I am a McLaughlin from Moville, Inishowen, Donegal, Ireland.
The lion rampant in the crest indicates royalty! The clan motto is: CUIMNIG AR DO GEALLAMNACA. The English translation is: REMEMBER YOUR PROMISES!
My people, mostly now spread all over the place, were the oldest native inhabitants of the plantation town of Moville. The clan features in the ancient annals of Ireland, and can claim royal lineage from the fifth century and a guy called Niall of the Nine Hostages! The name McLaughlin means son of Lochlain, and a McLaughlin was the last man to die King of Ireland. The clan suffered loss of status with the conquest and feudalisation of the nation. We are the people of Eoghan, and Inishowen is the Island of Eoghan.
My great great grandfather was asked to carry the coffin of Bishop Montgomery, a descendant of the planter Samuel Montgomery(and father of Montgomery of El Alamein) in recognition of his status as representative the oldest native clan. So what! They steal your lands and ask you to grieve for them!
When I get round to doing links, I'll link to some good McLaughlin sites. Meanwhile, if you want to know more.......Google!
By the way our castle is Griannan Aileach. The fort guards the entrance to the Inishownen Penislula, and is a must for anyone visiting Derry and Donegal. The view from the fort is spectacular.
