Tuesday, October 20, 2015

The Ancient Roots of Clan McArthur


While researching the McArthur family, I quickly discovered the ancient roots of Clan Arthur (also McArthur, MacAthur, or Artair), which is often cited as originating in the Scottish highlands pre-1100. From early times the clan claimed origins in the mythical King Arthur, presumably a 6th century Celtic chieftain. The clan is known to have originated in the Scottish Highlands and, being a branch of Clan Campbell, is one of the oldest clans in Argyll. The clan originally held lands on the shores of Loch Awe. For their support of Robert the Bruce, the clan was rewarded with MacDougall lands in,Dunstaffnage after his defeat of clan MacDougall. The Arthur clan chief was appointed captain of the Castle of Dunstaffnage.

Quick facts:

The clan’s motto is Fide et Opera, or Faith and Work.
The clan slogan is Eisd o Eisd, pronounced “Ishd o Ishd” and meaning Listen O Listen.
The clan badge is wild myrtle or fir club moss.

Below are some visual representations of the Arthur's.



Clan Arthur tartan. Retrieved from: The Scottish Clans and Their Tartans: with Notes (Library ed.). Edinburgh: W. & A. K. Johnston. p. 38.


Clan Arthur arms
Presented in the center, the Arthur arms are represented by three crowns surrounding a cross.



Clan Arthur crest
Two laurel branches in orle proper



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