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Home , Angus MacNeil, Clan Donald, Clan MacNeil, Donald Campbell (bishop), Eriska, Hector Macneill

THE MACNEIL

CLANN NIALL OF

By

THE MACNEIL OF Chief of the Clan Fellow of the Society of .Antiquarie1 of Scotland

With an Introduction by

THE DUKE OF Chief of

New York

THE CALEDONIAN PUBLISHING COMPANY MCMXXIII Copyright, 1923, by

THE CALEDONIAN PUBLISHING COMPANY

Entered at Stationers~ Hall, , England

.All rights reser:ved

Printed by The Chauncey Holt Compan}'. New York, U. 5. A. From Painting by Dr. E, F. Coriu, Paris K.1s11\1 UL CASTLE} IsLE OF BAH HA

PREFACE AVING a Highlander's pride of race, it was perhaps natural that I should have been deeply H interested, as a lad, in the stirring tales and quaint legends of our ancient Clan. With maturity came the desire for dependable records of its history, and I was disappointed at finding only incomplete accounts, here and there in published works, which were at the same time often contradictory. My succession to the Chiefship, besides bringing greetings from clansmen in many lands, also brought forth their expressions of the opinion that a complete history would be most desirable, coupled with the sug­ gestion that, as I had considerable data on hand, I com­ pile it. I felt some diffidence in undertaking to write about my own family, but, believing that under these conditions it would serve a worthy purpose, I commenced this work which was interrupted by the chaos of the Great War and by my own military service. In all cases where the original sources of information exist I have consulted them, so that I believe the book is quite accurate. As an honest chronicler I have re­ lated the facts as I found them, and where the results were not in strict accordance with present day standards of humanity I have consoled myself in the knowledge that, despite the pessimist, the world steadily improves. The Duke of Argyll, Chief of Clan Campbell, has very kindly reviewed the book as well as giving the student of palaeography valuable information regard­ ing the vast storehouses of knowledge of the past a,vait­ ing his patient efforts. . .. 111 The Clan Macneil

The ancient Irish traditional descent is not to be re­ garded in the strictest historical light, but it is of great interest in giving to us, in this modern time, the re­ ligions and customs of the race when century after century reaches back into the early stages of European civilization, and at the same time it does accord with the generally accepted belief in the Aryan origin and western movement of the Celtic people. Beginning with Niall of the Nine Hostages, the history becomes more and more authentic, gradually getting down to documentary records. Grateful acknowledgement is made to the authors of the books quoted in the text and sincere thanks are ex­ tended to those who have been of assistance to me. I often have been asked the correct way to spell Macneil, but obviously it is purely a matter of ones family custom. For general use I have written it as most frequently spelled in Barra and where I had knowledge of an individual's way of spelling it, I have endeavoured to have it written accordingly. In presenting this history of a Highland clan to Scots and Scots descendants, and especially to my fellow-clansmen, I shall be entirely satisfied if it adds, in some small degree, to their kindly sentiment, love of noble traditions and wholesome regard for the Land of the Leal. R. L. MACNEIL OF BARRA. Bachelors' Club., Piccadilly, London., "fF.

JV INTRODUCTION ACNEIL OF BARRA, having been so good as to ask me to write a few prefatory words M to this work which deals with the History of his ancient Clan, sent me the manuscript in type to peruse. My own family had the closest relations for centuries with the numerous branches of the Macneils settled in the peninsula of , known as the Houses of (an island off that coast), Arichonan, Ardna­ cross, Gallachalzie, , Crear, Lossit, Taynish and Carskeywho frequently married into the Campbell families. As the vast collections of records at have never properly been searched, except for the Clan Lamont and the Campbells, it is obvious that amongst them a great number of Macneil marriages, processes at law and so forth must still remain to be discovered to the patient searcher, for the period 1.~00 onwards. Much earlier matter can be found in the invaluable Government publications such as the Register of the Great and ~rivy Seals, that of the Secret Seal and in the large collection of charters and sasines in the General Register House of Edinburgh. Most of the great western go back to the old Irish stems which can be consulted by those who have some knowledge of palaeography in those vast collec­ tions of pedigrees in the Books of Lecan, Ballymote, Ms. Egerton at the British Museum and Rawlinson's Ms. at the Bodleian for most of which the published facsimiles now available to students are a great boon.

V The Clan Macneil

In Scotland the less known Clans or of Clans have not had their pedigrees preserved with anything approaching the intricate completeness with which similar septs in down to at least the 17th century had theirs entered in some of the famous parchment books in Dublin, but it is probable that a considerable amount of such purely Scottish matter still remains to be _discovered by the diligent searcher. In all these cases the preservation of the descent of even far off collaterals to the main branch of any race was due to the early Celtic laws governing the succession to Chief­ ship and lands, which I need not go into here as it has been often dealt with by others. From their remote insular situation in the the Macneils of Barra must have had far closer re­ lations with the Norse invaders than was the case with some of the mainland Clans. Barra was dedicated to and no doubt converted to Christianity by the labours of S. Bairre, Barr or Finbar, first of Cork, who was a native of Connaught, being the son of Amairgen, son of Dubduibne, son of Art, son of Carthann, son of Fland, son of Ninnid, son of Brian, son of Cochaidh Muigmedon, who was High King or Ardrigh of Ire­ land. S. Barr's churches are mostly to be found on lonely islands for which he had a particular affection, such as the Island of Davar, at the mouth of Harbour in Kintyre, Argyll, of this Barra is an in­ stance. He lived in the 6th century and died on 25th September. Since the following work was written by Macneil of Barra, a very interesting work in two volumes on the . Vl Introduction

Lives, in Irish Gaelic, of the Irish Saints has been published by Rev. Charles Plummer at the Oxford Clarendon Press with full translations and copious notes and amongst them is a most interesting one of this very saint. The same author before the Great War issued two similar volumes on the Latin Lives in which S. Finbar will also be found. All such books are of great value as the place, names and persons mentioned in them and the strange customs incidentally mentioned throw a flood of light on those early times. Of his death day it is stated that, "for twelve days afterwards no sunset occurred, that is so long as the churches of Desmond were busied about their master with hymns and psalms, masses and recita­ tion of hours. Then the angels of heaven came to meet his soul and carried it with them with honour and reverence to heaven where he shines like the sun in the company of patriarches and prophets, in the company of the apostles and disciples of Jesus, in the company of the nine heavenly orders who sinned not, in the company of the divinity and humanity of the Son of ·God, in the company that is higher than any company, the company of the Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen." ARGYLL. On the Feast of S. Andrew, Apostle and Martyr, Patron of Scotland, 1922. 28 Clarges Street, London, W.

vu..

CONTENTS PAGE PREFACE 111

INTRODUCTION ...... V ANCIENT IRISH TRADITIONAL DESCENT...... 1

THE CLANN NIALL. • . . • • • • • • • • ...... 11

THE CADETS OF CLANN NIALL...... 93 The Macneils of Ersary ...... 93 The Swift Macneils ...... 94 The Macneils of Vaslan ...... 95 The Macneils of Skirval and Vatersay ...... 95 The Macneils of Brevaig ...... 97 The Macneils of Taynish and Gigha ...... 98 The Macneils of Tarbert ...... 104 The Macneils of Gallachallie ...... 105 The Macneils of Arichonan ...... 106 The J\1acneils of Colonsay ...... 106 The Macneils of Tirfeargus ...... - ...... 114 The Macneils of U gadale ...... 119 The Macneils of Kintyre ...... 120 The Macneils of Ardnacross · ...... 122 The Macneils of Bute ...... 126 Clansmen ...... 128

EMIGRATION, AND AMERICAN l\,fACNEILS. • ...... 133

RELIGION • . . • • • • • • • • . . • • • • • • ...... 145 The Roman ...... 145 The Church of Scotland...... 148 The Religion of the Chiefs...... 149 The Religion of the Clansmen...... 150 Religious Customs and Traditions...... 150 . lX The Clan Macneil

PAGE CUSTOMS OF THE MACNEILS...... 159

ANCIENT DESCRIPTION OF THE CLAN'S ISLANDS...... 173

THE HOME OF THE MACNEILS...... 179 The Isle of Barra...... 179 Castle Bay ...... 182 ...... 183

SOME LEGENDS OF THE MACNEILS OF BARRA...... 189 How the Macneils Went to Sealltuinn...... 189 Black Ruairidh and Rob Roy MacGregor...... 191 How Black Ruairidh the Unjust Died...... 192 Colonel MacNeill and His ...... 196

KILLIECRANKIE ...... 199

THE MACNEIL OF BARRA (Poem by James Kennedy)...... 203

THE CLAN MACNEIL ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA. • ...... 205

GENEALOGICAL TABLES (Facing)...... 212

INDEX • . . • • ...... • ...... 213

X ILLUSTRATIONS FACING KrsIMUL CASTLE •...... Title

IN COLOUR .....\.RMS OF MACNEIL OF BARRA...... Xlll

THE CLAN • ...... 14

IN HALF-TONE JEAN, WIFE OF RODERICK OF BARRA, XL...... 30

RODERICK AMBROSE OF BARRA, XLIV...... 46

ELIZABETH, WIFE OF RODERICK AMBROSE OF BARRA, XLIV 62

KATHLEEN, WIFE OF ROBERT LISTER OF BARRA, XLV. . . . . 78

LoRD CoLONSAY. • . • . • • • ...... 94

RoNALD JoHN McNEILL, ESQUIRE...... 110

SIR MALCOLM MCNEILL, C.B...... 126

SIR HECTOR MACNEAL, K.B.E...... 142 J. G. SWIFT MACNEILL, ESQUIRE...... • ...... 159 REVEREND JOHN M cNEILL ...... 17 4

ROBERT LISTER OF BARRA, XLV...... 203

Xl

Macneil of :rsarra

THE CLAN MACNEIL

ANCIENT IRISH TRADITIONAL DESCENT ;\CCORDING to all the ancient Irish chroniclers J-\.. the fountain of the race was Niall of Scythia, son of Fenius the Antiquarian, King of Scythia, son of Baoth, son of Magog, son of J aphet, son of Noah. Invited into Egypt by Pharaoh Cingcris, on account of his great learning, he was given the land of Campus Cyrunt, near the Red Sea, and the King's daughter in marriage. Like Joseph, as Minister of Pharaoh, he ruled Egypt for many years and introduced great improvements in regulating the flow of the great river, called after him, the Niall or Nile. Niall, by the Princess Scota, who rescued Moses from drowning, had a son Gaedhal, or Gael, from whom the race received its name. Driven from Egypt because he had upheld Moses, Gaedhal's son Asruth went to Crete, where he died. He was succeeded by Heber Scot who conquered Scythia, where they ruled during the lives of his suc­ cessors, Beauman, Ogamain, and Tai. Tai's son Agno­ main became a nomadic dweller on the shores of the Caspian Sea and his son Lamhfi.onn fitted out a fleet which sailed to Gothia or Getulia, later called Lybia, on the site of which Carthage was afterwards built. His son Heber Glunfionn was born at Getulia which they continued to rule through the following genera­ tions: Agnon Fiann, Febric Glas, N enuall, N uadhad,. Alladh and Deag. Brath, son of Deag, headed an expedition which landed at Galicia, the northwestern part of Spain.

1 The Clan Macneil

He was succeeded by his son Breoghan, who became King of Galicia, Andalusia, Murcia, Castile and Portu­ gal and who built the city of Brigantia. Bilius suc­ ceeded his father, and had in turn Milesius, who married another Princess Scota, daughter of Pharaoh N ectonibus, King of Egypt, and ruled for thirty-six years. In passing the Gaelic occupation of Galicia, it is interesting to note that the author is informed that to this day the bagpipe still flourishes in that part of the country and that they indulge in a dance resembling the Highland Fling and quite different from the typi­ cal Spanish dances. Milesius was the father of Heber and Heremon, under whom the "set sail in their good ships gallantly from the sunny land of Spain." At length they descried the island, its tall blue hills lit up by the last expiring rays of the setting sun, when "from the galleys there arose a shout of joy, Innesfail, the Isle of Destiny was found." Heber landed in Munster and encountered and de­ feated a party of Tuatha de Denans at Sliebh Mis where Queen Scota was killed. In an adjoining glen, called from her Glen Scothin, near Killarney, her grave is still shown, covered by a large white stone. Later Heber was also slain. Heremon landed in Leinster and became the first Milesian Monarch of Ireland, A.M. 2935-48, B.C. 1028-15. He married Tea, daughter of Lughaidh, son of I th, and cousin of Milesius. She was buried in County Meath, on a hill, afterwards from her called

2 Ancient Irish Traditional Descent

Tea Mor or Tea's Mound, now Tara. Here, in after times, the High-Kings of Ireland had their principal seat. Irial Faidh, the Prophet, son of Heremon, ruled as High-King of Ireland from A.M. 2951 to 2961 (B.C. 1012-02). He built seven royal palaces known as Raths Ciombaoith, Coincheada, Mothuig, Buirioch, Luachat, Croicne and Boachill. He was buried at Magh Muagh. Eithrial succeeded his father and ruled for twenty years, A.M. 2961-81, B.C. 1002-982. He is said to have written with his own hand a history of the travels and adventures of his ancestors. He ,vas slain by Conmael, son of Heber Fionn, at the battle of Soirrean in Leinster. His son Foll-Aich was deprived of the kingship by Conmael, but the grandson, Tighernmas succeeded as High-King A.M. 3011, B.C. 952, and reigned for twenty-three years. It was during his time that the first gold mine in Ireland was discovered in County Wicklow. He is said to have been the first to introduce idolatry and to erect pagan altars, about one-hundred years after the landing of the Milesians. According to Keating he was struck down, with the greater part of his subjects, while worshipping his idol Crom Cruadh, a stone capped with gold, about which stood twelve lesser stones, in Magh Sleacht, the Plain of Adoration, in County Craven. Eion biothad, son of Tighernmas, did not succeed, nor did his son Smiomghall, but the latter's son Fiacha Labhrainn (Fiacha of the River Lavrain) regained the High-Kingship in the year 3115 (B.C. 848) and

3 The Clan Macneil ruled for fourteen years. He subjected all the in­ habitants of Scotland and was killed in the battle of Bealgadain. His son Aongus Olmucach (Aongus of the Large Hand) became High-King in 3151 (B.C. 812) and again subdued the Picts, the inhabitants of Scotland. He was killed at the battle of Carman in the year 3168. The kingship passed his son Maen who was succeeded by his son Roitheachtaigh. Roitheachtaigh was High-King during the years 3192 to 3203 (B.C. 771-760) and was slain by Seadhna. The next two generations, Deman and Dian, did not succeed to the Crown and it was not until 3360 (B.C. 603) that the latter;s son Siorna Saegalach ( Siorna the Long-Lived) became Ardrigh or High-King. After reigning for twenty-one years he was slain at Aillin by Rotheachta, who usurped the kingship and Siorna's son Olioll Aolcheoin died without recovering it. Giolchadh, son of Olioll, became High-King in 3389 ( B.C. 574) ~ He was killed by Art Imleach nineteen years later and his son Nuadhas Fionn F'ail (Nuadhas the Fortunate) succeeded him two years later. After being on the throne for thirteen years he, in turn, ,vas slain by Breasioghacta in 3423 ( B.C. 540). Aedhan Glas, son of Nuadhas, was not successful in his attempt to regain the throne. It was in his time that the coasts were infested with pirates and a dread­ ful plague, which appears to have been the smallpox, judging from the sobriquet given his son, Simeon Breac (Speck.led Simeon) who became High-King in the year 3467 ( B. C. 496) .

4 Ancient Irish Traditional Descent

He had his predecessor torn to pieces, but after a reign of six years he met a like fate at the hands of Duach Fionn, son of the murdered king. Muredach Bolgrach, son of Simeon, ascended the throne in 3481 (B.C. 482) but within one year he was slain by Eadhna Dearg, when his son Fiacha Tolgrach attempted to regain it. He was at last successful. He was killed by Oilioll Fionn. Duach Ladhrach (Duach the Vindictive) son of Fiacha, reigned from 3568 to 3578 (B.C. 395-385) when he in turn was killed by Lughaidh Laighe, son of Oilioll Fionn, who also prevented the King's son, Eochaidh Buadhach, from succeeding. Eochaidh's son U gaine Mor ruled for thirty years, 3619-49 (B.C. 344-314). Ugaine the Great was fostered by Queen Mach of the Red Hair, who founded Ard Macha (Ardmagh) and built the palace of Emaina. We are told that U gaine was King of Ireland and of the whole west of Europe as far as Muir Toirrian (Tyrrhenian Sea) and that he was slain by his brother Badhbhchadh. He left twenty-two sons and three daughters among whom he divided Ireland into twenty-five parts. Only two of his sons left issue, namely, Leary the Fierce and Coffey the Slender, fr.om whom all that survive of the race of Heremon are descended. Laeghaire Lore ( Leary the Fierc_e) proceeded to kill his uncle, Badhbhchadh, and he himself is said to have been slain by his brother Colethach Caol-bhreagh, ( Coffey the Slender) who ascended the throne in 3668 ( B.C. 295). Seventeen years later he was murdered by his nephew Maion. 5 The Clan 1\tf acneil

Melghe Molbhthach, (Melghe the Praiseworthy) son of Colethach, was High-King from 3696 to 3708 (B.C. 267-255). He died at the hands of Modhchorb, a son of Cobhthach Caomh. His son, Iaran Gleofathach, reigned from 3721 to 3727 ( B.C. 242-236). He was said to have been a king of great justice and wisdom and lost his life at the hands of Fearchorb, son of Modhchorb. After a lapse of seven years his son Conla Caomh (Conla the Comely) became High-King for four years, when he died a natural death. He was immediately succeeded by his son Olioll Cas-fiachlach (Olioll of the Crooked Teeth) who, twenty-five years later, was slain by Adhamhar Foltchaion in 3763 (B.C. 200). In 3768 (B.C. 195) Olioll's son Eochaidh Alt­ leathan ( Eochaidh of the Long Hair) secured the throne, which he held for seven years when he died at the hands of Feargus Fortamhail. Twelve years later, 3787 ( B.C. 176) Eochaidh's son Aongus Tuirmeach-Teamrach was crowned High­ King and ruled for thirty-two years, being slain at Tara in 3819 (B.C. 144). Twelve years again elapsed before his son Enna Aigneach ( Enna the Hospitable) managed to secure the throne, which he held until 3851 (B.C. 112) when he died at the hands of Criomthan Cosgrach. From this King's brother, Fiacha Firara, descended the Dalriadan princes, ancestors of the Scottish kings. The six generations following Enna's reign were excluded from the High-Kingship; they were Labraidh Lore ( the Fierce), Beotact, Blatact, Assa­ man Eamhna, Roighnen Ruadh ( the Red), in whose

6 Ancient Irish Traditional Descent time there was a great cattle plague, and Fionn Fionn­ logha who married Benia, daughter of Crimthan, and had Eochaidh Feidhlioch (Eochaidh of the Constant Sighs) who became High-King in the year 3922 (B.C. 41). He married Crofinna, daughter of Art of U ell­ than, and lived in Aileach. He built a royal palace at Druin-na-n Druagh in Connaught and died at Tara in 3934 (B.C. 29). His son Finn Eamhna was ex­ cluded from the High-Kingship. Finn's sister, Maeve, Queen of Connaught, is still remembered as the Queen of the Irish fairies. Finn's son Lughaidh Sriabh-n Dearg (Lughaidh of the Red Circles) succeeded as Ardrigh A.M. 4015, A.D. 63, and ruled for ten years, when he committed suicide by falling on his sword. He married Derb­ f orguill, a Danish Princess, and had Crimthann Niadh N ar ( Crimthann the Champion of N ar) who was High-King from A.D. 74 to 90. He married N ar­ Tath-Chaoch, daughter of Loich, son of Darletus, King of the Picts. He was slain, with many other princes and nobles at a great feast given in their honour at Magh Cro, near Knockma, County Galway. Five years later his son Feredach Fionn-Feachtnach (Feredach the Just) was crowned High-King at Tara. He appointed Moran his chief Brehon, or judge and councillor, and under their joint sway the country enjoyed peace and prosperity. The fame acquired by Moran is attributed to the chain called Idh Moran which when put around the neck of a guilty person would squeeze him to suffocation, but if placed about the neck of an innocent person would expand and fall to the ground. He is said to have received the chain

7 The Clan .Zvfacneil from the Apostle Paul, according to a legend in the Book of Ballymote. Feredach died peacefully at Tara in A.D. 116, after a reign of twenty-one years. Three years after his death his son Fiacha Fionn Ola (Fiacha of the White Oxen) who married Ethne, daughter of Imgheal, King of the Picts (Scotland) became High-King. Shortly after his accession the provincial kings formed a con­ spiracy to dethrone him and, about the year 126, his forces being absent in Scotland contending against the Roman Legion, they marched to Tara and slew him in the palace. It was said he died by the sword of Eiliomh Mac Conrach. Four years later, in 130, his son Tuathal Teachtmar (Tuathal the Acceptable) ascended the throne. He married Baine, daughter of Seal Balbh ( Seal the Dumb) King of Finland. This queen gave her name to Cnoc mBaine, . She built the palace Rathmore, which is described as a strongly fortified fort which was surrounded by three moats capable of being flooded from an adjoining lake. Tuathal ap­ pointed his son Fedhlimidh heir apparent and thereby aroused the enmity of Mal, King of , who de­ feated and slew him in an engagement at the hill of Kenguba in the year 160. Mal reigned for four years when he was killed by Fedhlimidh. Fedhlimidh Rachtmar ( Fedhlimidh the Lawgiver) married Una, daughter of the King of Denmark. He . built several military roads to Tara, paving them with blocks of stone in the Roman manner. After a reign of ten years he died, we are told, of thirst. Three years afterwards his famous son Conn Ceadcathach

8 Ancient Irish Traditional Descent

( Conn of the Hundred Battles) ascended the throne. He is said to have fought a hundred battles against the provincial kings of Ireland, but· is celebrated as well for his good government. He married Aefa, daughter of Alpin, King of the Picts of Scotland. In the thirty-fifth year of his reign, A.D. 212,, he died at the hands of assassins, disguised as women, and em­ ployed by Tiolbraidh Tireach, King of Ulster and son of Mal, as he was preparing for the Feast of Tara. Art Eanfhear (Art the Lonely) son of Conn became High-King in the year 220. He married Trea, daughter of Cian of Munster. It is said he was called the Lonely or the Melancholy because he was the only son of Conn, his two brothers having been murdered by their uncles. He wrote an epitaph on his own sepulchre, and was killed in battle in the year 250. Cormac Ulfhada, (Cormac Long-beard) son of Art, gained the throne in 254. In his youth he was forced to lie concealed with friends in Connaught while his cousin Lughaidh ruled. He married Ethne, daughter of Dunlang, King of Leinster. It is said that Cormac was one of the most splendid of the pagan monarchs of Ireland. He wrote many famous ,vorks including "Teagusc na Righ," or Instructions for a King. He established three academies at Tara for the study of the science of war, historical literature and jurispru­ dence. In the year 269 he abdicated and lived in retirement at his manor-house of Cletty until 294 when he was choked to death by a salmon bone in his throat. Cairbre Lif ea char ( Cairbre of the Liffey) , son of Cormac, married a daughter of the Prince of the Hebrides and was crowned High-King in the year

9 The Clan A1acneil

278. After a reign of seventeen years he was slain at the battle of Gabhra by Siomeon, son of Ceirb. Fiacha Srabhteine (Fiacha of Castle Srabhteine) t son of Cairbre, succeeded his two cousins in the sovereignty A.D. 297. He married Aoife, daughter of the King of ~all Gaodhal ( Prince of the Hebrides). About the year 32.8 he was slain by the Three Callas, Colla U ais, Colla Mean and Colla da Chrioch. Colla Uais was then proclaimed High-King and held the sovereignty for three years when he was overthrown by Muireadach, son of Fiacha. · Muireadach Tireach, High-King from 331 to 356, married Murion, daughter of Fiachra, Prince of Munster. Calvagh, King of Ulidia, met the Ardrigh in battle at Portri and defeated and killed him, but only held the throne for a few months when he in turn was killed by Eochaidh, son of Muireadach, who was crowned in the same year. Eochaidh Muigh Meadhoin (Eochaidh of the Flux) reigned _for eight years and died peaceably at Tara in the year 364. He married, first, Mung-Fionn, secondly Carthan Cais Dubh, ( Carthan of the Black Locks) a Saxon Princess, whom he had taken captive in one of his expeditions and by her had Niall of the Nine: Hostages.

10 THE CLANN NIALL NIALL NAOIGHIALLACH or Niall Mor (Neil of the Nine Hostages or Neil the Great) I. ascended the Throne of Ireland in the year 379 on the death of King Crimthann, a descendent of Olioll Olum and head of the race of Heber, who died, without issue, on his way to Munster at Sliabh Oighidh-an-Righ (the Mountain of the Death of the King) now the Cratloe Mountains, north of the city of Limerick. In the "Adventures of the Sons of Eochaidh Muigh Meadhoin" an ancient chronicler thus sets forth the story of Niall's birth, education and succession to the throne: Niall's mother, Carthan Cais Dubh, daughter of the King of England, had been taken captive by his father Eochaidh, whose queen was Mung Fiann, by whom he had several sons older than Niall. When Niall was born the jealous queen had him conveyed out of the palace of Tara and exposed on the green side of the hill, where he was taken up by the celebrated Munster poet, Torna, brother of Moghconn. Torna took the boy to his bosom and to him was revealed all that would be hereafter, and he said: "Welcome the little guest, he will be Niall of the Nine Hostages. In time he will redden a multitude. Plains will be greatened, hostages will be overthrown, battles will be fought. Longside Tara, host leader of Magh Femin, custodian of Maen Magh. Revered one of Almain, veteran of Liffey, White-knee of Codal. Seven and twenty years he rules Erinn and Erinn will be in­ herited from him forever."

