Clan MacKay crest: Manu Forti

The Clan Mackay is an ancient and once powerful Scottish clan from the country's far north in the Scottish Highlands, but with roots in the old province of Moray. They played a powerful force in politics beginning in the 12th century, supporting Robert the Bruce. Mackays became famous for strength, courage and skill in soldiering and were involved in endless clan battles against Keiths, Rosses, Gunns, Sinclairs, Sutherlands and others, and wars abroad. In the centuries that followed they were very anti-Jacobite. They played an important role in the military activities of both Scotland and Europe. The Highland Clearances had dire ramifications for the clan, but since then they spread throughout the world and have provided it many famous and influential descendants. Image File history File links MacKayCrest. ... Image File history File links MacKayCrest. ... Clan map of Scotland Scottish clans (from Old Gaelic clann, children), give a sense of identity and shared descent to people in Scotland and to their relations throughout the world, with a formal structure of Clan Chiefs officially registered with the court of the Lord Lyon, King of Arms which... The Scottish Highlands are the mountainous regions of Scotland north and west of the Highland Boundary Fault. ... (11th century - 12th century - 13th century - other centuries) As a means of recording the passage of time, the 12th century was that century which lasted from 1101 to 1200. ... Robert I, King of Scots (Mediaeval Gaelic:Roibert a Briuis; modern Scottish Gaelic: Raibeart Bruis; Norman French: Robert de Brus or Robert de Bruys; 11 July 1274 – 7 June 1329), usually known in modern English as Robert the Bruce, was King of Scotland from 1306 until his death in 1329. ... Charles Edward Stuart, Bonnie Prince Charlie, wearing the Jacobite blue bonnet Jacobitism was (and, to a very limited extent, remains) the political movement dedicated to the restoration of the Stuart kings to the thrones of England and Scotland. ... The Highland Clearances (Scottish Gaelic: Fuadaich nan Gàidheal, the expulsion of the Gael) is a name given to the forced displacement of the population of the Scottish Highlands from their ancient ways of warrior clan subsistence farming, leading to mass emigration. ...

Battles & History

Origins of the Clan

Map of Dál Riata at its height, c. 580–600, in green. Pictish regions are marked in yellow.

Clan map showing MacKay territory in Strathnaver

The MacKays are believed to descend from the ancient tribes that existed in Scotland called the Picts. However the name is also found from ancient times in Holland where the MacKays became noted for their many branches in the region. Each house acquiring a status and influence that was envied by the princess of the region. The name MacKay is also found in Ireland from ancient times when several tribes from the northern area of Ireland, which was once part of one of the ancient Scottish kingdoms known as Dál Riata, moved across the sea to Scotland. The MacKays in Scotland were seated in Strathnaver north of Sutherlandshire. Although the exact origin of the Clan MacKay is unknown it is generally accepted that they belonged to the early Celtic population of Scotland, although, from their proximity to the Norse immigrants, it is not at all improbable that latterly the two races became largely blended. Image File history File links Extent of the Kingdom of Dalriada (in green), c. ... Image File history File links Extent of the Kingdom of Dalriada (in green), c. ... Dál Riata (also Dalriada or Dalriata) was a Goidelic kingdom on the western seaboard of Scotland and the northern coasts of Ireland, situated in the traditional Scottish and Northern Irish counties of Argyll, Bute and County Antrim. ... A replica of the Hilton of Cadboll Stone. ... Image File history File links MunroMap. ... Image File history File links MunroMap. ... Motto (Latin) No one provokes me with impunity Cha togar mfhearg gun dioladh (Scottish Gaelic) Wha daur meddle wi me?(Scots)1 Anthem (Multiple unofficial anthems) Scotlands location in Europe Capital Edinburgh Largest city Glasgow Official languages English, Gaelic and Scots1 Government Constitutional monarchy  -  Monarch Queen Elizabeth II... A replica of the Hilton of Cadboll Stone. ... Holland is a region in the central-western part of the Netherlands with a population of 6. ... Dál Riata (also Dalriada or Dalriata) was a Goidelic kingdom on the western seaboard of Scotland and the northern coasts of Ireland, situated in the traditional Scottish and Northern Irish counties of Argyll, Bute and County Antrim. ... Strathnaver or Strath Naver (Scottish Gaelic, Srath Nabhair) is the valley or strath of the River Naver, Scotland, in the Sutherland area of Highland. ... This article is about the Scottish county of Sutherland. ... This article is about the European people. ... Norseman redirects here; for the town of the same name see Norseman, Western Australia. ...

The most popular and accepted theory as to the origins of the chieftenship of the Clan MacKay, is that the chief was descended from the Pictish Royal House of MacEth. It is said that his clansmen were originally from Ireland, following two brothers deported after battle loss for the kingship in 335 A.D. They settled in Moray but were dispersed principally north to the Strathnaver region by order of King Malcolm IV of Scotland in 1160 who defeated Malcolm MacEth, Earl of Ross whose daughter Gormalth married the Norse Harold, Earl of Caithness. Their son was called MacHeth who was raised to the chieftenship of his Clan MacKay in 1250. The Picts inhabited Caledonia (Scotland), north of the River Forth. ... Moray (pronounced Murray, spelled A Moireibh in Gaelic) is one of the 32 council areas of Scotland. ... Strathnaver or Strath Naver (Scottish Gaelic, Srath Nabhair) is the valley or strath of the River Naver, Scotland, in the Sutherland area of Highland. ... Malcolm IV (or Máel Coluim mac Eanric) (c. ... The MacHeths were a Gaelic kindred who raised several rebellions against the Scotto-Norman kings of Scotland in the 12th and 13th centuries. ... The title Earl of Caithness has been created several times in the Peerage of Scotland, and has a very complex history. ... The MacHeths were a Gaelic kindred who raised several rebellions against the Scotto-Norman kings of Scotland in the 12th and 13th centuries. ...

Scottish-Norwegian War

• 1260 - Iye Mor MacHeth married a daughter of Bishop Walter of Caithness.

• 1263 - The Clan MacKay participated in the Battle of Largs fighting in support of King Alexander III of Scotland. The Norwegian forces of King Haakon IV of Norway were defeated.

