Clan Davidson

Davidson Arms

Davidson Badge

Davidson Motto

Davidson Tartan

Although it may sound like an English name, clan Davidson is descended from an ancient Gaelic tribe, and was one of the first to be associated with the powerful Highland confederation of clan Chattan. Their name comes from their leader, David Dubh of Invernahaven, who married a Mackintosh, the daughter of the clan Chattan chief, in the mid 14th century. After the defeat of the Cummings by Bruce, and the resulting power-struggle in the north-east, David sought protection in clan Chattan.

Unfortunately, they became involved in too many clan conflicts, most notably that between clans Mackintosh and Macpherson for the leadership of clan Chattan. The Davidsons were almost annihilated in a battle fought on the North Inch at Perth in 1396 against the Macphersons, the cause of which was whether Davidson of Invernahaven (as the oldest branch of Chattan) or Cluny Macpherson (the male heir) should command the right wing of Chattan under its leaders, the Mackintoshes. At the end of the battle only one member of clan Davidson and eleven Macphersons were left alive.

Tulloch Castle, built in 1466 near Dingwall, Ross-Shire, became the seat of the leading branch of the Davidsons when Alexander Davidson of Davidson married Miss Bayne of Tulloch in the 18th century.