Clan MacLeod
also McLeod
Of Dunvegan, on Skye — keepers of the Fairy Flag.
Draft entry · awaiting community review
Motto
Hold Fast
What does the MacLeod name mean?
Son of Leod — from the Old Norse 'Ljótr', a 13th-century chief said to be a younger son of Olaf the Black, King of the Isle of Man.
The history of Clan MacLeod
The MacLeods descend from Leod, a 13th-century chief of Norse-Gaelic origin, traditionally said to be a younger son of Olaf the Black, King of Man and the Isles. Their seat is Dunvegan Castle on Skye — among the oldest continuously inhabited castles in Britain.
Two principal branches emerged: the MacLeods of Harris and Dunvegan, and the MacLeods of Lewis. Dunvegan still holds the famous Fairy Flag — said to grant the clan victory three times when unfurled in battle.
Like many Highland clans the MacLeods suffered through the Jacobite period and the Clearances. Yet the chief's line has remained continuous, and the clan retains an international diaspora gathered around Skye.
Notable bearers of the MacLeod name
- Dame Flora MacLeod of MacLeod, 28th chief
Frequently asked
What does the surname MacLeod mean?
Where does the MacLeod family come from?
What is the Clan MacLeod motto?
Who are some famous MacLeods?
Is McLeod the same family as MacLeod?
Editor notes
- · Verify tradition of descent from Olaf the Black; some scholars dispute this lineage.