The MacLaren clan name is said to have originated from Loarn or Laurin one of the three sons of Erc who settled in Argyle in AD503.

In AD843 Kenneth MacAlpin took possession of lands when he overthrew the Southern Picts.

After this victory Kenneth MacAlpin was crowned king of all Scotland and the confiscated land was distributed between loyal followers, with the chief of the tribe of Laurin of Argyle receiving his share of the spoils.

Originating from this time Balquhidder and Strathearn became the clans main territory and have always been associated with the Clan Laren.

It is also documented that the Earls of Strathern were descendants of those who received land from MacAlpin.

In the Roll of Submission to Edward I of England dated 1296, which nobles of Scotland were compelled to sign, there is an entry for Laren of Ardveche, in Strathearn.

A reference to the Clanlawren also appears in the 1587 Roll of Clans.

It took to more modern times before the Mac suffice, meaning son of, was permanently added to the then accepted spelling of the family name Laren, giving us todays clan name MacLaren.

CREAG AN TUIRC

In the heart of the ancient clan territoy is a natural feature known as the Boars Rock. The rock was the ancient rallying place for members of the clan and it seems inevitable that the clan rallying call or war-cry should be Creag an Tuirc, which is gaelic for rock of the boar.

This motto is now shown on the clan crest.

Interesting Historical Facts

There was a longstanding clan friendship between the MacLarens and the MacGregors.

The grave of Rob Roy MacGregor is to be found in the MacLaurin (MacLaren) burial-ground at Balquhidder.

The Maclarens could claim blood ties to, and were loyal to, the Stewarts of Appin, and frequently followed them in battle.

It was a MacLaren who escaped Cumberland's troops by flinging himself over the Devil's beef-tub at Moffat.