Tartan Tales of Clan MacEwen

Sandra McCuin from the Clan MacEwen Society sent us this lovely, heartfelt story about what the clan gatherings mean to her:

"My experience of our Annual Clan Gatherings from attending a small group luncheon to helping to organise and welcome over a hundred MacEwens, I have always enjoyed the connections, conversations and relationships that have been fostered. Whilst we might not know each other at first, the instant kinship is quite remarkable and humbling which never ceases to amaze me whether we meet one new person or one hundred.

The most memorable one for me was in 2019 with our largest gathering in the ancestral homeland in which I felt we were all encased in a bubble of friendship, with the sounds of bagpipes and laughter echoing throughout the tiny hamlet. Kilfinan was MacEwen again during that weekend, everyone chipped in and helped put on a truly wonderful gathering, everyone was welcome, everyone was equal, everyone was MacEwen. The village hall was alive, there was a beating heart and energy that was impalpable, it was truly magical.

I really enjoy meeting old friends and new, seeing new people feel the energy of their ancestral homeland and feel a connection with each other and with the land that cannot be gained without experiencing it first hand, so many are taken aback at how they are unexpectedly overcome with emotion especially when they visit the site of MacEwen Castle.

I love to see people learn about their heritage, share stories and knowledge with each other, sing, dance, play music, teach, share, and keep our heritage alive. I love the fact that many great friendships are made and rekindled and wherever you are in the world, there will be a MacEwen ready to welcome you.

I love that we are a friendly and welcoming Clan, anyone who has been to a Highland Games and met one of our convenors can attest to, come to a gathering and that is magnified, from the most intimate to the most populous, all MacEwen gatherings are special no matter where they are in the world because MacEwens hold our heritage and identity within us and carry it wherever we go."

Sandra asked us to highlight their International Gathering and Family Convention 6-9th June at Otter Ferry.

Of particular importance is the convention, the last step they hope in getting a Chief after over 500 years. Their Commander will have then completed his 10 year "apprenticeship" to prove to the Clan and the Lyon Court he is worthy, along with all the other documentation, but they also need to stress that they are still searching and welcoming submissions from anyone else worldwide who thinks they have a claim until then.

For more details visit Clan MacEwen Society's website here!

Caitlin reached out with her beautiful McEwan wedding photos and we are excited to share them with you:

“Hi! I'm writing to share some photos from my wedding, where I honored my MacEwen heritage (now spelled McEwan in my branch of the family) by including tartan accents. My brother officiated wearing a kilt from ScotlandShop. The ring bearer boys wore MacEwen tartan caps and bowties, the flower bouquets were tied with tartan ribbon, and many of my relatives wore their own tartan pieces. It was a grand day!”

We think they all look fabulous in their MacEwan tartan!

Heather got in touch and shared these beautiful photos from her son's wedding recently.

“My son William McEwen married Mary-Ann on Saturday 13th April in Norfolk. We had small touches of the Ancient McEwen tartan in button holes, on church windowsills, etc. "We may be small (clan wise) but we are mighty".”

We spoke to Laurie Scott, Founder of Discover Britain and Ireland, about his bespoke Clan MacEwen tours in Scotland, a great way to explore the clan's history.

As these tours are tailored, Laurie shares an example of his three day Clan MacEwen tour, starting in Edinburgh to explore historic sites like Edinburgh Castle and getting a taste of the city's vibrant culture.

There will be an opportunity to make a personal appointment at ScotlandShop to browse our collection of MacEwen Clan's traditional and modern tartan bespoke clothing, and unique items.

From Edinburgh, the tour heads west towards Argyll through the picturesque Scottish countryside. En route, there will be a stop over at the village of Luss on the western shore of Loch Lomond. Take a leisurely stroll through the village enjoying the scenic loch side and surrounding mountain views.

The scenic journey continues towards Kilfinan, traversing the enchanting landscapes of Argyll and passing by the shores of Loch Fyne to arrive in the area surrounding Kilfinan and Otter Ferry.

This is the spot to explore the historical significance of Otter Ferry and Kilfinan, two small coastal villages deeply connected to the MacEwen Clan's legacy.

Begin by visiting Kilfinan, and its ties to Clan MacEwen's history. Explore the quaint village and learn about its importance to the clan.

Then head to the ancient ruins of Castle MacEwen, situated on the shores of Loch Fyne. Discover the remnants of this once-mighty stronghold and reflect on its significance to the clan's heritage. You can visit the cairn erected by the MacEwen Society, a poignant symbol of the clan's enduring legacy.

There is also the Clan's Northern Stronghold, Cnoc Mhic Eoghainn, located on the Ballimore Estate. Here, you'll find the remnants of a medieval motte and bailey-style castle, offering insights into the clan's past.

We think this would be an amazing tour!