A History of Macdonald Tartan

Descended from Donald, grandson of Somerled of the Isles, this is the oldest, and most famous, of all Scottish clans. The Lords of the Isles held sway over large territories and ruled as independent princes. They supported Bruce in his struggle for Independence, but their claim to the Earldom of Ross brought them into conflict with the Crown. After the Battle of Harlaw, in 1411, Alexander MacDonald was acknowledged Earl of Ross, but the title was forfeited in 1494. Many branches exist of this once all-powerful clan and with it, also, was associated numerous septs or “broken clans” who took protection from them. The MacDonalds supported the Royal Stuarts, and their prowess in battle and in clan feuds made them feared and respected.
Badge – Holly.

View Reiver tartans:

Macdonald Clan
Macdonald Dress
Macdonald Of Ardnamurchan
Macdonald Of Glengarry
Macdonald Lord Of The Isles
Macdonald Of Sleat

View Braeriach tartans:

Macdonald Clan
Macdonald Of Clanranald Ancient
Macdonald Of The Isles Modern
Macdonald Dress Modern

View Strome tartans:

Macdonald Clan
Macdonald Dress
Macdonald Lord Of The Isles Ancient
Macdonald Of Ardnamurchan
Macdonald Of Boisdale Weathered
Macdonald Of Clanranald
Macdonald Of Glenaladale
Macdonald Of Glengarry
Macdonald Of Kingsburgh
Macdonald Of Sleat
Macdonald Of Staffa
Macdonald Of The Isles Red
Macdonald Of The Isles Hunting