This name is common in two forms, Stevenson and Stephenson, and derives from similar sources, Steven and Stephen. These names are believed to have Norman origin and to have arrived in Scotland with the influx of persons of this descent in the 12th century.

While some derived their name from being sons of Steven or Stephen, it is also quite likely that others took their name from various 'Steven's touns' which became established. Stevenston in Ayrshire derived its name from Steven Locard (Lockhart). Steenson and Steinson, archaic forms of the name, became popular in the Borders and central Scotland - both are derived from Stein - a phonetic variation of Steven.

Whilst various forms became popular throughout Scotland, a perusal of the records shows that it was most common in Ayrshire, Glasgow, Angus and Aberdeenshire. Stevenson is the more common form in Scotland and is identified as the 50th most common name in 1990.

The name has provided many persons who excelled in various endeavours. A dynasty of Stevensons with Glasgow associations was renowned for their expertise in the design of harbours and lighthouses. Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894), author of such classics as 'Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde', 'Treasure Island' and 'Kidnapped', also descended from this family. The author's grandfather proposed that the cast iron rails used for the early railway tracks be replaced with malleable iron. Also in the technology of railway travel we must note George Stephenson who gained note in England for his work in steam propulsion, and George Stephen, a native of Banff, who pioneered the Canadian Pacific Railway.

No chief of the name has ever been identified and thus neither crest badge nor motto can exist. Scottish descent should not be claimed on evidence of name alone, nor should the fact that a Stevenson tartan exists be taken to imply that the name is exclusive to Scotland.

Recently Clan MacTavish has invited all of this name , invited in Kinship. There are three reasons why the Chief of the MacTavish has extended this invitation is,

1. the first book that the Chief can remember reading was, Robert Louis Stevensons 'Treasure Island',
2. The Chiefs grandmothers father, John Henry McTavish , senior accountant and chief land buyer for the Canadian Pacific Railway, often spoke about his friend and co-worker George Stephens, they were both present at "the driving of the last spike". These stories of the early day's of the Canadian Pacific Railway were often told within the MacTavish family.
3. A close friend of the Chief recently mentioned how sad there were because there is no Clan connection, of her maiden name, Stevenson. After extensive searching and finding that no Clan shows any connection with this fine Scottish name, and in the age old tradition of Septs, (family within a family), as well as true Scottish Kinship, the Clan MacTavish has extended this invitation .