The Battle of Largs took place in Largs, North Ayrshire in 1263 between Scotland and the forces of King Magnus III of Man and the Isles as well as the manxmens ally, King Haakon IV of Norway. ... Coronation of King Alexander on Moot Hill, Scone. ... An illustration of Hákon, King of Norway, and his son Magnus, from Flateyjarbók Håkon IV (1204 – December 16, 1263), (Norwegian Håkon Håkonsson, Old Norse Hákon Hákonarson) also called Haakon the Old. ...

Wars of Scottish Independence

• 1296 - During the Wars of Scottish Independence the Clan MacKay fight under William Wallace at the Battle of Stirling Bridge where they helped defeat the English.
• 1314 - Clan MacKay fight under Robert the Bruce at the Battle of Bannockburn where they helped defeat the English.
• 1371 - Murder of the Mackay chieftains, father and son, at Dingwall.
• Raid of Dornoch 1372; The long feud between the MacKays and Clan Sutherland first came to a head in 1372, when Nicholas Sutherland of Duffus, head of one of the junior branches, murdered Mackay and his heir in their beds at Dingwold Castle, Dingwall where they had met in an attempt to patch up the feud. Much bloodshed followed, including a retaliatory raid on Dornoch. The cathedral was once again set on fire and many Sutherland men were hanged in the town square. After this, the feud quieted down as both sides were called away to fight against the English.

The Wars of Scottish Independence were a series of military campaigns fought between Scotland and England in the late 13th and early 14th centuries. ... Combatants Kingdom of Scotland Kingdom of England Commanders Andrew Moray William Wallace Surrey Cressingham† Strength 16000 infantry and 800 cavalry 50000 infantry and 3000 cavalry Casualties  ? 6,000 killed The Battle of Stirling Bridge was a battle of the First War of Scottish Independence. ... Combatants Kingdom of Scotland Kingdom of England Commanders Robert Bruce Edward II Strength about 6,500 20,000 Casualties unknown but light about 9000 The Battle of Bannockburn (Blàr Allt a Bhonnaich in Gaelic) (June 24, 1314) was a significant Scottish victory in the Wars of Scottish Independence. ... Clan Sutherland Crest: Sans Peur (Without Fear) Clan Sutherland is a Highland Scottish clan whose traditional territory is located in the region of Sutherland in northern highlands of Scotland and was one of the most powerful Scottish clans. ...

15th Century & Clan Confilcts

• 1403 - The Battle of Tuiteam-Tarbhach, This battle was fought at Tuiteam-tarbhach in the south west part of Sutherland where it meets Ross-shire. Angus MacKay of Strathnaver married the sister of MacLeod of Lewis by whom he had two sons; Angus Dow MacKay and Rory Gald MacKay. When Angus died he left the governing of his estate to his brother Uistean Dow Mackay. MacLeod of Lewis decided to visit his sister where he found that she was not well. As he is not happy about this, on his way home he decides to spoil Strathnaver & Brae-Chat in Sutherland. Robert Earl of Sutherland sends Alexander Murray and Uistean Dow MacKay to attack the MacLeods. The fight was long and furious. In the end the booty was recoverd and nearly all the MacLeod's were killed including the chief MacLeod of Lewis.

MacKay

• 1407 - Battle of Strathnaver, The chief of Clan Sutherland, Earl of Sutherland was a leader of the Scots invading into the west of England in 1388. He married Margaret Stewart, daughter of Alexander, Earl of Buchan, a younger son of King Robert II. During his long chief-ship, there was a temporary alliance with the Clan MacKay against the Clan McLeod who had invaded Strathnaver in 1407 on rumors that MacKay was mistreating his wife, a MacLeod heiress. Since both Sutherland and MacKay country were laid waste, the old rivals joined forces to pursue the MacLeods, catching them somewhere near Loch Shin where the invaders were killed except for the last man who escaped his pursuers by throwing away his sword and targe and out sprinting his pursuers over the hills. This day became known as "The Great Slaughter" and gave the Sutherlands the upper hand in dominating their local clan rivals.
• 1411 - Battle of Dingwall, where Clan Donald overcame Angus Du Mackay.
• 1425 - Angus Du spoils Moray.
• 1426 - Battle of Lon-Harpasdal, Angus Du spoils Caithness; Angus Dow Mackay, with his son Neil, enters Caithness with all hostility, and spoils the land. The inhabitants of Caithness assembled with all diligence, and fought with Angus Dow Mackay at Harpasdal, where there was great slaughter on either side. Whereupon King James I came to Inverness, of intention to pursue Angus Dow Mackay for that and other such enormities. Angus Dow Mackay, hearing that the King was at Inverness, came and submitted himself to the King's mercy, and gave his son Neil in pledge of his good obedience in time coming, which submission the King accepted, and sent Neil Mackay to remain in captivity in the Bass, who was afterwards called Neil Wasse Mackay.
• 1432 - Angus Dubh Mackay defeats Angus Moray at the battle of Druim Nan Coup near Tongue. This banner is drawn from a fragment of stone. Angus married Elizabeth, sister to Domhnall of Islay, Lord of the Isles. Her dowry was 100 fighting men from Lochaber. Their sons were known as the Abrach Mackays and had Elizabeth's arms whose supporters were Bears.
• 1433 - Battle of Drum na Cub on the slopes of Ben Loyal where the MacKays are said to have defeated the Clan Sutherland and the MacKay chief was killed. [1]
• 1437 - The Caithness men overthrown at Sandside Chase by Neil Wasse Mackay after his release out of the Bass, entered Caithness with all hostility, and spoiled the country. He skirmished with some of the inhabitants of that province at a place called Sanset, where he overthrew them with slaughter on either side. This conflict was called Ruaig-hanset, that is the Chase at Sanset. Neil Wasse died shortly after.
• 1438 - Battle of Blar-Tannie, between the Clan Keith and some others inhabitants of Caithness. The Keiths, mistrusting their own forces, asked Angus Mackay of Strathnaver (the son of Neil Wasse) for help. So Angus Mackay, accompanied with John Mor MacIan-Riabhaich, went into Caithness with a band of men, and invaded that country. The inhabitants of Caithness assembled an army and met the MacKays and Keiths at a place in Caithness called Blair-tannie. There ensued a cruel fight, with slaughter on either side. In the end the Keiths and MacKays had the victory, by means chiefly of John Mor MacIan-Riabhaich (an Assynt man), who was very famous in these countries for his manhood shown at this conflict. Two chieftains and leaders of the inhabitants of Caithness were slain.
• 1486 - Angus Roy Mackay was overthrown and slain at Tarbet Church by the Clan Ross. They had long been at feud, again and again the Rosses had suffered molestation of their lands from their enemies the Clan MacKay and when at last, driven to desperation and thoroughly infuriated, they gathered their forces and marched against the Mackays, they were in the mood to teach them a severe lesson. The Mackays, with Angus MacKay of Strathnaver at their head, finding themselves fiercely attacked and being defeated by the Rosses, sought shelter in the church of Tarbat where many were slain. The church was set on fire and Angus Mackay and many of his clansmen were burnt to ashes.
• 1486 - Battle of Strathcarron/Aldicharrish/Blair alt na charis, To take revenge on the Clan Ross, chief Ian MacKay helped by a force from Clan Sutherland marched south invading the territory of Clan Ross and began laying waste to it. Chief Alistair Ross gathered his forces of 2000 men and engaged in a long and desperate battle with the invading forces. In the end the battle went against the Rosses with MacKay and Sutherland gaining the upper hand. The Ross chief was killed along with many of his clan. After this the Clan Ross took many years to recovor their once large numbers of fighting men.
• 1493 - The Mackays invade the Rosses again, and take much spoil.

