Clan Livingstone Crest

The etymology of the names MacLea and Livingstone has sparked debates and theories over the years. One belief is that MacLea derives from Mac an Léigh, meaning “son of the physician” in Scottish Gaelic. Another theory suggests that MacLea is an Anglicization of Mac Dhunnshleibhe, meaning “son of Donn Sléibhe” or “son of the brown-haired chieftain of the mountain.” These diverse origins showcase the complexity and depth of Clan Livingstone’s ancestral connections.

One theory links Clan Livingstone’s descent to Ruaidhri Mac Duinnsleibhe, the last king of Ulidia. This connection suggests a proud affiliation with the rigdamnai, the royal family of Ulster. The usage of the name Mac Duinnshleibhe by the Coarbs of Saint Moluag, who were proposed to be closely related to the Ulster royal family, serves as a symbol of honor and declaration of their esteemed lineage.

Saint Moluag, a revered Scottish missionary, played a significant role in Clan Livingstone’s history. The Coarb, or successor, of Saint Moluag held the hereditary position of keeping his pastoral staff, known as the Great Staff of Saint Moluag or Bachuil Mor. This ancient relic is believed to be the saint’s crozier and holds great cultural and historical significance. The recognition of Livingstone as the Coarb of Saint Moluag by the Lord Lyon King of Arms further solidifies their esteemed position in Scottish history.

Throughout history, Clan Livingstone faced various challenges, yet their resilience remained unwavering. During the Scottish Civil War in the 17th century, they staunchly supported the Crown, enduring hardships at the hands of the Scottish Covenanters and later, Oliver Cromwell’s Parliamentarians. Additionally, the clan actively participated in the Jacobite rising of 1715, although their titles were subsequently forfeited.

Clan Livingstone’s legacy also includes their involvement in notable clan battles. The Battle of Bealach na Broige witnessed fierce clashes between various north-western Highland clans and the Earl of Ross. Tragically, the MacIvers, MacAulays, and MacLeays suffered heavy losses during this conflict. Another significant battle was fought at Achnacree, resulting in the near decimation of the McLeays of Achnacree, who bravely supported the MacDougalls of Lorn against the Clan Campbell of Inverawe. The Dunaverty Massacre of 1647 further highlights the sacrifices made by the clan, as some MacLeas lost their lives while siding with the MacDougalls against the Campbells of Inverawe.

Clan Livingstone Crest	CREST: A demi savage, wreathed about the head and middle with laurel, Vert holding on his dexter shoulder a club, and in his sinister hand a serpent bowed. MOTTO: Si Je puis TRANSLATION: If I can VARIATIONS: MacLea
Clan Livingstone, also known as Clan MacLea, has its roots deeply embedded in the district of Lorn in Argyll, Scotland. The clan’s ancestral seat rests on the picturesque Isle of Lismore, lending a sense of majesty to their lineage. One interesting aspect of the clan’s history is the tradition of some MacLeas Anglicizing their names to Livingstone, leading to the clan being referred to as the Highland Livingstones. The etymology of the names MacLea and Livingstone has sparked debates and theories over the years. One belief is that MacLea derives from Mac an Léigh, meaning “son of the physician” in Scottish Gaelic. Another theory suggests that MacLea is an Anglicization of Mac Dhunnshleibhe, meaning “son of Donn Sléibhe” or “son of the brown-haired chieftain of the mountain.” These diverse origins showcase the complexity and depth of Clan Livingstone’s ancestral connections.

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The etymology of the names MacLea and Livingstone has sparked debates and theories over the years. One belief is that MacLea derives from Mac an Léigh, meaning “son of the physician” in Scottish Gaelic. Another theory suggests that MacLea is an Anglicization of Mac Dhunnshleibhe, meaning “son of Donn Sléibhe” or “son of the brown-haired chieftain of the mountain.” These diverse origins showcase the complexity and depth of Clan Livingstone’s ancestral connections. One theory links Clan Livingstone’s descent to Ruaidhri Mac Duinnsleibhe, the last king of Ulidia. This connection suggests a proud affiliation with the rigdamnai, the royal family of Ulster. The usage of the name Mac Duinnshleibhe by the Coarbs of Saint Moluag, who were proposed to be closely related to the Ulster royal family, serves as a symbol of honor and declaration of their esteemed lineage. Saint Moluag, a revered Scottish missionary, played a significant role in Clan Livingstone’s history. The Coarb, or successor, of Saint Moluag held the hereditary position of keeping his pastoral staff, known as the Great Staff of Saint Moluag or Bachuil Mor. This ancient relic is believed to be the saint’s crozier and holds great cultural and historical significance. The recognition of Livingstone as the Coarb of Saint Moluag by the Lord Lyon King of Arms further solidifies their esteemed position in Scottish history. Throughout history, Clan Livingstone faced various challenges, yet their resilience remained unwavering. During the Scottish Civil War in the 17th century, they staunchly supported the Crown, enduring hardships at the hands of the Scottish Covenanters and later, Oliver Cromwell’s Parliamentarians. Additionally, the clan actively participated in the Jacobite rising of 1715, although their titles were subsequently forfeited. Clan Livingstone’s legacy also includes their involvement in notable clan battles. The Battle of Bealach na Broige witnessed fierce clashes between various north-western Highland clans and the Earl of Ross. Tragically, the MacIvers, MacAulays, and MacLeays suffered heavy losses during this conflict. Another significant battle was fought at Achnacree, resulting in the near decimation of the McLeays of Achnacree, who bravely supported the MacDougalls of Lorn against the Clan Campbell of Inverawe. The Dunaverty Massacre of 1647 further highlights the sacrifices made by the clan, as some MacLeas lost their lives while siding with the MacDougalls against the Campbells of Inverawe. Recognition and Legacy: Despite their ancient heritage, Clan Livingstone faced a delay in formal recognition by the Lord Lyon until 2003. The first clan chief to be recognized was William Jervis Alastair Livingstone of Bachuil, who represented the clan as a member of the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs. His passing in 2008 saw his son, The Much Honorable Niall Livingstone, assume the role of clan chief, carrying forward the legacy of the Livingstone name.

Citations: – Descriptive catalogue of the clan tartans and family tartans of Scotland with a briefnote on their antiquity: also roll of the landlords and Baillies of lands in the Highlands and isles, A.D. 1587: roll of the clans; badges of the clans, – John Catto and Company, King Street, Toronto, Canada Scottish Clan & Family Encyclopedia”, by Collins, HarperCollins Publishers 1994