The MacBean Clan, also known as the MacBain, is a Highland Scottish clan hailing from the ancient Pictish lands of Inverness and the surrounding areas. The clan's motto is "Touch not the cat but a glove" and their crest features a wildcat. According to legend, the clan's founder was a son of the royal family of Norway who was shipwrecked on the Scottish coast in the 11th century. Over time, the clan grew in power and prominence, with many of its members holding influential positions in the local government and military. The MacBean clan was a formidable sept of Clan Chattan, and they hailed from the Inverness region. The clan played a significant role in the Battle of Harlaw in 1411, and the clan's historian reveals that they suffered the highest number of casualties among all the clans of Clan Chattan.
Among the various branches of the clan, the Kinchyle branch emerged as the most prominent. The MacBeans were known for their courage, and the story of Gillies MacBean's bravery during the Battle of Culloden is still recounted today. Gillies fought valiantly against 13 Hanoverian soldiers single-handedly before being overwhelmed and killed. The clan also produced Major-General William MacBean, who served as an officer in the 93rd Regiment and was awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery during the Indian Mutiny. The MacBean Tartan is a perfect choice for any occasion, from formal events to casual outings. The MacBean Tartan is a stunning plaid pattern consisting of a dark blue and green base with black and white stripes. The tartan was designed by the Scottish tartan manufacturer, James Stiven, in the early 19th century, and is still worn today by members of the MacBean Clan and their descendants. The MacBean Tartan was also adopted by the Canadian Armed Forces as the official tartan of the Royal Canadian Logistics Service, due to the regiment's connection to the MacBean Clan.
