxfuird
Malcolm (MacCallum)		Crest: A silver tower with blue windows and door. Motto: He has attempted difficult things Plant badge: rowan berries	Chief: Robin Malcolm of Poltalloch
Mar		Crest: Two wings, each with ten feathers, upright and back-to-back, on a red cap. Motto: Thinks more	Chief: Margaret of Mar, 31st Countess of Mar
Marjoribanks		Crest: A half-griffin coming out of a gold crown.<br

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List of Scottish clans Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.