TARTANBLOG FROM SCOTLANDSHOP
The Murray Clan Society
Added on 29 May 2025
An Interview with Mr. Keith Murray-Hetherington JP, FSA Scot. Head Trustee (Chairman) - The Murray Clan Society: "Today, we’re pleased to feature Mr. Keith Murray-Hetherington JP, FSA Scot, Head Trustee (Chairman) of The Murray Clan Society. With a strong personal connection to Clan Murray and a deep respect for Scottish heritage, Keith has become a passionate advocate for preserving the history, traditions, and cultural legacy of one of Scotland’s great clans. As Chairman of the Society, Keith leads with a clear sense of purpose not just to honour the past, but to keep it alive for future generations. In our interview, he reflects on his own journey with the Clan, the evolving role of the Society, and what Scottish identity means in a modern world. Whether you’re part of the extended Murray family or simply interested in Scotland’s rich cultural story, Keith’s perspective offers insight, inspiration, and a strong sense of belonging". Keith's personal connection to Clan Murray:-
COULD YOU SHARE A PARTICULARLY VIVID EARLY MEMORY THAT SPARKED YOUR DEEP CONNECTION TO SCOTTISH HERITAGE, ESPECIALLY AS A MURRAY?
I am a Murray through my mother, who first sparked my deep interest in the Murray Clan when I was a child by showing me her Murray of Atholl tartan scarf. I became a life member of the Murray Clan Society in October 1981 during the International Gathering of the Clans in Edinburgh at the young age of 17 years.
BEYOND THE OFFICIAL CLAN RECORDS, ARE THERE ANY CAPTIVATING, LESSER-KNOWN STORIES ABOUT THE MURRAY LINEAGE THAT YOU FIND ESPECIALLY COMPELLING?
Secret love letters between exiled Jacobite commander Lord George Murray and his long-suffering wife Amelia reveal the lasting devotion between them despite his 14-year exile following the failed 1745 rising. The letters were often laced with pseudonyms, with numerical codes used to refer to members of their family, which was split over the Jacobite cause, to avoid detection of the lieutenant commander’s whereabouts. Lord George, a long-trusted military strategist whose relationship with Bonnie Prince Charlie ultimately disintegrated, vanished to the Netherlands following an eight-month period on the run after Culloden, with his wife remaining at the family seat of Blair Castle, Perthshire. Writing from exile in the Netherlands, the letters illustrate the depth of love between the two in terrible circumstances. It is a long distance love affair against the backdrop of conflict not only between countries, but also within the immediate family. It was said that: 'Had Prince Charles Edward Stuart slept during the whole of the expedition and allowed Lord George Murray to act for him, he would have found the crown of Great Britain on his head when he awoke'.
HOW DOES YOUR SCOTTISH HERITAGE, AND SPECIFICALLY YOUR IDENTITY AS A MURRAY, INFLUENCE YOUR DAILY LIFE?
One of the US Murrays recently wrote: “You have been putting in some seriously in-depth work into what you’ve been doing [to bring the Murray Clan Society back to life after many years of inactivity]. .. these types of projects require people with energy willing to take action, something you have clearly demonstrated”. My efforts to revive the "Home Society" as our worldwide clan occupy a lot of my time and energy on a daily basis. It is a labour of love.
IF YOU HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO WITNESS ANY MOMENT IN MURRAY CLAN HISTORY, WHICH WOULD YOU CHOOSE, AND WHY?
The Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297. The most renowned member of the clan in the early days was Sir Andrew de Moray. Although William Wallace is remembered as Scotland’s national hero, it was Moray who raised the standard at Ormond Castle, Avoch, overlooking the Moray Firth, and led an army to successfully regain control of the north. In the late summer, Moray merged his forces with those of Wallace and jointly led the combined army to victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Moray died from wounds received at the battle after leading his army to victory and was forgotten for centuries, and Wallace became a national hero. Moray’s role has been largely forgotten by many and I would like to have witnessed for myself the important role of “Scotland’s forgotten hero”.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE 'SPIRIT' OF CLAN MURRAY, AND WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU BELIEVE DEFINE A TRUE MURRAY CLANSMAN?
The Murrays are one of the great families of Scotland. As soldiers and statesmen, ambassadors and lawmakers, they have been close to the heart of Scottish affairs for centuries. The Murrays are also the most titled family in Scotland and this is as it should be since their gift for leadership has distinguished them from the beginning of their history. However, I firmly believe that history is not just about rich, upper-class, privileged men who were often the only literate group with the leisure time to devote to writing. We have a detailed understanding of their lives, but a limited view of the rest of society and very few contemporary social histories of the lower classes or women and their lives. The "spirit of the clan" is a strong sense of community, shared heritage, and identity that unites members.
DO YOU HAVE A PERSONAL FAVOURITE MURRAY TARTAN, AND WHAT FEELING DOES IT EVOKE WHEN YOU SEE OR WEAR IT?
