Clan MacNaughton: Ancient Kings of Cowal, Loyal Stewards of Loch Awe, and a Clan Reborn from Exile
Clan MacNaughton (Gaelic: Clann Mhic Neachdainn) is one of the most ancient clans of Argyll, with roots stretching back to the early Gaelic kingship of western Scotland. Once powerful landholders in Cowal and around Loch Awe, the MacNaughtons experienced dramatic rise, near-destruction, and eventual revival—making their story one of the most compelling in Scottish clan history.
Renowned for loyalty, endurance, and quiet authority, Clan MacNaughton today stands as a symbol of cultural survival and restoration.
Their motto, “I Hope to Speed”, reflects both determination and forward resolve—apt for a clan that reclaimed its place after centuries of adversity.
Origins: Descendants of Nechtan — Ancient Gaelic Royalty
1. Meaning of the Name
MacNaughton derives from the Gaelic Mac Neachdainn, meaning:
“Son of Nechtan.”
The personal name Nechtan is of great antiquity and significance, associated with:
Early Pictish kings
Gaelic royal lineages
Sacred wells and wisdom traditions
This places the MacNaughtons among clans with pre-feudal royal ancestry.
2. Early Gaelic Kingship
Clan tradition holds that the MacNaughtons descend from:
The kings of Cowal
Early rulers linked to Dalriadic and Pictish power structures
Cowal was once a semi-independent Gaelic kingdom, and the MacNaughtons were among its dominant families.
Clan Territories & Seats
1. Cowal — The Ancient Heartland
The MacNaughtons originally held extensive lands throughout Cowal, on the Firth of Clyde.
These lands placed the clan at a strategic crossroads between:
The western seaways
Central Scotland
Argyll
2. Loch Awe & Dunderave
By the medieval period, the clan’s principal seat was at Dunderave Castle, overlooking Loch Awe.
Built in the 13th century
Served as the seat of the MacNaughton chiefs
Symbolised the clan’s authority and prestige
Dunderave remains deeply associated with MacNaughton identity.
Crest, Motto & Clan Symbols
Crest:
A hand holding a shield, symbolising defence, readiness, and protection of kin.
Motto:
“I Hope to Speed.”
A rare English-language motto, expressing confidence in progress and perseverance.
Badge:
Trailing azalea, representing patience, resilience, and survival in harsh conditions.
Clan Allegiances & Political History
1. Early Independence
For centuries, the MacNaughtons were:
Independent lords in Cowal
Influential landholders in Argyll
Recognised by the Scottish Crown
2. Alliance with Clan Campbell
Over time, the clan aligned closely with Clan Campbell, one of the most powerful families in Argyll.
This alliance provided protection but also carried long-term consequences.
3. The Fatal Choice
During the Wars of the Three Kingdoms (17th century), the MacNaughtons supported the Royalist cause, while the Campbells largely supported the Covenanters.
After the Royalist defeat:
The MacNaughton chief was killed
Clan lands were forfeited
Dunderave Castle was lost
This marked the effective destruction of the clan as a landholding power in Scotland.
Exile, Survival & Diaspora
1. Forced Dispersal
Following forfeiture:
Many MacNaughtons fled to Ireland
Others became tenants or soldiers under Campbell authority
The chiefship effectively went dormant
2. The Irish Branch
In Ireland, MacNaughtons:
Retained clan identity
Preserved genealogy and heraldic rights
Produced soldiers, landowners, and professionals
This Irish survival would later prove crucial.
Military & Overseas Service
During the 18th and 19th centuries, MacNaughtons served in:
The British Army
Irish regiments
Colonial forces
They fought in:
Europe
India
North America
Military service offered status and opportunity after the loss of ancestral lands.
The Revival of Clan MacNaughton
1. Restoration of the Chiefship
In the 20th century, through careful genealogical research:
The MacNaughton chiefship was restored
Descendants of the Irish line were recognised
2. Return to Scotland
In a powerful symbolic act:
The clan reacquired Dunderave Castle lands
Clan presence was re-established at Loch Awe
This restoration is one of the great success stories of modern clan history.
MacNaughton Tartans
Clan MacNaughton is associated with several recognised tartans:
1. MacNaughton Modern
Deep greens and blues with red accents.
2. MacNaughton Ancient
Softer hues inspired by traditional dyes.
3. MacNaughton Hunting
Muted earth tones reflecting Argyll landscapes.
4. MacNaughton Dress
White-based ceremonial tartan.
Branches & Name Variants
Surname Variants
MacNaughton
McNaughton
MacNaghten
McNaghten
Naughton (sometimes related)
Cadet Lines
Small family branches existed across Cowal, Loch Awe, and later Ireland.
Modern Clan Status
Chief of Clan MacNaughton
Clan MacNaughton has a recognised chief:
The Much Honoured Sir Francis McNaughten of McNaughten,
Chief of Clan MacNaughton.
Clan Societies
Active MacNaughton associations exist in:
Scotland
Ireland
United States
Canada
Cultural Preservation
Efforts focus on:
Dunderave heritage
Clan gatherings and education
Genealogical research and revival
Clan MacNaughton Facts at a Glance
Name: MacNaughton / McNaughton
Gaelic: Mac Neachdainn
Meaning: “Son of Nechtan”
Region: Cowal, Loch Awe
Seat: Dunderave Castle
Crest: Hand holding shield
Motto: I Hope to Speed
Badge: Trailing azalea
Status: Recognised chief
Known for: Ancient kingship, exile, modern revival
Conclusion
Clan MacNaughton embodies one of the most dramatic arcs in Scottish clan history—from ancient Gaelic kings and powerful Argyll lords, through catastrophic loss and exile, to a proud modern revival rooted once again in ancestral lands.
Their motto, “I Hope to Speed,” is more than a phrase—it is a declaration of survival and renewal. Today, with their chief restored and Dunderave reclaimed, Clan MacNaughton stands as a testament to the enduring strength of lineage, memory, and identity in Scotland’s clan tradition.