Gilchrist, a descendant of the Celtic Earls of Lennox, was the ancestor of this clan. Their territory was on Loch Lomondside, and they possessed Arrochar in 1230. Their 4th Chief was named Bartholomew, or Parlan in Gaelic; the clan name MacFarlane means "son of Bartholomew". They were strong and warlike and distinguished themselves in battle. They claim to have captured three standards at the Battle of Langside. Like the MacGregors, they were proscribed for a time during the 17th century, and deprived of their name and lands.