The Maclean Chiefs

A Scottish chief stands at the head of his clan and represented not only his clansmen but also its first chief. Maclean Chiefs trace their hereditary line back to first recognized Chief, Gilleain na Tuaighe, in 1174. The rural nature of Scotland’s Highlands, particularly the Western Isles, allowed the Maclean Chiefs to operate and govern with relative autonomy for centuries. Historically the most important responsibilities of Maclean Chiefs were to rule, judge and lead the clan in battle, however the Maclean Chiefs were also influential characters in the politics of the Western Highlands of Scotland who wielded great authority.

Although still recognized in Scottish law, following the ‘45 Uprising the Heritable Jurisdictions Act of 1746¹ effectively ended the rights and jurisdiction that made Scotland’s clans a functioning society. No longer imbued with authority, the title of chief remains a dignity enshrined in Scottish law, which continues to recognize the chief as head of the clan and lawful representative of the community; and the clan remains a noble communities recognized by the sovereign.² Today the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs is regarded as the sovereign’s hereditary advisers. The Maclean Chiefs have continued to play important roles in national government while leading a clan that has grown into a world-wide family firmly rooted in tradition and kinship.

At present Sir Lachlan Maclean is the Maclean Chief.