Clan Culture & Traditions
Clan Grant Tartan
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The Grant tartan and Grant Hunting tartan symbolize clan unity and tradition. Once associated with regional dress, they are now worn proudly at formal events, gatherings, and ceremonies.
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Grant (1819) / Grant Modern/Ancient: The primary tartan, registered in 1819, designed by Wilsons of Bannockburn, with lighter colours for the "Ancient" version.
Grant 1714: An early, historical red and green tartan based on portraits from that era, authorized by the current chief. More information can be found by following this link Clan Grant 1714 tartan
Grant Hunting: A muted green and blue pattern with a darker base, also known as the Black Watch tartan due to the clan's early involvement in the regiment.
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Grant of Rothiemurchus: A specific variant with distinct red, green, and blue stripes, tied to the Rothiemurchus branch.
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• Bruce / Bruce New: Often linked to the Grants, with the "New Bruce" being the original name for the 1819 Grant tartan before its widespread adoption.
• Other Branch Tartans: Variations like Grant of Achnarrow, Grant of Edinchat, and Grant of Monymusk exist.
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​​​​​Who Wears Grant Tartan? - Associated Names
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​Allan, Allen, Allanson
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Bisset, Bissett
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Bowie, Buie
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Gilroy, MacGilroy, McGilroy, MacIlroy, McIlroy
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MacAllan, MacCallan
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MacKerran, MacKerron, McKerran, MacKiaran, McKiaran
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MacKessock, MacKissock, McKessock
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More (Muckleroy, Muir of Drumcork)
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Pratt
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Suttie ​
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Crest & Motto​
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​​​Craigellachie — The Rock of Alarm
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Craigellachie derives from the Gaelic Creag Eileachaidh, commonly understood as “rocky hill.” Within Clan Grant tradition, it came to be known as the Rock of Alarm, reflecting its historic role rather than a literal translation. The site refers to a prominent crag overlooking Strathspey in present-day Moray, near the modern town of Aviemore, and historically associated with the boundary between Badenoch and Strathspey.
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For generations, Craigellachie held strategic importance for Clan Grant. In times of threat or when the clan was summoned to assemble, fires were lit on the height, serving as a visible signal across the surrounding countryside. These beacon fires acted as a call to arms, enabling Grant men to gather quickly in defense of their lands and people.
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From this practice arose the enduring clan war cry and motto, “Stand Fast, Craigellachie!” The phrase expressed both physical resolve—holding firm at the rallying place—and a deeper commitment to loyalty, unity, and steadfastness in the face of adversity.
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The image of Craigellachie aflame became a lasting symbol of the clan’s readiness and cohesion and was later adopted into the Clan Grant crest. Long after its use as a military signal ended, Craigellachie remained embedded in the clan’s cultural memory. Today, the motto continues to represent the values of Clan Grant and is recognized across clan societies, heritage events, and institutions connected to the Grant name.
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​​Things to come...
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​Highland Traditions
Clan Grant culture reflects classic Highland traditions:
Military service and leadership
Gaelic influence in early clan life
Music, piping, and ceremonial gatherings
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