MacNaughton
Modern Crest
Gaelic Name: MacNeachdainn
Motto: I hope in God
Badge: Trailing azalea
Lands: Strathtay, Lewis, and Argyll
Origin of Name: Gaelic, Son of Nechtan, pure one
The earliest reference to the clan MacNaughton connects them with the great Pictish rulers of Moray. The name ‘Nechtan’ which means ‘pure’ or ‘clear’ was popular in the Pictish royal line, and the progenitor of the clan is thought to be Nechtan Mor, who lived in the tenth century. The MacNaughton family opposed Robert the Bruce in his attempt to gain the throne of Scotland and, as a result, forfeited many of their lands when he became king. The fortunes of the clan were somewhat restored by David II when he granted them lands in Lewis.