History of Clan MacLachlan
The Lords of Strathlachlan: History of Clan MacLachlan
Clan MacLachlan (Gaelic: Clann Lachlainn) is one of the oldest and most distinguished clans of the Western Highlands. The name is derived from Lachlan Mor, a great 13th-century chief. The name Lachlan itself comes from Lochlann, meaning "Land of Lakes" or "Land of the Norse," often interpreted as "Stranger." The clan boasts a royal lineage, claiming descent from the O'Neill dynasty of Ireland and, ultimately, from Niall of the Nine Hostages, High King of Ireland in 400 A.D. Their ancestor, Anrothan O'Neill, an Irish prince, married a Scottish princess in the 11th century, bringing royal blood to the shores of Argyll.
Strongholds and Alliances
The heart of the clan’s territory is Strathlachlan, located on the eastern shores of Loch Fyne. For centuries, the chiefs ruled as "Lords of Strathlachlan" from the formidable Old Castle Lachlan. The MacLachlans were master diplomats as well as warriors. They forged a powerful alliance with the Campbells, their mighty neighbors, and were generous patrons of the church, known for their gifts to the Preaching Friars of Glasgow. Despite being surrounded by larger clans, their shrewd political maneuvering ensured their survival and prosperity throughout the Middle Ages.
Jacobite Loyalty and the Tragedy of Culloden
The MacLachlans were fiercely loyal to the House of Stuart. They supported the "Old Pretender" in the 1715 Rising and played a pivotal role in the Jacobite Rising of 1745. The 17th Chief, Lachlan MacLachlan, was a key member of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s inner circle, serving as his Commissary-General. He led a regiment of 300 clansmen (including 180 MacLeans who placed themselves under his command) into the Battle of Culloden in 1746. Tragically, the Chief was killed in action by a cannonball while advancing on horseback. Following the defeat, a government warship sailed up Loch Fyne and bombarded Castle Lachlan, reducing the ancient stronghold to ruins.
Resurrection and the New Castle
Although the clan’s lands were initially forfeited, the intervention of the Duke of Argyll (a testament to their old alliance) helped save the estate for the Chief's son. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, a New Castle Lachlan was constructed within sight of the ruinous old fortress. This distinct Scottish Baronial mansion remains the seat of the clan today. The MacLachlans also have a unique burial tradition at Kilmorie Chapel, where generations of chiefs have been laid to rest.
The Clan Today
The clan has a vibrant global community. The Clan MacLachlan Society and the Lachlan Trust work tirelessly to preserve their heritage, including the consolidation of the Old Castle ruins. The current Chief is Euan John Maclachlan of Maclachlan, 25th Chief and Baron of Strathlachlan. The clan motto, Fortis et Fidus ("Brave and Faithful"), perfectly encapsulates their history of courage in battle and loyalty to their kin and King.