Bagtown Clans

All About Scottish Clans!

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.