Clan MacLeod Crest. ... Clan Murray Badge Clan Murray is a Highland Scottish clan. ... Image File history File links MacKayMan. ... Image File history File links MacKayMan. ... Clan Sutherland Crest: Sans Peur (Without Fear) Clan Sutherland is a Highland Scottish clan whose traditional territory is located in the region of Sutherland in northern highlands of Scotland and was one of the most powerful Scottish clans. ... The title of Earl of Sutherland is an ancient one in the Peerage of Scotland, created circa 1230. ... Scottish clans are family groups. ... Clan Donald crest: Per mare per terras (By sea and by land) Map of Dál Riata at its height, c. ... Caithness (Gallaibh in Gaelic)[1] is a committee area of Highland Council, Scotland; a lieutenancy area; and a registration county, Caithness was formerly a district within the Highland region from 1975 to 1996 and a local government county with its own county council from 1890 to 1975. ... Inverness (Scottish Gaelic: ) is the only city in the Highland council area and the Highlands of Scotland (and is considered the unofficial capital). ... Inverness (Scottish Gaelic: ) is the only city in the Highland council area and the Highlands of Scotland (and is considered the unofficial capital). ... 18th century illustration of some of the tombs of Oronsay Priory, founded by Domhnalls father John of Islay sometime before 1358. ... Ben Loyal is an isolated mountain of 764 m in Sutherland, the northwestern tip of the Scottish Highlands. ... Caithness (Gallaibh in Gaelic)[1] is a committee area of Highland Council, Scotland; a lieutenancy area; and a registration county, Caithness was formerly a district within the Highland region from 1975 to 1996 and a local government county with its own county council from 1890 to 1975. ... Image:Keith crest. ... Clan Ross Crest: Spem Successus Alit (Success Nourishes Hope) Clan Ross is a Highland Scottish clan. ... Clan Ross Crest: Spem Successus Alit (Success Nourishes Hope) Clan Ross is a Highland Scottish clan. ... Clan Sutherland Crest: Sans Peur (Without Fear) Clan Sutherland is a Highland Scottish clan whose traditional territory is located in the region of Sutherland in northern highlands of Scotland and was one of the most powerful Scottish clans. ...

16th Century & Clan Confilcts

• 1505 - Battle of Achnashellach, Little is known of this battle which is often described as an obscure skirmish between the Clan Cameron and Clan MacKay, where William Munro, chief of the Clan Munro who was on the side of the MacKays was killed. Historicial evidence shows that William was acting on the King's orders: "Sir William Munro of Foulis was sent to Lochaber on the King's business and was killed in an engagement between the Camerons and MacKays at a place called Achnashellach in 1505". William Munro left two sons Hector and William. The eldest, Hector Munro took over as Chief of the clan and had extensive lands confirmed to him by King James V at Stirling and was made the Royal Lieutenant of Western Ross-shire as his father was before him.[2]

