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 THE BOARS ROCK Clan Crest © Art Pewter Silver Ltd, East Kilbride, Scotland |
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| The origin of the clan is unclear but one account claims descent from Lorn, son of Erc who landed in the Argyll area about the beginning of the 6th century. However it is more likely that the MacLarens take their name from Laurence Abbot of Achtow in Balquhidder, who lived in the thirteenth century in the ancient Earldom of Strathearn. The rallying cry of the clan, “Boar’s Rock “ refers to a rock which lies near Achtow. When the MacGregors were driven out of their lands by the Campbells they moved into what had been MacLaren territory. They were constantly involved in a feud and in 1558, the MacGregors killed 18 MacLaren families and took their lands. The MacLarens were a warlike clan who were involved in feuds with many of their neighbours but they were in allegiance with the Stewarts. This led to marriage in the 15th century and an offspring from the allegiance was responsible for the Stewarts of Appin.Loyal to the crown, clan members fought on the side of James IV at Flodden and at Pinkie, for Queen Mary in 1547. In 1745 the MacLarens were “out” for Prince Charles, fighting alongside the Stewarts of Appin and they suffered very heavy casualties. The MacLarens of Achleskine must have all been grand strong men. They were buried inside the Kirk of Balquhidder. When the old Kirk was repaired in 1839 bones were dug from that spot which were up to 23 inches long. The MacLarens of Achleskine continued to farm Achtow until 1892. In 1781 John MacLaren of Dreghorn proved his right to the chiefship, albeit through a minor branch of the family, the MacLarens of Tiree. He was raised to the bench in 1797 as Lord Dreghorn. MacLaren of Achleskine was in due course recognised by Lyon King of Arms as Chief of Clan MacLaren. On his death in 1966 his son succeeded him as Chief. |