11 The Clan Macneil

So Torna brought him to his residence at Ui Torna (in which is situated Abbey O'Dorney) in Kerry, where he nurtured and educated him and afterwards brought him to Tara and presented him to his father and his friends. The beauty and promise of the youth at once at­ tracted the attention of Eochaidh. Whereupon anger seized the queen, for that seemed evil to her. She then said to Eochaidh, "Pass judgment among thy sons as to which of them shall receive thy heritage." He answered, "I will not pass judgment, but Sitchenn the Wizard will do so." Then one day the King happened to find his sons together at the forge of Sitchenn, his chief sword­ smith and a wise man and wonderful prophet, and the smith unknown to the princes set fire to the forge, and called upon them to save his property. Niall came out carrying the anvil and its block. "Niall vanquishes", said the Wizard, "and he shall be a solid anvil forever." Brian next came bringing the sledge hammers. "Brian to your fighters", said the \Vizard. Then came Fiachra bringing a pail of beer and the bellows. "Your beauty and your science with Fiachra", said the Wizard. Then came Ailill with the chest in which were the weapons. "Ailill to avenge you", said the Wizard. Last came Fergus with a bundle of withered wood and a bar of yew therein. "Fergus the withered", said the Wizard. Niall was accordingly declared heir to his father. Niall's first task as High-King was to subdue the hostile provincial Irish Kings in which he appears to have been highly successful. At the request of the 12 The Clann Niall

Irish Dalriads, he then led an army against the Picts and obliged them to surrender Ceann Tire and Argyll, in Scotland, to his countrymen. At their request he changed the name of Alba (Scotland) to that of Scotia lv1inor, as distinguished from Ireland, called Scotia Major, in honour of Queen Scota, wife of Milesius. Having appeased the troubles in Alba, he entered Britain and ravaged the whole country in the year 388. He then embarked for Armoric Gaul, whence he brought considerable booty and two hundred captives, one of them being St. Patrick, Apostle of Ireland, then in his sixteenth year. In the year 396, observing that the Romans had retired to the eastern shore of Britain, he collected a great fleet, and ranging along the whole coast of Lanca­ shire he landed in Wales, which he made a tributary province, though he was eventually forced to retreat by the Roman general Stilicho. In 405, encouraged by his successes abroad, Niall determined to invade France and also "take hostages of Italy." Accordingly he raised a great army and sent a commission to Gabhran, general of the Dalriads, to follow him with his choicest troops. Marching through France he encamped on the banks of the Loire, near the Alps, where he was joined by Gabhran with his Scots. With him came Eochaidh, an exiled King of Leinster, and one day when Niall sat conversing with his officers on the bank of the river, Eochaidh passed to the opposite side of the river and discharged an arrow at Niall which mortally wounded him. Niall's body was brought home in the same year and buried at Ocha near Tara, where, over a century later,

13 The Clan Macneil

it was taken up by Saint Cianan of Duleek and found entire. Niall married first Righneach, daughter of Medabh, by whom he had several sons, and secondly Ineachtf ee, daughter of Dubhteach, son of Moindeach, King of Ulidia, by whom he also had several children, among them being Eoghan, who carried on the direct line. Of fourteen sons only eight left issue, the first four remaining in Meath, from whom descended the Hy Nials of the South, and from the last four the Hy Nials of the North, and it was from these two branches of the Clan Neil that generally, though _not always, the High-Kings of Ireland were alternately elected. It is in descent from Neil of the Nine Hostages that the Chiefs of the Clan Macneil record their numerical . succession. II. EOGHAN, son of Neil of the Nine Hostages, was King of Aileach and Prince of Ulster. His stronghold was the Fortress of Aileach, on the Hill of Greenan, about four miles northwest of the city of Derry and overlooking the Laughs Foyle and Swilly and the valley of . He entertained Saint Patrick at Aileach and it is said he was baptised by him. It is recorded that Eoghan met Saint Patrick "in Fid Mor ( Great Wood) in the place where the :flagstone is, and Eoghan believed in God and Patrick, then Patrick blessed Eoghan with his sons." He died in the year 465 and was buried at Eskaheen in Inishowen. He married Indorba Finn, a Saxon Princess. He had ten sons, the eldest being Muireadach, who succeeded him.

14 THE CLAN TARTAN

\VAR CRY: "Buaidh no Bas" ('"Victory or Death"). BADGE : ~1 achall-monaidh ( Dryas) or F eamainn (Algae). CLAX PIPE ~I 1:src: Lament, "Cumha :Mhic Neill Bharraidh" ( ~Iacneil of Barra's Lament); l\1arch, ''Spaidsearachd :Wihic Neill" (''l\lacneil's ~,larch'').

The Clann Niall

III. MUIREADACH, King of Aileach and Chief of Cinel Eoghan, as the descendants of Eoghan were termed. He eloped with Erca, wife of Saran, King of Britain, and daughter of Loarn Mor, first King of Scot­ tish Dal Riada, by whom he had four sons. During his reign Saint Patrick died, and he himself died in the year 480. His son Muirceartach appe3:rs to have been the eldest. IV. MUIRCEARTACH succeeded his father on his death and is known as Muirceartach Mor Mac Erca, or Great Muirceartach son of Erca. His royal revenues as King of Aileach were set forth as follows: "The tributes of the King of Aileach and his stipends here; and his tributes from his territories and his stipends of them. A hundred sheep and a hundred cloaks and a hun­ dred hogs and a hundred red cows from Cuilentraidhe. Thirty hogs and thirty cows and thirty wethers from Tuath Ratha. Three hundred hogs and three hundred cows and three hundred wethers from the men of Lurg. Three hundred cows and three hundred beeves and a hundred tinners from the King of Ui Fiachrach. One hundred beeves; one hundred cows; one hun­ dred hogs and fifty cloaks from the Ui Mac Crerthinn. Three hundred hogs; three hundred cows; and three hundred beeves from the Ciannachta of Glen Geimhin. One hundred milch cows; fifty cloaks and fifty hogs from the Ui Tuirtre. One hundred beeves; one hundred milch cows and fifty cloaks from the men of Magh Itha." 15 The Clan Macneil

On the death of his father, Muirceartach raised a great army in support of his cousin Lewy, son of Leary, who at the time of his father's death was too young to claim the throne of Ireland, which was seized by Olioll, son of Dathi. He gave battle to the usurper at Ocha, near Tara, whom he routed and slew in the year 482, after which Lewy ascended the throne. By this victory the race of Neil was firmly established on the throne which they held without a break for over five centuries. Muirceartach, as heir to Lewy, took command of his army and five years later succeeded Lewy when the latter was killed by a thunderbolt near Slane, County Meath. Muirceartach's grandfather Loarn Mor led a colony of Dal Riads from Antrim, and aided by him, founded the Scottish Kingdom of Dalriada or Airer Gaedhil, Argyll, the territory of the . When Loarn died, about the year 513, after a reign of ten years, he was succeeded by his brother Fergus, who resolved to be crowned on the inauguration stone of the Irish Kings, the Lia Fail or Stone of Destiny. The history of this stone is said to carry us back to patriarchial times when Jacob, a lonely wanderer, seeking repose for the night, saw a stone and made it his pillow which became the base of the ladder of angels reaching heaven. Carried in after ages by some of the Captivity to Egypt it was transported thence by a scion of the House of Judah, in the ships of Dan, to Inis Fail, where its custodians and their posterity became the royal race of "Tara of the Kings."

16 The Clann Niall

On this stone, which was said to roar beneath the Irish Monarchs and which Muirceartach no,v pre­ sented to the Dal Riads, his grand-uncle Fergus was solemnly crowned, as were his successors for many generations after. It was first transferred to Dun­ staffnage Castle, Argyllshire, and afterwards to the Abbey of Scone, near Perth, continuing in use until it was carried away by Edward I., of England and placed in Westminster Abbey, where it is still to be seen in the Coronation Chair and on which their Majesties of are crowned, they also descending through the Stuarts from Fergus and Loarn. The stone is a rectangular block of limestone, very much worn with handling and bears no engraving or inscription. For lifting it there are two rings, one at each end. It is described in Historical Memorials of Westminster Abbey, by Dean Stanley, under the title "The Lia Fail or Stone of Destiny, Presented to Fer­ gus, Prince of Argyll, ancestor of the Scottish Kings, by his grand-nephew Murcertac, Prince of Aileach and King of Ireland, A.D. 480-533." In the year 524 Muirceartach was once more obliged to take the field against the Leinstermen, whom he defeated. In 533 he fell a victim to the revenge of Sin, a woman whose parents were killed in the above battle. Both up to this time and for manyyears later thewomen took their places in the ranks with the men, and it was not until in the year 696 that a law was passed, at the request of Saint Adamnan, which ended the practice. Muirceartach had married Duinseach, daughter of Duach Teangabha, King of Connaught, by whom he had Donal, his successor, and Fergus. 17 The Clan Macneil

V. DONAL became High-King in the year 559, on the death of Dermod, and ruled jointlywith his brother Fergus. Two years later they both died of the plague. Donal was known as Donal Ilchealgach, the Deceitful. VI. AODH, son of Ilchealgach, ascended the Throne of Ireland in the year 599. He was called Aodh Uariodhnach or Hugh of the Ague. After eight years in the sovereignty his death sickness seized him and he sent for Mura, and Mura came, and the King said to him, "Cleric, thou hast deceived us, for we have neglected our penance, because we through thy word thought it would come to pass that we should be aged in life, and now methinks death is near me." He died, in 607, at Ath-da-Fearta, the Ford of the Two Graves, County Louth.

VII. MAOLFREACH, son of Aodh U ariodhnach, suc­ ceeded as Prince of Ulster, but not as High-King. He was slain between the years 626 and 630. VIII. MAELDUIN, son of Maolfreach, Prince of Ulster and Chief of Cine! Eoghan. The only note­ worthy event recorded during his reign is a battle in the year 636. He and his followers proceeded to Magh Rath, now Moire, County Down, about four miles northeast of Lurgan, where the enemy under Canal and Conal the Speckled, Prince of _Argyll, were assembled. It is said the battle lasted seven days and that Conal was slain and the enemy annihilated. Maelduin married Cacht, daughter of Maolchabha, Chief of Cinel Connil, Prince of Tyrconnel, had Fear­ gal, his successor, and was slain in the year 706.

18 The Clann Niall IX. FEARGAL, High-King of Ireland from 709 to 718. In717 he exacted the Baruma from the Lagenians. This Baruma was a taxwhich, in present-day standards, would have amounted to more than £250,000. In the following year, however, the Lagen:i.ans refused pay­ ment. Thereupon Feargal assembled an army of 21,000 and, marching into Leinster, fought the great battle of Allen, County Kildare. Seven thousand are said to have lost their lives, including Feargal and ten grandsons of Mao If reach. Feargal was slain by Aodh Menn, son of the King of Leinster, and his head was presented to Catha!, son of the King of Munster. . Catha!, ·when he saw the head, was grieved, and had it washed and the hair plaited and combed smooth, "and a cloth of velvet put around it, and seven oxen, seven wethers and seven bacon-pigs, all cooked, were brought. Then the head blushed in the presence of all the men of Munster, and it opened its eyes to God to render thanks for the respect and great honour shown it. Then the food was distributed by Cathal to the neighbouring churches, after which he went with a choice gathering of the men of Munster and gave the head to the Neils in Aileach." Feargal married Aithiochta, daughter of Cein, King of Connaught, by whom he had Niall.

NIALL THE SHOWERY

X. NIALL, known as Niall Frassach, Niall the Shovvery, was only twenty-two years of age when he succeeded as King of Aileach and Chief of Cinel Eoghan and under his mild sway a long period of

19 1'he Clan Macneil peace was enjoyed. In the year 759 he assumed the sovereignty on the death of Donal, son of Muriough, when "for love of him there fell from heaven three preternatural showers, near Aileach, namely, a shower of pure silver, a shower of wheat, and a shower of honey, hence his name. During a famine Niall be­ sought God for relief for his people, which request was no sooner made than a great shower of silver fell from heaven, whereat the King greatly rejoiced, 'And yet', said he, 'this is not the thing that can deliver us from this famine and imminent danger', with that he fell to his prayers again. Then a second shower of heavenly honey fell, and then the King said, with great thanksgiving, as before, and with that the third shower fell of pure wheat which covered the fields over, the like of which was never seen before, so that there was such plenty and abundance of wheat that it seemed able to maintain many kingdoms." After a short reign of seven years, in 766, Niall retired to the Isle of , in Scotland, where he died in the year 773. XI. AooH, son of Niall, known as Aodh Ordnigh, or Hugh the Dignified, ascended theThrone of Ireland in the year 793 and reigned for twenty-five years. During his time, about the year 814, the Norsemen began to ravage Ireland. They were generally called the Danes, but more specifically the Finn Galls, or fair strangers, and the Dubh Galls, or black strangers, as they a pp eared to be two distinct types. Ireland, at this time seems to have enjoyed a great reputation as the seat of learning of Europe and King 20 The Clann Niall

Charles the Bald, of France, is recorded as having said: "Why do I speak of Ireland, that whole nation almost despising the danger of the sea repair to our coasts with a numerous train of philosophers and holy men, the most famous of whom, bidding adieu to their native land, account themselves happy under your favour, as the servants of the wise Solomon." Aodh Ordnigh married Meadhbh, daughter of Ionrachtach, King of Durlus, by whom he had Niall. He died at Ath da Fearta in 818.

XII. NIALL reigned as High-King from 832 to 845. He was called Niall Caille, or Niall of the Callan, from the river in which he was drowned. He married Gormfhliath, daughter of Donogh mac Donal. He was very successful in his battles with the Danes, but on one of his expeditions against them, in the endeavour to save a bodyguard who had fallen into the River Callan, he lost his own life, at the age of fifty-five. XIII. AooH, son of Niall, was called Aodh Finn­ laith, or Hugh the Hoary. Sixteen years after his father's death, 861, he became High-King of Ireland ( known in Gaelic as Ardrigh) , King of Aileach and Prince of Ulster. He marched against the Ulidians and the Connacians from whom he exacted hostages and pledges, and in 864 he proceeded against the Danes, whose fortress he plundered, and when the battle was over "twelve score of their heads were counted before him." Again in 871 he captured one of their fortresses, putting 240 of them to the sword and carrying off their goods and many captives.

21 The Clan Macneil

He married Princess Maolmuire, daughter of Ken­ neth Mac Alpin, King of Scotland, by whom he had Niall, his successor, also a daughter who marriedAulaf the White, King of the Danes, and founder of the Norse Kingdom of Dublin. He died in the year 878. XIV. NIALL, ascended the throne in the same year. He carried the sobriquet of Niall Glundubh, or Niall Black Knee. He, in turn, had more or less continuous warfare with the Danes and in August 915, a great engagement took place where more than eleven hun­ dred were killed. It is said Niall was victorious, but apparently not decisively so, as in the following year he was slain by them at Dublin. XV. MUIRCEARTACH, son of Niall Glundubh, as­ sumed the sovereignty in the year 937. From supply­ ing his warriors with leather cloaks, an invention of his own, as protection against the weather, he was known as Muirceartach na Cochall Croiceann, or Muirceartach of the Leather Cloaks. He spent nearly his whole life battling against the Danes, and proved himself to be the most formidable enemy they had encountered in Ireland. In 937, he was surprised by them at Aileach and they carried him off to their ships, but he afterwards succeeded in making his escape. It is said that both at the fairs and great assemblies, the King wore his kingly robe and his golden helmet on his head, but that he never wore his diadems except in battle, which appears to have been the common custom of that time. In the year 943 he was slain by Blacaire, Lord of the Danes, and it is recorded that, "he was the greatest

22 The Clann Niall warrior of his day, of all enemies he was the most generous, of all commanders the most affable." XVI. DONAL, son of Muirceartach, styled Donal of Armagh, became Monarch in 954. In 978, the last year of his reign, he was attacked at Kilmona by Donal, son of Congallach, who joined with the Danes. Shortly after this, Donal wearied with strife and turmoil, re­ tired to the Monastery of Armagh, where he died. To his regard for learning and to his Ii berali ty to the poets and historians of his time may be ascribed the many valuable compositions dated in his reign. XVII. MUIRCEARTACH, styled Muirceartach na Midhe, or "of Meath", probably from having been fostered there, was slain in the year 97 5, during his father's reign. It is said that his son Flathartach was born in the same year. Muirceartach was also known as the Prince of Ulster and Tyrone. XVIII. FLATHARTACH, upon the death of his grand­ £ather, Donal of Armagh, succeeded as King of .....\.ilea ch and Prince of Ulster and Tyrone. The Four Masters styled him "The head of the West of Europe for piety and wisdom." In 1027, Donal a son of Flathartach, died, and in 1030 he himself resigned the crown to his son Aodh and went to Rome. In the following year he returned, after which he was known as Flathar­ tach an Trostain, or Flaherty of the Pilgrim's Staff. XIX. AODH, King of Aileach and Prince of Ulster and Tyrone, the last King of his line. He was called Aodh Athlamh, or Hugh the Dexterous. He engaged in battle with Eochaidh, Prince of Ulidia, and is said.

23 The Clan Macneil to have died in the year 1033. He left two sons, Donal an Togdhamh, who ,vas the last Prince of Aileach and Ulster of his line for some time, and Aodh Aonrachan. XX. A0DH A0NRACHAN, or Hugh the Solitary, had Aodh, the progenitor of the Mac Sweeneys of Tyr­ connell, and Niall, the progenitor of the Macneils of Barra. NIALL OF BARRA

XXI. NIALL went to the Isle of Barra, in the of Scotland, between the years 1030 and 1049. In his~orical sketches of the Clan Niall ( the Clan Macneil) of Scotland, which have appeared from time to time, various general descents have been given which were largely the opinions of their authors. The author of this work therefore gives hereinafter his authorities for this descent, which are to him con­ clusive evidence: 1. The Gaelic Manuscript of the 15th Century, accepted by the great majority of Scots historians, shows the common descent of the Macneils, the Mac­ lachlans, the Lamonts and the Macewens, and states: Hugh Aonrachan from whom (descend) Clan Neil. 2. The Scots Magazine of 1763, states: "7th of May, 1763. In Barra died Roderick McNeil, Esq., aged 70. He was the nineteenth generation from the first of his predecessors who settled in Barra in the time of Malcolm II., King of Scotland, about the year 1030, and the thirty-fifth generation from one of the six sons of M urtach ( M uireadach), son of Owen ( Eoghan), son of Neil of the Nine Hostages, King of Ireland in

24 The Clann Niall the year 371, from whom the O'N eils in Ireland and the McN eils in Scotland derive their surnames." (It will be noted also that the number of genera­ tions above set forth agrees exactly with those re­ corded.) 3. The Barra Song, centuries old, appearing in Mrs. Kennedy-Fraser's collection under the name of "The Ballad of Macneil of Barra", in which the singer tells of departed Chiefs as follows : 0 bhradaig dhuibh Oh black thief Bhrist na glasan Breaker of locks A Mhuireartach Muirceartach A chochaill chraicinn Of the Leather Cloaks (XV) Cuiridh mi ort I will put on thee An dubh chapaill The black shame C'ait an d'fhag thu Where hast left Ruairi n'Tartair Rory the Turbulent (XXXV) S' a mhac cliuteach And his famous son Nial a Chaisteal Neil of the Castle (XXXVI) S' Nial Glun Dubh And Neil Black Knee (XIV) S' Nial a Frassach And Neil the Showery ( X) etc. etc. 4. The Barra Register, which began under the date of 1049 with Niall, son of Aodh Aonrachan, about which more hereafter. 5. The complete accord of the traditional descents as handed down from generation to generation of Barramen, and which can be checked against known historical facts. This exact knowledge of the genera­ tions of the Chiefs of the Clan straight through f ram Neil of the Nine Hostages to their day was not at all uncommon among the older Barra people of the past century. In the year 563 Saint , or Colum Cille, a cousin of Donal Ilchealgach, V, and Fergus, joint

25 The Clan Macneil

High-Kings of Ireland and _Kings of Aileach, of the Clan Niall, left Ireland to carry the teachings of the Saviour to his fell ow Scots in Dalriada and to the Picts in the north. He established a monastery on the Isle of Iona, given to him by Bruidhi, King of the Picts, which became the head of the church in Scot­ land. He also placed smaller monasteries in various parts of the western coast and from these he sent out priests to nearly all the islands of the west. In later years his missionaries established several churches in the Outer Hebrides, there being one or more on each of the Islands. There is a well in the Township of Tangasdale, near , Barra, named after him, as well as an old chapel on , near Barra. Saint Columba's teachings were of the purest Chris­ tian character, and while the people accepted Chris­ tianity they could not completely abandon the pagan rites of their forefathers, so that to this day traces of odd superstitions and old customs which are relics of a pre-Christian era are found. The Isle of Barra, the home of the Clan, received its name from one of these early Christians, Bishop Finn Barr, of Cork, who died in 623. There are several explanations made by various writers on the derivation of the name Barra, some saying it is synonymous with Burra in and Burray in the Orkneys, meaning a storm tossed island; others giving the Gaelic Barr, a point, and the Norse Bar-ey, bare island. While Barra is indeed a storm-tossed island, it is no more so than the neighbouring islands, and it could not be called a point. Barra has always put forth an air of fertility in comparison with its neighbours which, while

26 The Clann Niall

perhaps unreal, could not bring upon it the name of bare island. It is quite certain that the true derivation is Barr Island, that is, Barr-ey. This form and pronunciation always have been used among the natives, while Barra is of recent usage. In the territory of the Macneils in Kintyre there is an island, Davarr, formerly known as St. Barr's Island, while the Gaelic equivalent, Kil­ harray, appears frequently in Barra and Kintyre. Added to this, Bishop· Finn Barr was considered by the Barra people as their patron saint. An event which was to play such an important role in the affairs of the Hebrides for several centuries .occurred with the coming of the Norsemen. It is highly probable that a few wandering ships of explored the Isles in the seventh century, but it is not known if permanent settlements were made. About the year 700 the Irish annals state that Britain was being devastated by them and in 794 the was laid in waste. All during the ninth century the Irish continue to tell about their raids and how they burned and pillaged. It is acknowledged that the Clan Macneil is one of the most ancient in Scotland and it was a common saying throughout the Highlands that "The Macneils had a boat of their ain at the Flood." Several early historians have recorded the Macneils as having pre­ ceded the Norse to Barra but this is clearly an error. In the old cemetery of Cille-bharra, where the Chiefs are buried, are the ruins of an old Celtic cross, which, according to Barra tradition, stands on the grave of a Viking, called a Danish king, who died a

Zl The Clan Macneil natural death on the island in the year 645 and was interred there. On the Isle of Vatersay, to the south of Barra, are the ruins of a Danish fort said to have been built in the eighth century. When these early Vikings returned to their homes they told of the great rich lands of Ireland and, using the Hebrides as stepping-stones to reach their goal, they invaded that country and later established their Kingdom of Dublin. They then turned their attention to these islands through which they had passed and, coming in great numbers, were enabled to establish themselves permanently there. In the year 853 died Godfrey Mac Fergus, a name clearly showing the combination of Gaelic and Norse. He was the first King or , a title later held by the noble Clan Macdonald. There was an old Barra tradition relating to the death and burial there, near Ardvouray, of a Viking which was verified so many centuries later through the activities of Commander Edge, R. N., and de­ scribed in the records of the Society of Antiquaries of London as follows:* "Commander Edge has for some time past been engaged in surveying the Hebrides. In the course of his operation in the Isle of Barra, in September last, he met with a large stone, standing upright upon a tumulus of sand and about 7 feet in height above the present surface. It is quite plain, without any inscription or sculpture. "Supposing such a monument could not have been erected without some particular object, he was induced

*Second Series, Vol. II, 1861-64. 28 The Clann Iv"Tiall to have the ground near it opened, and at the depth of about three ieet a skeleton was discovered in a tolerable state of preservation. "From the objects found with it, it was evidently that of a person of some distinction. He was of low stature, and as the sutures of the skull were completely obliterated, and the alveolar cavities in the jaw ( which was found with but one tooth remaining in it) were also entirely filled up, he must have been of consider­ able age at the time of his death. "The skull, which Commander Edge has preserved, is of a very inferior type, the forehead being very low, while the cerebral developments are extremely large. The position of the body was with the head to the NNW true and the feet SSE. By the side of the skeleton was a sword which is now in the possession of Commander Edge. It is of iron 2 feet 9 inches in length, and is much rusted. "It is too much decayed to bear much moving about, and consequently does not accompany the other objects found. From some portions of the sheath still remain­ ing attached to the sword, he concludes that it was formed of some kind of cloth covered with the skin of an animal of the deer kind. On the body was lying what was supposed to be a shield, which appears to have been composed of thin iron rods, possibly inserted into a wooden frame, some portions of the wood having been found, but it was altogether too much decayed to enable its exact form to be determined. "But the most interesting objects in this interment are two oval brooches or ornaments in bronze, having on them an intricate pattern composed chiefly of small

29 The Clan Macneil bosses surrounded by human arms, the hands of which are grasping the wrists or upper part of other arms, thus forming a very curious interlaced pattern of con­ siderable beauty. That they were brooches is shown by the remains of the tongues by which they were attached. They have evidently been lined with cloth, as in one of them are the remains of such a lining in a very good state of preservation. "Two bronze tongues of buckles were also found, together with a whetstone for sharpening a dirk or sword, which had evidently been much used. Close by the side of the body was a large clam or escallop shell, evidently coeval with the interment, as it is a little stained by the decomposition of one of the bronze objects which was found upon it, and is also slightly injured by it. "This shell was probably used as a drinking vessel, and it is, I believe, not uncommon to use these shells for the same purpose at the present time. There was also found a comb of boxwood about 8 inches in length. "Such are the particulars of this interesting interment. It would be presumptuous in me to attempt to refer it to any definite date, still we may possibly approxi­ mate nearly to it. From the intricacy and general style of the pattern on the oval ornaments, I am induced to refer it to a Scandinavian origin, and I may hazard the conjecture that this may possibly have been the body of some Danish chieftain who fell in one of the incursions made by that people in the ninth or tenth century of our era and who was buried by his followers on the spot where he fell, who also raised the tumulus

30 From Painting by Sir Henry Raeburn. R. A. "THE FAIR LADY OF BARRA" Jean, \Vife of Roderick of Barra, XL

The Clann J\T iall above the body and erected the stone as a memorial to him." Since the foregoing was written the Barra brooches have been proved to be of Scandinavian origin* and have been assigned to the latter part of the eighth century, corresponding almost exactly with a brooch found at U ppland, Sweden. During these early centuries Barra appears to have been but occasionally occupied by the Norse and it is highly probable that, before the coming of the Mac­ neils, it was not permanently inhabited. It is likely that the Norse fortress on Vatersay was used merely as a base of operations, as there are no records of ravaging in Barra, due undoubtedly to the absence then of inhabitants. In the year 885 was ·fought the great sea battle of Hafursfiord. Harald Harf ager was King of Norway at this time and at this battle he overcame and con­ quered all the piratical princes and nobles of that country. Stripped of their power and prowess, they preferred leaving their native country to acknowledg­ ing Harald as their Superior. This resulted in the im­ mediate invasion of the Hebrides as well as the , the Faroes, Iceland, and the coast of the mainland of Europe. These adventurers came in great numbers and made permanent settlements to such an extent that the Hebrides and Man were dominated by them. These Vikings were above all things pirates and they did not hesitate to let the Mother Country know

*Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Vol. XLVIII, page 307. 31 The Clan Macneil of their continued existence by pillaging the Nor­ wegians at home and slipping away again to their Hebridean fastnesses. So much was this done that about 888, King Harald sent a great expedition against them and was victorious. He immediately assumed sovereignty over the great region where the Vikings had been and, establishing his government, he appointed Sigurd J arl or Earl of , including the Hebrides and Man. Sigurd, in turn, appointed successively two lieutenants to govern the Outer Isles. As soon as Harald returned to Norway, the Vikings came back to their old haunts and, full of revenge, they killed the first lieutenant, appointed by Sigurd, and then his successor. They remained in control until about 900 when the mastered them and placed another governor in the Hebrides. There was continual strife between these Vikings and the Earls of Orkney for several years after this, but the Vikings were subdued finally and disappeared. In the year 1014, at the battle of Clontarf, the Norse power in Ireland was broken and they were driven out of that country, though they remained in the western isles and the coast of Scotland for nearly two hundred and fifty years more. Between the years 1030 and 1049 the Macneils, or N ialls of Ulster, came to Barra under Niall, son of Aodh Aonrachan. The author inclines toward the former date in view of the obituary notice in the Scots Magazine in 1763 stating that it was during the reign of King Malcolm II, who was on the throne from 1005 to 1034 and that it was about the year 1030, and

32 The Clann Niall this also accords with local tradition. The mention of Malcolm II would fix the year as prior to 1034 while the Irish records would preclude the possibility of a much earlier date. While, on the other hand, the Barra Register's first mentioned date is 1049, it does not necessarily indicate the time of the arrival of the Clan Niall, but it does determine the fact that the Macneils were in possession of Barra before that year. The Barra Register was a record of the achieve­ ments of the Clan similar to that kept by other Scots and . It was written in Gaelic and the earliest chroniclers were Macmemeny, Macmanus, Poetess Nic-Iain-Fhinn. In later years it was kept by Hector Macneil of Scurrival, and the last entry was by John, son of Hector Macneil of V aslan. Several sheets, either of the original or copies of the manuscript, were in the possession of the Reverend Angus Macneil of V atersay, Guardian of Roderick the Gentle, and were seen in the hands of some of his descendants by some of the older Barramen of recent years, notably the late Michael Macneil, of Castlebay, and Michael Buchanan, of Borve, but all record of them has been lost. Mention may here be made of Michael Buchanan's affiliation with the Clan. His maternal forefathers, the Mackinnons, were for many generations "leine­ chneis" or secretaries to the Chiefs. His mother, Mary Mackinnon, was the daughter of Finlay Mackinnon, last leine-chneis. Michael was exceptionally well versed in Barra genealogies and traditions, following in the footsteps of Michael Macneil, a worthy clans- 33 The Clan Macneil man, whom unfortunately the author never had the privilege of knowing. During the Chiefship of Niall XXI, there is the Barra tradition that the Norse governor of the He­ brides made an alliance with the Macneils by marrying the Chief's daughter. This is also mentioned in the old Statistical Account of Barra. Among the traditions relating to the Norse there is also one telling of a battle to the death on the plain south of Ben Eoligarry between the Chief and a Vik­ ing. While the Clansmen were at their games the Viking and his men landed near the Traigh Mhor and the two leaders, by mutual desire, engaged in a hand to hand combat in which the Chief was the victor, after which the Clansmen overcame the Norsemen and captured their galley. It was said the Viking was buried on the spot and marked by a stone monument, ruins of which are still standing. In these times Macneil was not a surname as it is now known, but was used in its literal and descriptive sense, mac Niall, that is, "the son of Neil" or equally "of the line of Niall." In Gaelic speaking communi­ ties today, the same custom prevails, as the women are still known as nic Niall, or "daughter of Neil." In due course of time it became a surname, usually angli­ cized to suit its bearer in regard to spelling, while in Ireland it be~ame ui Niall, "grandson of Neil" or as it was pronounced, O'Neil. As several traditions of early events in the history of the Clan are quoted, it may be well to give a word of explanation. Tradition is the handmaiden to the early historian and in no place has tradition held such a firm

34 The Clann Niall grasp upon the people as in the Outer Isles. The people of Barra, in these early times, were so isolated and formed a Clan or colony so separate and distinct from the outer world that events coming from without were exceedingly rare and created such indelible im­ pressions upon them that they endured in the minds of the people and in the spoken history of the Clan in a remarkably clear and concise manner. The method by which these traditions were handed down from generation to generation is told elsewhere. About the year 1075, Godred Crovan, son of Harald the Black, of Iceland, completely overthrew the government of the Hebrides and Man, and also cap­ tured Dublin. He established by far the most com­ plete and perfect government up to that time. He appointed as governor of the Long Island, as the Outer Isles are sometimes called, his son Lagman. About this time also Niall died and was succeeded by his son Aodh. XXII. AooH, or Hugh, undoubtedly was forced to pay tribute to, and to recognize the "superiority" of, the Norse Governor of the Hebrides, in company with other western clans of that time. It is doubtful if Godred ever acknowledged Nor­ way's sovereignty, and in 1093 Magnus Bareleg fitted out an expedition and came to enforce his claims. He was highly successful, and Godred passed from history's page. As soon as Magnus had departed, how­ ever, the northern Hebrides threw off the Danish yoke, and in 1097, he had to send out a governor and armed forces. He selected Ingemund, who apparently made; a most unworthy governor. 35 The Clan Macneil

Ingemund immediately summoned all the Chiefs of the Isles to a pp ear and acknowledge their allegi­ ance to Magnus. The Chiefs responded, but were so badly treated that they banded together and in the middle of the night surrounded the houses containing the governor and his men and fired them. The Norse all perished, either by flame or sword. Magnus, upon hearing of this treatment of his rep­ resentative, at once set out on a punitive expedition consisting of sixty ships; he landed at Lewis, devastated the whole island by fire, and also went over into . He passed the winter of 1098 in the southern He­ brides and fell under the charm of the native Highland costume, which he adopted and from which ·he gained the name of Magnus Bareleg. Upon his return to Norway he set the fashion and the "Garb of Old Gaul" is said to have flourished at that Court for many years. He made a third expedition in 1103, when he met his · death, but this was mainly against Ireland, and the Hebrides were not molested. Upon his death, Lagman, son of Godred, assumed the sovereignty and was cruel and despotic. In 1114 he was succeeded by his brother Olave, who made a very good ruler and reigned for forty years, when he was murdered. During these years Aodh had been succeeded in the Chiefship of the Clan by his son, XXIII. DONAL. The Hebridean Chiefs, upon Olave's death, sent to Norway and invited his son Godred to become their Superior. At first a good king, he quickly became tyrannical. He was soon

36 The Clann Niall attacked by Thorfinn of Ireland, and called to his aid of Argyll. He, however, determined to have all the Hebrides to himself, and Godred found him too strong to be subdued, with the result that an agree­ ment was reached in 1156 by which Godred was to retain the isles north of Ardnamurchan and Somerled the southern isles (Barra being in the northern divi­ sion). While Godred was in Norway, Somerled died, in 1164, and Reginald, son of Olave the Red, assumed the sovereignty of Man and the Isles. Upon Godred's return he displaced Reginald and ruled peacefully, as peace existed in those days, until his death in 1187. During his reign Donal died and was succeeded by his son, XXIV. MUIRCEARTACH, Chief of the Clan. God­ red's son Olave was named Superior, but his natural brother Reginald took the reins of government and it was not until 1224 that Olave succeeded in dislodging him. Very good records exist of Olave's actions and he was also loyal to the King of Norway, visiting that Court to render homage. About this time Muircear­ tach was succeeded by his son, XXV. NIALL, Chief of the Clan. Upon Olave's death he was succeeded successively by his three sons~ Harald, Reginald and Magnus. With the succession of Magnus, 1252, during Niall's Chiefship, comes the first mention of the Council of the Isles, composed of the Hebridean Chiefs, exercising their right of naming the successor to the throne of the King of the Isles, to which honour Magnus was elected and later con-

37 The Clan Macneil firmed by his Superior the King of Norway. In later of these councils the Chiefs of the Macneils were described as "Island Princes." For years the Hebrides had been a thorn in the flesh of Alexander II, of Scotland, and Alexander III likewise coveted them. Both had parleyed with the Kings of Norway, but without result. In 1262, William, , devastated Skye, in all probability with the aid of Alexander, and in the following year Hakon of Norway fitted out an expedition and sailed for Lewis. Crossing over to Skye he was reinforced by Magnus and sailed to the south where he met the Scots at Largs, on the . Here the great battle took place at which the Norse occupation was brought to an end. The old Statistical Account of Barra, in speaking of the Norse occupation, says: "But after the , the power of the Danes began everywhere to decline; and such of them as remained here after the Ebudae (Hebrides) were restored to the King of Scot­ land, were expelled or massacred by the natives. In one of the adjacent islands, there is a collection of human bones, where it is said the last of the Danes were murdered." The Vikings and the Norsemen had come and gone and many of the great influences which they had exerted over the people were slowly to perish; their language died out, though they left racial characteris­ tics that in certain districts are visible to this day; but above all things they left their record of daring and physical prowess the equal of which the world has seldom seen.

38 The Clann Niall

It was about this time that Niall died and was suc­ ceeded by his son, XXVI. NIALL OG, or Young Neil, Chief of the Clan. By the Scots victory of Largs, the Hebrides were severed from Norway and nominally united with the Kingdom of Scotland, though it will be seen to what a slight degree the Kings of Scotland ruled in the Hebrides for several succeeding centuries. In 1266 the Hebrides formally were ceded to Scotland in con­ sideration of 4,000 merks of silver; this sum was to be paid in annual instalments of 1,000 merks, and there­ after an annual quitrent of 100 merks, but the Scots seem to have had other uses for the money. The debt rested until the marriage of King James III to Margaret, daughter of King Christian I, of Denmark, when it was used as a basis of settlement. On account of the dowry James gave to his bride, Christian relin­ quished his claim to past and future tribute and further pledged the Orkneys for 50,000 florins. He was to pay 10,000 florins before Margaret left for Scotland, but he only paid 2,000, and for the balance was obliged to pledge the Shetlands. So the matter technically appears to rest to this day leaving those islands in the not very serious danger of having to be returned to Denmark upon redemption of the pledge. In the year 1309 the Superiority of the Isle of Barra ,vas granted to Roderick Mac Allan by Bruce as the­ reward for his services. This Roderick was the son of Allan, an illegitimate son of Ruari, an ex-pirate. and founder of the family known as the Mac Ruaries or Mac Rodericks of and the North Isles.

39 The Clan Macneil

This grant, like many others in the Isles, was in name only and merely gave the royal sanction for the holder to attempt to take possession of the lands or to obtain tribute from them. In reference to the Isle of Barra, neither was accomplished, either at this time or at any later date, and the Macneils always remained firm in the possession of their island fastness. According to Clan tradition the Macneils, following the Chief, fought with Bruce at the glorious battle of Bannockburn, June 24, 1314. *Soon after this battle, and probably in reward for his support, Bruce granted the lands of Killmychill, Drondrayllen, Kellpoll and Reythenan, in Kin tyre, to Neil Og. There is little doubt that this Neil Og and Neil Og of Barra were one and the same person. It is known that Neil Og of Barra possessed the Barony of Bar in North Kintyre and the lands of Barra were also known as the Barony of Bar. The lands of Bar in Kintyre were, in accordance with the Law of Gavel, given to younger sons and in time they became a separate of the Clan, the Macneils of Taynish. During the reign of Bruce all the Chiefs of the Outer Isles remained faithful to the Crown until 1325, when Ruari Mac Allan started an insurrection with the result that all his possessions were taken away; but they ,vere restored to his son Ranald by Edward Baliol. The Macneils did not take part in this uprising. XXVII. MUIRCEARTACH (Murchard), son of Niall Og, succeeded as Chief of the Clan upon his father's

*Origines Parochiales Scotiae. 40 The Clann Niall death. It is from Niall (Neil), the brother of this Chief, that the Macneils of Taynish and of Gigha are said to descend. They have been known always as the oldest cadets of the Macneils of Barra. As Niall, Duke of Argyll, stated in the Celtic Review of April, 1914, the Lamonts, the MacSuibhnes (Mac­ Sweens) or Macewans of Otter and , the Maclachlans, and the Macneils are immediately descended from Hugh, or Aodh, Aonrachan. The Macneils of Taynish were Keepers of Castle Sween and its name indicates the connection with the Sweens or Sweeneys and also their direct relationship to the Clan Macneil, as given under XX, Aodh Aonrachan. Upon the succession of King David II the Chiefs refused to pay taxes or to attend the King's Parliament. In these actions they were led by the Lord of the Isles. It was at this time that the policy of discord was in­ augurated, in which the Clans were encouraged to war with one another, so that by diplomatic juggling some sort of control could be kept over them. King David granted a charter of the Isles of Uist and Barra to Ranald Mac Ruari, June 12, 1343-4, who was then engaged in a with his Superior, Wil.~iam, Earl of Ross, which ended in Ranald's death. His possessions then, in 1372, passed to his sister Amy, the wife of John of the Isles, and, though opposed by the Crown, the Lords of the Isles retained the Superiority. In 1372-3, Ranald, son of John of the Isles, received a grant of these lands, their claims having been recognized. The Superiority of Barra was thus at the disposal of the Lords of the Isles and the Macneils became their allies.

41 The Clan Macneil

XXVIII. RODERICK succeeded to the Chiefship upon his father's death and in 1409 witnessed the charter by Donald, Lord of the Isles, to Hector Mac Gilleon or Maclean, of Duart. He married a daughter of Ferquhard Maclean of Glen Urchart. The friend­ ship which existed between the Macneils and the Mac­ leans was already established at this early date, and it is one of the rare examples of friendship between Clans enduring from earliest times to the present day. Soon after the , John Mor the Tanister, son of John, Lord of the Isles, tried to enrich himself at his father's expense in the attempt to secure the lands of southern Ardnamurchan. He gathered his forces and attacked his father who, with the aid of Macneil of Barra and Macleod of Lewis, was able to def eat the son. During this same year, King James I convened his Parliament at , and invitations to attend were sent to all the Chiefs. Macneil however was cautious, as he stood none too well at Court; and his fears were well grounded, for those who did attend were promptly incarcerated.

XXIX. GILLEONAN succeeded his father in the Chiefship, and married, first, a lady of unknown name. In 1427, he received from Alexander, Lord of the Isles, a charter of the Isle of Barra and the lands of Boisdale in . About this time the Chief married, secondly, the Lady of Maclean, widow of Lachlan Bronneach of Duart, a daughter of John Macleod of Harris, and 42 The Clann Niall ' who possessed extensive lands in Coll. *Gilleonon ,vent to Coll and took possession of the castle of Breachd­ Achadh despite the remonstrances of the widow's younger son John Garve Maclean ( Iain Garbh), or John the Rough, who had until then occupied these lands. His mother acted as peacemaker and succeeded in partly placating John Garve, who soon went to Ireland and remained for some years. Becoming rest­ less under this enforced idleness, he gathered a few followers and returned, but was driven · away by Gilleonan. He went back to Ireland, and at the end of three years, with renewed determination, he assembled another band, this time fifty men. After some fighting on the way he fin_ally landed at Coll. When near Grishipol he saw one of Macneil's senti­ nels start across the hills to give the alarm. Turning t~ one of his men, Macgill by name, he told him that should he stop the sentinel he would give him certain lands in Mull. Spurred on by this promise Macgill. was successful in overtaking the messenger and either killed or seriously wounded him. In this manner John Garve was able to come un­ expectedly upon Macneil, who was building a house about the middle of the island and had with him 120 men. With this advantage Maclean was victorious. The Chief was a man of great strength and when John ·Garve came up the two engaged in combat. They were well matched, though Macneil soon gained the upper hand and ,vas pressing Maclean to his utmost resistance, which would soon have been overcome, but

*Dr. Johnson's Journey and 1\iaclean histories. 43 The Clan 1Vlacneil at that moment one of Maclean's servants named Gilireamhach, stole up behind the Chief and killed him. John Garve killed a great many clansmen besides taking the remainder prisoners. Returning to the Castle of Breachd-Achadh, he found it in charge of a garrison of only twenty men> who surrendered after a short battle. He took pos­ session and came upon his mother and his youthful half-brother, XXX. RODERICK, the heir of Barra, whom he threatened to kill, but spared upon the entreaties of his mother. Soon becom_ing attached to his half-brother, he determined to take possession of the Isle of Barra, which was held by the young Chief's uncle, and hold it in trust for him. This John Garve did, building a castle on Loch Inhaistye and holding the lands for nearly seven years, when he turned them over to Roderick, who by that time was well able to care for his Clansmen himself. During these years the Lord o~ the Isles made frequent invasions of the Orkneys, furnishing a fierce form of recreation for his followers, and the Macneils often accompanied him under Roderick. In 1460 the greatest expedition of all took place, many lives being lost and much booty being secured. Roderick occupied an important position in the Lordship of the Isles. ~*John, Earl of Ross and Lord of the Isles, in 1449 held court both at and Ardtornish with all the ceremonies of a sovereign prince, Macneil being a court officer and councillor. *History of . 44 The Clann Niall

U pan the death of the Chief he was succeeded by his son, XXXI. GILLE0NAN, who first appears in history as taking part in a conflict that was going on between John of the Isles and his son Angus Og. The Lord of the Isles was aided by the Macleans, the and the Macneils led by Gilleonan. The forces met on a bay south of Ardnamurchan Point and one of the most stirring of the clan battles took place. All the clansmen were skilful seamen and the fight was carried on f ram their boats. The little bay is known to this day as Bloody Bay. The encounter resulted in a crushing def eat for the Lord of the Isles and his allies, and Angus Og displaced and succeeded his father, but was sometime afterward assassinated by his own harper at Inverness. In 1491 the Hebrides became so troublesome to King James IV that he revoked all the charters granted by him during his minority, and in 1493 and 1494 he led expeditions against the Chie"fs. He also sent out another expedition in 1495. By this time however Gilleonan seems to have made peace with the King, who in the same year, November 12, 1495, confirmed the charter of Gilleonan 29th of the Isle of Barra and of Boisdale by Alexander of the Isles in 1427, which also removed the Superiority of the Lords of the Isles. The record in the Register of the Great Seal of Scotland (Registrum Magni Sigilli Regum Scotorum) is as fallows : 2287. Apud Striveling. 12th November, 1495. REX confirmavit cartam quondam Alexandri de Yle, domini Insulan1m, et Magistri comitatus Rossie,-( qua concessit alumpno 45 The Clan Macneil et armigero suo GILLEOWNAN RODRICI l\fURCHA.RDI lvfAI{NEILL, "conservatori presentium," ( avo Gilleownan 1\1ak­ neill moderni) ac omnibus et singulis heredibus ejus masculi de legitimo thoro procreatis,-a dicto Alex,-terras totius insule de Barra,-pro ejus homagiis et servitiis, &c. :- Insuper concessit dicto Gill. et omnibus heredibus masculis,-terras unciate de Baegas­ tallis in \Vist, in liberam et perpetuam hereditatem, viz. deficienti­ bus vero ipso Gill. et ipsius legitimis heredibus de ejus corpore procreatis, tune concessit dictas terras de Barra et Baegastallis diutius viventi de f ratribus dicti Gill. inter predictum Rodricum Mackneill et filliam F erchardi Makgilleoin procreatis ; et def. omnibus his fratribus, concessit dictas terras dicto Rodrico et ipsius omnibus heredibus, in feodo, &c., modo et forma quibus supra:- Test. D. Angusio episc. Sodoren., M. Nigello Celestini bacallario utriusque j uris ac recto re de Killecoman, Lachlanno M 'Gil­ leoin dom. de Doward, Joh. Murchardi Makgilleoin, Terleto F erchardi Makgilleoin, Nigello Flemyn :- Apud Insulam S. Finlagani in Yle, in vigilia S. Joh. Bapt. 1427) :- Test VvILLELMUS, EPISCOPUS ABERDONENSIS, Secreti Sigillis Custos. ARCHIBALDUS, Comes ANGUSIE, Dominus Douglas, Cancellarius. ARCHIBALDUS, Comes de ERGILE, Dominus Campbell et Lorne, Magister Hospitii Regis. PATRI­ CIUS, Comes de BOITHUILE, Dominus Halis. ALEXANDER, Dominus HUME, Magnus Camerarius. JOHANNES, Dominus DRUMMOND, Justiciarius. GEORGUS, Abbas de Dunferm­ line. GEORGUS, Abbas de Pasleto, Thesaurarius. TRANSLATION At , 12th November, 1495. The King confirms the charter of the late Alexander of Yle, Lord of the Isles, and Master of Ross ( who conceded to his alumpnus, [ i. e. foster-son], and armour-bearer [ councillor or follower] Gilleownan son of Roderick son of Murchard son of Neil, "custodian of these presents," grandfather of the present Gilleownan Makneill) and all and singular his heirs masculine lawfully begotten-all the lands of the whole island of Barra, for his homage and service, etc. And also concedes to the said Gill. and all his heirs masculine, the ounce lands of Baegastallis in Wist, (southern portion of South Dist) in free and perpetual inheritance, and on the failure of true and lawful heirs lawfully begotten of the said Gill., with remainder to the longest liver of the brothers of the said Gill. born to Roderick Makneill and the daughter of Ferchard 1\1akgilleoin (Maclean) and his heirs on the same terms as above. Witnesses: D. Angus, Bishop of Sodor; M. Nigel, son of Celestine, Bachelor of Law and Rector of Kille- 46 RODERICK AMBROSE OF BARRA, XLIV

The Clann Niall coman; Lachlann 11'Gilleoin, Lord of Doward; John, son of Murchard Makgilleoin; Charles, son of Ferchard Makgilleoin; Nigel Flemyn. At the island of Finlagan in Yle, on the Eve of St. John the Baptist, 1427. (Witnesses to the King's confirma­ tion:) William, Bishop of Aberdeen, Custodian of the Privy Seal; Archibald, Earl of Angus, Lord of Douglas, Chancellor; Archi­ bald, Earl of Argyll, Lord Campbell and Lorne, Master of the Royal Household; Patrick, Earl of Bothwell, Lord of Hales; Alexander, Lord Hume, Great Chamberlain; John, Lord Drum­ mond, J usticiar; George, Abbot of Dun£ ermline; George, Abbot of Paisley, Treasurer.

After the fall of the Lordship of the Isles and the receipt of the Royal Charter, the Macneils no longer directly followed their former leaders. Their friend­ ship with the Macleans was formed into an alliance of greater strength than ever, so that where one went the other was usually to be found. James continued his activity against the Hebrides, and on March 16, 1497-8, he again revoked all the charters previously granted. Now came the lull before the tempest. Donald Dubh, son of the Lord of the Isles, escaped from Inchconnel to Lewis, and nearly all the Clans formed a con£ ederacy against the King, under the leadership of Torquil Macleod and Maclean of Duart. About this time* the Chief, Gilleonan 31st, and his daughter, whose beauty was said to have made her greatly sought after, visited Lachlan Cattanach Mac­ lean of Duart, at Cairnburg, a small island off Mull. Duart had two sons, Hector Mor and Allan of Gigha, commonly known as Allan nan Sop. Allan soon fell under the charm of the island maid, but his advances were scorned. During the absence

*1\1aclean History. 47 The Clan Macneil of the family he decided to abandon his hitherto peace­ ful mode of wooing. Surmising his intentions, the intended victim fled from him toward a precipice near the guard house of the castle where a sentinel was on duty. Seeing her plight, the man caught her as she came toward him and pushed Allan over the brink. His escape was miraculous. A projecting ledge, a few feet below, arrested his fall, and there he hung help­ lessly. After begging the forgiveness of the damsel and pardoning the soldier, he was brought back to safety. The ledge is still called U rraigh Allein nan Sop, or Allan of the Sop's Shelf. Returning to Donald Dubh, he had gained the pro­ tection of the Macleans and the Camerons, and the King, being unable to win over these Clans, tried the old method of pitting other Clans against them. James did not realize that while the Clans would battle among themselves they would also honourably unite against a common foe, so his trick failed miserably. On March 19, 1503, he caused to be enacted in Parliament the following: "Macian of Ardnamurchan, Maclean of Lochbuie, Grete Macleod ( of Harris), Ronald Allanson ( of Clan Ranald), Macneil of Barra, Makinewin ( Mackinnon of Stratchswordale), Macorrie (Macquarrie of Ulva) and Torquil Macleod of Lewis {leader of the late rebellion) are charged to proceed against the forfeited Lachlan Maclean of Duart and Ewen Allanson (Cameron of Lochiel) to take and inbring the same and harry, destroy and burn their lands. And if they apprehend and take and bring to our Sovereign Lord any of the head men they shall have the half of their

48 The Clann Niall lands, and if they take and inbring any other head men, and other men their accomplices, the takers shall be rewarded therefor, as the person taken is of value in land and goods. And who assist them or do not use their diligence to capture or destroy them shall be reputed as partakers with them, and be accused and pursued for treason and forfeited as rebels, and punished by our Sovereign Lord at his coming to these parts. And the said persons (shall) certify our Sovereign Lord immediately, what way they think most expedient to be done for the destruction of the said rebels." Upon the failure of this proclamation to procure the desired results, James outlawed several of the Chiefs, among them Macneil, who was one of the most active participants. In April, 1504, the Royal army was stationed at , from which place forces of artillery were sent to the siege of Cairnburg, off the , (previously brought to our attention by Allan nan Sop) where Duart, Macneil and other Chiefs were holding out. The Earl of Arran was granted two commissions to proceed against the rebels and the King also carried on correspondence with the Earl of Argyll, Macleod of Harris and Macian of Ardnamurchan. The Chiefs continued not only to hold their own but to assume the offensive, making many raids into the King's country. They were, of course, outlawed, both in that year and again in 1505, when the King was· compelled to also use the navy. Several ships under· the command of Sir Andrew Wood and Robert Barton proceeded against the Islanders and the con£ ederacy

49 The Clan Macneil was finally broken up. Cairnburg being in Maclean territory, Duart was of course the first to be compelled to submit, as did also Macneil and Macquarrie of Ulva. · Gilleonan 31st was succeeded in the Chiefship by his son of the same name,

XXXII. GILLEONAN. There was another uprising later in 1513, led by Donald, son of Alexander of Lochalsh, and he was proclaimed Lord of the Isles by the Chief, which was followed by a fresh outbreak in 1517. In this however there was a disagreement among the Chiefs which led to Duart and Macneil withdrawing and submitting to the Regent, and the following was granted to them. "Precept of Remission to Lauchlan Makclane of Doward, Donald Makclane, Gillewin Makneil of Barra, Dulleis Makwidy of Ulva, Neil Makkynna of Moisnes and Lauchlane Makclane of Ardgour, their kin and servants, for all that passed before the date thereof, 12, March 1516-7." The affair died out with the death of the leader in the fallowing year. In 1529 the Clans united in an attack against Argyll, Chief of the Campbells, who was forced to appeal to the King for aid. The Clans were led by Alexander Macdonald of Dunyveg, and consisted of nearly all the northern Clans, among them the Chief and his Clansmen. Argyll was successful in gaining the King's assistance, who, on April 26th, summoned the leaders to appear. On May 9th, nine Chiefs, including Gilleo­ nan, Macleod of Harris, Macleod of Lewis and Donald Gruamach, sent in their submission through Maclean

