Clan Grant

Clan Grant is a highland Scottish clan originating in the Strathspey area of Scotland.  It is believed that the Grant family emigrated to England with the Normans during the invasion of 1066.  The first mention of the Grant surname in Scotland is in the 13th century upon their acquisition of lands at Straterrick.

The historic seat of the clan is Castle Grant, located in Grantown-on-Spey.  The castle was originally built by Clan Comyn but was taken by the Grants in the 15th century.  The Grant family lived in the castle until the 1950’s and it was eventually sold in the 1970’s.

Clan Grant’s motto is “stand fast, stand sure”, and, the crest features an image of a burning hill.  The hill represents the summit of Crig Elachie where clan members would gather to prepare for battle.

The Grant clan was one of the highland clans that were not seriously affected by the Highland Clearances, then chief, The “Good Sir James” Grant provided housing, schools, mills, hospitals and factories in an effort to keep his clansmen from leaving.  His loyalty has been celebrated by the members of the clan.

The Clan Grant Society was formed in Glasgow Scotland in 1890 and was expanded when many regional societies joined to create a joint society.  Interest in Clan Grant revived after World War Two for the March of the Clans in Edinburgh taking place in 1951.  The society was again revived in 1981 with the present society being formed by the 32nd clan chief.  The home of the society is located at the old Duthil Church, in Grantow-on-Spey, where many Grant artifacts can be viewed.

Septs. and Dependents – Gilroy, MacGilroy. MacIlroy.