Scottish tartan is a patterned cloth made from criss-crossing bands of different colors and widths. Until the middle of the nineteenth century, the highland tartans were only associated with either regions or districts, rather than a particular clan. The colors and designs were made by local artisans using materials and dyes that were available in the local area.

It's not a stretch then that the pattern became unique to the people living in a location and then, to a particular clan or family, each with its own name and history. Tartan is most commonly associated with kilts, but can also be used to make other clothing and accessories. It is an important symbol of Scottish heritage and culture.

Clan Macneil Tartans

Scottish Flags

Scottish crest badges are a way for individuals to show their allegiance to a particular Scottish clan or family. They consist of a heraldic crest (a design or symbol that sits atop a helmet) surrounded by a strap and buckle bearing the clan or family motto. The crest is often taken from the coat of arms of the clan or family, and can include elements such as animals, plants, and weapons. They are often worn on clothing, such as a sash or cap, or as a piece of jewelry. Crest badges have been used in Scotland since the 15th century and are an important part of Scottish heraldry and tradition.This post shows the Clan Macneil crest badges.

Crest Badges

A clan is defined as group of people united by actual or perceived kinship and descent.  Clans preceded more centralized forms of community organization and government, and exist in every country. There is often emblem, or series of emblems, that lend to the shared identity of the members. This post focuses on the Coats of Arms for Clan Macneil.

Coat of Arms

Both representations of the Clan Macneil Coats of Arms (COA) include the Lion Rampant and the Masted Ship.  The Lion Rampant is a nod to the Royal Flag of the King of Scotland while the masted ship represents the seafaring nature of the clan.