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As technology continues to move us in the future, people around the world are utilizing it to become more connected to their past. With DNA tests revealing both recent and distant ancestors, digitized records that allow people to search through generations, and the wealth of resources available to both professional and hobby genealogists, people continue to be fascinated by family histories. For those with Scottish ancestry, researching clans can be a powerful connection to the lives of their ancestors.
Family ties have always played an important role in Celtic culture. While Celts are spread throughout a broad area of Europe, Scotland recognizes family groups as clans. Meaning "children or offspring," clans are groups of families related to the Chief either through direct blood relation or allegiance. They are spread across Scotland, with major clans having a castle where the Chief lived. Clans and septs (family names other than the Chief's clan name but whose allegiance lie with him) lived in the surrounding area. Some of the most recognizeable clan symbols include a chief, motto, badge, crest, and tartan.
Some clans recognize over 100 different surnames as septs of their clan, determined either by the main clan or through geographical proximity. Clan societies exist around the globe, and many are represented this weekend at the Skagit Valley Highland Games, many with active chapters in Washington. Clan societies all have different criteria for membership (some accept anyone who shows an interest in their clan, others only accept those with a matching surname or sept name under their clan). For those who are just getting started with research on their clans or Scottish ancestry, groups such as the Skagit Valley Genealogical Society offer a variety of resources. Clans continue to be a rich part of modern Celtic culture, and we invite guests to learn more.
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