Shaw Clan Collection

I. Introduction

In the rugged embrace of Scotland’s Highlands, the Shaw Clan emerges as a vivid strand in the nation’s intricate historical weave. Born from the wild landscapes of Perthshire and intertwined with the mighty Clan Chattan confederation, the Shaws have etched their mark through centuries of valor, loyalty, and cultural resonance. Their story is one of fierce independence and enduring pride, a testament to the unyielding spirit that defines Scotland’s clan heritage.

II. Origins of Clan Shaw

The Shaw Clan traces its roots to the Gaelic "Mac Ghille Sheathanaich," meaning "son of the servant of St. Seathan," though the name "Shaw" itself likely derives from the Old English "sceaga," meaning "thicket" or "wood"—a nod to their forested Highland origins. Their history begins in the 13th century with Shaw "Mor" MacGhillechrist, a descendant of the ancient Earls of Fife. As a key figure in Clan Chattan, he was granted the lands of Rothiemurchus in 1260 by Alexander III, establishing the Shaws as a distinct sept within this powerful federation. This alliance with Clan Chattan would shape their destiny, binding them to a legacy of unity and strength.

III. Historical Evolution of Clan Shaw

A. Medieval Roots and Clan Chattan

The Shaws’ early prominence stems from their role within Clan Chattan, a confederation forged in the 13th century to counter rival clans and feudal pressures. Shaw Mor, their progenitor, led his kin at the Battle of the North Inch in 1396, a brutal trial by combat in Perth that pitted Clan Chattan against Clan Cameron. His leadership secured Rothiemurchus as the clan’s heartland, a forested stronghold near Aviemore. By the 15th century, his descendant Alasdair Ciar Shaw solidified their standing, earning the title "Captain of Clan Chattan" and cementing the Shaws’ martial reputation.

B. Turbulence and Transition

The 16th and 17th centuries brought both glory and strife. The Shaws supported the Stewart monarchy, with Robert Shaw of Tordarroch fighting at the Battle of Pinkie in 1547 against the English. Yet, internal feuds within Clan Chattan—particularly over leadership with the Mackintoshes—saw their influence wane. By 1692, the loss of Rothiemurchus to the Grants marked a turning point, scattering the clan across Perthshire and beyond. Despite this, their resilience endured, their name carried forward by cadet branches like the Shaws of Tordarroch and Dell.

C. Jacobite Legacy and Beyond

The Shaws’ Highland spirit shone in the Jacobite Risings. James Shaw of Tordarroch rallied his kin for the ’45 Rising, fighting at Culloden in 1746 under the Mackintosh banner. Defeat brought forfeiture and exile, yet the clan’s pride persisted. In the 19th century, their legacy found new life through the tartan revival, rekindling their identity as a proud Highland sept.

IV. Clan Shaw Crest and Motto

A. Crest Symbolism

The Shaw crest features a dexter hand couped at the wrist, holding a dagger erect, all proper. The hand and blade symbolize readiness and defense, reflecting the clan’s warrior ethos and their role as protectors within Clan Chattan.

B. Clan Motto

"Fide et Fortitudine" or "By Fidelity and Fortitude", encapsulates the Shaws’ dual virtues of loyalty and courage. It’s a creed that guided them through battles and betrayals, a beacon of their Highland honor.

V. Clan Shaw Tartan

The Shaw Clan tartan, with its deep greens, blues, and reds, mirrors the Perthshire landscape—forests, lochs, and the blood of their forebears. Formalized in the 19th century, it draws from Clan Chattan’s patterns, reflecting their shared heritage. Worn with pride at gatherings, it binds the clan to their storied past.

VI. Prominent Figures of Clan Shaw

A. Shaw Mor MacGhillechrist (fl. 13th century)

The clan’s founder, Shaw Mor’s leadership at Rothiemurchus and within Clan Chattan laid the foundation for their enduring legacy, a figure of myth and might.

B. Alasdair Ciar Shaw (d. 1543)

Known as "the dark" for his complexion or demeanor, Alasdair’s captaincy of Clan Chattan in the 16th century marked a high point, his tenure a blend of diplomacy and dominance.

C. James Shaw of Tordarroch (fl. 1745)

A Jacobite stalwart, James led the Shaws at Culloden, his defiance in defeat a symbol of their unbowed spirit, even as their lands slipped away.

VII. Conclusion

From the wooded glens of Rothiemurchus to the battlefields of Scotland’s past, the Shaw Clan has woven a tale of fortitude and fidelity. Their crest and motto proclaim a heritage of strength, while their tartan ties a scattered kin to their Highland roots. Through figures like Shaw Mor, Alasdair Ciar, and James of Tordarroch, the Shaws embody the fierce heart of Scotland—a clan whose legacy endures, as steadfast as the mountains they once called home.