Welcome to the 2024 - 2025 Clan Naming and New Commander Search Reference Site
This site has all the information you need about the search for a new Commander and the settling of our Clan name.
Current Status
In 2024 we initiated and completed a first attempt to Settle the Clan name since the resignation of Iain McFie in 2021. Settling the name is required before a search for a new Commander can begin.
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Unfortunately this procedure was compromised and failed to demonstrate the necessary accord within the Clan which placed it at high risk of a time penalty by the Lyon Court.
This website will reflect our current efforts and updates regarding firstly, settling our Clan name, and then finding a new Commander.
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It's important to note that the original family convention date in May 2025 has been postponed and will likely take place in May 2026. More information to come.
Council of Presidents Official Statement
Regarding Round 2
25 January 2025
The Council of Presidents puts forth a unanimous recommendation for the Clan Name for Round 2. This statement details the background of this proposal and the recommended name. More details on how input will be collected and following steps will be released shortly.
Our
Objectives:
Round 2
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Communicate a new timeline to Clan members for the process of settling the name;
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Clearly communicate eligibility requirements for participation to submit a preference;
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Encourage all Clan members to review all available information on the process;
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Communicate this action worldwide via postings; and
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Select a Clan Name with an overwhelming consensus.
Why do we have to settle the name?
The last Clan Commander, Iain McFie, resigned in 2021 due to poor health. This resignation triggered a review of our Clan's status by the Office of the Lord Lyon, King of Arms, in Scotland. The Lord Lyon's office has noted that there is no evidence of a Clan-wide agreement on a name. While there were letters from individuals and Clan Societies, there was not sufficient proof that the Clan had agreed on any name, and therefore we must go through this official process per the request of the Lord Lyon .
In July 2024 Clansfolk worldwide were asked to state their preference for one of three spellings:
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MacDuffee
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Macfie
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Dubhsith
This was referred to as Round 1. Unfortunately this procedure was compromised and failed to demonstrate the necessary accord within the Clan which placed it at high risk of a time penalty by the Lyon Court.
After much discussion the Council decided to declare the data from Round 1 invalid and to submit a request to the Lyon Court via our Supervisory Officer for more time to complete the process. Fortunately, this plea was accepted and the Clan avoided a time and financial penalty.​
Organization
Council of
Presidents
The Council of Presidents for our Clan Societies was formed in the Spring of 2023 to lead the process for finding a new Commander. The Council includes Vanessa Duffy (UK), Christer Hemberg (SWE), Gary MacPhie (CA), Kris Marsh (NZ), James McAfee (USA), Donna McDuffee (USA), Barbara McPhee (AUS) and Treasurer Finlay McFee (UK).
Consultant to the Council of Presidents:
Dr. Bruce Durie
During our Gathering in Scotland in September 2023, Dr. Bruce Durie presented to the attendees what the process of finding a new commander and eventually a Chief would entail. He held a Q&A session for attendees as an integral part of communications. Since the Gathering in Scotland the Council has made considerable progress on behalf of all Clan members worldwide with the guidance of Bruce Durie.
Supervising Officer
Professor Gillian Black
The Lord Lyon King of Arms has appointed Carrick Pursuivant Ordinary, Professor Gillian Black, as Supervising Officer to the Family Convention.
Stay up-to-date!
Check back here for details and updates as we move through
Round 2.