Clan Buchanan

Clan Buchanan (Buchanan Tartan)

Gaelic Name: Cononach
Crest: A dexter hand holding up a ducal cap, Proper, tufted on the top with a rose Gules, within two laurel branches in orle, also Proper
Motto: Clarior Hinc Honos (Hence the brighter honour)
Origin of Name: from Both-Charain (Canon’s Seat)
Badge: Bilberry
Lands: Loch Lomond area
Clan Chief: John Michael Baillie-Hamilton Buchanan of that Ilk and Arnprior

1. Clan Buchanan History

The Buchanan name has deep roots in the lands surrounding the shores of Loch Lomond, dating back to 1225 when a grant was made by the Earls of Lennox to Sir Absalon of Buchanan. He was referred to in contemporaneous sources as ‘clericus meus,’ indicating that he was a clergyman.

A 19th-century depiction of a Buchanan clansman by R.R. McIan depicts a member of the Buchanan clan wearing traditional Scottish attire, including a tartan kilt and plaid, as well as other accessories such as a sporran and a feathered bonnet. The image captures the romanticized portrayal of Scottish Highlanders during the Victorian era.

The roots of the name in Gaelic give weight to this notion: ‘Buth chanain’ translates to the ‘House of the Canon’, hinting that the early Buchanans might have been a clan devoted to the ancient Celtic kirk, or possibly had a hereditary clerical role.

Also, the clan's origins stretch back to Anselan O Kyan, son of an Ulster King who landed in Argyll around 1016. For his valor against the Danes, he was granted the lands of Buchanan, east of Loch Lomond.

Some argue it was Gilbert, seneschal to the Earl of Lennox, who bestowed the lands, situated in Stirlingshire.

In 1282, these lands were confirmed with baronial rights through a charter to Morris of Buchanan, who also held a wee island called Clarinch, later the clan's battle cry.

During the war of independence, the Buchanans rallied behind Bruce, securing their prominence post-Bannockburn.

The Buchanan coat of arms closely resembles the Royal Arms of Scotland, with a key difference: the Buchanan version switches the lion and the double treasure of fleur-de-lis from red to black, possibly nodding to Sir Walter Buchanan's marriage to Murdoch, Duke of Albany, and Regent of Scotland's only daughter.

The regent faced his demise at the hands of his cousin, James I, in 1425, resulting in the forfeiture of his lands and the extinguishing of his family line when his son passed away without an heir.

Legend has it that the coloring of the Buchanan arms reflects mourning for the loss of status as the nearest kin to this disinherited branch of the family.

Another branch of this noble family was the Buchanans of Arnprior, who owned lands in Kippen, Perthshire, earning them the moniker ‘Kings of Kippen’.

The origin of this nickname traces back to a tale by Walter Scott. In the story, when James V arrived at Arnprior incognito, the Laird, preoccupied with his meal, failed to recognize him.

When the disguised James V revealed himself by having his doorman deliver the message, "the Goodman of Ballengreich is come to feast," the Laird realized he was in the presence of true royalty and humbly sought forgiveness.

In August 2018, John Michael Baillie-Hamilton Buchanan assumed the mantle of Chief of the Name and Arms of Buchanan, becoming the first Clan Chief in 337 years.

His full title is John Michael Baillie-Hamilton Buchanan of that Ilk and Arnprior, Chief of the Name and Arms of Buchanan.

2. Clan Buchanan Tartans

The Buchanan tartan stands out as one of the most iconic and beloved tartans today. Interestingly, its distinctive asymmetrical sett, which adds to its allure, might have originated from a simple mistake.

Legend has it that when McIan was crafting his Victorian illustrations for the Clans of Scotland in 1845, he inadvertently painted the tartan asymmetrically.

Although the original sample may have been symmetrical, McIan's artistic interpretation led to the asymmetrical design that quickly gained popularity as the official sett.

In tartan terminology, the term ‘modern’ refers to darker dye shades, while 'ancient' signifies lighter colors.

Threadcount B/8 K4 G12 B8 G12 K4 B8 K4 R16 W4 R16 K4 B8 K4 Y12 K4 Y12 K4

Buchanan Ancient

Buchanan Modern

The contemporary Hunting Buchanan tartan has its origins in the Vestiarium Scoticum. Before this, there's little record of the sett, but it bears a striking resemblance to designs attributed to the Sobieski Stewarts. Despite its age of nearly 200 years, it continues to hold significance in Scottish tartan heritage.