50 The Clann Niall of Duart. The King accepted this though still com­ manded their presence at Court before June 20th, but the Chiefs declined to partake of the King's hospitali­ ties. In 1540 the King issued summonses of treason against the Chief, Cameron of Lochiel, Ruari Macleod of Lewis, Alexander Macleod of Dunvegan and John of , and during the same year he personally led an expedition against some of the Clans. Clan history of this period is rather devoid of humour, so it is some­ what of a relief to come to the most amusing episode of these stirring times. In May of the same year, 1540, the King made preparations for a great cruise. He fitted out a fleet of twelve ships, fully equipped with sailors and munitions of war. The uses to which each ship was put will give an idea of the spirit of this expedition. No less than three ships were stocked wholly with provisions, and we may well be sure they were the best the •kingdom afforded; six ships for the King and his court; one ship for Cardinal Beaton with 500 men; one ship for the Earl of Arran, and one ship for the Ea.rl of Huntly. The two last named had betvveen them 1,000 men. The King was accompanied not only by his suite but also by many noblemen and gentlemen of court with their servants. They all em­ barked from Leith to visit the distant Hebrides and to see these men "who treated His Majesty's com­ mands so lightly." The first stop was made at the Orkneys, where the King was entertained by the Bishop of Orkney. They continued on their way and next stopped in , \vhere Donald Mackay of Strathnaver was invited on 51 The Clan Macneil board ship and the fleet sailed on, without putting Donald ashore, however. The same procedure was followed at where Ruari Macleod was added to the company. At Harris, Macleod of Harris was secured and, still sailing southward, the fleet stopped at Castlebay, where Macneil joined the merry throng. John Mackenzie of Kintail, Alexander of Glengarry, John Moidartach of Clan Ranald, James Macdonald of Dunyveg, and Maclean of Duart, were forced to accompany them. The fleet went as far as Dumbarton, where the King disembarked and sent the ships on their long voyage around the north and back to Leith, with all the Chiefs on board. They were then incarcerated in the castles of Edinburgh and Dunbar, and for a time quietness reigned in the He­ brides. This unnatural calm did not last long, how­ ever, and upon the reappearance of Donald Dubh, fighting began again in the north against Huntly and in the south against Argyll. The kidnapped Chiefs remained imprisoned until after the death of the King, when they were released by the Regent, in the summer of 1543. They at once returned home and entered heartily into the fighting in the \Vest. It is not kno,vn if Macneil survived his imprisonment, for about this time he was succeeded by his son of still the same name, XXXIII. GILLEONAN. Negotiations had, during this time, been carried on between the Clans and Henry VIII of England, with the result that the Chiefs pro­ claimed their allegiance to England. vV e need not think too harshly of this course of action, though prob­ ably influenced by mercenary reasons, for the Clans

52 The Clann Niall had always upheld the independence of the Lordship of the Isles and felt quite independent of Scotland's rule. On July 28, 1545, Gilleonan sat in the Council of the Isles, at which session Donald Dubh was advised and empowered to appoint two commissioners to treat with King Henry, which is set forth as follows: "Quhairfor, your Lorships sall 'considder we have beyne auld enemys to the realme of Scotland, and Quhen they had peasche with ye kings hienis, thei hanged, hedit, presoned, and destroied many of our kyn, friends, and forbearis, as testifies be our Master, th Erle of Ross, now the king's grace's subject, ye quhilk hath lyin in presoun af oir he was borne of his moder, and is not releiffit with their will, but now laitlie be ye grace of God. In likewise, the Lord Maclain's fader was cruellie murdre_ssit, under traist, in his bed, in the town of Edinbruch, be sir John Campbell of Calder, brudir to the Erle of Argyle. The Ca pitane of Clanranald, this last zeir ago, in his defens, slew the Lord Lovett, his son-in-law, his three brethern with xiii scoir of men; and many uther crewel! slachter; burnying, and herschip that hath beyn betwix us and the saidis scottis, the quhik war lang to wryte." Signed by members of the Council. "Be it kend till all men be ye put wryt We Donald Lord of ye Ilis and erll of Roiss with advise and con­ sent of our barronis and counsaill of y Ilis that is to say Hector Maclane Lord of Doward Jhonn Macal­ lister Capitane of Clanranald Lord Macleod of Lewiss

53 The Clan Macneil

Alex Macleod of Dunbeggane Murdoch Maclane of Loch buoy Angus Maconill brudirgerman 'to James Maconill Allan Maclane of Torloske bruder to ye Lord Maclane Archibald Maconill Capitane of Clan Hustein Alex Mackane of Ardnamurchan Jhonn Maclaine of Coll Gilliganan Mac Neill of barray Mackiynan of straquhordill John Macquore of Ulwy Jhonn Maclane of Ardgor rannoldson of Glengarrie Angus ronaldson of Cnoeddart Donald Maclean of Kengarloch, to have maid constitud and ordanit be yir our presentis makis constitutis and ordanis giffand our full power express bidding and command to honorable personis and our kynnsmen yat is to say Rore Makal­ lester elect to ye bishoppe of the Isles in Scotland and deyn of Moruairin and mr Patric Maclain brudir german to ye said Lord Mclain bailze of ycomkill and iustice clerk of ye South llis jointlie and sevralie our ald and indorsetit commissionaris, we be and bodely swarne to stand ferme and stable at all and haill ye saidis commissionaris promittis or does in our name and behalve we neer to own in ye contrar of ye samyn and we admit ye sadis commissionaris to bind and to lowss to follow and def end to tyn and wyn to end and compleit as such awin proper persins war presentis in all materis as will be commandit yame be Mathew erll of Lennox and secund persoun of ye realm of Scotland endo,vit and in special! testifiying our Landis instantlie be maid to ane most nobill and potent prince Harye ye act be ye grace of god King of ingland f ranee and ire­ land yir forsadis commissionaris haiffand our full power to acit and to end all udir our affairis concerning ye kingis maieste of ingland £ranee and ireland and ye

54 The Clann Niall said erll of Lennox as ye said erll will command. Com­ manding yir our sadis commissionaris and for better secuorite of yis present we ye said Donald has affixit our proper seill wit our hand as ye pen becaus we can­ not writ and has causit ye baronis aboun writtin becaus thai cod not writ to cause ane notar to subscribe for yame wt yair hand at ye pen wt yair bodely anntie neir to cum in ye contrar of ye samyn And als we have giffin commissoun to our saidis commissionaris to make ye selis of yir our baronis aboun wtin gif neid be re­ quiri t ye qlk ye saidis baronis has swarne afore ane notar publick to stand and abyd at ye sadis selis selit be saidis commissionaris and nere to cum in ye contrar of ye sam and has selit our proper seill and signet wt ye saidis commissionaris for ye completing and ending of all beseynes comandit or requirit be ye said erll of Lennox in witness heirof we have yir pret commissioun afoir patrik colquhoun of pemwul Walter Macfarlan of Ardlys sr Archibald mcGillivray vicar of Killane Mr jhonn Carswell notaris publick requirit to ye samyn wt witness." The Clans' actions resulted in the customary sum­ monses of treason being issued against them on August 17, 1545. These summonses were answered by renewed violence, and September 28th they were repeated. Still believing these royal edicts could accomplish what armed men had failed to do, they were issued and re­ issued October 1, 1545, February 3, 1546, April 6th, May 24th, July 30th, and all without a single result. While these summonses were being issued against him Gilleonan had gone south and helped the English forces burn the Island of. Bute and Arran, and there 55 The Clan Macneil

is a record of him receiving remuneration for the help he had given. Donald Dubh's rebellion, which came to an end with his death at Knockfergus, Ireland, had been chiefly remarkable in showing the intense loyalty of the Clans to the Lordship of the Isles. Donald Dubh was suc­ ceeded by James Macdonald of Dunyveg, who tried to succeed as Lord of the Isles and head another rising, but in this he was opposed by Macneil, Macleod of Lewis and Macleod of Harris, who took this oppor­ tunity to gain the good will of the Regent. The Chief's activities are next related in the record of the Privy Council of Scotland as follows: Stirling Castle, March 29th, 1579. John Bishop of the Isles complains against, among others, Gilleonan Macneil of Barra, Rory Og, his son and Heir, also Macneil of Ballenyntyne, with their accomplices: "not onley hes maid stop trubill and impediment to the said Bishop in uptaking of the maillis and dewiteis of the said Bishop in diverse yeires bygane and in a manner dispossest him theirfra, quhairthrow he gettis littill or na commodite of the samyn, bot als hes stoppit, & still stoppit, and makes impediment to him & his servants to travell in the cuntrie for doing of their lawful busi­ ness. The above oftyms callit & not compeiranded, letters of rebellion & horning are to go forth." Soon after this complaint the Chief died and was succeeded by his eldest son, XXXIV. RODERICK, Rory Og or Young Rory. There was also a son Gilleonan and, according to a Barra song, a daughter who married Coll Macdonald of Colonsay. 56 The Clann Niall

Roderick 34th married Mary, daughter and heiress of William Macleod of Harris, widow of Duncan Campbell of Castleswynie, younger of ...J\..uchinbreck. She was a Lady-in-Waiting to Queen Mary. They had three sons, Roderick, John and Murdo, and a daughter Flora. About this time, Ewen, 5th Maclean of Treshnish, .cadets of the House of Ardgour, purchased a right by charter of the Lands of Treshnish and Gometra from his Chief, Sir Lachlan, and this charter was witnessed by Rory Macleod of Harris and by Macneil. Tresh­ nish was a widower, his first wife having been Ann, daughter of Macquarrie of Ulva. He later married Flora, daughter of Macneil and widow of Charles Maclean, a descendant of Allan nan Sop. There soon took place one of the great which rent the Clans and included nearly all the Chiefs. It started between Sir Lachlan of Duart, (who was later slain at Glencairn, , in 1598) and Angus Mac­ donald of Dunyveg. The Macleans, through some cause not known, had been warring with the Macdonalds of Islay for some time, much to the latters' discomfort, who seeing it was impossible to defeat their enemies single handed gained the support of all friendly Clans, which course the Macleans immediately followed to such an extent that this became probably one of the largest feuds in Clan history. Ranged on the side of the Macleans were the Mac­ neils of Barra, Mackinnons, Macquarries, and Mac­ leods of Harris. With the Macdonalds of Islay were the Macdonalds of Sleat, Clan Ranald, Macians of

57 The Clan Macneil

Ardnamurchan, Macneils of Gigha, Macalisters of Loup, Macfies of Colonsay, Macleod of Lewis and Maclean of Borreray, the latter as vassal of Macdonald of Dunyveg, but he later went over to his own Clan. This is the only instance of the Clan Macneil being divided in war£ are. The Macdonalds, with some of the foregoing, in­ vaded Mull, the home of the Macleans, but were de­ feated by Duart. Both sides then mustered their full strength and Duart took the offensive. He crossed over to Bachca, on the coast of Lorne, early one morn­ ing, having the ships on his left under the command of Macneil and on his right under Maclean of Borreray. The landing of the forces was opposed by the enemy, but the Macleans were said to have been greatly victori­ ous, inflicting heavy losses to the extent of 340 killed or wounded, and with small loss to themselves. They also captured Macdonald of Sleat, Macleod of Lewis and Macfie of Colonsay. The number of men at this battle was about 1200 Macleans and allies and nearly 2500 on the side of the Macdonalds. Duart himself, however, was captured and was compelled to give Macdonald of Islay eight hostages to secure his release. He gave his eldest son Hector; Alister Mac­ , brother of Dunvegan; Lachlan and Neil, sons of Mackinnon of Strath; Allan, son of Maclean of Ard­ gour; Donald Maclean, son of the Constable of Cairn­ burg; and John and Murdo, second and third sons of Macneil. The Isles were in such an uproar that in April, 1585, the King's Council issued an order for Maclean of 58 The Clann Niall

Duart, Tormod Macleod, Ruari Macleod of Harris and Donald Gorm of Sleat, to appear before them. The King's favouritism toward the Macleans, however, is shown by a letter he wrote September 18, 1585, to William Macleod of Harris, charging him to assist Duart against the Clan Donald. The Clans, besides fighting each other, found time to make it unpleasant and unprofitable for the southern fishermen who wandered into their territory, and in 1586 the united burghs complained against them. Affairs in the West continued in such a state of violence that the following action was taken: "Holyrood House, 16th April, 1587. His Majesty, upoun gude and necessar considerationis moving him for eschewing of extremiteis and incon-vernintis and reduceing of his haill subjectis to his obedience, had remitted the great crimes of Angus McConeill of Dunnyveg and Glennis and his accomplices, and causit satisfie all thingis that mycht stay their intendit rigour againis Lauchlane McClayne of Dowart, then detainit in maist strait captivitie, expecially by delivering in the handis and pouer of the said Angus for the libertie and releiff of the said Lauchlane Hector McClayne his sone and appeirand air, Alexander McCloyd, brother to William McCloyd of Dunnvegane, Lauch­ lane McKynnoun and Nill McKinnoun, sons to Lauch­ land McKynnoun of Strathoradell, Johnne and Murdo, sons to Rory McKneill of Barray, Allane McClayne, son of Euin lVlcClayne of Ardgowir, and Donald McClayne, sane of Hector McClayne Constable of Carn burgh." 59 The Clan Macneil Then the following charge was made to Macdonald of Dunyveg and others: "that they deliver the saidis aucht personis, now being in their handis and pouer, to Archibald, Erll of Ergyll, Lord Campbell and Lorne, or to any of his special! f riendis and tutouris that sall cum to ressave thame at upoun the --day of --saulflie and surelie convoyed to his Majesty, and kepit quhair he sall ap­ point quhill and finale ordouring and setling of the mataris in contravorsie betuix him and his saidis nychtbouris." Soon after this the Chiefs, including Macneil, were charged to keep peace and ref rain from armed gather­ ings. Again in July, an Act of Parliament was passed charging Macneil, Macleod of Lewis, Clanranald, Torquil Macleod of Coigeach and Macleod of Harris, to find sureties within fifteen days to keep the peace, themselves and their Clansmen. In 1589 King James VI granted to "Lauchlan McClane of Dowart, Lachlan McKinnin of Strurdell, Rodoric McNeile of Barray, Ewin McVicallane of Ardgowir, and Hector Makquyre of Vlway, a remis­ sion for being art and part in the treasonable burning and destruction of the islands of Rum, Canna, and Eig, and the cruel slaughter of John Angus the son of Master John Angus, of John Makane, and of some other lieges, inhabitants of those islands, in the month of November, 1588." During March 1589-90 Donald Gorm of Sleat, Donald (William) Macleod of Harris, Lachlan Mac­ lean of Duart and Angus Macdonald of Dunyveg 60 The Clann Niall were commissioned to enforce the acts against the Jesuits and seminary priests. On March 16, 1592-3 at Edinburgh, the King, with advice of his Council, ordained letters to "relax from the horn for ony cause bygone, receive them to the King's peace and giff to thame the wand thairof," several Chiefs including Macneil. In 1594 the Macleods of Harris and Lewis, the Macdonalds, the Macneils and Clanranald were warned by an Act of Parliament to abstain from that popular sport of the Highlands, cattle-lifting. In the same year an expedition was formed against the Catholic Earls. It was composed of the Earl of Argyll, the Macneils, Macleans, Macgregors, Mac­ intoshes, and Grants. They were m:et near Glenlivat by the Earls of Huntly and Erroll with a smaller force but were nevertheless defeated. The Chief was accom­ panied by his Clansmen and members of his family as well. Contrary to popular belief* the Chief did not lose his life at this battle, but Gilleonan, second son of Gilleonan 3 3rd, was killed by a discharge of artillery which caused great confusion among the Islesmen. He is described as "ane of the most valiant men of the party." After Glenlivat the Chief in company with Duart and the Earl of Argyll aided England in subduing the rebellion in Ireland. An act of Parliament of December 1597 requested all Chiefs to produce the title deeds to their lands.

*Macfarlane's Genealogical Collections and Mackenzie's History­ of the Outer Hebrides. 61 The Clan Macneil

In 1598 John, son of Murdo, third son of the Chief, was killed by the Campbells of Glenlyon. Upon the death of the _Chief he was succeeded by his eldest son,

RORY THE TURBULENT

.XXXV. RODERICK, known as Rory the Tartar, or the Turbulent. Sir Lachlan of Duart had been killed fighting the Macdonalds in Islay and was succeeded by his son Hector Og, a young man of twenty, who immediately, in the same year, 1598, planned his first battle in revenge for his father's death. With the help of Macneil, Cameron of Lochiel, Mackinnon, Macleod of Dunvegan and Macleod of Harris, he proceeded to Islay, where he was met at Bern Bige. A sanguinary battle ensued, with young Duart and his allies victorious. They remained for three days killing all the Macdonalds, men, women and children, who could not escape, leaving Islay desolate. One passes hastily over this cruel aftermath, for the sorrows of the defeated find no place in the chronicles of ancient Clan history. This was the end of the feud and enmity which had heretofore existed between these two Clans. Soon after this battle, the Chief was particularly active in securing additional i_ncome by exploits of piracy, in which he was a past master, but like the pitcher and the well, Roderick went once too often, and plundered an English ship off the coast of Ireland. Upon complaint being made to Queen Elizabeth, she demanded that James bring Rory to justice. The King, knowing by past experience the difficulty, if not im-

62 ELIZABETH \Yife of Roderick A.mbrose of Barra. XLI\-

The Clann Niall possibility, of securing a Hebridean Chief by force, decided to employ strategy; he selected Roderick Mac­ kenzie, Tutor of Kintail, to perform the difficult and dangerous undertaking. Fitting out a ship, in order to represent himself as a peaceful trader, Mackenzie proceeded to Kisimul Castle. Gaining an audience with Macneil, he told him that he was bound from Norway to Ireland and that he had met a French ship from which he had bought some choice wines, and he would be greatly honoured to have the Chief of the Macneils partake of them on board his ship. Here was an opportunity too rare to be lost, and Rory, full of anticipation, quickly accepted the invita­ tion and boarded the ship. The mellow wines were soon in evidence; but alas! the crew had secured the hatches and weighed anchor, with Rory peacefully unaware that he was on his way to Edinburgh. Arriving at Holyrood, Macneil was brought before the King, ,vho was greatly surprised to see, instead of a weather beaten old ruffian, a kindly and courtly gentleman in a long flowing beard. The Chief was a courtier to boot and promptly decided the best way out of the dilemma was to make a joke of the whole matter. When asked by the King what he meant by preying upon the subjects of Queen Elizabeth, he answered that he thought he was doing His Majesty a favour in harrassing the subjects of the woman who had killed His Majesty's mother. James was won over by this ingenious answer and set Rory free, rewarding Mackenzie with the superior­ ity of the lands of Barra, for which Rory agreed to

63 The Clan Macneil

pay £40 a year, furnish a hawk upon demand, and give aid when required. It is needless to add that u pan Rory's arrival home these obligations were completely forgotten. Up to this time the estate of Barra included the lands of Boisdale in South Uist, but now the Captain of Clanranald decided to enlarge his holding at his neighbour's cost, as he was of superior strength and numbers. In 1601, Clanranald and Macneil met at North Boisdale, with the former being the victor and the Macneils were driven out of South Uist. These lands were later included in a Crown Charter to Clan­ ranald on July 24, 1620, but still later were included in Charters to the Mackenzies, who retained the nomi­ nal superiority of Barra. On June 13, 1605, together with several other Chiefs, Rory was commanded to appear before David, Lord Scoon, comptroller at Lochkillerrane in Kintyre, by July 20th, and produce his title deed~, but the isolation of their island home had always given the Chiefs a feeling of security, which even the King could not dis­ pel, so this command was ignored. July 18th of the same year, Sir James Spens of Wormiston, Sir George Hay of Metherliff and Sir Thomas Ker of Hirth, were appointed King's Justices and Commissioners in the Island of Lewis for one year. They were also given authority over the rest of the Long Island and Skye. They immediately commanded Macneil, Macleod of Harris, Donald Gorm of Sleat, and Mackinnon of Strathswordale to deliver up their castles, as pledges for the good behaviour of their Clansmen, and to re-

64 The Clann Niall move themselves and servants from the castles within twenty-four hours or they were to be beseiged with fire and sword and to be treated as traitors. The Macneils were used to such dire threats and treated them with silent contempt. The Island of Lewis had been colonized several years before by Lowlanders, aided by the Crown. The Macleods had, with more or less success, endeavoured to exterminate these colonists, and the neighbouring Clans were also against the Lowlanders. September 30, 1606, a Commission was granted to Mackenzie of Kintail to capture Macneil of Barra, and Clanranald, who had some time before invaded Lewis and, it was said, committed various atrocities upon the colonists. Kintail was charged "To tak and sla them." The Privy Council and the Marquis of Huntly about this time made a bargain for subduing the Isles. Huntly on his part offered to pay feu duty as had been paid before on all these lands, including Barra, St. Kilda, Uist, , Canna, Raasay and Rum. He was to receive power to levy on these lands to aid him in his endeavour, also a lieutenancy over all this terri­ tory. His offer was rejected as but few of these lands had ever been rented and the feu duty which had heretofore been paid amounted to but a paltry sum. The Council maintained that each island should be valued separately. In April, 1607, Neil Macleod, aided by the Mac­ leods of Harris, Macdonalds of Clanranald and many Macneil Clansmen, probably led by Old Rory, treacherously invaded the colonists and pillaged and

65 The Clan Macneil killed many of them. This was followed, on April 30th, by definite proposals by the Council to Huntly by which he received the North Isles in feu. The Clans' treatment of the colonists had so enraged the King that Huntly received orders that he was not to pacify the Clansmen but was to extirpate them, to which Huntly willingly agreed. He was specially in­ structed to "extirpate and rute out" Clanranald, Mac­ neil and his Clansmen, and the Clan Donald of the North. The King, however, evaded the important question of how much rent was to be paid, with the result. that Huntly did not proceed upon his commis- SlOn. Soon after this Lord Ochiltree was invested with the title of Lieutenant of the Isles and placed at the head of an expedition against the Clans. He first visited the territory of the Macleans and the Macdonalds who submitted without opposition. He then proceeded to Castle Aros in Mull, where he held court and sum­ moned all the Chiefs to attend. Undoubtedly he was surprised at the attendance of nearly all the Chiefs, with the exception of Macneil and Neil Macleod, who were too careful to do so. After the Council of the Chiefs, Lord Ochiltree invited them all on board his ship to hear a sermon by the Bishop of the Isles and to partake of a banquet, all accepting with the exception of Ruari Macleod, who, like Macneil, was careful of his personal safety. After the sermon and the dinner, Ochiltree calmly informed them that they were the King's prisoners and took them all to Edinburgh, from where they were conveyed to the Castles of Dumbarton, Blackness and 66 The Clann Niall

Stirling. Lord Ochiltree stated that the lateness of the season prevented him from securing Macneil and Macleod, and Du art was made responsible for the acts of the Chief. Rory had great domestic troubles as well. Several years before he had married Maclean of Duart's sister, and by her he had three sons, John Og, Neil Og and Gilleonan. He was later "married" to Marion, Clan­ ranald's sister, by whom he had Neil "Uisteach" and Gilleonan Og. There was great strife between these brothers-ger­ man through jealousy, which was brought to a climax through the piracy of a French merchantman. This ship, under command of Abel Dynes, a trader from Bordeaux, stopped at Castlebay, either through stress of weather or to trade, and was immediately set upon, five of the crew being killed or wounded, by Rory's Maclean children, headed by John Og. They were opposed by their brothers-german, as a matter of course, on account of the division of the spoils. In the resulting quarrel Clanranald upheld his nephews, and Duart, learning that Rory looked with disfavour upon his first family, championed their cause. He immediately secured the following from the Privy Council: "Edinburgh, 9 January, 1610. Commission to ap­ prehend McN eill of Barra and certain other rebels of the Isles. As Rory McN eill of Barra, though of ten charged to render obedience to the King and Council,. has always absented himself, and remains in the Isle of Barra, committing all kynd of barbarite on the poor

67 The Clan Macneil inhabitants thereof and also on the inhabitants of the Isles next adjacent, thus hindering his Majesty's princelie resolutioun for reducing the whole of the Isles to obedience, where his Majesty has already had a reasonable good begyning and success and as it is "a mater tuitching us (his Majesty) verie neir in our honnour that suche a unworthie cative sould be sufferit without controlment so long to continew rebellious or to braith the air of our cuntrey." Commission is given to Hector McClayne of Dowart to convocate the lieges in arms for apprehending the said Rory, and also Donald McFerquhair Roy, (blank) , McN eill in Vuistsyde, McN eillis his sons, who are participators with the said Rory in all his wicked deeds and to enter them before the Council to answer for their rebellion." Clanranald, however, had by this time already cap­ tured John Og, and taken him to , where he was taken in charge under the following order: "Edinburgh February 6, 1610. Charge for conveying John Og Macneill of Barra from Glasgow, where he is, to the tolbooth of Edinburgh. The Lords understanding that the Captain of Clan Ranald has lately apprehended J ohnne Og McNeil, son of McNeil of Barra, and has brought him to Glas­ and seeing it is not equitable that the said Captain should be burdened with the farther transport of the said J ohnne, there is order to charge the provost and bailies of Glasgow, under pain of rebellion, to receive the said rebel from the said Captain within six hours .after his being presented to them, and to transport him to the Magistrates of Linlithqu within 48 hours there-

68 The Clann Niall after, and to charge the Magistrates of Linlithqu to deliver him to the provost and bailies of Edinburgh within 48 hours after their receipt of him; which last are to commit him to ward in their tolbooth, under pain of rebellion." Duart was also successful to the extent of securing Neil U isteach and having him incarcerated in the Tolbooth, but on July 27th of the same year the Council ordered his release on behalf of Clanranald, as follows: "The Lordis of Secrite Counsale, £for som special! considerationis moving thame tending to the furthrance and advancement of his Majesteis service in the Yllis ordanis and commandis the Provost and Bailleis of Edinburgh to deliver Neill McN eill sone to McN eill of Barra presentlie being in thair waird, to Ronald McAllane V cEane of Yllantyrum, Capitane of the Clanranald, his Uncle; wheranent the extract of thir presentis salbe unto the saidis Provost and Bailleis ane warrand." About this time the Mackenzies had gained control of the , the territory of the Macleods, who, under the leadership of Neil Macleod, rose against them. On August 16, 1611, a proclamation was issued ·commanding Macneil, Macleod of Harris, Donald Gorm of Sleat, Mackay of Farr and his son, to abstain from aiding the "rebels", that is, the Mac­ leods, in any way. Despite this, however, Neil Og and Gilleonan were most active in their support of "Neill the Traytour." John Og soon died in the Tolbooth, and his brothers and Duart, spurred on anew, endeavoured to saddle 69 The Clan Macneil the piracy of Dynes' ship on Neil Uisteach, and charges were made against him. Clanranald then became his surety, which is recorded as follows: "Edinburgh December 5th, 1611. The quhilk day in presence of the Lordis of Secreit Counsall compeirit personalie Donald McAllane McEane of Yllantyrum, Captane of Clanranald, and acti t and o blist himself upoun his faith, honnour, and credite, to compeir personalie before the sadis Lordis, and to bring, present and exhibite with him Neil McN eill, sone to Neill ( should be Rory) McN eill of Barra, upoun the tent day of November nixtocome, under pain of ten thou­ sand merks." Clanranald, however, was dilatory in producing Neil, with the result that on January 16, 1612, the following was filed : "Complaint by William W eymes, merchant burgess of Glasgow, as procurator for Abell Dynneis, Merchant in Burdeaulx, in the action underwritten, that, whereas Neill Oig ( should be Uisteach), son of Rorie McN eill of Barra, having been committed to ward in the tol­ booth of Edinburgh for spuilying a ship belonging to said Abell, laden with Spanish wine, slaying and hurt­ ing five of the crew of the said ship, had been delivered to Donald McAllane McEane of Ylantryum, Captain of Clan Ranald, on his promise to answer for him and to enter him when required, nothing has as yet been done in satisfaction of the said wrong. Charge had been given to the Captain of Clan Ranald to appear and answer; and now, pursuer appearing by Robert Fergusoun, def ender is to be denounced rebel for not having appeared or entered the said Neill."

