Remembering Sir William Macpherson
of Cluny and Blairgowrie

Had he still been alive, our late chief, Sir William Macpherson of Cluny and Blairgowrie, would have celebrated his 100th birthday today, Wednesday 1st April – no doubt to much aplomb and in great style.

1st April is also the first day of our new season at the Museum.

‘Old’ Cluny as he has affectionately come to be known, was much loved and admired and for almost 52 years led the clan, styling his role as chief as ‘first amongst equals.’

The constant at his side was his wife, Lady Sheila; together they played a central role in shaping and moulding the Association into what it is today – a lively and engaging organisation, deeply rooted in celebrating the clan’s history, welcoming and all-embracing.

Both were great supporters of the Museum, and on Sheila’s passing twenty-two years ago, an endowment fund was established to raise funds for the Museum in her name. Following the death of Sir William in 2021, the fund’s name was amended to include his name too.

Since its establishment, income from the fund’s investments has been a crucial and welcome source of revenue for the Museum. Monies have contributed to maintaining the Museum to the highest professional standards. Those present at our Gathering in 2022 will recall our current chief, Jamie, describing the Museum as ‘one of the jewels of the crown of Scotland.’

There are many ways in which the Clan Macpherson Museum can be supported. This year, we encourage readers of Creag Dhubh and friends of the Museum to consider contributing something, even something small, to the Sir William and Lady Macpherson of Cluny Museum Endowment Fund.

Members of the Association and friends of the Museum interested in finding out more can do so below.

We thank you.

Make a Donation

Welcome to the Clan Macpherson Museum

The Clan Macpherson Museum in Newtonmore shares the remarkable story of the Clan and its people. Our refurbished exhibition explores family and belonging, land and landscape, and loyalty and rebellion. In the heart of the Cairngorms, visitors can discover one of Scotland’s most prominent Highland clans — preserved through artefacts, stories, and traditions.

Experience the Story of High Resolve, Patriotism,
Loyalty, and the Jacobite Cause

Interior view of the Clan Macpherson Museum, featuring a large portrait of Ewen Macpherson of Cluny, framed artworks, and artefacts displayed in glass cases. Green gallery walls and wooden beams complete the space.

About the Museum

Learn more about our story, purpose, and historical foundations

our story
Jamie Macpherson’s broken fiddle, displayed in an open wooden case lined with red fabric.

Explore the Collection

Take a virtual tour and explore key objects that reveal the Clan’s Highland legacy

watch the tour
Exterior of the Clan Macpherson Museum in Newtonmore, with stone wall, lawns, and tartan-framed entrance sign.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to visit? Enjoy free entry, parking, accessible facilities, and family-friendly activities

visitor guide

Macpherson Legacy: A Glimpse into Our Story

Journey through highlights from the collection. The Black Chanter, the Cumberland Medallion, and portraits of Eliza and Robert each tell part of Clan Macpherson’s story.

Visit the Museum to see these stories come to life!

Adopt An Artefact

Our new adoption programme is live! Choose from 42 incredible objects across four giving tiers and be part of something special.

GET STARTED
🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢

“Incredible museum, I was taken away by the rich history, engaging displays and numerous family and children activities. Paul was extremely helpful, overall a great day out and a must see.”
Elodie M Tripadvisor Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Fantastic little museum, really well done with plenty of information and artefacts to look at. As a traveller from New Zealand on a one month European trip, was worth the stop to learn more about my MacPherson roots. Highly recommend”
Josh MGoogle Review
🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢

“Really great little museum really amazing for the fact that it’s free, well worth a quick visit if your near by lots of great facts also suitable for kids”
CSSreviewsTripadvisor Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“One of the most interesting places to walk around, very kind man explained and answered all our questions, we will be back because it needs more than one visit. It’s free to visit.”
Linda PGoogle Review
🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢

“A little gem of Scottish history. The gentleman was very kind. Recommended. Well-stocked bookshop. Historically very accurate. A must-see for anyone interested in clan history.”
paola pTripadvisor Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“We were very happy to find this lovely museum and would recommend it to anyone visiting the area. While the focus is on the Macpherson clan, it’s really about people and real life through the ages and how the past came to shape present day Scotland. The volunteer we spoke to was friendly and welcoming and we left with a good understanding of Scottish life. Do try to visit if you can.”
Tracee FGoogle Review
Heraldic shields display inside the Clan Macpherson Museum, with one shield in focus against blue walls and framed tartans.

Support the Museum

Your support helps safeguard the Clan Macpherson Museum. Through donations, membership, volunteering, or spreading the word, you help preserve our heritage for future generations.

find out more