Septs of Clan Anderson
Anderson (and Variants: MacAnderson, M’Anderson)
Surname Origin & Association: Anderson is a patronymic surname meaning “son of Andrew.” It arose independently across Scotland due to the popularity of the name Andrew and the veneration of Saint Andrew. In Gaelic, the name is Gilleaindreas or MacGhilleAindrais, meaning “servant of Andrew.” The Anderson name became the eponymous identifier of the clan itself, with “Anderson of that Ilk” recorded in the 16th century.
Historical Context: Andersons were established across Scotland, including as burgesses and lairds. Some Highland Andersons became part of the Clan Chattan confederation through the MacAndrew branch. In the west, some Andersons allied with MacDonell of Glengarry. The surname was also sometimes considered a sept of Clan Ross. Families bearing the name who trace their roots to Scotland have traditionally identified with Clan Anderson.
MacAndrew (and Variants: McAndrew, M’Andrew)
Surname Origin & Association: MacAndrew is the Gaelic form of “son of Andrew.” The name Mac Aindrea in Gaelic links directly to the Anderson heritage. A branch of the MacAndrews settled in Badenoch through Donald MacGillandrish and became members of the Clan Chattan confederation.
Historical Context: The MacAndrews became a distinct Highland sept settled in Badenoch under Mackintosh protection. They served in battles under Clan Chattan and became known for notable figures like Iain Beag MacAindrea. Though part of Clan Chattan, their patronymic origin from Andrew keeps them recognized as a sept of Clan Anderson.
Gillanders (and Variant: MacGillanders)
Surname Origin & Association: Gillanders is derived from the Gaelic Gille Aindreas, meaning “servant of Andrew.” It was originally a given name that evolved into a surname in the Highlands. Families using Gillanders are considered to share ancestral roots with Clan Anderson.
Historical Context: Gillanders appears prominently in the early history of Clan Ross, where chiefs were referred to as Clann Aindrea. The name spread across northern Scotland and was associated with both Clan Ross and Clan Anderson. Gillanders may also be found as MacGillandrish in records, showing its patronymic structure.
Andrew
Surname Origin & Association: Andrew is a surname directly derived from the given name Andrew. It originated when the father’s first name was passed down as a family surname, a common Lowland practice.
Historical Context: Andrews appear in records from medieval Scotland, including Ross-shire and the Lowlands. Some Highland branches used Andrew interchangeably with Anderson. Clan Ross listed “Andrew” as a sept, and others of the name aligned with Clan Anderson by ancestry and name origin.
Andrews
Surname Origin & Association: Andrews is an English-style patronymic surname meaning “son or kin of Andrew.” The -s suffix was added as a plural or genitive form. It shares its origin with Anderson and is considered a variant sept.
Historical Context: Found primarily in Lowland Scotland and urban centers, the surname Andrews was sometimes adopted by Andersons or MacAndrews who anglicized their name. Andrews was recognized by both Clan Ross and Clan Anderson in the 19th century. It remains a common surname with links to St. Andrew.
References
Anderson, K. (2023, March 14). The Sons of Andrew: A History of the Anderson Name. Clan Anderson Society.
Black, G. F. (1946). The Surnames of Scotland: Their Origin, Meaning, and History. New York, NY: The New York Public Library.
Way, G., & Squire, R. (1994). Collins Scottish Clan & Family Encyclopedia. Glasgow: HarperCollins.
Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs. (2001). Scottish Clan & Sept List. In F. Adam (Ed.), The Clans, Septs & Regiments of the Scottish Highlands (8th ed., pp. 636–644). Edinburgh: Johnston & Bacon.