"As a member of Clan MacNeil, you are entitled
to wear the Crest of the Clan Chief as a "Badge." The crest must be surrounded by a belt or "Garter". On this
belt is written the motto of the Clan. In the case of Clan MacNeil of Barra, the motto in Gaelic is "Buaidh No Bas"
the motto in Latin is "Vincere Vel Mori." Both mottos can be translated as "Victory or Death" or "Conquer or
Die." The crest of MacNeil of Barra is a Rock.
In the case of Clan MacNeil of Colonsay/Gigha,
the Latin motto is styled as "Vincere Aut Mori", and the crest is an upraised armoured dexter arm grasping a
dagger. Both crests are set upon a wreath or torse. In some badges the crest may be depicted set upon a Chapeau or "Cap of
Maintenance" as seen in the Arms of the Chief.
The badge, when displayed
as an ornament, wall hanging, on stationery, on a tee shirt, etc. by a member of the Clan should bear the Gaelic phrase "An
Cirean Ceann Cinnidh." This is closely translated as "The Crest of the Clan Chief." This will indicate that you are
a member of the Clan and that you are not claiming the crest as "yours", but that the right to display it is granted by your
membership in the clan." From Clan MacNeil Web Site.
