This clan was the first that branched off from the main Clan Donald stem, probably early in the thirteenth century.
Alister Mor, Lord of the Isles and Kintyre, in 1284, was the founder. He opposed Bruce, who shut him up in Dundonald Castle on the Clyde. He died there, and his estates were given to his brother, Angus Mor, one of Bruce's supporters. As Lords of the Isles, the dynasty was overthrown by James IV, and the MacAlisters became a distinct clan at Ardpatrick in South Knapdale, Argyllshire. Their descendants were called Vic-Ian-Dhu. Mention is made of Vic-Ian-Dhu MacAlister of Loup in 1515.
The MacAlisters fought on the side of Montrose at Inverlochy in 1645. Argyll dissuaded Hector, their Chief, from being present. Hector's son, Godfrey, married a daughter of Sir Robert Montgomerie of Skelmorlie. Their son, Alexander MacAlister of Loup, fought for Dundee at Killiecrankie in 1689. His brother, Charles, married a daughter of Lamont of that Ilk. His grandson, Charles, added (by marriage) the Somerville Arms to his own. Dying in 1847, he was succeeded by his son, Charles Somerville MacAlister, who died in 1891. He was succeeded by his son, Lieut. Colonel Charles Somerville MacAlister.
The present Chief is the MacAlistair of the Loup and Kennox. Sir William Alexander of Menstrie, created Earl of Stirling, founded Nova Scotia and induced James I to found the Baronets of Nova Scotia.

Chief: MacAlistair of the Loup.
Patronymic: Mac Lain Duibh.
Clan Seat: Menstrie Castle, by Stirling
Plant: Heather (ling).