Clan MacAlpine

Clan MacAlpin or Clan MacAlpine is a highland Scottish Clan originating in  Argyll and Bute, western Scotland.  According to Scottish tradition Clan MacAlpine is considered to be the oldest and most purely Celtic of the clans.  The clan claims to have been descended from Kenneth Alpin, the first king of Scotland, who united the Picts and the Scots in the year 850.  The surname MacAlpin is derived from the term for the son of the blond one or the son of Alpin.   Seven other clans also claim to be descendants of King Alpin and are collectively referred to as Siol Alpin. These clans are, Clan Grant, Clan Gregor, Clan MacAulay, Clan Macfie, Clan Mackinnon, Clan Macnab, and Clan MacQuarrie.

The motto of the clan is Cuimhnich Bàs Ailpein which means “Remember the Death of Alpin” and the clans crest features a man bleeding from his neck.

Many believe that the historic seat of the clan was located, 3 miles outside of Oban, in the location where the present day Dunstaffnage Castle sits.  This theory is based on evidence that the Stone of Destiny, used in the Coronation of Scottish kings for centuries, was kept at that location.  Others scholars believe that the MacAlpine’s have a stronger connection to Iona and Dunadd and one of those locations were more likely to be their historic seat.

In 2016, MacAlpines from all over the world were summoned to a family gathering in Roxburghshire, Scotland.  The purpose of this meeting was to find the rightful clan chief.

The commission chose Michael McAlpin to be the interim commander of the clan until the search for the proper chief is concluded.  The convention was held under the supervision of a representative of The Lord Lyon King of Arms. Michael MacAlpin officially received his commission from the Lord Lyon on April 19th, 2017.

Septs and Dependents – MacAlaster