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Clan MacCallum Crest

Clan MacCallum Crest
Clan MacCallum Crest
CREST: A tower argent, window and port azure
MOTTO: In ardua petit
TRANSLATION: He has attempted difficult things
VARIATIONS: McCallum, Malcolm
The MacCallum clan derives its name from the Gaelic “Mac GilleChaluim” or “MacCaluim,” which translates to “son of the gillie of Calwn.” The gillie was a servant or attendant to a chieftain, emphasizing the clan’s connection to the powerful figures of Scottish history.

The annals of Clan MacCallum begin to emerge in historical records from the 17th century. Gilbert MacCalme, a merchant in Ayr in 1631, is one of the earliest references to the clan. In the following years, various individuals bearing the MacCallum name left their mark on Scottish history.

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One of the most tragic chapters in Clan MacCallum’s history unfolded in 1647 at Dunaverty, where Iain M’Callum vc Raldounoch and others fell victim to violence. The event served as a stark reminder of the turbulent times the Highland clans endured during the 17th century.

Religious Leaders: Archibald M’Callome, serving as a minister in Glassary in 1661, exemplified the clan’s commitment to religious pursuits during a period marked by religious strife in Scotland. Their dedication to spiritual matters demonstrated their resilience and the importance of their faith in their lives.

Influence and Land Ownership: The MacCallums were not only active participants in the events of their time but also held positions of influence and land ownership. Zacharie M’Callan of Poltalloch received a charter from the ninth Earl of Argyll in 1667, solidifying their connection to their ancestral lands.

Transition to Malcolm: In a curious turn of events, the head of the Poltalloch family decided to change the clan’s name to Malcolm for aesthetic reasons in the 19th century. The adoption of this new name did not diminish the clan’s proud heritage but added an intriguing layer to their story.

Legend and Prophecy: According to an old Highland prophecy, a MacCallum was destined to sit in MacCailein Mor’s chair. This prophecy was fulfilled when Malcolm of Poltalloch became the possessor of the castle, a significant symbol of the clan’s connection to their ancestral roots.

Legacy and Modern Times: Despite the passage of time and changing societal structures, Clan MacCallum’s legacy endures. The descendants of the clan, now known as Clan Malcolm, continue to celebrate their heritage and contribute to the cultural fabric of Scotland. Through clan associations, gatherings, and shared traditions, the MacCallum/Malcolm name remains a source of pride for many.

Citations:

  • Descriptive catalogue of the clan tartans and family tartans of Scotland with a brief note 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 Encyclopediaā€¯, by Collins, HarperCollins Publishers 1994
Clan MacCallum Scottish History Poster