[2] The early chiefs of the Clan MacThomas ruled from the Thom, which was opposite the Spittal of Glenshee on the east bank of the Shee Water.

[2] However the chief of Clan MacThomas withdrew his support from Montrose after he was defeated at the Battle of Philiphaugh and instead devoted his time to extending his lands which included purchasing the Barony of Forter from the Earl of Airlie.

[2] Airlie's legal action was successful but the chief of Clan MacThomas refused to recognize this and continued to pasture his cattle on the disputed land.

[2] In response Airlie used his legal right to lease the land to men of the Clan Farquharson which led to a feud.

Other clansfolk moved to Aberdeenshire where one William McCombie of Tillyfour MP, became famous for breeding Aberdeen-Angus cattle.

When he died George left his fortune (£7.0 million in today's terms) to St Magnus Cathedral in Orkney, together with the Aberlemno Estate.

His heir, Alfred, the 17th chief, contested the will in a famous court case in Edinburgh in 1905 but lost to the shocked dismay of his family.

In 1954, the Clan MacThomas Society was founded by Patrick, 18th chief, who married a third cousin of Elizabeth II.