The name Gunn is thought to be Norse in origin, the clan claiming descent from Gunni, grandson of Sweyn Asleifsson, "the Ultimate Viking" and second son of Olaf the Black, Norse King of Man and the Isles who died in 1237.

Noted for their war-like and ferocious character, they were sworn enemies of the Keiths and in 1426 at Harpsdale, south of Thurso, a particularly bloody but indecisive battle took place, after which the Gunns settled mainly in Sutherland. George Gunn held the office of Coroner of Caithness, known as "Crowner Gunn", he was one of the greatest men in the country at that time and lived in magnificent style in his castle at Clyth. He was killed through treachery in 1464 while trying to arrange a reconciliation with Clan Keith. His death was later avenged by his grandson who killed Keith of Ackergill, his son and twelve followers at Drummoy.

Feuds continued between the Gunns and the Mackays and the Earls of Caithness amd Sutherland. In 1585 the Earls attacked the Gunns who although fewer in number held their ground and slew 140 of their enemies. Only darkness prevented greater slaughter. However, the Gunns were later defeated at Lochbroom by the Earl of Sutherland. At the time of the Highland clearances in Sutherland, many of the Gunn clan were forced to emigrate to New Zealand and Canada.

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You can find out even more about Clan Gunn through the Clan Gunn Society of North America.