Need Some Clarification

[Bluescelt]

I understand a Chief's Arms are his alone and a clansman badge is the only approved use of any visual part of the Arms. Does this also include a restriction in using the Motto or War Cry? They are elements of his COA so would they fall under that rule?

Scott

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

I understand a Chief's Arms are his alone and a clansman badge is the only approved use of any visual part of the Arms. Does this also include a restriction in using the Motto or War Cry? They are elements of his COA so would they fall under that rule?

Scott

Hmm. I'm not sure how one would use the motto or war cry in other than an heraldic context. That said, mottoes are personal, but not exclusive; in other words any number of armigers could have the same motto without trespassing on each others heraldic rights.

I hope that answers your question.

[Bluescelt]

I was thinking more like if a Clan society was to use there Chief's motto on a t-shirt or something like that.

[MacMillan of Rathdown]

You could certainly display your "clan badge" on a t-shirt without any problem, but you might want to re-think displaying the motto by itself. Here's why:

Let's say your chief's motto is "semper fidelis" -- always faithful -- and you print that on a t-shirt all by itself, no crest, no strap and buckle. People could be forgiven if they thought you were a Marine, or a member of the 21 other families that use Semper Fidelis as their motto. That's why it is best, to avoid confusion, to use the entire clansman's badge to show your allegiance to clan and chief.

[Chas]

Bluescelt,

Although you have clumped them together a War cry and a Motto are two very different things and should be treated differently.

I believe that you are part of Clan Donnachaidh or Clan Robertson. If that is the case then the motto is:

Virtutis gloria merces, which can be translated as "Glory is the reward of valour". Which is all very well, but could be thought to be a bit boring.

On the other hand the war cry is:

Garg 'nuair dhùisgear, which is translated as "Fierce when roused". I think we can agree that is crying out to be shouted at the top of your voice.

The motto is part of the Chief's arms and should not be used without permission or out of context. That is to say, without the rest of the clan crest badge.

The war cry on the other hand is unregulated. In the early days, some clans changed their war cries depending on who they were fighting that week.

Whereas the motto belongs to the Chief, the war cry belongs to the clan as a whole. After all it is very hard, and not very impressive, for one man to go to war on his own. He really needs the whole clan standing behind him shouting the war cry to make an impression.

I think "Fierce When Roused", would look very good across your chest.

Regards

Chas

[Bluescelt]

Thanks MOR and Chas for the information. I enjoy learning about heraldry and realize how much more there is to learn.

Scott

[sevenoaks]

The "Battle Cry's" are yours to use" The Clan Cry's are your to use. The wisdom of your Clan is yours to live by and the history of your Clan is also yours.