Clan Robertson

also Donnachaidh

Children of Duncan — fierce when roused.

Motto

Garg 'n uair dhuisgear

— Fierce when roused

What does the Robertson name mean?

Anglicised from Clann Dhonnchaidh — children of Duncan. The change to 'Robertson' dates to Robert Riabhach Duncanson, 4th chief.

The history of Clan Robertson

The Robertsons, or Clann Dhonnchaidh — children of Duncan — descend from the Celtic Earls of Atholl, themselves of the line of the kings of Dalriada. 'Stout Duncan' was a minor landowner and chief in Highland Perthshire in the early 1300s.

Loyal to the Bruce and Stewart royal lines, the clan also earned a reputation as raiders and feuders in medieval Scotland. The change of surname dates to the 4th chief, Robert Riabhach (Grizzled) Duncanson — who tracked down and brought to justice the murderers of James I in 1437.

The Robertsons fought in both the 1715 and 1745 Risings. Through the 18th and early 19th centuries the chiefs refused to clear their fellow clansmen for the more profitable sheep — a rare and honourable choice in the era of the Clearances.

Frequently asked

What does the surname Robertson mean?

Anglicised from Clann Dhonnchaidh — children of Duncan. The change to 'Robertson' dates to Robert Riabhach Duncanson, 4th chief.

Where does the Robertson family come from?

Clan Robertson was historically based in the Perthshire of Scotland, in particular Atholl & Strathearn.

What is the Clan Robertson motto?

The motto of Clan Robertson is "Garg 'n uair dhuisgear", which translates as "Fierce when roused".

Is Donnachaidh the same family as Robertson?

Yes. Donnachaidh is historical spelling variants of the Robertson name. They share the same lineage and clan affiliation.