Welcome to the Clan Village!
The Decatur Celtic Festival is bigger than ever with clans attending that represent a wide and interesting history of the Celtic nations.
Clan Facts
A Scottish clan is a kinship group among the Scottish people, characterized by a shared ancestry, history, culture, and identity.
- Clans are organized around a shared surname, led by a clan chief who is responsible for the welfare of the clan members.
- Clans typically have their own distinctive tartan patterns, crests, mottos, and battle flags that identify the members.
- The clan system was historically centered in the Scottish Highlands, but also existed in other parts of Scotland.
- Clans played a central role in the political and social landscape of Scotland for many centuries, often being involved in battles and feuds with other clans.
- While clans were traditionally based on kinship, in reality, many clansmen were not actually related to the clan chief but took the chief’s surname for protection and support.
- The clan system was severely weakened by the end of the 17th century due to the Acts of Union and efforts by the British government to suppress it.
- Today, many Scottish clans still exist, with members continuing to celebrate their heritage through cultural events and gatherings.
