Clan MacGregor
Legacy of the MacGregor Clan: Exploring History, Tartan, and Motto
The MacGregor Clan is one of Scotland’s most famous and historically significant Highland clans, known for their resilience, warrior spirit, and turbulent past. Their motto on their clan crest, "S Rioghal Mo Dhream" (My Race is Royal), reflects their claimed descent from the ancient kings of Scotland.
It’s also surrounding a roaring lion in the centre. Lions have long been used in heraldry to symbolise bravery, nobility, and royalty, fitting attributes for a clan that claims descent from Griogar, the third son of King Alpin (One of the first kings of Scotland).
The MacGregors are also believed to be among the purest of all Celtic tribes, with a lineage that traces back to the earliest days of Scotland’s history. Thanks to legendary figures like Rob Roy MacGregor and, more recently, actor Ewan McGregor, the clan remains one of the most recognised in Scottish heritage.
As a local tour company we’ve led thousands of tours and many tracing back our clients ancestry throughout Scotland, if that interests you get in touch with us for a custom private tour & we’ll help organise your DREAM Scotland tour.
Where did the MacGregor clan live in Scotland?
The MacGregor clan primarily resided in the rugged and picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Their ancestral lands spanned across areas such as Perthshire, Stirlingshire, and Argyll, with their stronghold centred around the stunning region of Glen Orchy (pictured).
The breathtaking beauty of the Highlands, with its majestic mountains, shimmering lochs, and lush glens, provided a fitting backdrop for the MacGregor clan's rich history and their deep connection to the land.
A temporary reprieve came in the late 1600s when Charles II lifted the ban in recognition of the MacGregors’ loyalty to the Crown, but it was swiftly reinstated by William of Orange in 1693.
It wasn’t until the 18th century that the MacGregors were finally able to reclaim their name. The legend of Rob Roy MacGregor (His grave is pictured), hailed as the ‘best known of all the Highlanders’, helped to revive the clan’s legacy.
His daring exploits during the 1715 Jacobite Rebellion cemented his status as a folk hero, a reputation further romanticised by writers like Sir Walter Scott and Daniel Defoe a century later.
What is the motto of the Gregor clan?
The MacGregor clan's motto is "Royal is my race." This motto, which reflects the clan's proud heritage and sense of nobility, encapsulates the spirit and values held dear by the MacGregor clan throughout their history. It speaks to their resilience, determination, and unwavering pride in their lineage.
Who can wear McGregor tartan?
The distinctive MacGregor tartan, with its vibrant pattern of reds, holds a special significance for those with a connection to the MacGregor clan.
Traditionally, the right to wear the MacGregor tartan is granted to those who are born as MacGregor or have a direct familial connection to the clan through birth or marriage. However, it is worth noting that tartan is now often worn more widely as a symbol of Scottish heritage and pride, and individuals of Scottish descent or enthusiasts of Scottish culture may also choose to wear the MacGregor tartan as a way to celebrate their affinity with Scotland.
Why was the surname MacGregor banned?
The MacGregor clan faced a turbulent period in their history during the early 17th century.
After the Battle of Glen Fruin in 1603, where the MacGregors defeated the Colquhouns but were accused of slaughtering innocent bystanders, King James VI declared the entire clan outlawed.
The punishment for bearing the MacGregor name was death, and for the next 150 years, the clan endured brutal oppression.
If you feel the call to trace your own Scottish ancestry back, visit Scotland and learn more about your clans history - you can get int ouch with our team of expert tour guides and tour coordinators to plan the perfect private tour.
It’s the dream of many visitors of Scotland, particularly from the States, to visit the homeland of their clan, see the castles & hear the history of who they were and how they lived.
You can get in touch by filling out a form on our Private Tour Page. We’ll get back to you with more questions to help determine what would be best and then start planning your DREAM Scotland trip!
