Clunie

Scottish World Tartan Register No. 2933

The ancient and regional family name of Clunie derives from Clunie in the District of Stormont, Perthshire, although the name is often associated in Scotland with the Clan MacPherson, the Clan Chief being the Clunie-MacPherson. Historical records also show that in the 13th Century, William de Cluny of Perthshire rendered homage to his King, John Balliol in 1296, and that Sir William de Clunie was Chaplain o the Bishop of Brechin in 1305. The Clunies were supporters of the Jacobite cause in 1745.

The Arms of Clunie are Argent with Chief Azure with the crest of a collared wolf, holding in the dexter paw, a trefoil. The Chief Azure represents fidelity and veracity, the Argent nobility, while the wolf, associated with the lands of Badenoch, is said to denote hard enterprise. The Trefoil signifies ‘Perpetuity’ confirming ‘the just man shall never wither’ The motto is ‘AMO HONESTA’ – ‘I ADMIRE HONEST DEEDS’

The colours in the Clunie Tartan repeat the ARGENT and AZURE from the Arms, the OR from the coat of the wolf and the Ermine to denote valour and leadership.

The Clunie tartan is available to all persons who bear the surname ‘Clunie’, Cluny, ‘Clooney’, ‘Clunes’, or any other recognised derivation, and by any other person, company or association who show good cause, and as approved by John Clunie of Aberdeen and Ben Clunie of Edinburgh, joint keepers of the tartan.

Thanks to the endeavour and patience of Mr. Ben Clunie of Edinburgh, Clunie’s, Cluny’s. Clooney’s, and Clunes wordwide are enjoying having their own official family tartan at last.

Associated Links

Tartans Scotland Online Tartan Guide (external link)

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Tartan Facts & Snippets

The original dress of the Highlander was the Celtic Feile-breacan (belted plaid). This was a piece of tartan cloth, two yards broad and four long, which was drawn round the waist in nicely adjusted folds, and tightly buckled with a belt.

Description from Chambers Encyclopaedia (1892)