In tartan terminology, the term ‘modern’ typically indicates darker dye shades.

Threadcount LB/8 T20 G20 T20 Y4 T20 G20 B20 G8 B20 G20 T40

Buchanan Hunting Modern

The traditional Buchanan sett is regarded as the accurate version predating McIan's accidental asymmetrical depiction.

In tartan jargon, ‘ancient’ denotes lighter dye shades, while 'modern' signifies darker colors. Additionally, the term ‘weathered’ describes dye shades aimed at mimicking the hues of a tartan scrap unearthed on a battlefield.

Threadcount LB/8 G64 K4 LB8 K4 Y16 K4 Y16 K4 LB8 K4 R64 W/8

Buchanan Old Sett Ancient

Buchanan Old Sett Weathered

3. Clan Buchanan Crest & Coats of Arms

3.1 Clan Buchanan Crest

Worn by all of the name and ancestry

Crest Description:

A right-handed hand holding aloft a ducal cap, appropriately colored and topped with a red rose, surrounded by two laurel branches arranged in a circle, all depicted accurately in terms of color and form.

3.2 Clan Buchanan Coat of Arms

A note on Coats of Arms:

According to Scottish heraldic law, a coat of arms is granted to an individual (excluding civic or corporate arms). There is no concept of a ‘family coat of arms’. The arms depicted below are personal arms (with the exceptions mentioned above). Only the individual to whom these arms are granted has the privilege to use them.

Buchanan Society Shield

Arms of John Buchanan of that Ilk

BUCHANAN of that Ilk
Or, a lion rampant, Sable, armed and languaged, Gules, within a double tressure, flory counterflory, of the second

The Arms of Charles Alexander Buchanan of Touch

These arms belonged to the second son of Robert Buchanan hailing from Fintona, County Tyrone. Although the family resided in Ireland for a while, their lineage traces back to William Buchanan of Blairvockie.

The Buchanans of Blairvockie are a branch of the Spittal lineage through Walter Buchanan of Spittal. Walter, brother to George Buchanan of that Ilk, married Elizabeth Preston and was the father of John Buchanan, the last laird of Buchanan.

Some family members migrated to Canada, and A.W.P. Buchanan, the author of the Buchanan Book, has ties to the clan. These arms are officially recorded in Lyon Register Volume 30 – Page 24 – 3 March 1932.

4. Clan Buchanan Places & People

4.1 Clan Buchanan Places

These places are either historically or currently associated with Clan Buchanan:

4.1.1 Buchanan Auld House, Stirlingshire

Buchanan Auld House served as the ancestral seat of the Chiefs of Clan Buchanan, who owned both the house and the surrounding lands.

The Buchanans held sway over these lands from around 1230 until 1682, when they were acquired by Clan Graham following the demise of John Buchanan.

Today, only ruins stand as a testament to the once-grand Buchanan Auld House, echoing its rich history and the legacy of the Buchanan clan.

4.1.2 Buchanan Monument, Killearn

The Buchanan Monument stands tall as a tribute to the renowned poet and historian George Buchanan (1506-1582), erected in 1788 to honor his enduring legacy.

George Buchanan, a towering figure of Scottish literature and scholarship, made significant contributions to poetry, history, and political philosophy during the Renaissance period.

The monument serves as a lasting reminder of his intellectual prowess and literary achievements, solidifying his place in Scotland's cultural heritage.

Located in a picturesque setting, the monument not only commemorates Buchanan's life and work but also offers visitors a glimpse into Scotland's rich literary and historical past.

4.1.3 Craigend Castle, Milngavie

Craigend estate, steeped in history and grandeur, was originally owned by the illustrious Smith family, who acquired it in the 17th century. Under their stewardship, the estate flourished, with John Smith commissioning the construction of a stately home in the 18th century.

However, it was his son, James Smith, who undertook a significant transformation of the property following his father's passing in 1812. James expanded and enhanced the mansion, imbuing it with even greater elegance and splendor.

In a noteworthy turn of events, Craigend passed into the hands of the Buchanan family when Sir Andrew Buchanan acquired the estate in 1851.

