About the Museum
History & Growth
The Clan Macpherson Museum first opened its doors in 1952 to house Clan treasures previously kept by individuals. Over the years, it has grown in both size and stature and now features a wide-ranging collection of artefacts and objects of historical importance.
Today, in the Highland village of Newtonmore, the Museum houses a collection of significance to both Scotland and the global Macpherson community.
Exhibits & Layout
Organised as a chronological journey, the Museum exhibits guide visitors through the history of Clan Macpherson. Artefacts, Jacobite memorabilia, personal items, and documents illustrate how the Clan has evolved from its early origins to the present day.
Visitors can explore a series of themed displays highlighting key moments in Clan Macpherson’s history and heritage. The Museum galleries were refurbished in 2020.
Touch Not The Cat
But A Glove
The Clan Macpherson motto, Touch Not the Cat But a Glove, warns of the wildcat’s strength when its claws are unsheathed. It is a symbol of power and caution, holding special meaning for the Macphersons. The motto is also used by other clans of the Clan Chattan Confederation.
In Gaelic: Na bean don chat gun lamhainn — ‘Be wary of the ungloved cat.’
Clan Leadership
The role of Chief has long been central to Clan identity, serving as both leader and guardian of Macpherson traditions.
James B. Macpherson of Cluny is the 28th Chief of Clan Macpherson. He resides in Scotland and remains actively involved in Clan events and within the Museum.
To learn more, visit The Clan Chief page
Charity & Donations
The Museum is owned and operated as a registered Scottish charity: the Clan Macpherson Museum Trust (Charity No. SC020005). It receives no government or local authority funding and relies entirely on visitor donations and support from members of the Clan Macpherson Association.
As a self-funded charity, the Clan Macpherson Museum depends on the generosity of its community. Whether through volunteering, membership, or donations, your support helps us to grow and to continue sharing our story.
Trustees & MAC Members
The Clan Macpherson Museum is governed by its Trustees, who act in accordance with the standards set by the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR). Working with care and diligence, they oversee the Museum’s charitable purpose, financial integrity, and strategic direction.
The Trustees are also members of the Museum Advisory Committee (MAC), whose role is to advise and support them. Sub-committees within the MAC contribute to maintaining the Museum’s presentation, operations, and visitor experience.
Trustees
- Alexander Macpherson, Yr of Pitmain (Convenor)
- Adam de Totth
- Angus C S Macpherson of Biallid
- Annie Le Roy-Lewis
- Bonnie A McPherson
- Bruce J S Macpherson
- Donna McPherson Rucks
- Ian Macpherson
- Ewen S L Macpherson (Trustee Emeritus)
- Ex-Officio Clan Macpherson Association Vice Chairman
Museum Advisory Committee
- Allan Macpherson Fletcher (Chairman)
- Valerie Macpherson (Treasurer)
- Joyce Cattanach (Secretary)
- Bo Gillies
- Denise Lagundzin
- George McPherson
- Helen Barton
- Morrigan Alcorn McIlwraith
Accreditations & Achievements
Formally accredited by Museums Galleries Scotland and Arts Council England, the Clan Macpherson Museum is recognised for its commitment to preserving and presenting our heritage to a professional standard.
The Museum also proudly holds Four-Star Museum status from VisitScotland, affirming its excellence in visitor experience and cultural value.
Commitment to Fair Work
The Clan Macpherson Museum actively supports the Scottish Government’s Fair Work First, which includes paying the real Living Wage, promoting staff development, and fostering an inclusive environment. This reflects our wider commitment to respect and continuous improvement.