Clan Shaw: The Proud Highland Lineage of the Clan Chattan Confederation — Warriors, Foresters, and Loyal Defenders of the Highlands
Clan Shaw is one of the principal families of the Clan Chattan Confederation, a powerful Highland alliance that shaped the history of central Scotland for centuries. Rooted in Badenoch, the Shaws are known for their martial skill, their leadership within the Confederation, and their deep ties to the early Chiefs of Clan MacKintosh.
Their motto, “Fide et Fortitudine” — “By Faith and Fortitude” — reflects the clan’s enduring courage, loyalty, and spiritual resilience.
Origins and Early History
1. The Gaelic Roots of Clan Shaw
The Shaws descend from the Gaelic name Sitheach (pronounced Shee-ach), meaning “wolf” — a fitting name for a clan known for bravery and keen instincts.
2. Founding Figure: Shaw Macghillechrist Mhic Iain
The clan’s recognised founder is:
Shaw Macghillechrist,
great-grandson of Angus, 6th Chief of Clan MacKintosh.
Around 1250, Shaw Macghillechrist became Captain of Clan Chattan, leading the confederation during its early formation. His leadership forged the Shaws’ identity as guardians and warriors of Badenoch.
3. Early Territories in Rothiemurchus
The Shaws held land in:
Rothiemurchus
Glen Feshie
Badenoch
These ancient lands in Inverness-shire formed the heart of the early clan.
Territories and Clan Seats
Although lands shifted over time, the Shaws’ strongholds include:
1. Rothiemurchus (Inverness-shire)
The earliest and most important centre of Shaw power.
The Shaws served as foresters, guiding and protecting royal forests in the Cairngorms.
2. Tordarroch (Strathnairn)
After losing their Badenoch lands in the 15th century, a major branch settled at Tordarroch, which became the seat of the Shaw of Tordarroch lineage.
3. Crathienaird (Aberdeenshire)
Another notable cadet branch expanded into Aberdeenshire, establishing new Shaw lands.
Crest, Motto & Clan Symbols
Crest:
A dagger held upright, symbolising:
Readiness for battle
Defence of honour
Leadership within the Confederation
Motto:
“Fide et Fortitudine”
“By Faith and Fortitude.”
Reflecting the clan’s spiritual strength and steadfast bravery.
Badge:
Clan Shaw uses red whortleberry (also called blaeberry), a Highland plant symbolising endurance and connection to the land.
Arms:
Traditional Shaw heraldry includes:
Daggers
Wolves (linking to the name Sitheach)
Strong Highland symbolism
Red and silver colours
Clan Shaw Tartans
Clan Shaw has several beautiful tartans widely worn today:
Shaw (Modern)
Featuring:
Dark green
Navy blue
Red
Black overchecks
Shaw (Ancient)
More natural, earthy tones reflecting traditional plant dyes.
Shaw (Hunting)
A muted, darker sett ideal for outdoor or ceremonial wear.
Shaw (Weathered)
A rugged, historical palette.
These tartans reflect both the early Badenoch heritage and the later Strathnairn lineage.
Alliances and Feuds
Alliances:
Clan Shaw was a core part of the Clan Chattan Confederation, an alliance that included:
Clan MacKintosh (principal clan)
Clan Davidson
Clan MacPherson
MacBeans / MacBains
MacGillivrays
MacQueens
Farquharsons (later associated)
Through this alliance, the Shaws gained immense political and military influence across the central Highlands.
Feuds:
As part of Clan Chattan, the Shaws were deeply involved in:
1. Feud with Clan Cameron
Centuries-long conflict over Badenoch territory.
2. Rivalries within the Confederation
Most famously:
Battle of North Inch (1396)
A staged clan battle in Perth between the Clan Chattan and Clan Cameron (or a rival branch).
Shaw, representing Chattan, led his warriors with distinction.
3. Local disputes in Rothiemurchus and Strathnairn
Typical of Highland clan competition.
Clan Shaw in Scottish Warfare
1. Battle of North Inch (1396)
One of the most famous clan battles in Scottish history.
The Shaw leader distinguished himself, earning renown for his ferocity and skill.
2. Civil Wars and Covenanting Era
Like many Highland families, the Shaws were divided:
Some supported the Royalists under Montrose
Others aligned with the Covenanters
3. Jacobite Risings
Many Shaws followed the MacKintosh Chiefs, supporting:
1715 Rising
1745 Rising (significant participation)
Shaws fought at Culloden (1746), mainly within the MacKintosh regiment.
4. Modern Military Service
Descendants served in:
Black Watch
Seaforth Highlanders
Gordon Highlanders
Scots Guards
British overseas forces
Continuing the clan’s martial legacy.
Notable Shaws in History
Shaw of Rothiemurchus (13th–14th century)
Early clan forester and Captain of Clan Chattan.
James Shaw of Tordarroch
Played a key role in later clan leadership.
Major General David Shaw
Prominent modern military leader.
Patrick Shaw-Stewart (1888–1917)
Poet, scholar, and WWI officer, celebrated for “Achilles in the Trench.”
Henry Shaw (19th century)
Founder of the Missouri Botanical Garden — a testament to the clan’s global legacy.
Clan Status and Modern Identity
Clan Shaw is officially recognised and represented today by:
Chief of Clan Shaw:
John Shaw of Tordarroch,
Chief of the Name and Arms of Shaw.
The clan remains active through societies in:
Scotland
Canada
United States
Australia
New Zealand
These groups promote genealogy, tartan heritage, and Highland culture.
Clan Shaw Facts at a Glance
Clan Name: Shaw / Sitheach
Region: Highlands — Badenoch, Strathnairn
Seats: Rothiemurchus (historic), Tordarroch
Chief: Shaw of Tordarroch
Crest: Dagger held upright
Motto: Fide et Fortitudine — “By Faith and Fortitude”
Badge: Red whortleberry
Tartans: Shaw Modern, Ancient, Hunting
Allies: MacKintosh, Clan Chattan families
Feuds: Cameron, rival Chattan branches
Notable Members: Shaw of Rothiemurchus, Patrick Shaw-Stewart
Status: Fully recognised Scottish clan
Conclusion
Clan Shaw is a Highland clan steeped in honour, tradition, and martial excellence. As founders and leaders within the Clan Chattan Confederation, the Shaws played a central role in shaping Highland politics, warfare, and culture. Their motto — “By Faith and Fortitude” — perfectly captures their enduring legacy of courage, resilience, and loyalty.
Today, Shaw descendants across the world proudly celebrate their heritage, wearing the tartan and honouring the clan’s ancient place in Scottish history.