Hi everyone, I have a supplement in today's paper about a Celtic Heritage Festival here in Richmond this week.Below is a excerpt from the supplement: All About Clans: The word "clan" is derived from the Gaelic word "clann" meaning the children,offspring,or descendents.A "clan" is usually of a sufficient size to have established a territory and is likely to have a clan chief. Within the Scottish Highlands,in the 12th and 13th centuries the concept of "clan"grew beyond immediate family to cover an extended network of people who felt they had loyalites to a particular clan or chief. Conquests,alliances,and marriages often increased the clan territory. Eventually, as a Scottish monarchy became established and exercised control,the allocation of clan lands would be granted,or at least authorized by the king. The clan chief had duties which included providing help and support to clan members,resolution of disputes and exercising justice.The clan chief could also demand that clan members join him either in defending clan lands or in raids on adjoing territory to acquire more land,cattle, provisions,or to seek revenge against a rival clan.Over time,male sucession became the norm(although in modern times clan chiefs may be male or female). These days cheftainship is usually inherited from the previous chief, down the bloodline.In instances where a family dies out because the chief had no children,some genealogical research might be required. Many clans are associated with a specific area or areas.Many of the clan tents and several resources on the internet will have a map showing many of thses areas.However,there has always been movement of individuals and families.Although there is no definitive list of all clans there are many resources available online that can assist those that desire to research their own clan roots. I think I will try to hit this festival this weekend and see what I find! Denah _________________________________________________________________ Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com