There are are a number of Murray tartans, but only four are generally available today: Murray of Atholl (ancient); Murray of Atholl (modern), Murray of Tullibardine; and Murray of Elibank. My favourite tartan for a kilt is the ancient Murray of Atholl tartan, in the traditional pleating style associated with the Atholl Highlanders, because the colours appear more vibrant than the modern version. The modern Murray of Atholl is my preferred choice for tartan trews. These tartans evoke immense pride, a connection to ancestry, cultural traditions, and a shared sense of purpose.
WHAT VISION DID YOU HAVE FOR THE MURRAY CLAN SOCIETY WHEN YOU ASSUMED THE ROLE OF HEAD TRUSTEE & CHAIRMAN?
I decided to revive the Murray Clan Society, after it lay dormant for so long during many years of inactivity, for future generations to enjoy and learn about the Murray Clan's rich history, carrying the Society forward to a new era the legacy of the most excellent men and women who laid the foundation. I simply want to ensure the survival of the Society by stimulating interest in the history, culture, and traditions of the Clan and in the work of those who have borne the name Murray. Too often the Scottish clan societies have been old-fashioned, inward-looking, and unadventurous. My vision is to attract family groups - young and old - to join a modernised, dynamic society, and to provide a focal point for all members of the Clan from all walks of life wherever they may be and whatever their background, thus fulfilling the official motto which adorns the Murray Clan Society’s coat of arms: FORWARD WITH FORTUNE
WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE WITH THE MURRAY CLAN SOCIETY ENTAIL, AND WHAT ASPECTS DO YOU FIND MOST REWARDING?
Clan Societies have existed since the seventeenth century. They provide invaluable machinery for a clan-fund, repository for records and treasures, and virtually form the Civil Service of the clan. The role of the Convenor (Chairman) is to lead the Board of Trustees and represent the Society at events, sponsor tents and tables, and encourage membership, while also being responsible for the costs of the activities. I enjoy being the face of the Clan Society at Highland Games, Celtic festivals, and other events, as well as planning and executing activities. The most rewarding aspect of my role is meeting members of the worldwide Murray Clan from all walks of life.
HOW IS THE MURRAY CLAN SOCIETY ADAPTING TO MODERN LIFE, AND WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO ENGAGE A NEW GENERATION OF MURRAYS?
Scottish clan societies have for too long had an ageing membership base. The future of modern clan societies depends on their ability to attract and retain younger members, and their continued relevance in a globalised world. We have adapted our practices to modern society and are actively engaging in innovative ways to connect with younger generations, to remain relevant in the 21st century. This involves utilising online platforms and increased use of technology for community engagement while also exploring innovative ways to connect members, share information, and promote their heritage in a digital age.
FOR SOMEONE UNFAMILIAR WITH CLAN SOCIETIES, WHAT IS THE MOST COMPELLING REASON TO CONNECT WITH THEIR HERITAGE THROUGH SUCH AN ORGANISATION?
We have strong international networks, allowing people to connect with members and share resources across borders. For some, we provide a sense of community and belonging, especially in a world where social isolation is a growing concern. We take a strictly unbiased position regarding political matters, but the old road is rapidly ageing and the times they are a changing, and we can be relevant to modern issues such as social justice, environmentalism, and community development. For example, we have adopted one acre on Schiehallion, which will care for and protect an acre of mountain landscape for one year. It's a poignant spot in the heart of our clan territory with sweeping views over Atholl. Our gift will help restore native woodland there and improve a wide range of other habitats including heather moorland and bog, home to a variety of wildlife including red deer, hares, ptarmigan, and the threatened black grouse. Members of the Murray clan throughout the world can visit Schiehallion for themselves and see first-hand how we are making a difference.
BEYOND THE MURRAY CLAN, WHAT ASPECT OF BROADER SCOTTISH CULTURE DO YOU CONSIDER MOST VITAL TO PRESERVE?
One of my goals is to purchase a small piece of ground in the clan territory (Perthshire) to remember members of the clan in a unique and special way, and to provide a lasting and living legacy for generations to come. A quarter of an acre of woodland has already been dedicated in a grove at Moncrieffe Hill in memory of the founder members of the Murray Clan Society and all the clansmen and clanswomen of the Murray Clan past and present throughout the world. It is a magical mix of broadleaf and conifer woodland, unusual wild flowers, and fascinating wildlife including red squirrels, roe deer, and both green and great spotted woodpeckers. Moncreiffe Hill is also home to a sculpture trail and two iron-age hill forts offering spectacular views of the Tay and Earn valleys, so there's plenty of historic interest too, and parking is available for visitors.
IF YOU COULD IMPART ONE LASTING MESSAGE ABOUT SCOTTISH HERITAGE TO FUTURE GENERATIONS, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Scotland's story is a tapestry woven from centuries of history, legend, and community spirit. Scottish culture is alive with traditions and resilience forged through conflict and hardship. Discover the beauty of Scotland’s landscapes and the enduring power of traditions like the Highland Games and clan societies. Celebrate your heritage and ensure it continues to inspire and unite for generations to come. Learn about your history, embrace your culture, and keep your traditions alive!
"We extend our sincere thanks to Keith for sharing his time, stories, and insights. His dedication to Clan Murray and the preservation of Scottish heritage is both inspiring and deeply appreciated. To learn more about The Murray Clan Society, its history, and how you can get involved, visit clanmurray.spanglefish.org".