Mclean Family Genealogy & History

Don McLean, born Donald McLean III on October 2, 1945, is an iconic American singer-songwriter and guitarist, celebrated for his enduring hit "American Pie." Known as the "American Troubadour," McLean's career highlights include classics like "Vincent," "Dreidel," and "Castles in the Air." His songs have been covered by legends such as Elvis Presley and Madonna, and he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004. With millions of airplays, McLean's music continues to resonate, marking him as a cultural touchstone in folk rock history.

McLean's family history is rich with cultural diversity. He descends from Scottish ancestry through his father and grandfather, both named Donald McLean, and Italian roots from his mother, Elizabeth Bucci, whose family hailed from Abruzzo, Italy. Raised in New Rochelle, New York, McLean's upbringing included delivering newspapers as a boy, and his family extends to relatives in Los Angeles and Boston.

Emily Nelson Ritchie McLean was a prominent American civic leader and the 7th president general of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). Serving from 1905 to 1909, she played a pivotal role in constructing Memorial Continental Hall and establishing the first DAR scholarship for Berry College. An influential figure in patriotic and civic circles, she was often compared to President Roosevelt for her leadership. As a charter member of the New York City DAR chapter, McLean significantly contributed to the organization's development and outreach.

Emily was born into a distinguished family in Frederick, Maryland. Her father, John Ritchie, was a lawyer and politician, while her mother, Betty Nelson Maulsby Ritchie, was a civic leader. Her paternal lineage included Albert Ritchie, a physician, and Catharine Lackland Davis Ritchie, connected to the Frederick County Militia. On her maternal side, she descended from Colonel William P. Maulsby and Brigadier General Roger Nelson, reflecting a rich heritage of public service and leadership.

Rear Admiral Ridley McLean was a distinguished two-star admiral in the United States Navy, known for his significant contributions to naval operations and communication. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, he authored the influential Bluejacket's Manual, served as Judge Advocate General, and pioneered shortwave communication in the Navy. During World War I, McLean commanded the USS New Hampshire, escorting allied convoys, and later became Director of Naval Communications, advancing naval communication technologies. Post-war, he commanded Battleforce Submarines and fought for submarine sustainability. His career highlights underscore his impact on naval strategy and technology.

Ridley McLean was born in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, to Thornton and Sallie (Ridley) McLean. His father, Thornton, the son of Kentucky Congressman Finis Ewing McLean, worked in banking. After Sallie's death shortly after Ridley's birth, he and his father moved to California. Following his father's death, Ridley was cared for by his maternal uncle, Army Captain B.L. Ridley, before embarking on a distinguished naval career.

Gavin McLean, born on April 13, 1965, is a prominent New Zealand fencer recognized for his participation in the 1992 Summer Olympics. Competing in the individual épée event, McLean showcased his exceptional skills on an international stage, marking a significant highlight in his athletic career. As a New Zealand Olympian, his achievements contribute to the rich history of fencing and sports in the country, making him a notable figure among fencing enthusiasts and sports historians alike.