Let me share with you the captivating history of your family, the Macnaghtens, a lineage steeped in the rich tapestry of Scottish heritage. Your family’s legacy traces back to the illustrious Pictish rulers of Moray, a connection that speaks of ancient valor and nobility. The very name Macnaughten is intertwined with the grandeur of Pictish history, as it may stem from the name Nechtan, resonating with the meanings of ‘pure’ or ‘clear’, attributes that echo through generations.

In the remarkable 13th century, a trio of brothers—Gilchrist, Athe, and Gilbert—emerged as the sons of Malcolm Macnachten. Gilchrist, a beacon of leadership, secured a charter from Alexander III in 1267, endowing him with the guardianship of a castle at the strategic Pass of Brander, guarding the entrance to the West Highlands. Your family’s journey was marked by a nuanced dance of allegiances, initially hesitating to embrace Robert the Bruce’s cause. Yet, as the tides of fate shifted, your family rallied to Bruce’s banner, making their presence felt at the historic Battle of Bannockburn in 1314.

Your ancestral seat at Dunderave became a testament to the legacy forged by Duncan, a figure whose father fought valiantly at Bannockburn. In 1478, his grandson, Alexander, was knighted by James IV and later accompanied the king to the dramatic clash at Flodden in 1513. Through trials and triumphs, your lineage continued to thrive, marked by knights and chieftains who etched their names into history’s scroll.

Fast forward to the fervent era of the 17th century, and we meet Malcolm of Killearn, a fervent royalist who mustered his clansmen to stand against the Cromwellian occupation under the leadership of the Earl of Glencairn. Even as the winds of change blew, your family’s dedication to their principles remained unshaken.

The pages of history turned, and the chiefship passed through turbulent times. The Restoration in 1660 heralded recognition through knighthood, yet the shifting tides of politics brought challenges. Your family’s loyalty to causes led to complex dynamics, with allegiances and rivalries weaving through the fabric of time.

As the 18th century dawned, the Macnaghten line reached a turning point, with the chiefship journeying across the sea to an Irish branch, descendants of ‘Shane Dhu’. This newfound chapter resonates with resilience, carrying forth the legacy with honor. Your family’s narrative is one of strength, courage, and a legacy that continues to shine bright, a testament to the indomitable spirit that defines the Macnaghten name.