Clan MacKay Tartans

• 1513 - During the Anglo-Scottish Wars the Mackays fought at the Battle of Flodden Field, where John Riavach Mackay fell. The chief of Mackays, Aodh (Hugh) Mackay, was named by King James IV of Scotland as Lord of Strathnaver when he was ordered to bring his men to fight at the battle.
• 1517 - Battle of Torran Dubh, The Clan Sutherland encounter John Mackay and his company at a place called Torran Dubh, beside Rogart, in Strathfleet, where there ensued a fierce and cruel conflict and the MacKays were defeated.
• 1518 - John Mackay makes a bond of friendship with Adam Gordon, chief and Earl of Sutherland.
• 1528 - The Mackays are associated with the Clan Forbes in the feuds of the latter.
• 1542 - Chief Donald Mackay of Strathnaver decided to invade and molest the lands of Clan Sutherland. He burned the village of Knockartoll and stole many goods from Strathbrora. The Clan Sutherland and Clan Murray led by Hutcheon Murray of Abirscors with Gilbert Gordon of Garty attacked the MacKays at a place called Ailtan-Beath. After the battle the MacKays fled and much of the stolen booty was recovered. Donald MacKay was captured and imprisoned in Foulis Castle, Ross-shire by commandment of the Queen Regent.[3]
• 1542 - The Mackays fought at thr Battle of Solway Moss, where Iye Du Mackay is taken prisoner.
• 1544 - Mackay joins in the attack of Arran at Glasgow.
• 1548 - Mackay joins in the attack and capture of Haddington.
• 1555 - Battle of Garbharry.
• 1560 - The Clan MacKay join the Clan MacLean and Clan MacLeod as part of the Gallowglass. A mixture of Scots and Vikings became a ferocious mercenary army who foughtfor Shane O'Neill in Ireland.
• 1562 - Mackay at the Battle of Corrichie, where Huntly fell.
• 1566 - Mackay and Clan Macleod of Assint burn Dornoch.
• 1571 - Mackay and the Master of Caithness burn Dornoch again.
• 1576 - Battle of Dail-Riabhach, while Roy Y Mackay of Strathnaver lay dying, there arose civil disstension in Strathnaver between John Mackay, the son of Roy Y MacKay and Neil Nawerigh Roy Mackay's brother. John Mackay excludes his uncle Neil who was thought to be righteous heir, and took possession of Strathnaver. Neil, again, alleging that his nephews John and Donald were "bastards", claimed the lands, and took refuge of John Earl of Caithness, of whom he did obtain a company of men, who were sent with Neil's four sons to invade Strathnaver. They take possession of the country from John Mackay, who being unable to resist their forces, retires to the Chattan Confederation to seek their support, and leaves his brother Donald Mackay to defend the country as he might. Donald, in his brother John's absence, surprised his cousin under silence of the night at Dail-Riabhach, and killed two of his cousins (the sons of Neil Nawerigh) with the most part of their company. Thereafter, Neil Nawerigh came and willingly surrendered himself to his nephews John and Donald, who beheaded him at a place called Clash-nan-ceap in Strathnaver.
• 1586 - "The Battle of Allt Camhna", The Earl of Sutherland, Earl of Caithness and the MacKays decided to attack Clan Gunn. The Earl of Sutherland's company from Clan Sutherland was commanded by John Gordon of Backies and James MacRorie. The Earl of Caithness's company from Clan Sinclair was conducted by his cousin, Henry Sinclair. The Clan Gunn prepared for the fight and although inferior in numbers had the advantage of being on a hill. The first flight of arrows from the Caithness company fell short. The Gunn's did not and used their position to full advantage. There ensued a sharp conflict, at a place called Allt-gamhna, where Henry Sinclair was slain with 120 of his company, and the rest chased away into the darkness. John Gordon, James MacRorie and Neil MacIan-MacWilliam, who heard what happened to the Earl of Caithness's men, then pursued the Clan Gunn, and followed them to Lochbroom, in the height of Ross, to where they had escaped to. Meeting with them, they invade them at a place called Leckmelm. After a sharp skirmish, the Clan Gunn were overthrown, and chased, many of them slain, and their Captain, George, wounded and taken prisoner, whom they carried along with them unto Dunrobin, and there they deliver him unto Alexander, Earl of Sutherland. The Gunns had again proved themselves ferocious warriors even when faced with overwhelming odds against them.
• 1585 - Huistean Du Mackay at the siege of Marle.
• 1588 - Huistean Du joins the Earl of Sutherland, and marries his daughter the following year.
• 1590 - Clynetradwell, Near Broa, Donald Balloch Mackay heads a group of archers from Assynt, Strathnaver, Caithness and Orkney. They reach the Earl of Caithness in time to save him from defeat. (Balloch is a name for a birthmark or spot on his face).

The Battle of Achnashellach was a Scottish clan battle said to have taken place during the early 16th century, in the year 1505, in the Scottish Highlands. ... Clan Cameron is a West Highland Scottish clan, with one main branch Lochiel, and numerous cadet branches such as Erracht, Clunes, Glen Nevis, and Fassifern. ... Munro Crest: Dread God (Fear God) and a Golden Eagle Clan Munro is a Highland Scottish clan. ... Broad Street at the heart of Stirlings Old Town area (called Top of the Town by locals) Stirling Castle (Southwest aspect) The main courtyard inside Stirling Castle. ... Image File history File links MacKayTartan. ... Image File history File links MacKayTartan. ... The Anglo-Scottish Wars were a series of wars fought between England and Scotland during the sixteenth century. ... Combatants England Scotland Commanders Thomas Howard, Earl of Surrey James IV † Strength 26,000 approx 30,000 approx Casualties 1,500 dead 10,000 dead Western side of the battlefield, looking south-south-east from the monument erected in 1910. ... James IV (March 17, 1473-September 9, 1513) was King of Scots from 1488 to his death. ... Clan Forbes Crest. ... Clan Sutherland Crest: Sans Peur (Without Fear) Clan Sutherland is a Highland Scottish clan whose traditional territory is located in the region of Sutherland in northern highlands of Scotland and was one of the most powerful Scottish clans. ... Clan Murray Badge Clan Murray is a Highland Scottish clan. ... An aerial view of Foulis Castle from the West Munro Foulis Castle, front view Foulis Castle lies in the parish of Kiltearn, about 1. ... Solway Moss is a moss (lowland peat bog), in Cumbria, England, lying next to the River Sark which marks the Scottish border. ... “Glaswegian” redirects here. ... Clan MacLean Crest: Virtue Mine Honour. ... Clan MacLeod Crest. ... The term Galloglas (or Gallowglass) is an Anglicisation of the Irish, Gallóglaigh (foreign soldiers), incorporating the word, Óglach, which is derived from oac, the Old Irish for youths, but later meaning soldier. The galloglas were a mercenary warrior élite among Gaelic-Norse clans residing in the highlands and Western... Shane ONeill (c. ... Clan MacLeod Crest. ... Caithness (Gallaibh in Gaelic)[1] is a committee area of Highland Council, Scotland; a lieutenancy area; and a registration county, Caithness was formerly a district within the Highland region from 1975 to 1996 and a local government county with its own county council from 1890 to 1975. ... Clan Chattan or the Chattan Confederation is a confederation of a number of Scottish clans who joined for mutual defence or blood bonds and is closely linked with Clan MacKintosh. ... The title of Earl of Sutherland is an ancient one in the Peerage of Scotland, created circa 1230. ... The title Earl of Caithness has been created several times in the Peerage of Scotland, and has a very complex history. ... Clan Sutherland Crest: Sans Peur (Without Fear) Clan Sutherland is a Highland Scottish clan whose traditional territory is located in the region of Sutherland in northern highlands of Scotland and was one of the most powerful Scottish clans. ... Clan Gordon Crest Clan Gordon, also known as the House of Gordon, is a traditional Scottish clan name and it is now a common forename. ... Clan Sinclair is a Scottish family of lowland extraction with lands in the north of Scotland and the [[Orkney Islands] which they received from the Kings of Scotland. ...

