Clan Structure and Roles Within a Scottish Clan
- Chief (Ceann Cinne): The hereditary leader of the clan, representing the common ancestor. Holds the highest position and derives authority from lineage.
- Tanist: The designated successor to the chief, selected based on the laws of tanistry. Holds the title during the chief’s lifetime and is a person of significant importance.
- Oldest Cadet (Toisich): Usually leads the van in the march and occupies the right of the line in battle. Commands the whole clan in the chief’s absence.
- Maor or Steward (Tosheadorach): Responsible for collecting the revenues for the chief. Initially a specific role for the oldest cadet, later identified with the feudal baron-bailie.
- Ceanntighes or Heads of Houses: Leaders of the individual houses or branches within the clan, ranking below the chief.
- Duine Uaisle (Gentry): Cadets of the chief’s house, forming a link between the chief and the body of the clan. All cadets can trace their connection with the chief’s family.
- Personal Attendants of the Chief:
- Henchman: Typically the chief’s closest and most trusted attendant, responsible for personal protection and serving as an advisor.
- Bard or Poet: Charged with composing and reciting verses to commemorate the deeds and lineage of the clan, thus playing a crucial role in preserving the clan’s history and culture.
- Bladier or Spokesman: Acted as the chief’s emissary or representative, speaking on his behalf in councils or negotiations and conveying the chief’s decisions and messages to others.
- Gillemore: Bearer of the broadsword – Responsible for carrying the chief’s broadsword, symbolizing the duty of ensuring the chief’s readiness for battle or ceremonial events.
- Gillecasflue: Tasked with carrying the chief across fords or water bodies, ensuring his safety and dignity in difficult terrains.
- Gille comstraine: Responsible for leading the chief through hazardous terrains, such as mountain passes, ensuring safe passage.
- Gille trusharnish: Baggage-man – Managed and transported the chief’s personal baggage and other essential items during travels or military campaigns.
- Piper: A position often held by a gentleman, the piper played the bagpipes during various ceremonies, gatherings, and in battle, serving both as a symbol of clan pride and a means of communication.
- Piper’s Gillie: Bagpipe carrier – Assisted the piper by carrying the bagpipes, ensuring that the instrument was ready and available whenever required.