Controversy Over Clan Murray Cap Badges

On her tour of Perthshire in 1844 Queen Victoria was so impressed by the Duke of Atholl's regiment during her visit to Scotland that in 1845 she awarded them regimental colours, making them the only private army in the UK, indeed in Europe.

Past members of the regiment served in wars including the first and second world wars, although the regiment itself has not seen active service..

Today their role is to defend Blair Castle; The role of the regiment is on the whole a ceremonial one! The regiment is made up of around 100 men, incluidng piper and drummers. Those attending the two day Gathering at the end of May will most likely get the chance to see them on parade in all their finery! They also go on parade of tours overseas or when members of the royal family visit.

The regiment wears tartan of the Clan Murray of Atholl, their cap badge bears the clan arms approved by the Duke of Atholl, which it wears along with a sprig of juniper, which is the clan's plant, and is presented by the Duke on his annual inspection. The Duke of Atholl personally appoints the member of the regiment, and conducts an annual inspection of the regiment..

Inspired by the regiment, an American pipe band formed under the name Atholl Highlanders Pipes and Drums USA. Receiving permision from the Duke of Atholl to wear the clan badge and tartan. To date the only pipe band to perform at the Super Bowl!

The Murray of Atholl tartan, available in Reiver a light worsted wool suitable for tailored items, Braeriach, in a medium weight worsted wool suitable for kilts, and strome, a heavyweight 8oz tartan synonymous with the 8 yard kilt is a in weathered, modern and Ancient varieties.

As well as the Murray of Atholl tartan, members of the clan can wear the clan crest badge displayed on a bonet, shawl or sash..

Although the clan was allowed three different three crest badges, however in the1970s, the Lord Lyon decided that the Demi-Savage badge was inappropriate. The decison on heraldic matters being final in law - all manufacture of the badges was discontinued.. The 10th Duke of Atholl in his position as head of the Murray Clan strongly disagreed with this decision and appealed to the Court of the Lord Lyon to reconsider. The issue was resolved in 1980, when the Lord Lyon agree that the Demi-savage creast could be used and it became and remains the official clan badge..