70 The Clann Niall

So matters rested for nearly a year when, on January 14, 1613, Neil and Clanranald reappeared as herein­ after set forth : "The quhilk day in presence of the Lordis of Secreit Counsaill compeirit personalie Donald McAllane McEane of Ylantyrum, Capitane of Clan Ranald, and presentit and exhibite before the sadis Lordis Neill McN eill sane to Neill ( should read Rory) McN eill of Barra, for obedyence and satisfactioun of the act quhairby he become actit and oblist to that effect and protestit that he satisfeit the said act; Whilk protestation the sadis Lordis Admittit. The quhilk day in presence of the Lordis of Secreit Councill compeirit personalie Donald McAllane McEane of Ylantyrum, Capitaine of the Clanranald, and actit and oblist him, as cautionair and souirtie for Neill McNeil! sone to Neill (Rory) McNeil! of Barra, that the said Neill sall compeir personalie befoir the Lordis of Secreit Counsale to be answerable for any decreit salbe recoverit aganis him befoir the Judge competent at the instance of Abell Dynneis, mercheand in Bur­ deaulx, afoir the first day of August nixttocome, when­ evir the said Capitane salbe lauchfullie chairget to that effect upoun XV days warirning, under the pane of ten thousand merkis; lyke as the said Donald actit and oblist hin1selff that he sall compeir personalie befoir the saidis Lordis u poun the last day of November nixtocome for underlying suche ardour as salbe pres­ scryvit unto him tuitching his Majesteis obedience, under the pane of Xm merkis, as alsua that he sall at na tyme heirefter ressett, supplie nor assist Neill McCleud in the Lewis, Gillichallum McRorie, nor na

71 The Clan Macneil utheris the rebellis of the Lewis, under pane of tua thousand punds." As nothing could be proved against Neil U isteach the prosecution was finally dropped. On March 2, 1613, Sir William Oliphant of Newton, His Majesty's advocate, complained that: "The haill Chiftanes and principal! men of the yllis and continent nixt adjacent having made their submission to his Majesty thair onlie resteth Neill McClewd, callit the Traytour, rebellious and dissobedient." He and his accomplices had maintained open rebellion in the Lews for years past but after being defeated by the Tutor of Kintail they had fled to Clanranald's country, where they were aided, among others, by Neil Og and Gil­ leonan. They were therefore denounced rebels. The quarrel in Rory's family raged as fiercely as ever, and Neil Og and Gilleonan finally decided to overthrow their brothers-german and the Chief as well. Their success is quaintly described under date of March 11, 1613: "Complaint by Rorie McN eill of Barray, and Gil­ levuan Oig McN eill, his lauchful sone lauchfullie pro­ creat betwixt him & Moir Nine Allan, his lauchfull spous, and sister to Donald McAllan of Yllantyrum, Capitane of Clanranald: U poun the day of October last bypast, thay being within thair awne house and castell of Kismule in the Yle of Barray, thair doing thair lauchful effairis in sober and quiet maner, lippyn­ ing for no violence, in jurie, nor oppressioun to have bene done to thame be ony persone, it is of treuth that Neill Oig McN eill and Gillevuan McN eill, sanes, natural! to the said Rorie, unlauchfullie procreat be- 72 The Clann Niall twixt him and , mother to Sir Dougall Camp­ bell of Auchinbeck, accompanied with convocation of his Majesties leigeis to the nowmen of twenty personis, all bodin in feir of weir with swerdis, gantillatis, plaitslevis, bowis, darlochis, durkis, targeis, axis, tua-handis swerdis, and utheris waponis, invasive, come to said Kismule, enterit violentilie thairintill and pat violente handis in the saidis complenaris, took and apprehendit thame, layed thame fast in the yrnis, man­ nit the said house, maid thame selfis maisteris and commanderis thairof, hes furneist the said house with men, victuall, poulder, bullet and uther weirlyke pro­ visioun, keipis and handis the said house as ane house of weare, and detanis the saidis com plenaris fast in the yrnis within the same," all without lawful cause or commission. The said Neill Oig McN eill and Gil­ levuan McN eill, natural sons of the said Rorie McNeill of Barray, and the said Rorie McConnell, and J ohne McAllan, piper, had been charged to appear this day and answer, presenting their said prisoners, or showing reasonable cause to the contrary; and now "the saidis persewairis compeirand personalie, and the sadis defendairis being oftymes callit and not com­ peirand, nor yit the said Rorie McNeil of Barray and his said sane being brocht, presentit and exhibit be theme, no nane in thair names, conforme to the saide chairge, nor na reasonable caus schawin in the con­ trair," the Lords order the said Neill Oig and Gil­ levuan McN eill and the said Rorie McConnell, and Johnne McAllan, piper, to be denounced rebels. In the following month Clanranald secured a com­ mission from the Council to apprehend the rebels, who 73 The Clan Macneil had been proclaimed such at the Market Cross of Inverness. Old Rory, after the most tempestuous career in the history of the Clan, passed away, with Neil Og and Gilleonan in possession of Kisimul Castle, the former,

XXXVI. NEIL OG, as eldest surviving son, succeed­ ing as 36th Chief of the Clan. Clanranald was not successful in apprehending Neil Og and an agreement seems to have reached, for Neil Uisteach was given lands at the north end of the Isle of Barra, including Skirval. There have been accounts written by which the suc­ cession was given to Neil Uisteach, probably owing to the similarity of names, but all records of the Clan state the succession as herein set forth. There is also another fact which removes all doubt. The Neil who succeeded had married Margaret, daughter of Allan Maclean of Ardtornish, cadets of the House of Duart, and it is highly improbable that Maclean of Duart would have opposed one so connected with his own Clan. Neil 36th had several sons and daughters, 1st, Gil­ leonan who married in 1653 Catharine, daughter of John Macdonald of Clanranald; 2nd, John, who married Catharine, daughter of L~chlan Og, 2nd son of Sir Lachlan and 1st Maclean of Torloisk; 3rd, Neil; 4th, Hector; 5th, Murdoch; Marsaline, who married Alexander Macleod of Glendale; Marion, who married Ranald Ma~donald, 2nd of ; and a daughter who married Donald Macdonald of Rammerscales. 74 The Clann Niall Neil and his Clansmen kept their swords bright by continuing to assist the Macleods in their efforts to dis­ possess the Mackenzies of their lands in the Lews. With the rise to power of the Mackenzies, however, Neil, ever diplomatic, in company with Duart and other Chiefs, became friendly with Mackenzie of Sea­ forth and occasionally exchanged hospitalities. This interesting record relative to the state of the Isles appears in the Privy Council under date of July 23, 1622. "Forsamekle as it is understood to the Lordis of Secreit Counsel! that one of the Cheif casusis whilk procuris the continewance of the inhabitants of the yles in their barbarous and incivile f orme in leving is the grite quantitie of wynes yeirlie caryed to the Ilis, with the unsatiable desire quhairof the sadis inhabitants ar so fer possest that quhen thair arryvis ony ship or other veshell thair with wynes thay spend bathe dayis and nightis in their excess of drinking, and seldome do they leave thair drinking so lang as thair is ony of the wyne restane, sau that, being overcome with drink, thair fallis oute many inconvenienties amangs thame, to the brek of his Majesties peace; and, quhairas the Chif­ tanes and principallis of the Clannis in the Ilis ar actit to take suche ordour with their tinnantis as nane of thame be sufferit to drink wynes, yitt so lang as thair is ony wynes caryed to the Ilis thay ,vill hardlie be with­ drawne f rome th air evill custome of drinking, bot will follow the same and continew the same whensoevir thay may find the occasioun: For remeid quhairof in tyme comeing the Lordis of Secreit Counsel! ordanis letteris to be direct to command, charge, and inhibite

75 The Clan Macneil

all and sundrie marcheantis, skippairis, and awnaris of shippis and veshellis, be oppin proclaimation at all placeis neidfull, that nane of thame presoome nor tak upoun hand to carye and transporte ony wynes to the Ilis, nor to sell the same to the inhabitants of the Ilis, except so mekle as is allowed to the principal! Chif­ tanes and gentlemen of the Ilis, under pane of confis­ catioun of the whole wynis so to be caryed and sauld in the Ilis, aganis the tennour of this proclaimation or els of the avail! and pryceis of the same to his Majestys: use." Neil seems to have followed in the footsteps of old Rory and to have been quite active in the disturbances in the Isles. June 30, 1629, at Holyrood, the following is recorded: "The quhilk day Sir J ohnne McKanyee of Tarbet (Superior of the Isle of Barra, in succession to his father, the Tutor of Kintail) become cautioner for McN eill of Barray his compeirance anes in tua yeir upoun the tent of Julij and his first compeirance to be· u poun the tent of Juli j, 1631 ; and for performing of all the rest of the conditionis wherunto the Ilandaris ar· subject under the pane of ane thousand pundis." "The whilk day McN eill nominat and designat the duelling house of Mr. Roger Mowatt, advocate, for his domicile quhair all chargeis to be direct aganis him salbe execute upoun sax score dayis, and a copie to. be delyverit to Mr. Roger Mowatt or J ohnne McRannald." On July 28th of the same year we find the Chief was. sup posed to take a hand in matters religious; "The whilk day the commissiouns, acts, and letters, whilks.

76 Tlze Clann Niall wer concludit upon the twentie fyft day of this instant with the missive letters whilks wer ordained to be written to the Kings Majestie and his Secretarie ,ver presented to the nobilitie, clergie and counsel! present, read in thair audience, allowed and subscryed be thame." "The whilk day the nobilitie, counsel! and clergie, ordained commissiouns to be past and exped to the persons underwritten according to the commission whilk wer past and exped upon the 25 day of this in­ stant aganis Jesuits, seminarie and messe preists and rebellious Papists, in all points, * * * For the Yles, McClayne of Dowart, the Lairds of McKinnon, Coll and Lochbowy, the Tutor of Bute and McN eill of Barra." Neil apparently had been busy settling old scores, as on June 3, 1630, we find this supplication by Duncan Campbell of Glenlyon: "He has been charged at the instance of Neill McNeill of Barra and others, the kin and friends of the deceased John McN eill, to appear before the Justice and his deputies in the Tolbooth of Edinburgh on 4th June instant to underlie the law for the slaughter of the said John, where if he appear not, Neill McN eill intends to follow out all the ordinar f orme that the course of law and justice in suche a caise will require, and so will draw the said supplicant, who is ane inno­ cent man, in great vexatioun and trouble, and bring him under the danger of a criminall processe in a point whairunto he was never accessorie and had never hand nor dealing thairin." 77 The Clan Macneil

"The alleged slaughter took place about thirty two years ago when supplicant was bot a verei young boy not past welffe yeare of his age, and had nathar the judgement, stringth nor abilitie to assist in suche ane actioun and he had nothing to do with it. It is a matter of great consequence to the supplicant to bring his lyfe estit and fortouns in questioun and under the un­ certane determination of ane assise who will be sum­ moned be the partie to his best advantage and the sup­ plicants great prejudice. "Moreover the Lord Chief Justice and his ordinary deputy are now at Court, and many questions will arise in the discussion of this case which will require the best advice and judgement that can be had and whairin the subdeputies will hardlie take upon thame to de­ termine. "He therefore craves that the diet for his trial be continued until July 22nd next; and this the Lords grant taking new_ caution of the supplicant for his com­ pearance at that date under the penalties contained in his former caution, and the Justice, Justice-Clerk, and their deputies are hereby discharged in the meantime from proceeding with the case." On July 15th he continues: "As the controversy be­ tween him and his friends with Neill McN eill of Bara and some of his friends on account of the slaughter of John McMurche VcNeill in Bara and some others alleged to have been committed by the supplicant and his accomolices has been submitted to the arbitration ~ of some noblemen, barons and gentlemen, he craves th~t the criminal diet appoint for his trial for the said slaughter before his Majesty's Justice, on the 22nd

78 Photo by Campbell Studios, New York

KATHLEEN \Vife of Robert Lister of Barra, XLV

The Clann Niall instant, may be deserted. The Lords ordain the Justice, Justice-Clerk and their deputies to desert the said diet." And so we may suppose that this disagreement was very peacefully terminated. On July 19, 1632, "The Lords continewes the com­ peirance of McN eill of Barra and Lockbowy till the first counsell day of November." We now come to a shame£ ul act on the part of the Chief when, in the endeavour to escape from his en­ forced obedience to the Crown, he denied his position as Chief of the Clan and entered the following suppli­ cation: "Their Lordships have ordered his compeirance before them once in every two years in the month of July, a course which never has been taken with any of his quality within the Yles, he not being chiftane of any clan nor ane freeholder of his Ma jestie bot onlie tennant to the Laird of Tarbet who is answerable for him; and by his coming already but once or twice his mean estate is greatly exhausted as it takes over three years rent of his living to make the journey to and from Edinburgh. His caution will stand for his compeir­ ance if he is complained against by anyone and there­ fore he craves that their Lordships will dispense with his appearing." ~;\bout this time a great deal of fishing was being carried on by Englishmen and Lowlanders, and the Chiefs exacted heavy dues from them for anchorage and ground-lease. These dues varied with the power to exact them, and so many complaints were made that the Council, in 1632, warned the Chiefs, and on May

79 The Clan Macneil

26, 1634, Charles I wrote a letter requesting the Council to bring before them the Chiefs and investigate the matter. The Council appointed Argyll and the Bishop of the Isles to ascertain the exact state of affairs and they personally appeared before the Council at Edin­ burgh November 20, 1635, and handed in a report which they had prepared at Inverary August 29th of the previous year. There, in response to summonses, several Chiefs presented themselves, among them being Macneil. They were asked what duties they exacted from those fishing on their coasts and they declared . viva voce: "That it was the ancient custom, before the date of the contract after specified ( which they think to be about 14 years since or thereby) for everyone of them in whose bounds the herring fishing fell out, to exact of every bark and ship resorting thereto, for anchorage or ground lease, one barrel of ale or meal, in the owner's option ; and, for each anchor laid on shore, six shillings and eightpence; and, out of every last of herring slain there, three pounds of money; together with the benefit of every Saturday's fishing; and that now they exact only from his Majesty's subjects of the association for each ship and bark that comes to the herring fishing, thirty six shillings Scots money; and for each ship that comes to the gray and white fishing, twenty merks; and for this anchorage and ground lease, conform to a con­ tract passed between the said Sir Donald, John Mac­ ranald ( of Clanranald) and umquhile Sir Rorie Mac­ leod, and some others of the Islanders, on the one part, and certain of the Burghs in the east country on the other part, in 1620 or thereby."

80 The Clann Niall

They further n1aintained that they were entitled to make the charges, which had been complained of, ac­ cording to this contract, and that it was an ancient custom past memory of man. The document was signed by the Chiefs: Macneil, Maclean of Coll and Lachlan Mackinnon declaring that their names were written "at our commands, because we cannot write ourselves." The Chief, meanwhile, de~~ite his professing that it took three years' rent to pay a visit to Edinburgh, ,vas obliged to appear frequently before the Council. When Cromwell had overthrown the monarchy in England and had almost crushed the independence of Scotland, the spirit of the Highlanders stood out in bold relief. The battle-cry of "For King and Cove­ nant" brought forth patriots from the southern-most county to the northern-most isle. On December 30, 1650, a call was made on all the Chiefs of the Outer Isles; Macneil, Clanranald, Mac­ donald of Sleat, Roderick Macleod of Talisker and Seaforth's son, Lord Kintail, all responding with great numbers of Clansmen. Under King Charles II, who was crowned at Scone, January 1, 1651, an army 20,000 strong proceeded against Cromwell, with 30,000 men, at Worcester. The two forces met September 3rd. The royalist army had been reduced to 14,000 by desertions, and, while the· Scots fought valiantly, the odds against them were too, great. The Islesmen suffered the most, the Macleods, with over 1000 men, being almost annihilated. The Mac­ neils fought side by side with the Macleods and suffered·_ cruelly. The Chief held the rank of "Colonell of

81 The Clan Macneil

Horsse" and his son-in-law, Alexander Macleod of Glendale, was mortally wounded and made prisoner, dying within a few days. While the Lowlands were subdued by Monk, the Highlands held out against the Prot~ctor, who was compelled to negotiate with Argyll and Huntly to aid him, though the commission was too great a one to be carried out. Cromwell at length, however, overcame the resis­ tance of the Highlanders and proclaimed Skye and the Outer Isles a part of the Commonwealth. The Isle of Barra, during these stirring times, from its isolation and diminutiveness, had been ignominiously ignored. Upon the Chief's death, which occurred about this time he was succeeded by his eldest son, XXXVII. GILLE0NAN, Chief of the Clan. Gilleon an had the following children : Roderick, who married Isabella, eldest daughter of Sir Norman Macleod of Bernera and granddaughter of Sir James Macdonald of Sleat; John, who was one of the very few Macneils to leave his island home for other lands, married Mary, daughter of Allan Macdonald of , and settled in Kintyre; Margaret, who married James, second son of Alexander Macdonald of Kin­ lochmoidart; Catharine, who married, in 1684, Captain John Macdonald of Borniskittaig; and Janet, who married Hector Og, son of Donald Maclean of Brolas, and thus became ancestress of the present House of Duart, now represented by Sir Fitzroy Donald Mac­ lean of Duart, Bart., K. C. B., Chief of the Clan. 82 The Clann Niall

Gilleonan 37th was a quiet, dignified gentleman, who loved his island home, where he spent nearly his entire timec One cannot avoid contrasting him with his father and grandfather. He was greatly respected by his Clansmen and was very popular throughout the West Highlands. His death was deeply mourned, not only by the Clan, but by the Highland families which had intermarried with his. He was succeeded by his eldest son, XXXVIII. RODERICK. Roderick had the following children: Roderick, born 1693, who married Alice, second daughter of William Macleod of Luskintyre, second son of Norman Macleod

83 The Clan .J1 acne ii throne and his cause was championed by Dundee. The Hebrides remained loyal to the deposed monarch and rallied to the banner under the gallant leader, Dundee. The southern Outer Hebrides were represented by all the Chiefs: Macneil, Macdonald of Sleat and North Uist, Allan of Clanranald and his tutor, Ronald Mac­ donald of Benbecula. It is questionable if Lewis or Harris was represented, as Macleod did not join and Seaforth was in Ireland. The J acobites, under Dundee, met the enemy at Killiecrankie on July 27, 1689, and one of the most glorious of all Highland victories took place, ,vhich ,vas saddened by the death of their brave leader. The command of the Highlanders then passed to Colonel Cannon, a very poor leader so far as the Scots vvere concerned. Mackay of Scourie, the vanquished at Killiecrankie, soon gained over the Clans and, being a generous foe, endeavoured to persuade them to lay do,vn their arms. The ans,ver, written August 17, 1690, ,vas a defiant letter signed by Macneil, Macdonald of Benbecula, Macdonald of Sleat, and others. On .A.ugust 24th, the same Chiefs signed a bond agree­ ing to meet in September for the cause and to stand by one another until that time. Macneil agreed to furnish fifty men, Sleat 200, and Benbecula 200. The ,var continued with victories and defeats for both sides, ,vith the upper hand gradually being gained by King William. In 1691, the Chiefs were charged to take the oath of allegiance to King William before January l st of the following year, but most of them, including l\1acneil, refused. In fact, the Chief, Duart, Clanranald, Glen-

84 The Clann Niall garry, Lochiel, Colin Mackenzie and Sir Donald Macdonald were soon in rebellion. In a letter, under date of Feb. 28, 1692,, Colonel Hill ,vrote to the Earl of Portland that he had written to :\Iacneil of Barra and no doubt he would come in, but the Chief remained loyal to the old race of Kings. Lord Tarbat was finally chosen peacemaker, and exactly how he used his power is unknown, but he was successful to a certain extent, and the Clans quieted down. The Chief took part in the Rising of 1715 *, and his two sons, Roderick and James, were obliged to leave the country and went to France, where they are said to have entered the army. James also went to Spain in 1717, and it was upon his return to the Highlands that he married, having one son, Hector of Ersary. The Chief soon died and was succeeded by his son, XXXIX. RODERICK, who in charming contrast to old Rory the Turbulent, was known, through his kindly manner, as "Roderick the Dove of the W est.h Roderick 39th had one son Roderick, who married, first, Anne, daughter of Hector Macneil of Vaslan, secondly, Anne, daughter of Donald Macneil of Vater­ say; and a daughter Margaret, who married Norman \1:acleod of Unish. The story of Prince Charlie and the Rising of 1745 is known to every son of the Highlands and it is not necessary to repeat it here in detail, except the con­ nection of the Isle of Barra with Charles Edward's landing.

*Burt's Letters, Vol. II. 85 The Clan Macneil

The Prince, in company with several Highland gentlemen, sailed from Belle Isle for Scotland, July 1745, with two ships, La Doutell and the Elizabeth, with Charles in the former. One of Lochiel's servants, Duncan Cameron, who had lived as a lad in Barra, was selected as pilot. On the way the ships came across the English warship , which attacked the Elizabeth, and she returned to France. On July 22nd, the Isle of Bernera, off the coast of Barra, was sighted, and under Cameron's directions the ship sailed northward on the east side of the Isle of Barra, coming to anchor in the Sound of Barra. Cameron, being familiar with the neighbourhood, was rowed ashore to reconnoitre and, meeting an old friend, who was Macneil's piper, they both returned to the ship. After questioning them, the Prince decided to land at the following day, July 23rd. The landing place was named "The Prince's Strand", which it bears to this day. The party visited the house of Angus Macdonald, the tacksman, and a visit, by some of the party, was paid to Kisimul Castle, but Macneil was not at home. Cameron says, however, that "a devill of a minister who did us a' the mischief that lay in his power" was in Barra. John Macaulay, who in 1763 became Parish Minister in Barra, was a young man of twenty-five at this time, and, seeing the ship, strongly suspected the identity of the party. He informed his father, who was minister of Harris, and he immediately proceeded to Barra, causing Cameron a great deal of fear and annoyance. He also reported his suspicions to the authorities but was not believed. 86 The Clann Niall

In April, 1746i Aeneas Macdonald, Prince Charles' banker, went to the Isle of Barra to collect a sum of 380 pounds for the Prince, from whom we are not told. After Charles' def eat, while he was in hiding at Coradale, South Uist, he received word that two parties of Macdonalds and Macleods were in Barra hunting him, and again, when the Prince was being pursued from isle to isle, Captain Carolina Scott landed at Barra with a force of regulars from Fort William seeking the Prince. The Chief was in full sympathy with the Prince's attempt to regain the throne and as an aftermath of the Rising he was taken as a prisoner to London. In company with Flora Macdonald, Lady Stewart, Clanranald and his wife, Alexander Macdonald of Boisdale, Aeneas Macdonald, the Paris banker, Gor­ don, younger of Glenbucket, Malcolm Macleod of Brea, John Mackinnon, Dr. John Burton of York, and others, he was removed, on December 6, 1746, from the Royal Sovereign lying at the Nore, and taken to London in the custody of William Dick. He was released on July 4, 1747, after the passing of the Act of Indemnity. Upon war with France in North America being de­ clared, Roderick, the son of the "Dove of the West", with several Clansmen and Donald of Clanranald, went to America. He was a lieutenant in Fraser's Highlanders and met his death in scaling the Heights of Abraham at Quebec, in 1759. Donald of Clan­ ranald was also killed. Roderick was known as "The Resolute" and was sur­ vived by his father; his son, Roderick, who married in

87 The Clan 1'1acneil

1787, Jean, daughter of Sir of Fassie­ fern, father of Colonel , hero of Quatre Bras; and his daughter Anne, who married, as his third "\vife, Alexander Macdonald of Boisdale, and had several sons and daughters, one of whom, Margaret, married with issue, Donald Macneil of Kenachreggan, born 1800, afterwards of Canna, which he purchased from Macdonald of Clanranald in 1826. Upon the departure of Roderick the Resolute, his brother-in-law, the Reverend Angus Macneil of Vater­ say, ,vas made guardian and tutor of his son, who suc­ ceeded as

XL. RODERICK, Chief of the Clan, upon the death of his grandfather, Roderick 39th, May 7, 1763, at Borve, Isle of Barra. The Chief was called "Roderick the Gentle" and had two sons and five daughters: Roderick, who married, in 1818, Isabella, daughter of Lieutenant Colonel Charles Brownlo,v of Lurgan, County Armagh; Ewen Cameron, vV. S., who died unmarried in Trinidad in 1847 at the age of forty-two years; Anne, who married John Livingston Campbell of Achallader; Louisa; Catherine, who married, with­ out issue, James, second son of William Macdonald, fourth son of Ronald of Clanranald; Jane, who married, as his second wife, Charles Brownlow of Lurgan, July 15, 1828, ,vho was a brother of Roderick's wife and was created Lord Lurgan of Lurgan, May 14, 1839; and Cameron. Roderick the Gentle went to America about 1776, ac­ companied by a number of his Clansmen, and fought in several battles of the war of the American Revolution.

