History of Clan Macpherson
The Sons of the Parson: History of Clan Macpherson
Clan Macpherson (Gaelic: Mac a' Phearsain) translates to "Son of the Parson," referencing their ecclesiastical origin. The clan progenitor is reputed to be Muireach (or Murdo) Cattenach, the priest of Kingussie in Badenoch. In 843, the clan's ancestor was the chief of the ancient Clan Chattan, but Kenneth MacAlpin forced them to resettle in Lochaber. The Macphersons remained a principal clan within the great Chattan Confederation, frequently disputing the leadership with their rivals, the Mackintoshes.
The Clan of the Three Brothers
In 1309, Robert the Bruce offered the lands of Badenoch to the Macpherson chief, Ewan Ban Macpherson, on the condition that he destroy the Bruce's enemies, the Comyns. Ewan and his three sons—Kenneth of Clunie, Iain of Pitman, and Gillies of Invereshie—carried out the King's wishes. In recognition of this service, the clan is often called "The Clan of the Three Brothers." The lands of Cluny became the seat of the chiefs, establishing the Macphersons of Cluny as the premier branch.
The Black Chanter and Tribal Warfare
The clan’s history is steeped in legend. At the Battle of the North Inch in 1396, fought between Clan Chattan and Clan Cameron, a mystical bagpipe chanter fell from the sky. Known as the Black Chanter, it is said to ensure victory in battle. This sacred relic is still preserved in the Clan Macpherson Museum today. The Macphersons were formidable warriors, defending Ruthven Castle against the Earl of Argyll in 1594 and fighting for Montrose during the Civil War.
Cluny of the '45 and the Jacobite Cause
The most famous figure in clan history is Euan Macpherson of Cluny ("Cluny of the '45"). A staunch Jacobite, he was a key leader in the 1745 Rising. During the retreat from England, Cluny led his men in the Clifton Moor Skirmish, the last battle fought on English soil, successfully holding off the Duke of Cumberland's dragoons. After the disaster at Culloden, Cluny’s house was burned, and he became a fugitive. For nine years, he lived in a secret "cage" on the slopes of Ben Alder, protected by his loyal clansmen despite a reward of £1,000 on his head. He eventually escaped to France in 1755, becoming a legend of Highland loyalty.
Restoration and Modern Legacy
Cluny's son, Duncan, fought for the government during the American Wars of Independence and eventually reclaimed the forfeited family estates in 1784. Today, the Macpherson spirit is alive and well. The Clan Macpherson Museum in Newtonmore houses the clan's treasures, including the Black Chanter and relics of the '45. The current Chief maintains the seat at Newton Castle in Blairgowrie, preserving the heritage of the "Clan of the Three Brothers."