17th Century, Thirty Years' War & Civil War

Thirty Years' War

• 1612 - His son, Donald Mackay of Farr, captures the coiner Smith at Thurso after some sharp fighting.
• 1616 -(April) - Donald Mackay goes to London with his uncle, Sir Robert Gordon, and is knighted by James VI, at Theobalds.
• 1626 - Sir Donald Mackay embarks 3600 men at Cromarty for the Thirty Years' War under Count Mansfeld in the service of Christian IV of Denmark and Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden, alongside their allies, the Clan Munro and Robert Munro (d. 1633).
• 1627 - Sir Donald holds the Pass of Oldenburg, against overwhelming odds, with his regiment, and in the same year, while abroad, is created a Baronet of Nova Scotia by Charles I.
• 1628 (June 20) - Sir Donald Mackay created Baron Reay of Reay in the Peerage of Scotland by Charles I.
• 1629 - Christian IV of Denmark is replaced by Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden as Leader of the Protestant cause, and Lord Reay having raised fresh troops in Scotland takes service under the latter.
• 1630 - Lord Reay accompanies his Regiment to Germany, and is at the capture of Stettin, Damm, and Colberg.
• 1631 - Reay is empowered by Charles I to raise another 2000 for service with Gustavus Adolphus. He quarrels with David Ramsay at the English Court and, having challenged him to a duel, both are imprisoned in the Tower of London to preserve the peace.
• 1632 - Gustavus is killed at the Battle of Lützen and Reay is not repaid large sums of money due to him by Gustavus and by Charles I. He has also domestic troubles and has to sell some of his estates, especially in Orkney.

Civil War Clan Gordon Crest Clan Gordon, also known as the House of Gordon, is a traditional Scottish clan name and it is now a common forename. ... This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ... Ernst von Mansfeld Ernst, Graf von Mansfeld (also sometimes called Ernst, Graf von Mansfield, Ernst, Count of Mansfeld or Peter Ernst, Graf von Mansfeld) (c. ... The coronation of King Christian IV, painted by Otto Bache, 1887. ... Gustav II Adolf King of Sweden Gustav II Adolf (also known as Gustaf Adolf the Great (Swedish Gustav Adolf den store, Latin Gustavus Adolphus Magnus), or Gustavus II Adolphus; December 9, 1594 – November 6, 1632 O.S.), widely known by the Latinized name Gustavus Adolphus and referred to by contemporary... Munro Crest: Dread God (Fear God) and a Golden Eagle Clan Munro is a Highland Scottish clan. ... Colonel Robert Munro of Foulis (d . ... Oldenburg (Low German: Ollnborg) is an Independent City in Lower Saxony, Germany. ... Motto: Munit Haec et Altera Vincit(Latin) One defends and the other conquers Capital Halifax Largest city Halifax Regional Municipality Official languages English Government - Lieutenant-Governor Mayann E. Francis - Premier Rodney MacDonald (PC) Federal representation in Canadian Parliament - House seats 11 - Senate seats 10 Confederation July 1, 1867 (1st) Area... This article does not cite its references or sources. ... Kołobrzeg (pronounce: [kɔwɔbʒεg] ▶(?), Kashubian/Pomeranian: Kòłobrzeg, German: Kolberg) is a city in Middle Pomerania in north-western Poland with some 50,000 inhabitants (2000). ... Clan Ramsay is a Scottish clan that has existed since the 11th century. ... The Battle of Lützen was one of the most decisive battles of the Thirty Years War. ...

• 1637 - He transfers his estates to his eldest son, John the Master of Reay.
• 1638 - The Marquis of Montrose, Lords Home, Boyd and Loudoun invite Lord Reay to meet them and others to consider the religious troubles of the time and sign the Covenant, which he does unwillingly, because of his long attachment to Charles I (click here for more information).
• 1639 -1641 - Reay stays at home.
• 1642 - He goes to Denmark and commands the Regiment of his son, Colonel Angus Mackay.
• 1644 - Like Montrose, Reay espouses again the cause of King Charles I in the English Civil War, and brings arms and money by sea to Newcastle. He aids Lord Crawford for several months in the defence of the city against the Scots Army. When the town is captured by General Leslie, Reay and Lord Crawford are sent as prisoners to Edinburgh Castle.
• 1645 - Following Montrose's victory at Kilsyth, Reay is liberated.
• 1646 - Montrose, having been instructed by King Charles I to disband his forces and seek his own safety, writes to Reay advising him to do likewise. Montrose narrowly escapes from Angus to Norway, and Reay from Thurso to Denmark.
• 1649 - Charles I executed at Whitehall on January 30th. Reay dies soon after at Bergen in Norway. His remains are sent home in a Danish frigate, and buried in the family vault at Kirkibol, Tongue. Neil Aberach falls at Thurso. John, 2nd Lord Reay, surprised and captured at Balveny Castle on the Spey, and imprisoned in Edinburgh Castle. Lady Reay effects his escape. The place of Lord Reay's death remains uncertain - some have stated that he died in Bergen, others have stated he died in Copenhagen. There is no reference in Danish nor Norwegian state papers of 1648-9 and the records of Bergen were destroyed in the fire of 1702. Reference source Dr. Ian Grimble.
• 1651 - The Mackays at the Battle of Worcester. A company of Mackays was with the Duke of Hamilton at Worcester, England. They were led by Hugh Mackay, a nephew of General Hugh Mackay. They were used as a rear guard to allow the King and Prince Charles to escape. It was at this time when the Duke of Hamilton was mortally wounded.
• 1654 - The Mackays spoil Sutherland, in the rising under Middleton.
• 1680 - George, 3rd Lord Reay, succeeds his grandfather, and has Sir George Munro of Culrain as his guardian.
• 1689 - 100 men of the Clan MacKay occupied Brahan Castle to watch for movements of the Jacobite MacKenzies.[4]
• 1689 - General Hugh Mackay of Scourie, who had served with the Scots Brigade in Holland, is made Commander-in-Chief in Scotland by William, Prince of Orange; is defeated at Battle of Killiecrankie but wins the campaign against Claverhouse.
• 1692 - General Hugh Mackay having returned to Holland to aid the Dutch in their conflict with the French under Louis XIV, falls at Steinkirk. Gen. Hugh Mackay, on being ordered to hold an untenable position, personally led his men into odds of 5 to 1 where he fell at the head of his regiment but the MacKays were victorious.
• 1697 - His nephew, AEneas Mackay, a son of the 2nd Lord Reay, is now Commander of the Mackay Regiment in the Dutch Service. Wounded and worn out with campaigning, he dies at Bath at the early age of 30 and is buried in the Chancel of Bath Abbey, where there is a tablet to his memory. His widow, a Dutch lady, returns to Holland with his only son, Donald, who grows up to command his father's regiment and become the founder of the branch of the Clan to which the Reay title passed in 1875.

