Honored Clan 2026: Clan Graham

The Tallahassee Highland Games proudly recognize Clan Graham as the Honored Clan of 2026. The Clan Graham Society will be gathering with us during the Games weekend, including their Annual General Meeting (AGM).

View Schedule and Festival Guide Get 2026 Tickets

Honored Guests and Clan Leadership

We are honored to welcome Clan Graham Society leadership during the Games weekend as the Society conducts its AGM and joins us as honored guests throughout the festival. This includes the Society’s North American Chieftain, Richard Graham, and the President of the Clan Graham Society (USA).

In honor of Clan Chief: His Grace, James Graham, the 8th Duke of Montrose

North American Chieftain: Richard Graham (1989 to present)

In the Clan Graham Society, the North American Chieftain serves as the Chief’s appointed representative for North America. This role supports continuity of tradition, formal leadership presence, and stewardship of clan community life across the region.

Welcome Richard Graham, North American Chieftain

Richard Graham, born in 1941 in Surrey, England, is the second Chieftain of Clan Graham in North America and served as President of the Clan Graham Society from 1983 to 2008. A chartered engineer by training, he emigrated to the United States in 1969 and built a long career with Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation (now Smurfit WestRock), retiring after 40 years of service.

He has served in Scottish community leadership roles and helped guide the Society through growth and major heritage projects, including fundraising and restoration work, incorporation of the Society, and obtaining armorial bearings through petition to the Lord Lyon. In 1989, the 7th Duke of Montrose appointed him as Chieftain of the Grahams in North America, and the 8th Duke of Montrose later reaffirmed the position.

Welcome Clan Graham Society (USA) President

The President of the Clan Graham Society (USA) will also be in attendance during the Games weekend. Their presence alongside the Chieftain reflects the importance of this gathering as the Society conducts its AGM and participates fully as the Honored Clan of 2026.

Leadership details: Clan Graham Society Leadership Page

Connect with the Clan Graham Society

Website: ClanGrahamSociety.org
Email: info@clangrahamsociety.org
Facebook: facebook.com/ClanGrahamSociety

Grahams are encouraged to gather, fly the banner, and meet kin during the weekend. Visit the Clan Graham Society tent for information, connection, and community.

Return of the Tartan

After the 1746 Dress Act restricted Highland dress, efforts associated with the Highland Society of London and the 3rd Duke of Montrose, James Graham, helped prompt the repeal in 1782, restoring the right to wear tartan. It is a meaningful chapter in the cultural revival of Highland identity.

Motto and Crest

Motto: Ne Oublie (Do Not Forget)

The Clan Graham Society belted crest badge is derived from the Chief’s Coat of Arms: a golden eagle attacking a heron inside a buckled belt bearing the motto “Ne Oublie.” The Chief’s crest was updated to a golden eagle in 2002 when a new standard was awarded by the Lord Lyon King of Arms.

Grahams wear the badge to show allegiance and respect to the Chief, reflecting long standing heraldic traditions.

Castles and Places

Mugdock Castle

Just north of Glasgow, Mugdock Castle is historically connected to the Grahams and the Marquess of Montrose. Visitors today can explore the grounds and surrounding country park. Learn more: mugdock-country-park.org.uk

Dalkeith Country Park

Dalkeith has historical connections to early Graham holdings in Scotland. Today, the grounds are part of Dalkeith Country Park. Visit: dalkeithcountrypark.co.uk

We cannot wait to see the tartans fly in 2026

Tha e na urram dhuinn aoigheachd a' thoirt don chinneadh agad.
It is our honor to host your clan.