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Exploring Scottish Clans: Stories and Histories

Clan Anderson

The Clan Anderson is recognized as a Scottish clan by the Lord Lyon King of Arms, although it is currently considered an armigerous clan as it does not have a recognized chief. The surname Anderson, meaning Son of Andrew, is commonly found throughout Scotland as Saint Andrew is the patron saint of the country. The Scottish Gaelic derivation of the name is Gilleaindreas, meaning servant of Andrew.

Although arms were granted to an Anderson of that ilk in the 16th century, the name is so widespread that no exact place of origin can be established. Historian George Fraser Black lists Andersons as being burgesses of Peebles as well as in the county of Dumfries. Famous Andersons include mathematician Alexander Anderson and scientist David Anderson of Finshaugh, who removed a rock obstructing the entrance to Aberdeen harbor using science and mechanics. David's wife, Jean Anderson, was a noted philanthropist.

In the 20th century, the name is remembered for the famous Anderson shelters, a type of bomb shelter designed by John Anderson, 1st Viscount Waverley, during World War II. The Clan Anderson Society was formed in 1973 and is active throughout North America, with a clan room and archival display maintained at Wyseby House in Kirtlebridge, Dumfriesshire. The society was granted letters patent for a coat of arms by Lyon Court in 2014.

Although the Clan Anderson has no cadet branches due to its lack of a recognized chief, major families have been identified, including Anderson of Ardbrake & Westerton (whose crest is used by Andersons as a clansman's crest badge), Anderson of Kinneddar, Anderson of Noth, Anderson of Newbiggin & Kingask, Anderson of Dowhill & Stobcross, Anderson of Linkwood, Anderson of Inchyra & Stonyhill, Seton-Anderson of Mounie, and Anderson of Candacraig.

In the Scottish Highlands, the surname MacAndrew is considered a sept of the Clan Mackintosh or Chattan Confederation, and MacAndrews were also associated with the Clan MacDonell of Glengarry. The surnames Andrew and Andrews are also considered septs of the Highland Clan Ross.

The Clan Anderson's motto is Stand Sure, and its crest is an oak tree proper. The tartan, first seen in 1815 when collected by the "Highland Society of London," has an azure field and is one of several Scottish tartans woven with seven colors.

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