The English Civil War consisted of a series of armed conflicts and political machinations that took place between Parliamentarians (known as Roundheads) and Royalists (known as Cavaliers) between 1642 and 1651. ... The Battle of Worcester was the final battle of the English Civil War. ... Munro Crest: Dread God (Fear God) and a Golden Eagle Clan Munro is a Highland Scottish clan. ... Combatants Jacobite Royalists (Highlanders & Irish) Orange Royalists (Covenanters, Lowlanders) Commanders Viscount Dundee† Hugh Mackay Strength 2400 foot 3500 foot Casualties 800, inc. ...

18th Century, Colonial Wars & Jacobite Uprisings in Scotland

Jacobite Uprisings

• 1715 - The Mackays are anti-Jacobite, and help to restrain Seaforth during the initial early Jacobite rising. The MacKays take the side of King George I and defend Inverness Castle against the Jacobites.
• 1719 - A detachment of men from the Clan MacKay fight under Ensign MacKay alongside men from the Clan Munro at the Battle of Glen Shiel where they defeated the Jacobites.
• 1745 - The Mackays are actively anti-Jacobite and support the British government with a force of over 800, which later became the famous "MacKay Regiment", who went on to have success in Ireland later in 1795. Historian, Dr. Ian Grimble, outlines that the MacKays in Sutherland perceived that Prince Charles was stirring trouble that would bring disaster to the Highlands and did whatever was in their power to prevent the Prince's Jacobites advance or success of his armies. Among other deeds, they successfully waylaid a vessel taking supplies to the Prince and the Jacobites.
• 1746 - The MacKays Regiment along with Louden's Regiment help hold Sutherland and Caithness for the British Crown.
• 1746 - The Mackays intercept and capture, at Tongue, gold sent from France to the Jacobite leader Prince Charlie, and also capture the Earl of Cromarty at Dunrobin.

Colonial Wars The Jacobite Risings were a series of uprisings, rebellions, and wars in the British Isles occurring between 1688 and 1746. ... Inverness Castle Inverness Castle Inverness Castle Today Inverness Castle sits on a cliff overlooking the River Ness, in Inverness, Scotland. ... Munro Crest: Dread God (Fear God) and a Golden Eagle Clan Munro is a Highland Scottish clan. ... Combatants Britain Jacobite Scotland Spain Commanders Joseph Wightman Lord George Murray Strength 850 infantry 120 dragoons 4 mortar batteries 1000 troops Casualties 21 dead 100 wounded 100 dead, many more wounded The Battle of Glen Shiel was a battle in Glen Shiel, in the West Highlands of Scotland on 10...

• 1742 - At Fort Fredrica a group of Highlanders led by Charles MacKay ambush invading Spanish forces. This took place at St. Simons Island, GA, America.
• 1758 - During the French and Indian War; As a member of the 42d Royal Highland Regiment, "The Black Watch", in 1758, Piper, William Mackay led the ill-fated charge on then French Fort Ticonderoga, which is in the area now known as New York.
• 1778 - Rob Donn, the Mackay poet, dies.
• 1795 - The Reay Fencibles embodied.
• 1798 - Reay Fencibles at the Battle of Tara Hill, near Dublin.

Fort Frederica today Fort Frederica National Monument is a unit of the National Park Service located on St. ... Combatants France First Nations allies: * Algonquin * Lenape * Wyandot * Ojibwa * Ottawa * Shawnee Great Britain Iroquois Confederacy American Colonies Strength 3,900 regulars 7,900 militia 2,200 natives (1759) 50,000 regulars and militia (1759) The French and Indian War was the nine-year North American chapter of the Seven Years... Fort Ticonderoga as seen from Lake Champlain Fort Ticonderoga is a large 18th century fort built at a strategically important narrows in Lake Champlain where a short traverse gives access to the north end of Lake George in the state of New York, USA.The fort controlled both commonly used... NY redirects here. ... The Battle of Tara Hill was fought on 26 May 1798 between British forces and Irish rebels involved in the Irish Rebellion of 1798, resulting in a heavy defeat for the rebels and the end of the rebellion in County Meath. ...

19th Century, Napoleonic Wars & Crimean War

Napoleonic Wars

• 1802 - The Reay Fencibles disbanded at Stirling.
• 1806 - "Mackay's Society" founded in Glasgow.
• 1815 - Battle of Waterloo, The 79th afoot Seaforth Highlanders formed a square upon being attacked by French Cavalry. Piper Kenneth Mackay, showing no fear, marches out of the square and plays the tune "War or Peace" (Gogadh No Sith). Kenneth was presented with a set of Silver Pipes by the King's own hand for his bravery.
• 1815 - 1818 - The Strathnaver Clearances, by which the people were removed to make room for sheep.
• 1829 - The Reay estate sold to the Countess of Sutherland by Eric, 7th Lord Reay.

Crimean War Combatants First French Empire Seventh Coalition: United Kingdom Kingdom of Prussia Kingdom of the United Netherlands Kingdom of Hanover Nassau Brunswick Commanders Napoleon Bonaparte, Michel Ney Duke of Wellington, Gebhard von Blücher Strength 73,000 67,000 Coalition 60,000 Prussian (48,000 engaged by about 18:00) Casualties...

