Clelland
Clelland
Clelland – Clan History, Crest & Heritage
Gaelic Name
None recorded
Clan Motto
"Not for sport" – A motto reflecting purpose, duty, and the serious nature of clan service, particularly in war and protection.
Clan Crest Badge
A falcon on a glove sinister Proper, symbolizing nobility, precision, and disciplined readiness.
Plant Badge
None recorded
Origins of the Clan
The Clelland name—spelled historically as Cleland, Clelland, or MacClelland—is of Lowland Scottish origin, with deep roots in Lanarkshire, particularly in the parish of Dalziel. The surname likely derives from the lands of Kendal or Cleland, and early references indicate that the family held hereditary roles under the Earls of Douglas, Scotland’s most powerful noble house during the medieval period.
The Clellands were custodians of local arms and lands, which accounts for the martial character of the family and its coat of arms—emphasizing their role as warriors and defenders rather than sportsmen, as their motto makes clear.
Historical Significance
One of the earliest and most prominent figures of the clan was Alexander Cleland (c. late 13th century), who married Margaret Wallace, sister of Sir William Wallace, the famed Scottish patriot. This direct connection to Scotland’s Wars of Independence ties Clan Clelland to one of the most pivotal chapters of national resistance.
Alexander's son, also named Alexander, is believed to have fought at Bannockburn (1314) and was closely associated with the Bruce cause. His descendant James Cleland of Calder distinguished himself at the Battle of Drumclog and Bothwell Bridge, and served in various military campaigns throughout the Lowlands.
During the Wars of Independence, the Clellands gained repute not only for bravery but also for their deep loyalties to freedom and the Scottish crown. Their reputation as fierce fighters earned them both land and influence across Lanarkshire, Ayrshire, and Renfrewshire.
Branches and Distribution
By the early modern period, branches of the Clelland family were recorded in:
-
Monkland
-
Faskine
-
Blantyre
-
Shotts
-
Lesmahagow
-
Hamilton
-
Dalziel
-
Motherwell
-
Wishaw
Some of these Clelland families later emigrated during the 17th-century Ulster Plantations, and others ventured to the Americas, where the name persists in various forms.
Notable Members
-
William Cleland (1674–1701): Renowned soldier and poet, later associated with the Cameronian Regiment, a famous Scottish infantry regiment founded on Covenanter principles.
-
Henry Clelland: Noted for recording memories of clan life in the late 18th century, as referenced in the memoir “A Woman of Pleasure”.
-
Lucy Du Pas Clelland: One of the last recognized Clelland chiefs, who died unmarried in the early 19th century.
Tartans
Clan Clelland does not have a widely recognized tartan of its own. Members often adopt Lowland district tartans, or wear those of Douglas, with whom they were historically affiliated.
Conclusion
Though smaller in size compared to the great Highland clans, Clan Clelland boasts a rich and martial history rooted in loyalty, lineage, and legendary associations. From their alliance with William Wallace, to distinguished military service in later centuries, the Clellands have left their mark on the Lowlands of Scotland and beyond. Their proud motto, “Not for sport,” remains a testament to their enduring legacy as warriors of purpose and duty.