Clan Shaw
Clan Shaw is a Highland Scottish clan originating in the Strathspey district of Scotland. It is believed that the surname Shaw was derived from “Shaw Mor Coriaclich”, the great-grandson of Angus, the 6th chief of the Mackintosh Clan. According to legend Shaw led the Clan Chattan confederation to victory at the Battle of the North Inch in 1396 and was granted lands of Rothiemurchus as a reward. Clan Shaw is a member of the Chattan confederation or Clan Chattan. This is an organization that unites twelve separate clans under a superior chief, for the purpose of mutual solidarity and protection.
The motto of the clan is “Fide Et Fortitudine” meaning, by fidelity and fortitude. The clan’s crest features a dexter arm holding a dagger.
The Historic seat of the clan is Doune of Rothiemurchus located in Rothiemurchus forest. In 1411 the Comyn clan burnt down the original house during the Battle of Harlaw. It was rebuilt but the Shaw’s estate was lost to the Gordons and eventually the Grants in the 16th century. This property is still controlled by the Grant Clan. Tordarroch Castle, near Inverness became the seat of the clan after losing Rothiemurchus, but little survives of that original tower.
In 1970 the Lord Lyon King of Arms recognized Iain Shaw as the rightful chief of Clan Shaw ensuring an unbroken line of chiefs going back to the middle ages.
The Clan Shaw Society is an organization formed to bridge communication and socialization among individuals with Shaw heritage. The society participates in a number of highland games and has an active genealogical program. The Society also publishes a quarterly newsletter with activities of the clans.
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