This branch of the Clan Donald traces its history back to the thirteenth century, and its origin to Alexander, or Alasdair, son of Donald of Islay and great grandson of the famous Somerled. The clan territory was principally in Kintyre, and in 1481 Charles Macallestar is designated Steward of Kintyre. Later the clan was numerically strong in Bute and Arran.

The principal family was the MacAlisters of Loup whose chieftain in 1493 was Iain Dubh. This family continued to figure prominently in the history of Kintyre, and their names appears in the General Band of King James VI. In 1587. Alexander MacAlister of Loup supported James VII. And fought under Viscount Dundee at Killiecrankie, and in the following year he was present at the Battle of Boyne.

His son Hector died without issue, and was succeeded by his brother Charles, who married a daughter of Lamont of Lamlont. Their son Charles married Janet Somervill, heiress of Kennox, and assumed the name and arms of Somervill in addition to his own. An important brance of the clan was the MacAlisters of Tarbert, who were Constables of Tarbert Castle, a stronghold on Loch Fyne built by King Robert the Bruce.

Crest: A dexter hand holding a dirk in pale, both proper. Badge: Heath.