Clan MacBean

Clan MacBean or Clan MacBain is a highland Scottish clan originating in the Inverness district of Scotland. A possible origin of the surname MacBain is from the Gaelic term Bàn, meaning to be fair or pale, therefore MacBain could be translated into “son of the fair one”. It is believed that the MacBean family settled near Inverness in the 14th century and became a member of the Chattan confederation due to a strong family relationship with Clan MacIntosh. Clan Chattan 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 “Touch Not A Catt Bot A Targe”, which translates into, “don’t touch this cat without a shield”. The clans crest features a wildcat and a shield.

The historic seat of Clan MacBean is the “Home of Kinchyle” located in the Parish of Dores. The MacBain’s held this land until 1759 when the land had to be sold to deal with taxation issues. In 1961 the Clan Chief, Hughston McBain, was able to purchase two acres of the original Clan lands, from the Baroness Burton, near the town of Dores. The clan designated the area McBean Memorial Park and it includes monuments dedicated to the clan.

During the 19th century the 16th chief of the clan, William MacBean, immigrated to Canada bringing to an end the lineage of MacBean Chiefs in Scotland. In 1966, after a 200 year vacancy of the clan chiefdom-ship, Hughston McBain petitioned the Lyon Court and received recognition as the clan’s chief.

The Clan MacBean Society started as The John Bean Association at Exeter, New Hampshire in the mid 19th century. In 1896 it was decided to invite other family lines of the MacBeans, and the organization eventually morphed into the Clan Macbean in North America Inc. In 1996, the societies name was changed just to Clan MacBean, Inc. to reflect a worldwide membership.

Septs and Dependents – MacBain, MacIlvain, MacVean.