History of Clan MacMillan
The Sons of the Tonsured One: History of Clan MacMillan
Clan MacMillan (Gaelic: Clann MacGilleMhaoil or MacMhaolain) has one of the most distinct and ecclesiastical origins of any Highland clan. The name translates to "Son of the Tonsured One" or "Son of the Servant of the Bald One." This refers to the unique Celtic tonsure (shaving the front of the head from ear to ear) worn by the monks of St. Columba, distinguishing them from the Roman Catholic clergy who shaved the crown. The progenitor of the clan was Gillie Chriosd ("Servant of Christ"), one of the sons of Cormac, the Bishop of Dunkeld in the 12th century. This lineage connects the clan to both the ancient Celtic Church and the royal house of Moray, tracing back to King Macbeth.
The Bruce and the Battle of Bannockburn
The early MacMillans settled on the shores of Loch Arkaig in Lochaber but were later moved by King Malcolm IV to the Crown lands of Loch Tay in Perthshire. It was here that the clan entered the pages of history as loyal patriots. When Robert the Bruce was a fugitive after killing the Red Comyn, he was sheltered by the MacMillan chief, Maolmuire. In return for this hospitality and loyalty, the clan fought beside the King at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Gilbert, the chief's brother, is believed to be the ancestor of the Galloway MacMillans, cementing the clan's presence in the Lowlands as well.
The Knapdale Era: Towers and Crosses
In the late 14th century, the MacMillans were expelled from Loch Tay for their allegiance to the Lord of the Isles. They resettled in Knapdale, where they rose to prominence.
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Castle Sween: Alexander MacMillan, the 12th Chief, married the heiress of Castle Sween (one of the oldest stone castles in Scotland). He built the round tower known as MacMillan's Tower, a lasting monument to their power.
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The MacMillan Cross: In the churchyard at Kilmory, stands the magnificent MacMillan Cross. Commissioned by Chief Alexander, it is one of the finest surviving examples of Celtic art, depicting the chief himself hunting deer, symbolizing his noble status.
Jacobites and the '45
By the 18th century, the direct line of chiefs had become extinct, and leadership passed to the MacMillans of Dunmore. The clan was divided during the Jacobite Rising of 1745. While the Lochaber MacMillans generally supported Bonnie Prince Charlie, John MacMillan of Murlagan demanded the Stuarts renounce Catholicism before he would join. However, his sons defied him, forming a company in Lochiel's Regiment. They fought bravely at Culloden, where both sons were killed. Tradition holds that MacMillan warriors helped carry the wounded Lochiel from the field. Following the defeat, Hugh MacMillan guided the fugitive Prince across the hills from Glen Affric to Loch Arkaig, proving the clan’s loyalty to the very end.
Modern Revival and Finlaystone
In the 20th century, the clan found renewed leadership under General Sir Gordon MacMillan. Initially unaware of his chiefly status, he was recognized by the Lord Lyon after his lineage was traced. He established the modern seat of the clan at Finlaystone House in Renfrewshire. Today, the MacMillan Chief resides at Finlaystone, where the clan's history is celebrated in a visitor center, welcoming MacMillans from all over the world to connect with their heritage as the "Children of the Tonsured Servant."