88 The Clann Niall

.He died in Manchester in 1822, and was succeeded by his son, XLI. RODERICK, "The General" Chief of the Clan. He entered the Army, March 17, 1808, and rose to be Colonel in 1837; Major General, November 9, 1846; Lieutenant General, June 20, 1854; and General, in 1863, received the Distinguished Service Order, and commanded the centre division of the Madras Army. He died in London, October 22, 1863, without male . issue. Roderick the General vvas succeeded by Hector Edward, son of Hector of Ersary, as XLII. HECTOR EDWARD, Chief of the Clan. Roderick Dhu, 38th, had, as before mentioned, two sons, Roderick, his heir, and James. After the return of the brothers from France, whither they had fled, owing to their participation in the Rising of 1715, James married a Seaforth Mackenzie and was given the lands of Ersary, in Barra, by the Chief. He ,vas succeeded by his son Hector Og of Ersary, who married a daughter of Dougald Macdonald of South Uist. During the absence of Roderick the Gentle in America, the estate was left in his charge. Hector Og of Ersary had two sons, James and Hector, and a daughter who married Gilleonan, son of Roderick of Brevaig. James married Margaret, daughter of Roderick of Brevaig and pre-deceased his father with­ out issue. Hector married a daughter of Captain Mac­ donald of and, upon the death of his father, succeeded to the lands of Ersary. He was succeeded, in turn~ by his son, Hector Ed,vard, born, September

89 The Clan Macneil 15, 1795, who became 42nd Chief of the Clan upon the death of Roderick the General. Hector Edward of Barra married, in 1815, Mlle. Elizabeth Mercereau and had five sons and four daughters: Andrew, Iain (John), Robinson, George and Gilleon. Andrew was killed, without issue, in the American Civil War. The Chief died December 23,. 1880. His son Iain, born July 5, 1824, succeeded as XLIII. IAIN, Chief of the Clan. He married Bar­ bara Allen, daughter of William Humphrey, Esq., of Spring Hill, and had issue: RoderickAmbrose, Charles Frederick and seven daughters. Iain 43rd died December 15, 1893, being an invalid during the latter part of his life. These declining years were greatly brightened through the kind and faithful service of his servant, Richard Thornborough. XLIV. RODERICK AMBROSE, born June 11, 1851,. succeeded to the Chiefship. He married Elizabeth Dixon, daughter of Thomas Dixon Binns, Esq., of Yeadon, Yorkshire, and Mary Catherine Lister, and had two sons and one daughter: Paul Humphrey,. Robert Lister, and Florence Edith. The Chief was a painter of ability and his delight was to portray the beauties of a sunset in the West Highlands, which he so greatly loved. He never wearied of revelling in the traditions and achieve­ ments of his ancient race and possessed the High­ lander's true pride for Old Scotia. He died, while in America, at Norfolk, Virginia, February 15, 1914. XLV. ROBERT LISTER, author of this book, born December 10, 1889, succeeded and May 27, 1915, re-

90 The Clann Niall ceived Arms and Supporters at the as Chief of the Clan; and, June 14, 1923, married Kathleen, born April 29, 1903, daughter of Orlando Paul Metcalf, of New York, and Kathleen, daughter of Horace R. Kelly.

91

THE CADETS OF CLANN NIALL

THE MACNEILS OF ERSARY

ODERICK DHU, 38th, who received the Crown Charter in 1688, had two sons, Roderick, R 39th, and James, 1st of Ersary. Both sons fled to France after the Rising in 1715 and served in the French Army. Upon their return to the Isle of Barra, his father gave James the lands of Ersary, about three miles northeast of Castlebay. He married a Seaforth Mac­ kenzie and had a son Hector Og, 2nd of Ersary, who married a daughter of Dougald Macdonald of South Uist, a cadet of the Clanranald family. Hector Og had two sons, James and Hector, 3rd, of Ersary, and a daughter who married Gilleonan, son of Roderick of Brevaig. When Roderick the Gentle, 40th, left for the War in America about 1776, he left the entire estate of Barra in charge of Hector Og, and upon his return he sent James and Hector to Edinburgh to complete their education. As told elsewhere, James and Hector took part in the emigration to America. James married, without issue, Margaret, daughter of Roderick of Brevaig. Upon his return from America in 1802, he and the Barra priest, Rev. James Macdonell, sailed for Ari­ saig on the mainland, and both of them, including the entire crew of the ship, were drowned, when driven up the Sound of Sleat.

93 The Clan Macneil

Hector married a daughter of Captain Macdonald of Arisaig and, upon the death of his father Hector Og, succeeded as 3rd of Ersary. Hector in turn was succeeded by his eldest son . . Hector Edward, who married, 1815, Mlle. Elizabeth Mercereau, and upon the death, without male issue, of Roderick, 41st, in 1863, succeeded to the Chiefship of the Clan, under which division the subsequent sue- . . . -cession is given.

THE SWIFT MACNEILS

John, 2nd son of Gilleonan, 37th, married Mary, daughter of Allan Macdonald of Morar, left the Isle of Barra and settled in Kintyre. His grandson John married Anna Kearney, a celebrated Irish beauty of an ancient family, removed to Ireland about 1750 and had one son, John, and a daughter. John was an officer in the 9th Regiment, received his commission in 1775, and served under General Burgoyne in the American War. He was severely wounded and taken prisoner at Saratoga. As a prisoner of war in Boston, he married Blair Spence, niece of Dr. Blair, and went to Edinburgh, where his only child, Gordon, was born. After his father's death, Gordon was taken to Ireland by his grandfather, and educated at the University of Dublin. He was an officer in the 77th Regiment, re­ ·ceiving his commission in 1806. He went to India, taking part in two expeditions. He was well known as a successful playwright, and married Anna Maria .Swift, daughter of Godwin Swift, a lineal descendant

94 From Painting by Thomas Duncan, R. A. Lerno Cou,xsA Y

The Cadets of Clann Niall of Godwin Swift, the uncle and guardian of Dean Swift. They had one son, John Gordon Swift, and one daughter Blair Belinda, who married Rt. Hon. John Edward Walsh, a member in the House of Commons for the University of Dublin. John Gordon Swift MacN eill was in at Trinity College, Dublin, and was Chaplain of Rich­ mond Bridewell. He married Susan Colpoys, and they had one son, of the same name, who is a King's Counsel, a Member of Parliament from 1887 to 1918, and a Professor of Constitutional Law in the National University of Dublin; and one daughter, Mary Col­ poys Dean MacN eill.

THE MACNEILS OF V ASLAN

Hector, 4th son of Neil Og, 36th, was given the lands of V aslan, toward the northern end of the Isle of Barra, and had a son Neil, 2nd of V aslan. Neil was succeeded by his son Hector, 3rd of Vaslan, who had a daughter Anne. She married, as his first wife, Roderick the Resolute.

THE MACNEILS OF SKIRVAL AND VATERSAY

Neil Uisteach, 4th son of Roderick the Turbulent, 35th, was given the lands of Skirval, at the northern end of the Isle of Barra. He had a son Donald, 2nd of Skirval, who was succeeded by his son Hector, 3rd of Skirval. 95 The Clan Macneil

Hector had a son Donald, who married first a daughter of Roderick Dhu, 38th. The Isle of V atersay, immediately south of the Isle of Barra, had been divided into two farms and Donald, thus 1st of Vatersay, was given one of these farms, while the Chief personally retained possession of the other. Donald married, secondly, a daughter of Norman Macleod, 2nd of Greshornish. There is a tradition that Donald had an elder son who died unmarried. He had a son Angus ( second son if this tradition is correct) 2nd of V atersay, who was educated at the University of Aberdeen, ordained to the ministry, and became parish minister of South Uist about 1756, and then of Barra in 1771. Donald also had a daughter Anne, who, as his second wife, married Roderick the Resolute. Either Donald or one of his sons wrote two of the poems in Ranald Macdonald's Collection. Rev. Angus, 2nd of Vatersay, who, as told elsewhere, was guardian of Roderick the Gentle, 40th, married Anne, daughter of Rev. William Macleod, Minister of Bracadale and Campbelton, 3rd son of Roderick Macleod, 1st of Ulinish, and had issue: 1. Donald, born 1769, died 1824 in Jersey, Deputy Inspector General of Army Hospitals from 1794 to 1820. 2. Marion, who married John Murray of Greshor- nish. 3. Isabella, who died unmarried. 4. Flora, who died unmarried. 5. Anne, who married John MacIntyre, died 1852, of the Inland Revenue, with issue.

96 The Cadets of Clann Niall

THE MACNEILS OF BREVAIG

The direct connection of this branch with the line of the Chiefs is not positively known, but they were prob­ ably related. The late Michael Macneil, Castlebay, who was quite conversant with the Clan history, stated that they were descended from Gilleonan, the brother of the third Roderick, that is, Roderick Og, 34th. Clan tradition states that they were descended from a Gil­ leonan, brother of a Chief Roderick, and this Gilleonan mentioned by Michael Macneil is the only Gilleonan who was brother of a Chief Roderick. They possessed the lands of Brevaig, about a mile and a half east of Castlebay, and the first one on record is Gilleonan of Brevaig, who was succeeded by his son Roderick of Brevaig. He married Catherine or Margaret Macdonald and had Roderick Og; Gilleo­ nan; Lachlan, d.s. p.; Catherine and Margaret. Hector of Ersary's passengers, when he sailed for America in June, 1802, included the Brevaig family, who settled at Vernon River, Prince Edward Island, in 1803. 1st. Roderick Og, eldest son of Roderick of Brevaig, married in 1811, Catherine Mac Eachern, and had Margaret; Roderick, d.s.p.; Marjory; Lachlan; Cathe­ rine; Janet; Ann and Donald, d.s.p. He died in 1850 at the age of 73. 2nd. Gilleonan, 2nd son of Roderick of Brevaig, married a daughter of Hector Og of Ersary, and had two sons, James and Roderick. 3rd. Catherine, daughter of Roderick of Brevaig, married Angus Macneil.

97 The Clan Macneil

4th. Margaret, daughter of Roderick of Brevaig, married, first, without issue, James, son of Hector Og of Ersary, who ,vas drowned; secondly, Alexander Chisholm. Lachlan, eldest surviving son of Roderick Og, married Isabelle Macpherson, and had Roderick, Angus, Lachlan and Murdoch. He was born in 1819 and died in 1892, at Vernon River. Roderick, son of Lachlan, married Catherine Anne Campbell and had 6 sons. He was born in 1845.

THE MACNEILS OF TAYNISH AND GIGHA

1. NEIL, said to have been a brother of Murchard (XXVII) Macneil of Barra. 2.. TORQUIL of Taynish and Gigha, son of Neil, made Keeper or Constable of Castle Swen between the years 1429 and 1449 by Alexander, Lord of the Isles. "Castle Swen an irregular pile with round towers and ap­ parently neither window nor loophole. Situated on the eastern shore of Loch Swein, probably built by S,vene of Argyll about the thirteenth century." (Ori­ gines). 3. NEIL, HECTOR, and MALCOLM, given in the suc­ cession in which they first appear on record. In the year 1455, John, Lord of the Isles, confirmed to Neil his constablery of Castle Swen, one-eighth part of Arydalych, one-eighth of Arydagh, two-eighths of Drumhayuvoir, an eighth of Aryduir-Magynche, an eighth of Foiryfoun, and an eighth of Arydglanuich, all in Gigha.

98 The Cadets of Clann Niall

In the year 1464 Hector is recorded as witness to a charter, and again in the years 1472 and 1495, at which times he is called the Constable of Castle Swen. In 1478 Malcolm witnessed a charter and he likewise held lands in Gigha, as shown in the charter by Queen Mary, hereinafter mentioned. 4. COLIN, son of the above Neil, who is mentioned as witness to a charter in 1495. NEIL, son of the above Hector, who in 1516 appears among certain "familiars and servitors" of Colin, Earl of Argyll, receiving special protection from John, Duke of Albany, Regent of Scotland. Neil was killed with many of his followers in a feud with Allan nan Sop, brother of Maclean of Duart. He was survived only by a daughter, Annabella, his heir, and a natural son Neil. TORQUIL, son of the above Malcolm, who in 1531 received a charter from King James V, to lands that had belonged to the deceased Malcolm. In this charter Torquil is described as Chief and Principal of the Clan. He is mentioned again in the year 1553. Skene believes he was the last Constable of Castle Swen. 5. NEIL, natural son of the deceased Neil, was, in the year 1542, appointed by King James V, to the office of "Tossochdoir" or Steward of certain parts of Kin­ tyre, and also granted certain lands in Kilmichael. On the narrative that "the deceased Neil Macneil of Gigha and a greater part of his clan had been slain by­ the rebellious Islesmen, that their writs of Gigha and other lands had been destroyed, and that they had been faithful to the King, and that Annabella Macneil, the:

99 The Clan Macneil daughter and heiress of Neil Macneil, had resigned the lands to her natural brother Neil Macneil, the son of the deceased" the King granted to Neil, in heritage, the £20 lands in Gigha and other lands. Neil was present, as a vassal of the Lord of the Isles and on the side of the English, at the battle of Ancrum Moor in 1545. In the year 1554, however, he received a remission from Queen Mary for "his treasonable coming in company with the deceased Sir Rudolph Eweris and other subjects of England in time of war in battle array against the Regent (James, Earl of Arran) on the Moor of Ancrum, and there pursuing in order to slay the Regent, at that time representing the Queen's person and bearing her authority." In this year also he sold his lands of Gigha to James MacConnel of Dunyveg and the Glens, including his office of Tos­ sochdoir. 6. HECTOR, JOHN OG, NEIL AND MALCOLM, sons of Neil. Hector received, in 1564, the two-mark lands of Gallachallie, as servitor of the Earl of Argyll. John Og received, in 1576, a sasine of lands in Gal­ lachallie. Neil, in 1590, purchased the lands of Gigha, and in the same year granted them to his brother Malcolm. Malcolm also appears under date of May 23, 1615, in the following: "The Lordis of Secrete Counsel! ordnes lettris to be direct chairgeing ( among others) Malcolme McN eill, Uncle to Hector McN eill of Taw­ neishe, to compeir personalie before the saidis Lordis

100 The Cadets of Clann Niall upoun the --- day of --- nixtocome, to answer to suche thingis as salbe inquyrit of thame tuicheing the purpois and interpryse of the surprise and taking of his Majesteis Castle of Dunnevaig and keeping and detening of the same aganis his Majestie and his auc­ torie, under pane of rebellioun, &c, with certificatioun, &c." In the year 1599 Neil was seised in the same lands of Gigha. On November 9, 1602 he is recorded in the Privy Council records as having, in company with the Laird of Auchinbreck and others, invaded the Island of Bute. On November 21, 1611 he is mentioned as commissioner for the trial of the "resetters" of . He married Elizabeth, daughter of Camp­ bell of Auchinbreck, with issue: Hector of Taynish and Neil Og of Durlacher. 7. NEIL OG, DONALD and MALCOLM BEG, sons of John Og of Gallachallie, who appear as the subject of the following petition by John Campbell of Barnlo­ chane, under date of June 12, 1628 : "On last, being Sunday, he was standing in the kirkyard of Kilmichocharmick intending to go into the kirk, in which the Kirksession were sitting at the time and by whom he had been sent for, when Neil Og Mc­ N eill, Malcolm McN eill and Donald McN eill, sons of J ohne McNeil of Calchylie, Neil Reach McN eill in Dunnaclochy, and Donald McLeich, smith in Barneselag, waited for him, thinking it the fittest plaice to take his life; and as he was going to the kirkdoor the said Neil Og McN eill gave him a stroke on the head with a great baton, felled him to the ground and then strake and dammished him as he lay on the ground with

101 The Clan Macneil the said baton till he broke it in pieces upon him; and the said Malcolme McN eill came on him with a drawn sword to dispatch him as he lay, when the minister and elders of the kirk drew the petitioner in and closed the door upon his assailants. He craves summons against them." The foregoing records have been taken from the Register of the Great Seal of Scotland, the Records of the Privy Council and the OriginesParochialesScotiae, while the following descents, in addition thereto, are from records compiled by Lady Farquhar, daughter of the late Sir Malcolm McN eill of the distinguished Colonsay branch, and f ram private family accounts. HECTOR OF T AYNISH, son of Neil of Taynish and Elizabeth Campbell, was served heir to his father in 1613. Under date of July 27, 1620 he complained to the Privy Council of being molested by the brother of Maclean of Duart at Tarbert, where he was handling the affairs of the young Lord of Lorne. He had issue: 1. Hector of Taynish, who married, 1st, Isabella Campbell, 2nd, Mary Campbell of Lochnell. By the first marriage he had issue : Mary who married, 1st, in 1643, Neil Campbell "fiar" of Duntroon, 2nd, Archi­ bald Campbell of Inverawe; Isobel who married, in 1652, Alexander Campbell of Craignish; and Margaret who married, in 1659, Alexander Campbell of Dun­ staffnage. 2. Donald, who married Anna Campbell with issue as hereinafter set forth. 3. John of Ardbeg, who had, a. Hector of Ardbeg, who in 1683 married Katherine Campbell of Oib and

102 The Cadets of Clann Niall had a son John of Ard beg, who married Beatrix Camp­ bell. b. Torquil. c. Neil. 4. Annette, who married, about 1634, Lachlan Mac­ lachlan. Donald, second son of Hector of Taynish, had two sons: 1. John, who prior to 1660 married Anna Stirling and was served heir to Taynish and Gigha in 1653; he had a daughter Elspeth, who married in 1681 Donald McN eill of Gallachallie. 2. Donald, who married Marie Campbell and had a son Neil, of Taynish in 1697, who married Elizabeth Campbell with issue: a. Hector herinafter mentioned. b. Daniel, who married Margaret McTavish. c. Archi bald. d. Neil. e. Margaret, who married, 2nd, in 1727, John Mc­ Neill of Portrush, Ireland. Hector, above mentioned, married Ann Montgomery and had Roger, Archibald, and a daughter. Roger MacNeill of Taynish married, June 1743, Elizabeth Price, and added Hamilton to his name when the Raploch, , estate came into the family. He had a son Roger Montgomery Hamilton MacN eill of Taynish and Raploch, who married Catherine Chambers with issue: Daniel Hamilton MacN eill, afterwards called Dan· iel Henry MacNeill Hamilton of Raploch and Broom­ hill. He married Jane Bun bury Isaac and had two sons, Thomas Montgomery and William Henry who died in 1883 and was succeeded by his son Henry Mont­ gomery MacN eill Hamilton of Raploch and Broom­ hill, D. L., J. P ., born August 25, 1872, who is the pres-

103 The Clan Macneil ent representative of the Gigha and Taynish family. He married in 1896, Edith, daughter of the late Thom­ son Carmichael of Eastend, Lanarkshire.

THE MACNEILS OF TARBERT

NEIL OG of DURLOCHER., son of Neil of Taynish and Elizabeth Campbell, had a son Hector of Tarbert, who, it has been claimed by some of his descendants, was elder to Lachlan of Tirfeargus and consequently nearest in succession to the Taynish line. Hector mar­ ried Barbara McN eill and had Hector, Donald of Tarbert and Neil of Ardmunich, who married Ann Campbell and had a son Neil of Ardmunich, who mar­ ried Grizel Campbell with issue: John of Gigha; and he in turn was succeeded by his son John of Gigha who died in 1850. Donald of Tarbert, above mentioned, had issue: 1. Malcolm of Tarbert, who married, 1st, Mary, daughter of Donald, first of Colonsay, 2nd, Janet Simp­ son. 2. Florence, who married Reverend Neil Campbell. 3. Neil. 4. John. Malcolm of Tarbert, by his first marriage had: a. Lachlan of Tarbert. b. Malcolm of Drumchoir, who married his first cousin Florence McNeill of Ardnacross and had a son Neil McN eill of Ardnacross, who married Annabelle Gillies. c. Neil of Ardtally.

104 The Cadets of Clann Niall d. Margaret, who married Lachlan McNeil of . e. Daughter, who married James McN eill. Lachlan of Tarbert married, 1st, Elizabeth McN eill of Gallachallie, 2nd, Elizabeth Campbell of Duntroon, and by his first marriage had a son, Hector of Drum­ drisshaig, who married Mary Campbell of Kintarbert.

THE MACNEILS OF GALLACHALLIE

NEIL OG1 eldest son of John Og of Gallachallie, does not appear to have had any descendants. Donald of Gallachallie, second son of John Og, had three sons: 1. Hector of Gallachallie, who in 1643 was declared to be the nearest lawful heir to his grandfather. 2. John. 3. Archi bald. Hector of Gallachallie married in 1648 Elizabeth Campbell of Glencaradale by whom he had Donald, John and Margaret. Donald of Gallachallie, Taynish and Gigha married Elspeth McN eill by whom he had: 1. Hector of Gigha, who married Mary Butler. 2. Henry of Binian. 3. Isabel, who married, 1st, Donald McLachlan, 2nd, Duncan Campbell, younger of . Henry of Binian, had a daughter, Elizabeth, and a son, Daniel, who married Esther McN eill, by whom he had: a. Daniel, served heir in 1780.

105 The Clan Macneil b. Hector Frederick, who married without issue Theodosia M·ercer. c. Captain Malcolm McNeill, 17th Lancers, who married Mary Moore Neil, and who was served heir to his brother in 1826.

THE MACNEILS OF ARICHONAN

MALCOLM BEG, third_ son of John Og of Gallachallie, had a son, Neil Og of Arichonan, who married Miss McAlester of Loup, with issue: 1. Malcolm, who married in 1659 Catherine Camp­ bell of Duntroon and died prior to 1678. 2. John of Arichonan, who married in 1667 Marian McLachlan with issue: a. Neil of Arichonan, who in 1702 married Anna McNeil!. b. Reverend Daniel, who married Mary Cam­ eron, with issue. c. Duncan. The Reverend Daniel had Archibald of Arich­ onan, Neil, who married Ann Campbell and was served heir to Arichonan in 1753, William, Mary who married Reverend Robert Fullar­ ton, and Elizabeth, who married in 1736 Archibald McN eill, brother of "Colonsay." 3. Donald of Crear, 1st of Colonsay . • THE MACNEILS OF COLON SAY

DONALD OF CREAR, 1st of Colonsay, married in 1676 Mary, daughter of Lachlan McN eill of Tirf eargus. In 1700, he acquired Colonsay and Oransay from Arch- 106 The Cadets of Clann Niall ibald, Duke of Argyll, in exchange for his lands of Crear. He had issue: 1. Malcolm, his heir, who married in 1710 Barbara Campbell of Dunstaffnage, with issue. 2. Neil, 1st of Ardnacross, who married Grizel Mc­ Alester and had issue: a. Godfrey, of Ardnacross, who had a son Donald. b. Major Hector of Ardnacross, who in 1790 married Esther Campbell of Sunderland with­ out issue. He was succeeded in Ardnacross by his nephew, Neil McN eill, as set forth else­ where. Major Hector had a natural son Hec­ tor, who married Miss Campbell of the Knock­ mallie family without issue. c. Florence, who married, 1st, James Campbell of Ballole, 2nd, Malcolm McN eill (her cousin) tacksman of Drumchoir, son of Mal­ colm McN eill of Tarbert, and had a son Neil of Ardnacross, who married Annabelle Gillies, with issue : 1. John of Ardnacross who married, 1st, Catherine Campbell, 2nd, Agnes Louden, and by her had a daughter Lizzie, who married Colonel Bolito, and a daughter Annabelle McN eill of Glenmore. 2. Reverend Hector of Ardnacross who married Mary Macneale of Ugadale. d. Daughter, who married -- Macdonald. e. Daughter, who married Archibald Campbell of Ardmore, with issue. f. Daughter, who married -- McAlister.

107 The Clan Macneil

g. Daughter, who married Archibald Campbell . of Ro bole, Islay. 3. Archibald, who married, in 1736, Elizabeth, daughter of Neil McNeil of Arichonan. 4. Angus. 5. Donald. 6. Margaret, who married, in 1715, Archibald Camp­ bell of Strondour. 7. Marian, who married, 1st, Ronald Campbell of Lagganlochan, 2nd, Colin Campbell, Baillie of Tiree, and had a son Major Donald Campbell of Castle Sween. 8. Mary, who married Malcolm McN eill of Tar­ bert. 9. John. 10. Hector. MALCOLM, 2nd of Colonsay, succeeded his father in 1701. He acquired also the estate of Ardlussa, on the island of Jura. He had issue: 1. Donald, his heir, who married in 1766 Grizel, daughter of Archibald McN eill of Belfast, of the Tay­ nish family. 2. Alexander of. Oronsay, died 1780, who married Mary, daughter of Alexander Macdougall of Mac­ dougall, with issue. 3. Angus. 4. Mary, who married, in 1742, Duncan Fisher. 5. Isabel, who married, in 1727, Neil Campbell of Dunstaffnage. DONALD} 3rd of Colonsay, had a son, Archibald, who married, in 1796, Lady Georgina Forbes, daughter of George, 5th. Earl of Granard and had a son, George.

108 The Cadets of Clann Niall

ARCHIBALD, 4th of Colonsay, sold Colonsay and Ard­ lussa to his cousin John McN eill. Alexander of Oronsay, above mentioned, had . issue: a. John, his heir. b. Malcolm, who died August 10, 1850, in East India Company's service. c. Alexander. d. Archibald, Lieutenant, R.N. e. James, Inspector of Hospitals, who married Ann Dundas of the Arniston family, with . issue. f. Donald, Lieutenant-Colonel, who married Georgina Mackay of Bighouse (his cousin). g. Mary, who married, in 1790, Mr. Rhind. h. Barbara, who married, 1st, Lieutenant Robert Gordon, 2nd, Mr. Campbell, Minister of Tiree. . 1. Lucy, who married, in 1799, Archibald Camp­ bell of Frachidale. JOHN, 5th of Colonsay, son of Alexander of Oronsay, purchased Colonsay and Ardlussa from his cousin Ar­ chibald. Born 1767, died 1846. He married Hester Law Howard, died 1843, daughter of Duncan McNeil! of Dunmore, with issue: 1. Alexander, Captain, his heir. 2. Duncan, born 1793, acquired by purchase in 1848, from his brother Alexander the estates of Colonsay and Oronsay, Member of Parliament for Argyll from 1843 to 1851, Lord Justice General, May 1852, and a Privy Councillor in 1853, created Lord Colonsay of Colon-

109 The Clan Macneil say in 1867, and died unmarried in 1867, when the title became extinct. 3. John, born 1795, Knight Grand Cross of the Bath, Minister to the Court of Persia, married, 1st, Ines, who died 1816, daughter of George Robinson of Clermiston, Midlothian, 2nd, Elizabeth, who died 1868, daughter of John Wilson, 3rd, Lady Emma Augusta Campbell, ,vho died 1883, daughter of John, Duke of Argyll, and by his first marriage had a daughter Ferooza who mar­ ried Commander Stewart, R.N. 4. Malcolm, Brigadier-General, Governor of Vel­ lore, Commandant of Arcot, fell leading the attack on Prome in 1852, married Miss Bennett and had issue: a. Alexander, who married Annabel Campbell and had a son Colonel Malcolm McN eill, C.M.G., D.S.O., who died in 1917. b. John, who married Hester McN eill. c. Malcolm. d. Harry. e. William. f. Hester, who married Mr. Pringle of Stillchell and had a daughter Emily, Lady (Gordon) Cathcart. g. Emily, who married D. Cunningham Graham. h. Anne. i. Ellen, who married Mr. Wright. 5. Archibald, born September, 1803, died June 2, 1870, Writer to the Signet, a Principal Clerk of Session, Director of Chancery, married Christina Mitchell and had two sons and two daughters: John and Duncan who died unmarried, Susan Carruthers, who married Sir Malcolm McN eill, as hereinafter set forth, and Ina,

110 Photo by Swain, London RoxALD JoHx 11cNEILL, EsQuIRE Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs

The Cadets of Clann Niall who married in 1895 as his third wife George, Duke of Argyll. 6. Forbes, who died in 1843, a merchant in London, married Miss Mundell and had a son James who died in 1846, and a daughter Hester, who married, 1st, John McN eill, 2nd, Alexander McN eill. 7. Mary, who married James Duncan. 8. Hester. 9. Anne, who married Mr. Ainsworth. 10. Lucy, who married Malcolm McNeil! of the Corran, Belfast, and had issue: a. Malcolm. b. John. c. Duncan, of the Corran, Colonel in the Indian Army, °"rho married Mary Guthrie. d. Alexander, who married Hester McN eill. e. Margaret. f. Hester. CAPTAIN ALEXANDER, 6th of Colonsay, born January 17, 1790, sold Colonsay and Oransay to his brother Duncan, Lord Colonsay, and acquired the estate of Gigha. He married, June 24, 1830, Anne Elizabeth, daughter of John Carstairs of Stratford Green, Essex, and was drowned, together with his wife and daughters, Cecil Anne and Hester Mary, in the wreck of the Orion at Port Patrick, June 18, 1850. He had issue: 1. Major General Sir John Carstairs, G.C.V.O., K.C.B., K.C.M.G., V.C., J.P., Deputy Lieutenant of Argyll, Bath King of Arms, born March 29, 1831, died unmarried May 25, 1904.

