Clan MacMillan Symbols

The most potent symbol of the MacMillans is the Claigh Mor, the Great Sword ,
which wielded in two hands forms the crest of the chief's personal coat of arms
and, in the belt and buckle shown below, is the badge worn by loyal clan members.

The clan motto inscribed on the belt above - Miseris Succurrere Disco - comes from Virgil and translates as "I Learn to Help the Needy" 

For the origin of the sword as a symbol amongst MacMillans and related kindreds see the story of the Lenys in the Septs section of this website.

Every Scottish clan has a plant badge - a sprig of the plant being worn in their bonnet
in the old days as a recognition symbol - and that of the MacMillans is the Holly.

It is appropriate that a clan descended from churchmen also have as a symbol the cross;
in this case, the Celtic Cross erected at Kilmory in memory of Alexander MacMillan of Knap:

Kilmory Cross