• 1865 - During the battles in India, An assault was led on the fortification of Sercunderbah. The Mutineers were the 2nd Battalion of Punjabis. The only Sikhs regiment to mutiny had repulsed 2 attacks by British forces. Sir Colin Campbell, the Gen. in charge, shouts out an order, “Bring out the Tartan, let my own lads at them!” It was the 93rd Sutherland Highlanders, Sir Colin’s best-loved regiment. Seven companies led by Pipe Major, John McLeod and seven other pipers ran forward playing the tune “The Haughs of Cromdell”. The attack carried the fort. David Mackay won the Victoria Cross by taking the colours of the Punjabis. Later in the day David was shot while attacking a second fort of Shah Neijeef. He was returned to Britain for recovery.
• 1875 - On the death of Eric, 9th Lord Reay, who was unmarried, the title passed to the branch of the family resident in Holland and descended from John, 2nd Lord Reay (see note under 1697). Æneas Mackay, a Baron of the Netherlands, Vice President of the Council of State and holder of the Cross of the Order of the Netherlands, became 10th Lord Reay. He died in 1876. His son, Donald James Mackay, succeeded as 11th Lord Reay, left Holland and was made a Peer of the United Kingdom as Baron Reay of Durness (8th October, 1881) with a seat in the House of Lords. Was appointed Governor of Bombay (1885-90) and Under-Secretary of State for India (1894-95) and was Lord Lieutenant of Roxburghshire.
• 1900 - South Africa, L/Cpl. John Frederick Mackay serving with the Gordon Highlanders at the battle of Crow’s Nest Hill, Nth. Johannesburg wins the highest award, the Victoria Cross.

Campbell Clan Badge - A Boars head represents the positive qualities of the boar: courage and fierceness in battle. ... The 93rd (Sutherland Highlanders) Regiment of Foot was a Line Infantry Regiment of the British Army . ... Clan MacLeod Crest. ... David MacKay (November 23, 1831 - November 18, 1880) was a Scottish recipient of the Victoria Cross (VC), the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to United Kingdom and Commonwealth forces. ... The Victoria Cross (VC) is a military decoration awarded for valour in the face of the enemy to members of armed forces of some Commonwealth countries and previous British Empire territories. ... John Frederick MacKay was a Scottish recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. ... The Gordon Highlanders was a British Army infantry regiment from 1881 until 1994. ... The Victoria Cross (VC) is a military decoration awarded for valour in the face of the enemy to members of armed forces of some Commonwealth countries and previous British Empire territories. ...

Falklands War

• 1982 During the Falklands War, Sgt. Ian Mackay the Platoon Sergeant of 4 Platoon, B Company, 3rd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment had to take over the platoon when his officer was shot in both legs. Sgt. Mackay attacked 3 machine gun positions and fell, mortally wounded attacking a fourth. He was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously.

Combatants Argentina United Kingdom Commanders Presidente Leopoldo Galtieri Vice Admiral Juan Lombardo Brigadier General Ernesto Crespo Brigade General Mario Menéndez Prime minister Margaret Thatcher Admiral Sir John Fieldhouse Rear-Admiral Sandy Woodward Major General Jeremy Moore Casualties 649 killed 1,068 wounded 11,313 taken prisoner 75 fixed wing... Ian John McKay (7 May 1953 – 12 June 1982) was a posthumous recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. ... The Parachute Regiment is the Airborne Infantry element of the British Army. ... The Victoria Cross (VC) is a military decoration awarded for valour in the face of the enemy to members of armed forces of some Commonwealth countries and previous British Empire territories. ...

Chief

The current chief of the Clan MacKay is Hugh Mackay, 14th Lord Reay. Hugh William Mackay, 14th Lord Reay (born 19 July 1937) is British politician and Conservative member of the House of Lords. ...

Varrich Castle

Varrich Castle was the ancient seat of the chief of Clan MacKay but the chief later moved to Tongue House. Varrich Castle is located in the far north of the Scottish highlands near to the village of Tongue, Highland, Scotland. ...

Geography

The Mackay homeland is Strathnaver, extending along the north coast from Caithness in the east, through Ross and Cromarty (before 1889, Ross-shire and Cromartyshire), to Cape Wrath in the west. The southerly extent was the country of Sutherland. Dr Gary Mackay (see External links) describes the territory as stretched from Assynt in the west to Loch Naver, to the borders of Ross-shire and just west of present day Thurso. Mackays of old were, however, to be found from the Orkney Islands to the Outer Hebrides. Strathnaver or Strath Naver (Scottish Gaelic, Srath Nabhair) is the valley or strath of the River Naver, Scotland, in the Sutherland area of Highland. ... Caithness (Gallaibh in Gaelic)[1] is a committee area of Highland Council, Scotland; a lieutenancy area; and a registration county, Caithness was formerly a district within the Highland region from 1975 to 1996 and a local government county with its own county council from 1890 to 1975. ... Ross and Cromarty: administrative county (1889-1975) Image:RossCromDistrict. ... Year 1889 (MDCCCLXXXIX) was a common year starting on Tuesday (link will display the full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar (or a common year starting on Thursday of the 12-day slower Julian calendar). ... Ross-shire (Siorrachd Rois in Gaelic), or simply Ross, is a traditional county of Scotland bordering on Sutherland, Cromartyshire (of which it contains many enclaves), Inverness-shire and on an exclave of Nairnshire. ... Cromartyshire (Siorrachd Chromba in Gaelic) was a county in the north of Scotland, consisting of a series of enclaves within Ross-shire. ... Cape Wrath lighthouse Cape Wrath (, ) is a cape in Sutherland, Highland, in northern Scotland. ... Sutherland (Cataibh in Gaelic) is a committee area of the Highland Council, Scotland, a registration county, and a lieutenancy area. ... Parish in West Sutherland, North West Highlands, Scotland, north of Ullapool. ... Ross-shire (Siorrachd Rois in Gaelic), or simply Ross, is a traditional county of Scotland bordering on Sutherland, Cromartyshire (of which it contains many enclaves), Inverness-shire and on an exclave of Nairnshire. ... This article refers to the town in Scotland. ... The Orkney Islands, usually called simply Orkney, are one of the 32 council areas of Scotland. ... Na h-Eileanan Siar (Western Isles) redirects here. ...

