Clan Names
How did Scottish clans traditionally get their name? I believe that in most cases, the name came from the first clan chief, but not always. For example, Gilchrist was the first chief of Clan MacFarlane way back in 1225. It was not until 1329 when Parlan (the great grandson of Gilchrist) became clan cheif, did the current clan name, 'MacFarlane' (son of Parlan) come about.
Are there other clans who's name does not come from the first chief?
Who decides a clan's name? Is it part of the charter (thus the Earl, Duke or King making the charter)
or
the chief that decides
or
something that the Lord Lyon comes up with
or
something else entirely?
Would the answers to my questions vary depending on the time being discussed?
Can anyone point me to a good reference explaining these things?
Michael the Farlander
Loch Sloy!
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