Clan MacGillivray are believed to have been living in north-western Scotland even before the arrival of King Somerled, the man from whom much of the clans in the area (particularly Clan Donald) would originate.
The clan would go on to control lands in Inverness-shire and settled at their historic seat, Dunmaglass. The castle was held by the clan from at least the 16th century.
The clan does not currently have a chief. However, Iain Donald MacGillivray was nominated as commander of the clan in 2016 and, after a period of 10 years will be allowed to apply for the role of chief.