The Buchanans, known for their prominence and influence, brought their own legacy to Craigend, overseeing its affairs with sophistication and prestige for several decades. However, by the early 20th century, Craigend Castle fell into ruin, its once-majestic halls now silent witnesses to the passage of time.

Despite its dilapidated state, Craigend remains a poignant symbol of the rich heritage and grandeur of Scotland's historic estates.

4.1.4 Dunglass Castle, West Dunbartonshire

Dunglass Castle, originally erected in 1380 by the esteemed Colquhoun clan, stands as a testament to Scotland's rich architectural heritage.

However, by the 1730s, the once-stalwart castle had fallen into a state of disrepair, its once-majestic walls reduced to ruins.

In a curious twist of fate, much of the castle's stonework was repurposed for the construction of a nearby quay and various other edifices, a practice that continued until the intervention of Andrew Buchanan of Auchentorlie.

In 1812, Andrew Buchanan, a figure of influence and affluence, acquired Dunglass Castle, thereby halting the ongoing depletion of its historic structure.

With his acquisition, Buchanan embarked on a mission to preserve and restore the castle to its former glory, recognizing its significance as a tangible link to Scotland's past.

Under Buchanan's stewardship, Dunglass Castle experienced a revival, with efforts made to safeguard its architectural integrity and historical resonance.

Today, Dunglass Castle stands as a poignant reminder of Scotland's enduring legacy, its weathered stones echoing the stories of generations past.

Amidst the picturesque landscape of Scotland's countryside, Dunglass Castle serves as a tangible testament to the resilience and perseverance of Scotland's historic landmarks.

4.2 Clan Buchanan People

4.2.1 George Buchanan (1506 – 1582)

Born in Killearn, Stirlingshire in 1506, this figure, known for his prowess in both poetry and Protestant reform, left a lasting mark on Scottish history.

His formative years included a stint in Paris starting from 1520, where he immersed himself in the intellectual upheaval of the Reformation. Traveling extensively across the continent, he began his literary journey amid this period of profound change.

Upon his return to Scotland, now a convert to Calvinism, he found himself appointed as the tutor of classics to none other than Mary, Queen of Scots, in April 1562. Despite this prestigious position, his focus shifted to writing scathing attacks on the Queen in eloquent Latin.

Despite the Royal favor he initially enjoyed, these writings, known for their obscene nature, circulated widely for generations, shaping historical narratives of the era.

After Mary's abdication, he assumed the role of preceptor and tutor to the young James VI, a position through which he is credited with nurturing the monarch's academic abilities.

However, his influence also led to a strained relationship between James VI and his mother, contributing to the complexities of the period.

4.2.2 Ken Buchanan (born 28 June 1945)

Ken Buchanan, the legendary lightweight boxer! Hailing from Edinburgh, he stepped into the professional boxing ring back in 1965. Fast forward to 1971, and he clinched the title of undisputed world lightweight champion, cementing his place in boxing history.

Ken Buchanan's remarkable career earned him a well-deserved spot in the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2000. When it comes to boxing greatness, he's often hailed as one of Britain's finest fighters.

5. Associated Names

The following names are regarded as septs or affiliated names of Clan Buchanan:

Calman, Colman, Cormack, Cousland, Dewar, Dove, Dow, Gibb, Gibbon, Gibson, Gilbert, Gilbertson, Harper, Harperson, Leavy, Lennie, Lenny, MacAldonich, MacAlman, MacAslan, MacAslin, MacAuselan, MacAuslan, MacAusland, MacAuslane, MacAlman, MacAlmont, MacAmmond, MacAsland, MacChruiter, MacCalman, MacColman, MacCormack, MacCubbin, MacCubbing, MacCubin, MacGeorge, MacGibbon, MacGreuisich, MacGubbin, MacInally, MacIndeor, MacIndoe, MacKinlay, MacKinley, MacMaster, MacMaurice, MacMurchie, MacMurchy, MacNeur, MacNuir, MacNuyer, MacQuattie, MacWattie, MacWhirter, Masters, Masterson, MacCaslin, Morrice, Morris, Morrison, Murchie, Murchison, Richardson, Risk, Rusk, Ruskin, Spittal, Spittel, Walter, Walters, Wason, Waters, Watson, Watt, Watters, Weir, Yuill, Yool, Yule, and Zuill