Clan Grant

Clan Grant is a Highland Scottish clan.

History

Origins

It is almost certain that the ancestors of the chiefs of Clan Grant came to Scotland with the Normans to England where the name is found soon after the conquest of that country. Although some historians have asserted that the Grants were part of the Siol Alpin group of families who descend from Alpin, father of Kenneth MacAlpin, first king of Scots. The first Grants to appear in Scotland are recorded in the 13th century when they acquired the lands of Stratherrick. One of the family married Mary, daughter of Sir John Bisset and from this marriage came at least two sons. One of these sons was Sir Laurence le Grand who became Sheriff of Inverness.

Wars of Scottish Independence

During the Wars of Scottish Independence Clan Grant were supporters of William Wallace and John and Randolph Grant were captured at the Battle of Dunbar (1296). The Clan Grant later supported Robert the Bruce in competition for the Scottish Crown. The victory of Robert the Bruce confirmed the Grants in their lands of Strathspey and despite their southern origins they became established Highland chiefs.