The pipes

The 'Clan Tune' is Mackay's March. (According to J. Logan, there are several tunes associated with Clan MacKay. The 'salute', which is usually cited as the clan tune, is titled "Brattach bhan Chlann Aoidh" or, in English, "The White Banner of MacKay". v. Logan, J. & McIan, R.R., The Clans of the Scottish Highlands - The Costumes of the Clans, London, 1847). The Clan has been associated with piping since time immemorial. Mackays were hereditary pipers to the MacKenzies. Kenneth Mackay became famous at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 by playing War or Peace in front of the regimental square of the Cameron Highlanders during a cavalry charge. A bagpipe performer in Amsterdam. ... Combatants First French Empire Seventh Coalition: United Kingdom Kingdom of Prussia Kingdom of the United Netherlands Kingdom of Hanover Nassau Brunswick Commanders Napoleon Bonaparte, Michel Ney Duke of Wellington, Gebhard von Blücher Strength 73,000 67,000 Coalition 60,000 Prussian (48,000 engaged by about 18:00) Casualties...

Although pipers were not officially recognized as such until 1854, a Mackay piper was the first piper known to have served in a regular British army unit, in 1633 being transferred from the (continental) Scots Brigate to the (later) Royal Scots. Events February 13 - Galileo Galilei arrives in Rome for his trial before the Inquisition. ...

The bagpipe music collection of Angus Mackay of Raasay (in 1843 appointed the first Piper to Queen Victoria) is the beginning of standardization of the classical piping form, the piobaireachd (pibroch). He wrote The Piper's Assistant (pre-1847) and The Tutor for the Highland Bagpipe (1878). He was preceded by William Mackay and in 1843 translated and revised his Complete Tutor for the Great Highland Bagpipe (1840). Raasay is an island between the Isle of Skye and the mainland of Scotland. ... Victoria (Alexandrina Victoria; 24 May 1819 – 22 January 1901) was the Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland from 20 June 1837, and the first Empress of India from 1 May 1876, until her death on 22 January 1901. ...

The name

The name is a translation to English of the Gaelic "Mac Aoidh," meaning 'Son of Aodh.' or 'Son of Fire' The feminine form is "Nic Aoidh,' meaning 'Daughter of Aoidh.' or 'Daughter of Fire' The feminine prefix 'nic' is the genitive form of 'ni.' The genitive form of 'mac' is 'mhic' (pronounced 'vik'), but this is not usually prefixed to root names that begin with a vowel. Instead, a slender vowel (usually 'i') is inserted behind the principal vowel, and an 'h' is placed before the initial vowel when it is used on its own (without a prefix): Aodh (pronounced "ookh") > hAoidh (pronounced "hoo-ey" - which is why the personal name Aodh/Aoidh/hAoidh is translated as 'Hugh' and 'Huey'), but no 'h' when there is a prefix - Mac/Nic Aoidh (Aoidh, pronounced "oo-ey"). See end of next paragraph for details on prounnciation in the original Gaelic. The English language is a West Germanic language that originates in England. ... Scottish Gaelic (Gàidhlig) is a member of the Goidelic branch of Celtic languages. ...

Records from the 12th century show Mac Aedh, Mac Aed, and Mac Heth. It should be remembered that all these form are basically attempts to render into Old Scots and Old English, as accurately as possible, the sounds of what was then the Scottish dialect of Old Irish which, as a Celtic language, was very different from Scots and English (both of which are Germanic languages). Originally the name Aoidh would have been pronounced as /ɯið/ in Old Irish, then later /ɯiɣ/ > /ɯij/ in Middle Irish, early Scottish Gaelic. The sound /ɯ/ is a back unrounded high vowel which changed to /i/ ee, /aj/ eye or /e/ ay in English

The variants Mackay and McKay are common, and M'Kay is found in older records. Other variants include Y, Aytho, MacIye, Makky, Macky, Maky, McKye, McKeye, Mackie, Mckie, Mackey, McKy, McAy, McCei, MacCay, McCay, Mackee, Makgie, Magee, McKee, Ison, Eason, Easson, MacQuaid, MacQuoid, MacQuade, Quaid, Quoid, Quade, and many others.

Septs of Clan Mackay

Allan, Allanson, Andrews, Bane, Bain, Bayne, Beaton, Kay, Key, MacAllan, MacBain, MacCaa, MacCaw, MacCay, MacGaa, MacGaw, Mackie, Mckie, Macphail, McPhail, Macvail, Macvain, Macvane, McKay, McCoy, McGhee, McGee, McKoy, Neilson, Nelson, Paul, Pole, Poleson, Polson, Reay, Scobie, Stephens, Stephenson, Stevens, Stevenson, Williamson. The Forbes and Urquhart families may be closely related, and records before 1715 show close friendships among the three families. The most well known Mackay is Sir Tim Mackay who was assassinated by Englishmen David Taylor and Phillip Benson. The McGhee family, as an officially recognised sept of Clan Mackay, may wear the Mackay tartan. ... The McGhee family, as an officially recognised sept of Clan Mackay, may wear the Mackay tartan. ...

Mackay is also said by some to be descended from Siol Mhoirgunn, Clan Morgan — a claim in some doubt — so Morgan and Gunn are often included in the list of allied names. There are (or were) Mackay septs of Clan Chattan and other families.

The form 'nic' is the abbreviation of 'nighean mhic' which means 'daughter of the son' (of).

Dwelly's Illustrated Gaelic to English Dictionary

Aodh is an ancient name of a fire god; previously anglicized as Hugh. Not much used as a given name since the seventeenth century.

Oxford Dictionary of First Names

External links

• Clan Mackay Society of Scotland
• Clan Mackay U.K.
• Clan Mackay Society U.S.A.
• Clan Mackay Society Canada
• Robert Mackay Clan Old and prominent American Mackay family.
• History of Clan MacKay by Dr. Gary Mackay
• Clan Mackay@electric Scotland
• Clan Mackay Society Nova Scotia
• Macky Family in New Zealand