Features: Scottish Clan Early Genealogy - Clan MacArthur

Motto: Fide et Opera (By fidelity and work)
Historic Seat: The shores of Loch Awe
District: Argyll
Associated Surnames: Arthur
Associated Tartans:

Early MacArthur Genealogy and History:
(Excerpt from "The Scottish Clans and Their Tartans", James Grant, 1906)

The MacArthurs are a branch of the great Clan Campbell, and trace their descent from the original stock; they indeed for a long time disputed the seniority with the powerful family of Argyll. In the reign of Alexander III, 1249-86, the Campbells presented two great divisions; those of Mac Chailein Mhòir and MacArtair, and the latter maintained their right to the chiefship, and were, in fact, at the head of the clan, a position which they retained till the time of James I, who ascended the throne in the year 1406.

MacArtair espoused the cause of Robert the Bruce, and was rewarded by ample gifts of the forfeited estates of MacDugal. The chief was also appointed Captain of the Castle of Dunstaffnage, and the clan was in possession of such an extensive district as to rival that powerful house which had so fearlessly opposed the royal champion of Scotland's independence.

John MacArtair was beheaded by James I, and his lands were forfeited, since which time the MacChailein Mhòir branch have held the chiefship, and gradually acquired the vast importance which they formerly held, and still possess. The above John is described as being a great prince, and leader of a thousand men.

In 1275, Christine, only daughter of Allan MacRuarai, granted a charter, "Arthuro filio domini Arthuro Campbell militis de terris de Mudwarde, Ariseg et Mordower, et insulis de Egge et Rumme." At subsequent periods the MacArthurs obtained Stra'chur in Cowal, from which they are designated, and they also held portions of Gelfalloch and Glendochart.

The seat of the MacArthurs of Stra'chur is on the side of Loch Awe. Many of this name are still to be found about Dunstaffnage, who have been merely tenants of the Campbells.

(End excerpt)

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