The clan MacIvor or MacIver can be traced in Argyllshire from the 13th century. The chief was MacIver of Lergachonie, afterwards of Asknish.

Several of the MacIvers assumed the name of Campbell, and others that of MacUre. Branches are be found in Ross and Caithness, and the name is common on the Isle of Lewis.

Charles MacIver (1811-1885), born in Glasgow, went to Liverpool where, with his brother David, he founded the firm of D. & C. MacIver. They managed the Liverpool end of the well-known Cunard Steamship Co., of which David was a founder. Charles, a keen volunteer, raised a corps amongst the Cunard Line staff, of which he became Colonel.