111 The Clan Macneil

2. Alexander, born February 24, 1834, died May, 1915, married in 1859 Mary, daughter of Colonel Leighton, and had issue: a. Alexander Carstairs McN eill of Colonsay, present representative, born 1863, married Emily Bradley, and has issue: Malcolm, born 1899, and Hilda. b. Allan Mackenzie, of Auckland, New Zealand, married Louisa Thomson, with issue: Leigh­ ton, Avis and Edmay. c. Herbert Malcolm, of Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand, married Florence Walker, with issue: John Colonsay and Aubrey. d. Harry Forester Leighton, ofWellington, New Zealand, married Ethel May Lingard, with issue : Joan Leigh ton. e. Duncan Hugh, died unmarried. f. Minnie, married, 1st, Captain Leonard Jones, 2nd, Andrew Pattle-Izett. g. Helen Alice, married Edward Liffton. h. Ethel Maud, married William Collins, of W anganui, New Zealand. i. Hester Anne, married Denniston Cuthbertson, of Gladstone, Invercargill, New Zealand. j. Cecil May, married Hilderbrand Holderness, of Hastings, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand. 3. Captain Duncan, born July 10, 1836, married June 6, 1861, Fanny Charlotte Emma, daughter of Sir Charles Talbot, K.C.B., and had issue: a. Malcolm, born March 25, 1862, married, 1887, Agnes Duncan, daughter of James Hall Ren­ ton of 39 Park Lane, W. 112 The Cadets of Clann Niall

b. Duncan Alexander, born May 29, 1863, married 1887, Maud Seymour and has issue: Angus Duncan Talbot, born 1888, and Eileen Maud, born 1893. c. Charles Fitzroy Ponsonby, born December 9, 1867, married January 31, 1891, Lady Hilda Maud, daughter of John, Earl of Stradbroke, and has issue: Donald Frank Rous, born 1894, and Brenda Mary Adela, born 1897. d. Angus John, Colonel, C.B., D.S.O., of Faw­ ley Manor, Wantage, Berkshire, born May 31, 1874, married Lillian, daughter of Major General Sir Harry Barron, K.C.M.G., and has one son. e. Donald Torquil, born April 25, 1878, married July 8, 1899, Ida, daughter of John Logan of East Langdon. f. Fanny Cecil Talbot, married February 25, 1897, Sir Arthur deCapell Brooke, Bt. g. Mary Georgiana Helen, married, 1st, April 30, 1896, Joseph FoxTarratt of Ellary, Argyll­ shire, with issue, 2nd, Reverend Henry Rogers, with issue. 4. Sir Malcolm, born November, 1839, died March 4, 1919, Companion of the Bath, Vice President of the Local Government Board of Scotland, married, 1st, Clara Elizabeth, who died in 1869, daughter of Robert Buchanan of Ardoch, and had issue: a. Duncan, born August 19, 1864, married 1893: Margaret, daughter of General Waddington~ and has issue.

113 The Clan Macneil

b. Donald Buchanan, born November 1869, died August 1872. c. Hester Mary, born October 1865, died October 1870. d. Helen Eva Forbes, born November 1, 1867, married June 1, 1893, Admiral Sir Arthur .Murray Farquhar, K.C.B., C.V.0., and has issue. Sir Malcolm married, 2nd, April 18, 1871, Susan Carruther.s, daughter of Archibald Macneil, before mentioned, and had further issue: e. Neil Archibald, born February 19, 1878. f. Ina Erskine, born September 4, 1874, married March 8, 1906, Arthur, son of John B. Buchanan-Baillie-Hamilton of Cambusmore. 5. Cecil Anne, drowned, June 18, 1850. 6. Helen, married August 8, 1861, Alexander Streat­ field-Moore, J.P., with issue. 7. Hester Mary, drowned June 18, 1850.

THE MACNEILS OF TIRFEARGUS

NEIL OG of DURLACHER, son of Neil of Taynish and Elizabeth Campbell, before mentioned, had a son Lachlan "Buie" of Tirfeargus, born 1611, died 1695. He was in Tirfeargus in 1660 and in Lossit in 1668. He is mentioned as an Elder in the Church of Scotland in the year 1655 and in 1670 he registered his Arms in the Lord Lyon's office. He was buried in the church­ yard of Kilchivan, Kintyre, having a gravestone bear­ _ing the representation of an ancient warrior in armour.

114 The Cadets of Clann Niall

He married, 1st, Mary Macneil of Carskay, and by her had: 1. John, his heir to Tirfeargus, who married Mary Macneil of Gallachallie, and by her had five sons, of whom the fourth, Neil, married Miss Park and was ancestor of the Macneils of Faughart and Mount Pleas­ ant, in County Louth, Ireland. 2. Archibald, who married Miss Macneil of Bally, and died at Ballymascanlon, County Louth, in 1696. 3. Neil "Buie" born 1625, succeeded to Machrihan­ ish, Kintyre, and acquired Killoquin, , Ireland. He married Rose Stewart of Garry, County Antrim, and had issue: a. Lachlan, of whom presently. b. Archibald, who died unmarried. c. Hugh, killed in the battle of Almanza. d. Donald, who married Margaret Maclean, and had issue: i. John, who married Elizabeth, daughter of Admiral Vernon. ii. Neil "Buie" of Collier's Hall, married Jane Clark, and was ancestor of the Macneils of Collier's Hall and Parkmount. To this branch belonged Dr. Hugh McNeile, D.D., of Liverpool, afterwards Dean of Ripon, a great Orangeman and orator, whose statue is in St. George's Hall, Liverpool. He was several times ref erred to in Lord Macaulay's speeches as a "bigoted Protestant and Tory." His brother was John McN eile of Parkmount, 115 The Clan Macneil

whose daughter Mary married Hugh, 1st Earl Cairns, Lord Chancellor of Great Britain and one of Beaconfield's chief colleagues. John McN eile's two grandsons, John and Donald, were both killed in the Great War, and his great-grandson, John, sold Parkmount and is now of Kippielaw, Roxburghshire, Scotland. 111. John "The Turk", who married Margaret, daughter of Macneil of Taynish and had four sons and one daughter. Lachlan, before mentioned, married} ane, daughter of Bartholomew MacN aghten of Benvarden, County Antrim, and had issue: i. Neil of , married Christina Hamilton and was ancestor of the McN eills of Cushendun, from whom is descended Ronald John McNeill, D.L., J.P., Member of Parliament, Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and author of "Ulster's Stand for Union." The family residence of Cushen­ dun was burnt by members of the Sinn Fein in May, 1922, when a large collection of family papers, full of details from Lachlan of Tir­ feargus onwards, was destroyed. There were also some interesting old bonds signed by Lachlan. Mr. McNeil! was born in 1861 and married Elizabeth Maud, daughter of the late William Bolitho, of Polwithen, Cornwall. ii. Doctor Alexander, of whom presently. 111. Archi bald. iv. Alice. 116 The Cadets of Clann Niall

v. Alleen. vi. Rose. Doctor Alexander, of Drumaduan and Ballyi­ can, County Antrim, born in Machrihanish, married in 1742, Anne, daughter of William Fleming, Lord Slane, and had issue: a. William, married Elizabeth Dawson and died without issue. b. Neil, of Culbane, of whom presently. c. Fleming, Captain in Derry Militia, married Elizabeth W andesford, daughter of Lord Ormond, and died without issue: d. Christopher. Neil, of Culhane, County Derry, born about 1744, married Elizabeth, daughter of John Robinson, of York Street, Dublin, and had issue: Annie and Captain Thomas, born in Dublin in 1781 and married in 1810 to Sarah, daughter of Thomas Johnston, and died in 1839, having had with other issue: James Neale, of whom presently, Neill, killed in Spain, without issue, and Graham, who died without issue. James Neale was born in 1811 and married at Edinburgh in 1838 Isabella Louise, daughter of Colonel Robert Macdon­ ald of Inch Kenneth and Gribune, Argyllshire, and left issue: James Graham Robert Dou­ glass, of whom presently, Reginald John, who died 1880, and George William, who married but died without issue. Colonel James Gra­ ham Robert Douglass Macneill, C.B., was

117 The Cla·n Macneil

born February 11, 1842, and October 8, 1892 married Elizabeth Rose, daughter of Thomas Somers, of Mendip Lodge, Somerset. 4. Margaret, who married in 1676, Donald of Crear, 1st of Colonsay. 5. Isabella, who married Dugald Campbell of Drum­ namacloch. 6. Elizabeth, who married John Campbell of Kildul­ log, and had eight sons and three daughters. Lachlan "Buie" of Tirfeargus married, secondly, Margaret Macalister, who died in 1692. On the heirs male of this marriage the lands of Lossit were settled. He had further issue: 7. Hector of Lossit, who married Anne Campbell of . 8. Torquil, born 1653, died 1728, married Catherine Mackay of U gadale and had issue : a. Neil, 1st of U gadale, hereinafter mentioned. b. Hector, of , who had a son Neil, a merchant in Bristol, who had a daughter, Amelia Price Macneil. c. Charles, who died without issue. 9. Malcolm, born 1688, died 1731, who married Gri­ zel Donaldson of Ballymena and had issue: a. Malcolm. b. Daniel of Navan, who had a daughter Brush and a son Robert, who in turn had a son James Wolfe Macneal of Ballyscalan. 10. Donald of Kilchrist, who married Ninian Mont­ gomery and had a son Lachlan, who left issue: Charles of Kilchrist. 11. Neil Og, who married Elizabeth Montgomery.

118 The Cadets of Clann Niall

THE -MACNEILS OF UGADALE

Neil, 1st of Ugadale, had a son Captain Hector, 2nd of U gadale. He in turn was succeeded by his son George, 3rd, who married Elizabeth Loring and had issue: a. Hector, 4th of U gadale, hereinafter men­ tioned. b. Frederick H., who had a son Sir Hector Murray Macneal, created a Knight Commander of the British Em.pire in 1920 for services rendered to the Government during the Great War, who married, in 1912, Marjory, daughter of John Henderson, Esq., and has issue: one son and two daughters. c. Mary Jane, who married, in 1847, Reverend Hector Mac­ neil of Ardnacross. Hector, 4th of U gadale, married Constance Camp­ bell of Skipness and had a son Hector, 5th of U gadale, captain in the Gordon Highlanders, who died in 1911 and was succeeded by his son Torquil Duncan F. Mac­ neal of U gadale, 6th, present representative, born ·1897, served in the Great War with the Gordon Highlanders and married Joan Gladys, eldest daughter of H. R. Rauthmell, Esq., London. The Macneals of U gadale have in their possession an interesting relic of King . In the year 1306, as a fugitive crossing to Kintyre on his way to Ireland, Bruce landed at a spot still known as the King's Cove and with one attendant he sought shelter at U gadale, tenanted by Gilchrist Mackay. In the morning the host accompanied him as far as the top of Beinnan-tuire to point out the way to the western coast.

119 The Clan Macneil

At parting The Bruce made himself known and promised that when he regained the throne of Scotland he would grant the lands over which they had walked as a return for hospitality received, giving as a token of agreement the brooch which he wore to clasp his cloak. Later, at Holyrood, the gift was confirmed by charter. The brooch continued in the possession of the Mackays and the heiress of U gadale, Catherine, married Torquil Macneal in the seventeenth century as previously mentioned, and then in the U gadale family to the present day. When Queen Victoria visited Inveraray in September 1875, the Duke of Argyll asked Captain Hector of Ugadale to bring the brooch for her inspection. The Queen stated she was familiar with its interesting history and had a copy of it made, which is now in the possession of the Royal Family.

THE MACNEILS OF KINTYRE*

From early times the Macneils have been numerous and influential in Kintyre. In the Clan conflicts which kept this romantic land in a turmoil for so many genera­ tions, the Macneils are understood not to have allowed much of the excitement to pass their own doors. When claymores were bared to decide a quarrel, depend upon it, there was a Gigha, Carskey or Tirf eargus right in the centre of the trouble. They were, as Neil Munro aptly puts it, "Bonnie fighters". It is a pity that the

*The Celtic Monthly, July, 1908.

120 The Cadets of Clann Niall history and traditions connected with those old martial families of the clan have never been written, for they should certainly occupy a prominent place in the annals of the district. But their fame and deeds are not entirely forgotten in their homeland. The story is still told how, when the Campbells and Macdonalds were disputing for the possession of the ancient Castle of Dalaruan (now the site of the Castlehill Church, the pulpit of which was in recent times filled by an Ardnacross Macneil) Hec­ tor Macneil of Carskey settled the matter by throwing a sword of Clan Diarmid over the walls, which they must follow to find. And when Elizabeth Tollemache, Duchess of Argyll, wife of Archibald, 10th Earl and 1st Duke, attempted to introduce English sermons into the Highland church in Campbeltown and came in great state with a num­ erous retinue to enforce her views, Macneal of U ga­ dale met her at the door with a drawn sword, and in­ formed her that, while her sex entitled her to admission into the church, he would take good care that none of her "tail" (followers) would cross the doorstep. So the English duchess built the Lowland church, and curiously enough the present popular head of the ancient house of U gadale and Arnicle, Captain Hector Macneal took an active part in the recent restoration of this interesting edifice. Thus the centuries meet. In the Covenanting days, every one in Kintyre had to take sides, and the Macneils mostly supported the Marquis of Argyll, and in 1618 Carskey held Kilker­ ran Castl~ for the Government; but in earlier times

121 The Clan Macneil they followed the banner of the great Macdonalds, Lords of the Isles. I have handled a small fragile manuscript, a Bond of and Friendship, signed at Killeonane, 18th July, 1594, between Hector Macneil of Carskey, on behalf of his "whole kin and surname", and Sir J am·es Macdonald of Smerby, son of Angus, Lord of the Isles, which was endorsed by no fewer than eleven gentlemen of the Clan Macneil of Kintyre. But in later days when the targe and dirk had to be put away for the plough and scythe, Kintyre was con­ sidered by many no suitable place for a man of spirit and energy to live in, so, dazzled by the glamour of the Americas, many of the Macneils, led by a Hector Mac­ neil, sailed in 1739 for North Carolina, where they ex­ pected to find routh of gold and jewels, and such ad­ venture and glory as kept a Highland gentleman in congenial and active occupation. The Macneils soon made their neighbours and ene­ mies respect them; but what was their amazement on reaching this remote country to find a clansman, "Bluff Hector Macneil", from Kintyre settled there before them, and a man of considerable im·portance. Without doubt the two Hectors must have had a late ceilidh that night, and Kintyre would not have been out of their thoughts 1 THE MACNEILS OF ARDNACROSS* Pages might be occupied with old-time tales of this gallant race, but the special attention of this paper is to put on record a brief history of one of the only

*The Celtic Monthly, July, 1908. 122 The Cadets of Clann Niall two ancient landed families of the clan which still hold their possessions in Kintyre. The Macneils of U gadale ( who still possess the his­ toric "Bruce Brooch") were dealt with in two early volumes of the Celtic Monthly, the other are the Mac­ neils of Ardnacross, who if they do not n9w follow the profession of arms do great credit to the old name in commercial and professional circles. Between them they keep the Clan Neill flag still fly­ ing in Ceann-tir. Ardnacross or, as it is given in the vernacular, Ard-na-Chroish, which signifies the cross on the promontory, probably derived its name from a Celtic cross erected over the grave of a priest, who may have been a member of the great monastic institution at Saddell, founded by Reginald Macdonald of the Isles. It is recorded that in 1647 Ardnacross was in the pos­ session of the Mackays, and an interesting story is told of how young Mackay, a nephew of the famous Gen­ eral Alistair Macdonald, followed his uncle in his cam­ paign in the north in support of Montrose, and fell at the battle of Auldearn in that year. The exact date when the Macneils came into pos­ session of this romantic property seems to be unknown; but in 1752, a deed is signed by Neil Macneil of Ard­ nacross. The Adnacross family, like the Carskeys, are de­ scended from the Macneils of Gigha, Chiefs of the Clan in Kintyre, who themselves trace their origin to the Macneils of Barra, Chiefs of the whole clan and race of Neill. 123 The Clan Macneil

Neill Macneil, above ref erred to, was one of the large family of Macneil of Tarbet, Gigha, another member of which, Hector Macneil of Drumdrishaig, afterwards acquired the estate of Saddell. Neill was succeeded by his son Captain Gorrie Mac­ neil; a large silver bowl, dated 1785, which was pre­ sented to the Captain in token of the assistance which he rendered to a shipwrecked crew on the coast, being still in possession of the family. This head of the house was of a roving dispositiont and travelled a great deal abroad. His younger brother, Major Hector Macneil, who in 1791 owned the estate, had a distinguished military career in the service of one of the native Indian Princes. He married a daughter of Donald Campbell of Sunderland, Islay, (whose grave may be seen in Kil­ kerran graveyard, Campbeltown) and had one son who predeceased him. It is perhaps interesting to mention that Captain Gorrie Macneil had a son Donald who, moved by a spirit of adventure, went abroad and was knighted by the Portuguese Government, and died in Glasgow as Sir Donald Macneil. On the death of Major Macneil, about 1824, the lands passed to his nephew, Neill Macneil, who was succeeded by his son John, who had been engaged in commercial pursuits, and was a partner in the well­ known firm of Maclaine, Watson & Co., of Batavia. He married his cousin, Catherine Campbell of Mel­ fort (a prominent Argyllshire family) and bought the estate of Glenmore, in the parish of Kilmelfort, where he died. 124 The Cadets of Clann Niall

His family by this marriage predeceased him. He secondly married Agnes Louden, and had two daughters, the younger of whom is the present Miss Macneil of Glenmore. The estate, being entailed in the male line, passed to the Reverend Hector Macneil, who was born in 1807, and educated at the Universities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. He was minister of the Hope Street Gaelic Church, Glasgow, and eventually of Castle Hill Church, Camp­ beltown. He "came out" at the Disruption in 1843 and was ordained to the Lowland Free Church, Campbeltown, which position he held till 1878, when declining years caused him to retire. He married, in 1847, Mary Jane, only daughter of George l\'1acneal of U gadale, D.L., and dying in 1879 was succeeded in Ardnacross by his son George, who, on his decease in 1893, was followed in the ownership of the estate by his brother, Neill Macneil, J. P ., the present popular proprietor. He was born in 1856 and coming to Glasgow in the early seventies, entered the employment of the well­ known firm of Messrs. James Watson & Co., iron and steel merchants, of which he eventually became a part­ ner, and is a prominent figure in all circles connected with the trade. In 1883 he went to Swansea to open and manage a branch office of the firm, and remained there till 1894, when he returned to Glasgow. He married in 1886, Marjorie Cameron, daughter of the late Mr. Neil Sinclair, a gentleman who for many years took a deep

125 The Clan Macneil interest in all matters relating to his native Highlands, and was a· leading office-bearer in the various Celtic societies of this city. Mr. Macneil has three sons, Hector Loring,· Ian Douglas and Nigel Lorne, who share their parents' love for the Highlands.

THE MACNEILS OF BUTE*

One of the Officers of the Crown in Bute was the Crownare or Coroner, whose duties it is not easy to particularise, the Office though distinct from that of a Sheriff was not infrequently united with it and held hereditarily in some families. It seemed to have been his duty to watch over all the interests of the Crown within his bounds, assisting at the Courts of Justice, apprehending and protecting criminals, or accused, suspects and witnesses, coast­ guardsman in seizing castaway vessels, collecting Crown Rents, and otherwise representing the Crown. His fee for each person convicted was a quey or 30 pennies. If a man was sentenced to death, the Crowner's fee consisted of "all the dantoned and tamed horse not shod, all the scheipe within 20, all the goats and swyne within 10, all the grains and corns, lyand in byings or in broken mawes, all the utensils or domi­ cil of the house within the cruke hingan upon the fire." In Bute, the Crowner was annually entitled to a cow out of the feu-duties of Bute and a firlot of corn and a lamb from every portioner of a ploughgate of the feu­ lands, which numbered sixty-one. *Bute in the Olden Time, J. K. Hewison. 126 Photo by IV. Crooke. Edi11b11rglz

Srn 1L.\LCOLM ~IcN EILL, C.B.

The Cadets of Clann Niall

The office in the Sheriffdom of Bute was held by Nigel or Neill of Kilmore and his descendants, the J amisoPs of the same place . Ferchard of Bute, son of Nigel of Bute and Duncan his brother, about the close of the thirteenth century, appear attesting charters by Angus, son of Dovenald, to Paisley Monastery. 1436 to 1458, Nigellus Jacobi (Neill Jamison) is the Chamberlain of Bute and hands in regularly his accounts of the rents paid by the Crown tenants of the isle. When the King was in residence in , 1458, Neil made such a poor mouth about the bad weather for the past 22 years and the loss of his fees from Arran, which had been scoured by raiders in 1444, that the compassionate Monarch allowed him an extra payment of 8 chalders, for his vexations in gathering and dis­ patching the royal rents, or marts to the Moving Court. He seems to have been succeeded by his son James, for in 1501 we find Fergus, the son of James, Crowner of Bute, making a grant of two shillings to the Friars, preachers of Glasgow. In 1506, Robert J amesoun is enumerated among the so-called "Barons of Bute" who received Charters from King James IV, and in 1534, apparently the same in­ dividual, Robert N eilsoun, is confirmed by James V, in the Crownership of the island and Sheriffdom of Bute with the feus, which office had, according to the deed of grant then lost, been held hereditarily by the family about two hundred years. In 1557, the Queen granted to Donald McGillepek McNeil and Margaret Stewart, his wife, a Crown

127 The Clan Macneil Charter of the lands of Kilmorie of the old extent of 2¼ marks, which had been sold to them by Ninian Stewart of Kilcatten. In 1618, Francis J amesoun was served heir to his great-great-grandfather Robert, in the office, and to his father James in the Kilmory lands: viz., the "5 Mark­ lands of Kilmorie-Moir, 2¼ Marklands of Keirfarne, and 2¼ Marklands of Kilmorie-Chappeltoun." In 1642, "Robert J amiesoun, Crowner of Bute his lands and heritage" are enrolled in the Maill-book of the burgh, but the extent is indecipherable. In 1660, "Robert Jameson, Crowner" the last of his family in the office: was an elder in the Church of Rothesay. After 1672, the Crowner's duties were transferred to other officers, and in 1748 the heritable jurisdiction was abolished by Act of Parliament. These Macneils were buried in Rothesay Church­ yard and the monument bearing their is in perfect preservation ( 1895). lnscri ption: "This is the Buryial place of thee McNilles ( superinscribed N ealls) of Kilmorie." Their residence formerly was called the Crowners Castle.

CLANSMEN

One of the many Clansmen who distinguished them­ selves during the Great War was Captain Neil McN eill, Langside, Glasgow. His ship was being shelled by a German submarine and, ordering his crew to take cover, he himself took the wheel. Considerable

128 The Cadets of Clann Niall damage was inflicted on the merchantman during the attack, in which Captain McN eill so managed the ship that the submarine finally gave up the chase. In recognition of his bravery and efficiency under fire, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. Captain McN eill is a native of Port Wemyss, Islay, and his brother Archibald is a schoolmaster at Kilch­ renan, Lochawe, while another brother, Malcolm, is a chief engineer in the New Zealand service. A very interesting history of Iona, the sacred isle, which Columba blessed and which never ceases to re­ ceive the homage he prophesied should be paid to it by the people of many lands, has been written by a Clanswoman, Miss Florence M. McNeill, M.A., Wild­ wood Road, London, whose father, of Barra descent, was an Orkney minister. The war record of this family is typical of the patri­ otism shown by the Macneils, her six brothers and sisters being in the service. Lieutenant William Alexander McN eill, R.N.R., lost his life in the sinking of the auxiliary cruiser Laurentic/ Cadet Patrick Kerr McN eill died while in training at Exeter after having fought at Loos and N euve Chapelle as a trooper in the Glasgow (Queen's Own) Yeomanry; Captain David McN eill, R.A.M.C., served in France; the youngest brother, Gunner Duncan McN eill served in Egypt, and, having completed his interrupted law studies at Edinburgh University, is now living in Inverness; Doctor Mary McN eill served in Salonica with the Scottish Women's Hospital; and Leila, the youngest sister, was a supervisor at a Government munition works. 129 The Clan Macneil Major Cyril McNeil, Royal Engineers, born 1888, son of Captain Malcolm McNeil, Royal Navy, married Violet, daughter of the late Lieutenant Colonel Baird Douglas, and has one son. Major McNeil has written many books and plays under the pen-name of "Sapper", among them being "Bull Dog Drummond" and "The Man in Ratcatcher." Reverend Allan Hugh McN eile, D.D., born in Cal­ cutta, March 6, 1871, the son of Daniel James McN eile, Bengal Civil Service, and Mary Emma Minton, is Regius Professor of Divinity, University of Dublin, and the author of several religious works. Professor John (Eoin) McNeill, B.A., D.Litt., Min­ ister of Education in the Irish Free State government and a recognized authority on early Celtic languages, literature and archaeology, was born in Glenarm, County Antrim, in 1868, and for twenty years was in the Accountant General's office. He originated the Gaelic League, which brought about the renaissance of Gaelic culture in Ireland; was elected Member of Parliament ( Sinn Fein) for Londonderry in 1919; an organizer of the Irish National Volunteers; and Speaker of the Dail Eireann, 1921-22. Professor McN eill had two sons, one now is a Brigadier General in the National (Irish) Army and the other was killed while an officer in the irregular ("Republican") forces. His brother, James McN eill, is the Free State Commissioner at London. Hector Macneill, a famous Scottish poet of the begin­ ning of the nineteenth century, was born near Roslin, Midlothian, October 2, 17 46, the son of an impover­ ished army captain. At the age of fourteen, he went

130 The Cadets of Clann Niall to Bristol as a clerk and soon afterwards was trans­ £erred to the West Indies. From 1780 to 1786 he acted as an assistant secretary on board the flagships of Admiral Geary and Sir Richard Bickerton. The greater part of his later life was spent in Scot­ land and in the house of a friend at Stirling he wrote most of his songs, and his "Scotland's Skaith, or the History of Will and Jean," in 1795. The following year he wrote "The W aes of War," and in 1800 he published "The Memoirs of Charles Macpherson, Esq.," a novel understood to be a narrative. of his own hardships and adventures. A complete edition of his works appeared in 1812. His songs, "Mary of Castlecary," "Come under my plaidie," "My boy Tammy," "0 Tell Me How for to Woo" "I Lo'ed Ne'er a Lassie But Ane" "The Plaid ' ' Amang The Heather," and "Jeanie's Black E'e," are notable for their sweetness and simplicity. He died in Edinburgh on March 15, 1818. No record of the Clan would be complete without a word of appreciation of "The Songs of the Hebrides" by Mrs. Marjorie Kennedy Fraser. By far the most complete and accurate collection of these ancient and enchanting songs, it represents not only years of patient and skilful work but a valuable record which has saved many of these songs from extinction. The book is of e9'pecial interest to the Clan, con­ taining as it does so many Macneil songs collected in Barra and Eriskay. "An gille dubh ciar-dubh" (A 13th Century Love Lilt), "The Ballad of Macneil of

Barra", "A Bhirlinn Bharrach" (Kisimul's Galley) 1, 131 The Clan Macneil "Ceol-brutha" (A Fairy Plaint), and "Gradh Geal mo chridh" (An Eriskay Love Lilt) are among the many which will delight all lovers of folk-songs.

