The Origins of Clan Farquharson

The genealogical roots of Clan Farquharson stretch back to the early thirteenth century, to a figure known as Shaw MacDuff, the progenitor of the Shaw family and a direct descendant of the powerful Earls of Fife. It was from this prestigious lineage that the Farquharsons would eventually emerge, carving their own distinct path in Scottish history. Shaw of Rothiemurchus, a descendant of Shaw MacDuff, became the cornerstone of the Farquharson lineage, establishing a legacy that would endure through the centuries.

Shaw of Rothiemurchus, known for his valor and strength, was bestowed with lands in the Highlands, marking the beginning of the family’s enduring connection to the Scottish landscape. It was here, in the braes of Mar, where the roots of Clan Farquharson would take hold, nurtured by the rugged terrain and the spirit of independence that defined the Highland way of life.

The Clan Farquharson’s origins can be directly traced to one man: Farquhar Shaw, the son of Shaw of Rothiemurchus. Farquhar, whose name means “beloved one” in Gaelic, lived during a time of great change and turmoil in Scotland. His decision to settle in the Braes of Mar marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Farquharsons. It was from Farquhar that the clan would take its name, with his descendants proudly bearing the surname Farquharson—a testament to their patriarch and the lineage they would continue.

Farquhar Shaw’s legacy was not merely one of lineage but of leadership and the forging of a clan identity that would stand the test of time. His descendants, known as the “sons of Farquhar,” would embody the qualities of their forebear, becoming renowned for their bravery, leadership, and commitment to their clan and country.

As the Farquharsons grew in number and influence, they branched out across the Highlands, establishing themselves as a formidable force in Scottish society. Each branch of the clan, while unique in its achievements and contributions, remained united by the common bond of their ancestry and the shared legacy of Farquhar Shaw.

The Invercauld branch of the clan, for example, became particularly prominent, with its chiefs playing pivotal roles in the political and military affairs of Scotland. The lands of Invercauld, nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms, would become synonymous with the Farquharson clan, symbolizing their enduring connection to the Scottish Highlands.