MacLaren Clan Origins & History
At Scottish Kilt, we proudly present the MacLaren Tartan — a symbol of timeless Scottish pride, ancestral courage, and deep Highland roots. Rich in history and tradition, this tartan connects you to one of Scotland’s oldest and most distinguished clans. Wearing it is more than a gesture; it’s an act of remembrance, a statement of identity, and a celebration of enduring legacy.
The Legendary Origins of the MacLaren Clan
The history of Clan MacLaren stretches back to the ancient Celtic dynasties of Scotland. Though some claim descent from Loarn, son of Erc, who landed in Argyll in 503 A.D., a more widely supported origin ties the clan to Abbot Labhrán (Laurence) of Achtow, a 13th-century religious figure based near Balquhidder, in the Scottish Highlands. It’s from this revered abbot that the name MacLaren — “son of Laurence” — is believed to be derived.
Where the MacLaren Name Comes From
The surname MacLaren originates from Mac Labhrainn in Gaelic, meaning “son of Laurence.” The Abbot Labhrán was the builder of the Old Kirk of Balquhidder in 1250, which still stands as a place of deep reverence for the clan. A plaque in the kirk dedicates it to generations of MacLarens, where many clan chiefs were laid to rest — a sacred connection between land, faith, and family.
Traditional Clan Territory
The heart of the MacLaren homeland is in the Braes of Balquhidder, a majestic glen nestled between Loch Voil and Loch Doine in present-day Stirling. This scenic region is steeped in clan history and features Creag an Tuirc — “The Boar’s Rock” — a prominent hill and the traditional rallying point for the MacLarens. Though the clan once held lands as far as Tiree in the Inner Hebrides, Balquhidder remains their spiritual and ancestral home.
A Story of Strength and Resilience
In 1558, the clan suffered a devastating blow when Clan MacGregor launched a brutal campaign against the MacLarens, murdering the chief and seizing their lands. Despite this tragedy, the MacLarens refused to accept Campbell overlordship — a testament to their unwavering pride. Though made chiefless and landless, they preserved their dignity, cultural identity, and warrior legacy through sheer resilience and unity.
Clan MacLaren in Battle
The MacLarens were loyal Jacobites who fought valiantly for the Stuart cause. They were present at several key uprisings, including the Battle of Culloden in 1746. One famous episode involves Donald MacLaren, who, after being captured by English forces, made a daring escape by leaping into the Moffat Beef-Tub, a deep gorge in the Borders. He lived in hiding for over a decade before an amnesty allowed him to return to public life — a tale of bravery, defiance, and survival.
MacLaren Castle and Symbols
While the MacLarens did not build large castles, their presence is etched in the land and structures of Balquhidder. Their identity is celebrated through:
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Clan Motto: Creag an Tuirc (The Boar’s Rock)
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Crest Badge: A lion’s head crowned, surrounded by laurel branches
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Plant Badge: Laurel — symbolizing victory, honor, and power
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Coat of Arms: Two red chevrons on a gold shield, above a galley (lymphad) with sails furled and oars extended — a nod to their ancient maritime roots.
MacLaren Tartan Colors & Pattern
The MacLaren tartan features a captivating color scheme of dark green, navy blue, yellow, red, and black. The MacLaren Tartan features rich Highland hues — a striking reflection of the clan's deep cultural roots and noble status:
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Red & Gold (Yellow): Royal tones tied to the MacLarens’ connection with the Earls of Strathearn
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Dark Green & Navy Blue: Representing the forests and lochs of the Trossachs
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Fine Black Stripes: Adding balance, clarity, and traditional symmetry
These colors are not just decorative — they signify heritage, terrain, and the regal bloodline of the clan.
MacLaren Tartan Variations
As with many proud Scottish clans, the MacLaren Tartan is available in several distinct versions:
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MacLaren Ancient: Soft, faded hues representing natural dyes once used by Highland weavers
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MacLaren Modern: Bold, vivid colors ideal for contemporary styling and formal wear
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MacLaren Weathered: Earthy, rustic tones evoking aged cloth and historical resilience
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MacLaren Dress: Lighter background, perfect for ceremonial use or special gatherings
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MacLaren Hunting: Muted greens and browns designed for outdoor settings and traditional Highland attire
Each variation allows you to express your style while staying true to your roots.
Royal Connections
MacLarens are thought to be related to the Earls of Strathearn, one of the original Seven Earls of Scotland, considered peers of the King. This esteemed lineage grants the clan the right to use royal colors — red and gold — in their tartan, highlighting their noble heritage.
Who Wears the MacLaren Tartan? — Associated Names
Due to the many branches and Gaelic translations of clan names, the MacLaren Tartan is proudly worn by those with the following surnames:
MacLaren, MacLaurin, Patterson, Paterson, Law, Lawrence, Lawson, MacGrory, MacRorie, MacPheat, MacFeat, MacPatrick, Peterkin, Peters, Peterson, Larnach, Faed, MacFait, MacClarence, and many others.
Even if your last name isn’t MacLaren, you may have ancestral ties connecting you to this storied tartan.
Official Boy Scout Tartan
Did you know? The MacLaren Modern tartan is the official tartan of the Boy Scouts worldwide.
In 1919, William F. de Bois MacLaren, a Scottish Scout commissioner, purchased Gilwell Park in England for use as a Scout leader training center. As a tribute, the MacLaren tartan was adopted into the Scout uniform, and it remains a global tradition for Scouts who earn their Wood Badge to wear the tartan with pride.
Today, Scouts in over 120 countries wear the MacLaren tartan as a symbol of leadership, service, and commitment — a global echo of clan values.
Famous MacLarens
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Bruce McLaren: Legendary New Zealand racing driver and founder of the McLaren F1 team, Bruce embodied innovation and perseverance — qualities shared with his Highland ancestors.
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John McLaren: Scottish horticulturalist and long-time Superintendent of Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. He preserved over 1,000 acres of natural beauty and is honored with a statue in the park — standing not on a pedestal, but directly on the ground, to represent his connection to nature.
The MacLaren Clan Today
The Clan MacLaren Society, founded by Chief Donald MacLaren in the 1950s, remains active around the world. Each year, MacLarens gather at the Lochearnhead Highland Games in Scotland to celebrate their culture, music, and community. The clan’s current Chief is Donald MacLaren of MacLaren, with his son Florian set to carry the torch for future generations.
Products Available
At Scottish Kilt, we offer a wide range of expertly crafted MacLaren Tartan items:
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Kilts (men, women & kids) — customized for perfect fit and authentic design
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Shawls, scarves & sashes — classic, warm, and versatile
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Neckties, bow ties & pocket squares — elevate any formal outfit
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Trews, jackets & waistcoats — full Highland dress options
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Cushions, throws & blankets — bring your heritage home
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Tartan fabric by the yard — for custom projects or décor
Customization & Craftsmanship
Every item from Scottish Kilt is made-to-order, allowing you to:
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Choose your favorite MacLellan tartan variant.
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Submit custom measurements for a perfect fit.
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Add personalized details for weddings, heritage events, or personal expression.
Why Choose Us
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Authentic Scottish craftsmanship
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Over 5,000 tartans to choose from
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Worldwide delivery
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Personalized customer service
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Commitment to quality & tradition
Wear Your Story, Honor Your Clan
With the MacLaren Tartan from Scottish Kilt, you're not just wearing a fabric — you're wearing the strength of a Highland clan, the legacy of a thousand years, and the voice of ancestors who rallied at the Boar’s Rock. Celebrate your heritage with confidence, dignity, and pride.
