- MacTavish -
A Distinct and Independent Clan
Often one finds where the name MacTavish, or one
or more of its septs (or connected names) is on the Sept List of other Clans.
In part, this is due to a long dormancy within the Chiefship,
as the clan was without a ratified Chief for just over Two Hundred Years.
Finding MacTavish sept names on another clan's sept list does
not indicate that Clan MacTavish is part of another Clan.
If several clans list your name as a sept, how do you know which one is correct?
One must be able
to trace his family line to the FIRST of his line to be absolutely sure. But, of course, it depends on the name. As an example,
Cash (MacCamish), Thomas, Thomson & Thompson are not septs THEY ARE THE CLAN. The name Todd, as above, must be
able to find the first of their line. If the first one was from the western highlands, then they are MacTamvish sept. If from
the northeast, then they are Gordon. Any Chief can recognize any name as a sept of his clan.
If you are unsure, or cannot find the proof of
your ancestors, it does not prohibit you from entering into a relationship with Clan and Family. You can still join a
clan that accepts the surname of which you descend.
(See page above - The Right to Clan Membership)
Clan MacTavish has a ratified Chief, as recognized by the Court
of the Lord Lyon and by her Majesty the Queen, as an independent Highland Clan.
Names such as Tom (which yeilds such surnames as
Thomson) were widespread throughout Britain, and thusly there are Thom(p)sons who are likely not apart of Clan MacTavish.
Ultimately Genealogical research will provide where in Scotland
your ancestors abidded, and to what clan, if any, they belonged.
The 200 year Dormancy of Clan MacTavish ended on 23 July
1997 with the Matricuation, and ratification of Edward Stewart Dugald MacTavish of Dunardry as Chief of the Name and Arms,
and Chief of the Clan MacTavish. He is succeded by his son, and Heir, Steven Edward Dugald MacTavish of Dunardry.
The following letter from Lord Lyon, Sir Malcolm Innes of Edingigh,
was received by Clan MacTavish from the recipient in 2000. It is published here with permission.
