The Camerons have pride in being one of the most ancient clans in Scotland an are extremely proud of the name 'fiercer than fierceness itself'.

Originally the clan comprised three branches: the MacMartins of Letterfinlay, the MacGillionies of Strone, and the MacSorlies of Glen Nevis.

The Camerons of Lochiel originated from the Strone branch and through intermarriage with the Letterfinlay branch obtained their lands and chiefship of the clan.

The clan was associated with powerful allies and were subjects of Donald Lord of the Isles, at the Battle of Harlaw in 1411. Eventually the clan withdrew from these associations and so began a long period of feuding.

Sir Ewan of Lochiel, born in 1629 was a prominent chief who was received by King Charles II in London in 1660. He received a knightship in 1680. He fought at the Battle of Killiecrankie in 1690, and sent his son to fight in 1715 for the Jacobite cause and his grandson, known as 'the Gentle Locheil', joined the forces of Prince Charles in 1745. 'The Gentle Lochiel' was injured at Culloden but managed to flee to France, where he later died.

With the General Act of Amnesty in 1748, Donald, 22nd chief and grandson of 'The Gentle Locheil', resumed possession of the families lands after they were forfeited.