History of Clan MacLaren
The Sons of Laurence: History of Clan MacLaren
Clan MacLaren (Gaelic: Clann mhic Labhrainn) is one of the most ancient clans in the Highlands, with a history steeped in both royal lineage and ecclesiastical tradition. The clan claims descent from Loarn mac Eirc, a king of Dál Riata in the 6th century. However, the name itself likely comes from Abbot Laurence of Achtow, who lived in the 13th century in Balquhidder. Their heartland is the beautiful parish of Balquhidder, where they have lived for centuries. Their rallying cry, "Creag an Tuirc" ("The Boar's Rock"), refers to a prominent landmark near Achtow, symbolizing their enduring connection to this land.
The MacGregor Raids and the Massacre of 1558
For centuries, the MacLarens were a warlike clan, but they faced severe persecution from their neighbors, particularly the displaced Clan Gregor. In 1558, a horrific event occurred when the MacGregors raided Balquhidder. In a midnight attack, they slaughtered 18 MacLaren households—men, women, and children—and seized their lands. Despite such tragedies, the MacLarens endured. They were legally recognized as an independent clan by the Crown in 1587 and continued to defend their territory, often with the support of their allies, the Stewarts of Appin.
Donald "The Drover" and the Jacobite Risings
The MacLarens were staunch Jacobites, fighting in the Risings of 1715 and 1745. The most famous hero of this era was Donald MacLaren of Invernenty, known as "Donald the Drover." A Captain in the Appin Regiment, Donald fought bravely at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. Although wounded, he escaped the battlefield and returned to Balquhidder. He was later captured by government troops and imprisoned in Stirling Castle. While being transported to Carlisle for trial (and almost certain execution), Donald made a daring escape at the Devil's Beef Tub near Moffat. He threw himself down a steep ravine into the mist while dragoons fired blindly after him. He survived and lived as a fugitive in Balquhidder until the amnesty of 1757.
The Murder of John MacLaren (1736)
The feud with the MacGregors flared up again in the 18th century. In 1736, John MacLaren, Baron of Invernenty, was murdered by Robin Oig MacGregor (the youngest son of the famous Rob Roy). The dispute arose over a land lease. While John was plowing his field, Robin Oig shot him from behind with a gun. The MacGregors then mutilated Donald MacLaren’s cattle in a further act of intimidation. Although Robin Oig escaped justice for years, he was eventually hanged in 1754 for the abduction of Jean Key, bringing a grim closure to the feud.
Modern Revival and Chiefship
By the 19th and 20th centuries, the clan had spread across the globe. The Chiefship was officially revived, and today the clan is led by the MacLaren of MacLaren. The clan crest, featuring a lion's head, and their motto Ab Origine Fidus ("Faithful from the Beginning"), reflect their resilience and ancient heritage. In 2023, the clan mourned the passing of their beloved Chief, Donald MacLaren of MacLaren, a diplomat and leader who served for 57 years, ensuring the spirit of "Creag an Tuirc" lives on.