Clan MacThomas: Sons of Tomaidh Mòr, Highland Guardians of Glenshee, and the Youngest Branch of the Clan Chattan Confederation
Clan MacThomas (Gaelic: Clann Mhic Thomais) is one of the most distinctive Highland clans, formed during the late medieval era when the Clan Chattan confederation was restructuring. Descended from Tomaidh Mòr (“Great Thomas”), a powerful warrior of Clan Chattan, the MacThomases established themselves in the rugged beauty of Glenshee, where they became respected landholders, cattlemen, and Highland swordsmen.
Their motto, “Deo Confidimus” — “In God We Trust” — reflects a noble, steadfast Highland tradition rooted in faith, courage, and independence.
Origins: From Clan Chattan to an Independent Highland Clan
1. Descent from Tomaidh Mòr
The clan originates from Tomaidh Mòr, a 15th-century descendant of the Mackintoshes, chiefs of the Clan Chattan federation.
Following internal tensions within Clan Chattan, Tomaidh Mòr led his family north into the glen of the Shee Water, forming a new, distinct clan: the MacThomases.
2. The Name MacThomas
“MacThomas” means “Son of Thomas”, but the Gaelic Mhic Thomais is the true ancestral form.
Over time, the name developed several variations, including:
MacComas
MacCombie
Thomson (in some regions)
Thomas
Thom
3. A Late-Medieval Clan
Unlike ancient clans such as MacDonald or MacDougall, the MacThomases emerged in the 15th century as a younger but fierce Highland clan with a distinct identity.
Territories & Early Expansion
1. Glenshee: The Clan Heartland
The first and most important MacThomas stronghold was:
Glenshee (Gleann Sìdh)
A beautiful valley stretching through Perthshire, once heavily forested and ideal for cattle grazing.
2. Forter & Strathardle
The clan expanded into:
Forter Castle region
Strathardle
Glen Beag
Glen Isla
These lands supported cattle droving, Highland farming, and defensive positions.
3. Migration to Deeside
By the 17th century, pressure from neighbouring clans and Lowland expansion drove many MacThomases east to:
Birse
Aberdeenshire
The Braes of Angus
This created strong, lasting MacThomas communities in the eastern Highlands.
Crest, Motto & Clan Symbols
Crest:
A cat-a-mountain (wildcat) passant guardant, representing:
Courage
Tenacity
Clan Chattan heritage
Motto:
“Deo Confidimus”
“In God We Trust.”
Plant Badge:
Red Whortleberry — a Highland shrub associated with the clan’s native glens.
Arms:
The MacThomas arms often include:
Wildcats
Swords
Gaelic knotwork
Highland landscape symbolism
MacThomas Tartans
Clan MacThomas has several beautiful tartans, including:
1. MacThomas (Modern)
Bright blues and greens with bold red highlights.
2. MacThomas (Ancient)
Softer, muted shades in natural dye tones.
3. MacThomas (Weathered / Muted)
Earthy, rustic tones evoking Highland mist and peat.
These tartans are popular among both historical enthusiasts and modern descendants.
Branches, Septs & Allied Families
The clan developed several important branches:
1. The MacCombie Sept
Families spelling their name MacCombie, MacColm, or Combie are recognised as MacThomas septs.
2. Thomson (Selective Association)
While many Thomsons are unrelated to the clan, some eastern Highland Thomson families are historically connected.
3. MacThomas of Finegand
The chiefly line traditionally held lands at Finegand, near Glenshee.
4. MacThomas of Clova & Glen Isla
Smaller branches tied to cattle-droving routes.
Clan Conflicts & Political History
1. Feuds with Local Clans
The MacThomases were involved in conflicts with:
Clan Robertson
Clan Ogilvy
Clan Farquharson
Territorial overlap in Glenshee and Deeside triggered many of these disputes.
2. Jacobite Risings
The clan’s involvement varied:
Some MacThomases supported Bonnie Dundee in 1689
Others fought in the 1745 Jacobite Rising, especially those linked with the Farquharsons
Many remained neutral or followed Lowland politics, reflecting the clan’s scattered geography
3. Government Leanings
By the late 17th century, the MacThomas chiefs tended to side with the government for strategic reasons — a contrast to many Highland clans.
MacThomas Castles & Historic Sites
1. Finegand
The ancestral property of the chiefs, associated with tales of:
Cattle drovers
Highland justice
Rebellious clansmen
2. Forter Castle
Though not owned by the MacThomases long-term, they had historical connections to the area and its defensive landscape.
3. Birse
A key settlement area for the clan after migrating east.
The Dispersal & Survival of the Clan
By the 18th century:
Many MacThomases emigrated
Others became farmers, drovers, or tradesmen in Aberdeenshire
The name evolved into Thomson, MacCombie, and other forms
The chiefly line eventually re-established itself in the 19th century
Today, Clan MacThomas is active, organised, and thriving worldwide.
Modern Clan Leadership & Organisations
Chief:
Andrew MacThomas of Finegand,
Chief of Clan MacThomas and 19th of his line.
Clan Seat:
Traditionally Finegand, though the chief now resides elsewhere.
Gatherings & Societies:
Clan MacThomas societies exist in:
Scotland
USA
Canada
Australia
New Zealand
They hold gatherings at:
Glenshee
Deeside
Braemar Highland Games
Clan MacThomas Facts at a Glance
Name: MacThomas / MacCombie / Thomson (select lines)
Region: Glenshee, Deeside, Strathardle
Crest: Wildcat
Motto: Deo Confidimus
Badge: Red Whortleberry
Tartans: Modern, Ancient, Weathered
Allies: Clan Chattan, Farquharson
Rivals: Robertson, Ogilvy
Status: Active clan with a recognised chief
Conclusion
Clan MacThomas is a clan born of the rugged Highlands — a proud branch of the ancient Clan Chattan, shaped by the wild glens of Perthshire and the forests of Deeside. Though one of the “younger” Highland clans, the MacThomases developed a fierce identity built on resilience, loyalty, and independence.
Their motto, “In God We Trust,” reflects a clan grounded in tradition, honour, and enduring faith. Today, from Glenshee to the global diaspora, the MacThomas name remains a testament to Highland spirit and heritage.