132 EMIGRATION, AND AMERICAN MACNEILS

IGHLAND emigration to America played a very important part in the history of not only H nearly all the Clans, but also of the American colonies themselves. From the time that Roderick the Resolute went to Canada with the Fraser Highlanders to the departure of his son Roderick, XL, for the American Revolution­ ary War, about 1776, the imagination of the Clansmen was aroused by reports of most wonderful conditions in America. In 1785, the members of the disbanded 82nd Regi­ ment were given grants of land in Nova Scotia. They included several Barramen, as follows: Donald, John, Murdoch, Mathew and John Macneil. Donald ap­ pears to have revisited the Isle of Barra a few years later and to have related to his admiring kinsmen the splendid opportunities which awaited them across the Atlantic. The Clansmen could not, of course, realize the hardships of the pioneer nor the vastly different conditions of life in the new country. But the spirit of emigration had entered into the hearts of the Clansmen with the result as hereinafter told by Mr. Macqueen, the Parish Minister: " * * * upwards of 200 left this country within the last two years; ( about 1794) some emigrated to the island of St. John's ( Prince Edward Island) and Nova Scotia, in North America, being inviegled thither by a Mr. F * * * upon promises of the undisturbed pro- 133 The Clan Macneil fession of their religion (being all Roman Catholics), and of free property for themselves and their offspring for ever; but how soon they were landed, he left them to their shifts and returned back to his native country. "These poor people were left in the most deplorable situation. If the inhabitants of the different places in which they landed had not exerted themselves for their relief, many of them must have perished, for want of the common necessaries of life. They became sensible of their folly when it was too late; others went to Glasgow, being invited thither by Mr. David Dale, to work in his cotton manufactory; but Mr. Dale's terms not coming up to their expectations, some of them returned home; and many of them, from a change of diet and occupation, contracted distempers, of which they died; many more prepared themselves for emi­ gration, but repented time enough to avoid the snare into which their friends have been inconsiderately led, by going to America; they also sold their effects; and spent the money arising from the conversion, so that they would have been destitute in their native country; but Mr. Macneil, the proprietor, not only gave them, and such as returned from Glasgow, lands, but like­ wise money enough to purchase a new stock of cattle, and all the other necessary implements of husbandry. The spirit for emigration is now happily and totally suppressed." Mr. MacQueen, however, was quite mistaken in ref­ erence to the cessation of emigration; in fact, it had just commenced. James and Hector, sons of Hector Og of Ersary, and Roderick, son of Roderick of Brevaig, had become ac- 134 Emigration, and American Macneils quainted with a gentleman named Hugh Dunoon. He was a native of Killearnan parish, Inverness-shire, where his father and brother were successively min­ isters of the parish. He had previously emigrated to Halifax, Nova Scotia, and then removed to Pictou, Nova Scotia. He prospered greatly, became quite prominent, and was soon appointed a Crown emigra­ tion agent. James had become owner of a small sailing ship, the Pigeon, and upon meeting Dunoon and entering into negotiations, he and the above Roderick were com­ missioned to secure the greatest number of emigrants possible, from their native island. This they did in the early summer of 1801, meeting with great opposition by the Chief. James was the first to sail and the first to arrive at Pictou. Dunoon followed in a larger ship, the Sarah, with 700 souls. He left the Isle of Barra in June, and reached Pictou in September, some thirteen weeks later. During the passage they were boarded by a man-of-war, which pressed twenty-five men, but upon representations being made by Dunoon in his capacity as Crown emi­ gration agent, they were released. James returned to the Isle of Barra early in 1802, but, as elsewhere re­ lated, was drowned in company with Rev. James Mac­ donell. Hector, above mentioned, 2nd son of Hector Og of Ersary, had also become owner of a large trading vessel. As the spirit of emigration was at its height, after his brother's death he decided, in the summer of 1802, also to go to America.

135 The Clan Macneil

In June he fitted out his ship and, with 370 Barra­ men on board, sailed for Pictou, reaching there in August. Governor Wentworth located most of them on Pictou Island for awhile, when they began to scatter along the shore toward the east, to Antigonish and later to Cape Breton Island; also across the strait to Prince Edward Island. The first Barramen to settle at the Grand Narrows at the conjunction of the Great and the little Bras d'Or lakes, in Cape Breton Island, ,vere John and Donald Macneil, and the latter's son Roderick. They landed on the north side of the Narrows in 1804 and started in at the arduous task of clearing the forest land. Several other Barra families soon arrived and settled on both sides of the Narrows and the strait was named Barra Strait. They soon erected a log chapel and a house for the accommodation of any priest who might chance to visit them. Rev. Mr. MacEachern, of Prince Edward Island, Rev. Alex Macdonald, of Arisaig, and a French priest from Quebec, who spoke Gaelic, are, according to the record in the Catholic chapel at Christmas Is­ land, the only priests who were visitors prior to 1821, after which date there was a succession of resident clergymen. The chapel, by the way, at Christmas Is­ land, which is a few miles from Barra Strait, is dedi­ cated to Saint Barr. There were other settlements in 1811, 1817 and 1822, composed wholly of Barramen, with still a later one in 1833. With this generous start the colony, having both agriculture and fishing at its disposal, grew

136 E1nigration, and American Macneils steadily, until now there are nearly as many Clansmen as on the Isle of Barra. Those of the Clansmen who crossed over to Prince Edward Island from Pictou settled at Wood Island, Vernon River and Richmond Bay. Clansmen from Kintyre settled at West River, Carlton Point and Rustico Harbour, having come out in the sailing ship Spencer in 1806. They all entered heartily into the life and development of that province and their descen­ dants have taken a prominent part in the later activities of the Province and the Dominion. As years passed, some of the younger generation went out to the Canadian Northwest, but the more popular route for the ambitious has been, and still is, to Boston, Massachusetts, and from there to New York and other eastern cities. Through the failure of the kelp industry, Roderick XLI was compelled to sell the Isle of Barra, in 1838, to Lieutenant-Colonel John Gordon of Cluny, and conditions entirely changed as regards the life of the Clansmen. From 1846 to 1850 there was great desti­ tution throughout the island and in 1848 took place the shameful act of compulsory emigration, when the Clansmen were inviegled or forced on board a ship, to the number of over two hundred, which sailed for Quebec, where these poor people, without funds and nearly all of them speaking only Gaelic, were left to their own resources. Fortunately the authorities took the matter in hand and most of them settled in Ontario, near London, where, as time went on, they prospered. FroIDi these early Canadian pioneers many famous Clansmen have descended, among them being, from

137 The Clan Macneil the Cape Breton settlement, the Most Reverend Arch­ bishop Neil McNeil, of Toronto, and his brother Alexander McNeil, Barrister, of Nova Scotia and Washington, D. C., the former a Chaplain and the latter a Vice-President of the Clan Macneil Association of America; and Neil MacN eil, a news editor of . He was born in Boston, Massachu­ setts, the elder son of the late John A. MacN eil and Katherine MacN eil, only child of John MacN eil, of the firm of MacN eil Brothers, building contractors of Boston. He was educated at the University of St. Francis Xavier, Antigonish, Nova Scotia, and is a Gaelic scholar. He married Miss Elizabeth Quinn, of Tuam, Ireland, and has two sons, John Quinn and Neil. His brother, J. Murdoch MacN eil, was killed in the second battle of Ypres, while serving with the Canadian forces. Professor Murray Macneill, of Dalhousie Univers­ ity, Halifax, Nova Scotia, born January 9, 1877 at Maitland, Nova Scotia, son of Reverend L. G. Mac­ neill, D.D., married Kathleen, daughter of Hon. S. U. Holmes, Halifax, and has three daughters. Pro­ fessor Macneill is the author of several standard books on mathematics. Neil Macneil, from Jura, in 1735, brought 350 fol­ lowers, among whom were many clansmen, to America and planted a colony on the Cape Fear River, North Carolina. Again, after the in 17 46, Neil brought out more emigrants, landing in North Caro­ lina and settling about Cross Creek (Fayetteville), in Cumberland County. 138 Emigration, and American Macneils

Archibald, younger brother of Neil, was executed because of his active support of Prince Charlie; and his son Daniel, upon reaching manhood, about the year 1760, also came to his uncle's colony. He bought lands still held by his descendant, Daniel Hector Macneil, of Hoke County. Daniel's granddaughter Sarah married Duncan James Johnson, and had a son, James McN eill Johnson, who is a well-known attorney of Aberdeen, North Carolina. Donald Macneil was also one of the early settlers on the Cape Fear River in 1746, where his estate was known as "Tweed Side." He had a grandson, Charles Donald Macneil, of Wilmington, North Carolina, who married, secondly, Martha Kingsley, with issue Anna Mathilda. She married Whistler and had a son James McN eill Whistler, the famous painter. These Macneils were loyal to the Crown throughout the Revolutionary War. A grandson of the before­ mentioned Neil, "Cunning" John Macneil, is recorded as having let his zeal carry him to horrible excess in the Piney Bottom Massacre. Several of the Clan removed, with other Loyalists, to New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, but those who remained soon resumed friendly relations with their neighbours and became worthy citizens of the great new republic. Mr. and Mrs. Pennell, personal friends of James McN eill Whistler, give the following account of an evening with the great painter in the Whistler Journal: "Thursday, August 9, 1900. Blaikie came to dinner, 139 The Clan Macneil and also Whistler, bringing with him Elwell, the American artist whose portrait he is painting. First talk of Scotland, Whistler as a McN eill of Barrat claiming Blaikie as a countryman, not a drop or touch of Sassenach in him, he said. Whistler is an and the McN eill, of course, means Barra. Blaikie told the story of the time so many of the Barra islanders emigrated to America. The McN eill did not like it at all, and he came down to the harbour to­ remonstrate with one of the Clan. But the man was obstinate, until finally the McNeill in a fury struck him and knocked him down. Then, when the man got up, he was ashamed and told him he must strike him in return. 'What, strike my chief?' the man said, 'never, and, what is more, I'll blow out the brains of anyone else who tries to,' and yet he went away all the same, but it shows the feeling there is up there for the chief­ a feeling which no one could appreciate better than Whistler." Among other early settlers in this Southern colony was Donald Taynish McN eill, whose son, William, was succeeded by his son, John. He, in turn, was succeeded by his son, William Daniel McN eill, the father of James Purdie McN eill, a prominent attorney of Florence, South Carolina, Past President of the Scottish Society of America and a Vice-President of the Clan Macneil Association of America. From these Southern Macneils also are descended Robert H. McN eill and his brother James W. McN eill, Attorneys, of Washington, D. C., the former being President of the Clan Macneil Association of America ..

140 Emigration, and American Macneils A few years after these original settlements were made, considerable numbers of the Clan moved west­ ward to and around Hillsboro, Pocahontas County, West Virginia, where many of their descendants still live, occupying im.portant positions and enjoying the respect of the community. While the great majority of the Clansmen emigrat­ ing to America went direct to the northern or southern settlements, there were, of course, many whose families had first gone from Scotland to Ireland and then on to the Colonies. Of these was the family of Hermon Atkins MacN eil, whose ancestors, . Abraham and Jane MacN eil, left Argyllshire and settled for a short time in Bellemooney, County Antrim, leaving for Derryfield, now Man­ chester, New Hampshire, in 1750, accompanied by their four year old son, William. In 1765, William., and his mother and two sisters, removed to New Boston, New Hampshire, where he married Rachael, daughter of Peter Patterson of Lon­ donderry, with issue: James, Jane, Grissel, Abraham, Rachael, Peter, John, Betsey, Sally, and Janette. Peter married Mary Stiles, of Amherst, and had eleven children: Mary Jane, H. Elizabeth, William, C. Granville, John Clinton, Rachael Patterson, Abby Stiles, Peter Patterson, Hariet, Newell, and · Lydia Shaw. John Clinton MacN eil married Mary Lash Pratt, of Chelsea, Massachusetts, and settled in Everett, Massachusetts, where the family remained. They had Annie C., Mary Alice, Caleb H., Hattie C., Hermon Atkins, and Wilbur J. 141 The Clan Macneil Hermon Atkins MacN eil, who was born February 27, 1866, married Carol Brooks, of Chicago, in 1895, and has two sons, Claude Lash and Alden Brooks. Early distinguishing himself in sculpture, he studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts, Paris, and returning to America soon won a scholarship for four years' study in Italy. His achievements have earned for him an inter­ national reputation, and besides being an officer and member in many art societies he was elected first Presi­ dent of the Clan Macneil Association of America. The before-mentioned William, son of Peter, had a son, Frank Patterson, born ·in N e'w Hampshire, who removed to Iowa. , He ·in turn had a son, Walter William McNeil,-born February 12~ 1882, at Maxville, Kansas, who married, December 4, 1920, Miss· Isabella Lawry Tower, of New York City, whete for several years past Mr. McNeil has resided. Mrs. Mary Baker Eddy, the famous founder of the Christian Science Church, was descended from the Macneils thro~gh her paternal grand~other. Captain Joseph Baker had a son, Joseph, born 1740, who married Marion Moor McNeil, a descendant of the Scots . They settled at Bow, New Hamp- ... shire, and their youngest son was Mark Baker, born 1785. · He was the father of Mary Baker Eddy. Marion Moor McNeil was the daughter of John McNeil and Marion Moor, of Edinburgh, who emi­ grated to America. Genei;-al John McNeil, of New Hampshire, who won distinction by leading a bayonet charge in the battle of Chippewa in the War of 1812, was a cousin of Marion McNeil Baker.

142 Photo by H. 1'Valtcr Barnett, London SIR HECTOR :MURRAY MACKEAL, K.B.E.

Emigration, and American Macneils. "This is the McNeil connection.* I shall not trace it beyond America. Fannie McNeil, niece of Franklin Pierce, afterwards wife of Judge Potter of Washing­ ton, was a daughter of that General John McNeil. She claimed a cousinship with Mary Baker Eddy. This Fannie McNeil, who during Pierce's administration frequently relieved his invalid wife of social duties as mistress of the Vvhite House, traced, as she supposed, the McNeil line to which she belonged directly to Sir John McNeil of Edinburgh. She adopted the McNeil for her coat of arms. Mrs. Eddy visited her in Washington in 1880. Together they made a journey to the grave of General McNeil. They thoroughly discussed the McNeil family history, the bravery of its fighting heroes, the deep religious con­ viction of its covenanting faith. Mrs. Eddy recalled her grandmother's influence upon her whole life, an influence which she presently indicated. "She therefore adopted with her cousin, Fannie McNeil, the McNeil crest and coat of arms. She adopted it for sentiment and affection. Its could not have better expressed the traits of character trans­ mitted through a long line to her. It is: Vincere aut Mori. The crest was carved in the mahogany of the lintel above the inner vestibule entrance of her beauti­ ful home on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, where she resided before her retirement to Pleasant View. She also used the crest as a seal and expressed her pleasure in the sentiment of the Scotch strain by having

*The Life of Mary Baker Eddy, by Sibyl Wilbur. 143 The Clan Macneil the coat of arms embroidered on white silk and hung in her library. "But a sudden denial to her rights so to enjoy this connection with the Scotch McN eils came through a Scottish descendant of the McN eils living in Aberdeen. Whereupon Mrs. Eddy had a thorough investigation of her genealogy made and being unable to establish the accuracy of Fannie McNeil's genealogical claims, upon which she had hitherto rested, she requested that all biographers refrain from connecting her with the Rt. Honorable Sir John McNeil, G.C.B., of Edin­ burgh, sometime ambassador to Persia. It is therefore sufficient to state that Mary Baker Eddy's great-grand­ parents were McN eils, that General John McNeil, the American hero, was her grandmother's cousin."

144 RELIGION HE Clansmen in early times, were followers of the teachings of Columba, and with the pass­ T ing of the great church that he had established, religion, in the Outer Isles, seems to have reached its lowest ebb. Indeed, for several centuries, religious instinct, or at least religious practices among the isles­ men appear to have been dormant, and up to the time of the Reformation, the Isle of Barra was apparently wholly neglected. With the Reformation, however, some steps were taken toward looking after the spiritual welfare of the islesmen, and the Clansmen became nominally Protes­ tants. Their subsequent change of faith, which seems to have been due to the neglect of the Presbyterian Church, is harshly described in the Statistical Account as follows: "The Protestant religion universally prevailed here till after the Restoration ( 1660) ; when the Church of England was established in Ireland, some Irish priests took banishment from that kingdom to those islands; at that time Harris and Barray made one parish; the minister always resided in the former, and was at too great a distance from the latter; so that the inhabitants were exposed to the artifices of the priests, who taking advantage of the absence of the minister, and the ignor-­ ance of the times, perverted the people." THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Rev. Dermit Dugan and Rev. Francis White* were· the first two Catholic priests on record to visit the: *Catholic Highlands of Scotland, Dom. Odo Blundell. 145 The Clan Macneil Hebrides, arriving in 1651. The former says: "Mac­ neil, Lord of the Isle of Barra, having heard of me, sent a gentleman to beg me to do his island the same service as I had done to the Laird of Clanranald." Also, "The natives of the islands adjacent to Scotland can, as a rule, be properly called neither Catholics nor heretics." In a report by Mr. Alexander Winster, under date of 1668, mention is made of a Catholic school having been established in Barra for seventeen years, that is, from the date of the arrival of Rev. Dermit Dugan, and it is mentioned again by Bishop Nicholson in 1700, when it appears to have been abandoned. The next priest recorded is Rev. George Fanning, under date of 1671, who "would have perished from hunger before now, were it not that he lived with the Laird of Barra." The following is a list of the priests in succession to Rev. George Fanning: Mr. Carolan, probably arrived in Barra in 1687. Two other priests who were in Barra during these years were Mr. Forestan and Mr. Patrick Wemse, both Irishmen, and the latter a Jesuit. Mr. Kelly, 1725. Mr. James Grant, 1736. "Mr. Grant was still in Barra in 1746, when he was arrested and imprisoned in Inverness. After undergoing great hardships, he was liberated in May, 1747, upon condition that he would present himself when called, which he never was. The most ample testimonials were given by the minister and other Protestants of Barra, of his peaceful 146 Religion

and inoffensive demeanour during the time of the Rising." Mr. Aeneas Macdonell, for some years previous to 1762. A year or two elapsed without a resident priest. Mr. Alexander MacDonald, 1765. Mr. Allan Macdonell (senior), 1779. Mr. James Allan Macdonell (junior) about 1784. There was continual strife between this priest and the Chief, Roderick, XL. He was drowned in the So~nd of Sleat in company with James, son of Hector Og of Ersary. Mr. Angus Macdonald, 1805 to 1825. Mr. Neil Macdonald, 1825 to 1835. Mr. William Mackintosh, 1835 to 1839. Mr. Donald Macdonald, 1839 to 1851. Mr. Colin Macpherson, 1851 to 1855. Mr. William Macdonell, 1856 to 1867. He built the new chapel at Craigston on the site of the old one. It was the only church in Barra and it was said, "It can bear a fair comparison with the best of our High-: land churches." Mr. John Macdonald, 1867 to 1883. Mr. {afterward Canon) Chisholm, 1883 to 1903. He built a very attractive little chapel on the Isle of Mingulay and then put forth all his efforts in the en­ deavour to erect a church in Castlebay. He was highly successful, and after two years' work, in 1889, when the church was almost completed, he wrote: "The church is beautiful in design and the workmanship is sub­ stantial enough to withstand the Hebridean gales for · a century or two to come. The site is extremely well 147 The Clan Macneil chosen, resting on the crest of a rugged and steep crag, overlooking the village of Castlebay, and the historic castle of the warlike Macneils. It will be a landmark for the daring fishermen of Barra, as they venture to and from their deep-sea excursions. The church even now in its unfinished state can fairly claim to be second to no edifice for divine worship from the Butt of Lewis to the wave-worn cliffs of Barrahead." Canon Chisholm was succeeded successively, at the Castlebay chapel, by Rev. William MacMaster, Rev. (later Bishop) Donald Martin and Rev. Hugh Cameron. The chapel at Craigston was in charge of Rev. Angus Macdonald, 1889 to 1893, and Rev. William Mackenzie, 1893 to 1913. The latter, in 1906, com­ pleted a church at North Bay.

THE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND

In 1734, the Isle of Barra, with its smaller islands, was separated from South Uist and formed into a parish, and the following are the parish ministers from that time: Mr. John Macpherson. He had a son Martin Mac­ pherson, who became minister of Sleat, Isle of Skye, and while there entertained Dr. Johnson at Ostaig, in 1773. Mr. William Macleod, 1742. Mr. Lachlan Maclean, 1750. Mr.John Macaulay, 1763. Mentioned in connection with Bonnie Prince Charlie.

148 Religion

Mr. Angus Macneil of Vatersay, 1771, a descendant of Neil Uisteach, 1st of Skirval, and thus related to the Chief. Tutor and Guardian of Roderick, XL. Mr. Edmund Macqueen, 1774, son of Donald Mac­ queen, parish minister of North Uist, writer of Statis­ tical Account, published about 1797. Mr. Alexander Nicholson, 1813. Mr. Henry Beatson, 1847. Mr. Archibald Macdonald, 1871, who is still parish minister after fifty-three years of continuous service.

THE RELIGION OF THE CHIEFS

Towards the Reformation, the attitude of the Chiefs seems to have been a matter of policy only. As before recorded, Roderick, XXXIV, in 1594, took an active part in the expeditions against the Catholic Earls. Again, in 1629, we find Neil, XXXVI, received a com­ mission from the King against "jesuits, seminarie and messe priests and rebellious Papists." With the arrival of the priests in Barra, the Chiefs were very hospitable to them. Gilleonan, XXXVII, received Rev. George Fanning as a most welcome guest, having him make his home at Kisimul Castle. His religion cannot be stated definitely. Roderick, XXXVIII, and Roderick, XXXIX, were nominally Protestants, and the latter appears to have been on excellent terms with both the priests and ministers; in fact, Protestant and Catholic went their ways in per­ fect harmony, and the testimonials of the Protestants in favour of Rev.James Grant, the priest who as before recorded was under suspicion of the Government dur-

149 The Clan Macneil ing the Forty-five, is a very pleasing example of this condition. Roderick the Resolute was a Protestant, and upon his departure for America, he left his son Roderick the Gentle, XL, under the guardianship of his relative, Reverend Angus Macneil of Vatersay, parish minister. It is not surprising that under these conditions Roderick grew up a staunch Protestant and a member of the Church of Scotland, as have been also all of the succeeding Chiefs.

THE RELIGION OF THE CLANSMEN

The untiring labour and perseverance of the priests, during the period when the Isle of Barra was wholly forgotten by the Protestant ministers, were rewarded by bringing to their faith the great majority of the Clansmen. About 1795, the number of Protestants, according to Mr. Macqueen, was not sufficient to war­ rant building a church for them. In more recent years the number of Protestants appears to be about one­ tenth of the whole population: thus in 1901, with 2,542 people in Barra, there were something over two hun­ dred.

RELIGIOUS CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS

"I ts present name (Barra)* seems to be derived from St. Barr, the tutelar saint of the island and to whose memory the 25th of September is dedicated as

*Statistical, Account, 1797. 150 Religion a holiday. On this day the Priest says mass and all those of Romish religion used punctually -to attend. After mass the people amused themselves with horse­ races and spent the evening in mirth and conviviality. Of late years this custom has been much on the decline. Formerly there was an image of the saint in the church­ yard of Kilbarr (principal place of worship and prob­ ably the burial-place of the saint) which was clothed with a linen shirt every year upon his own anniversary. Some of the priests who resided here informed me that it was not enjoined as a necessary part of their duty to pay so much veneration to Saint Barr, as he never had the honour of being ranked with the Saints of Rome, nor was his name at any time enrolled in the Roman Calendar. From this it appears that the churches in these parts, which were subject to Icolum­ kill (Saint Columba) never recognized the authority of the Church of Rome. It appears from Bede, who wrote in the beginning of the 8th century, that the monas­ tery of Icolumkill ( Isle of Iona) was not subject to Rome at that time. Later writers have shown the same in their times; besides, if at any subsequent period it had submitted to Papal jurisdiction, it is more than probable that some Pope or other would have dignified with canonization a person who had sanctity enough to render him worthy of being appointed the patron of any district of ecclesiastical territory." "Once a priest* happened to land on Barray when they were celebrating in honour of St. Barr and they desired him to preach a sermon on St. Barr, he had

*M. Martin, 1703. 151 The Clan Macneil never heard of St. Barr much to the disgust of the inhabitants who said he was no true priest and they parted with him in disgust." A curious custom* prevails among the people of Barra of apportioning their boats to their fishing-banks at sea, much as they apportion their cows to their graz­ ing ground on land. The names, positions, extent, characteristics, and capabilities of these banks are as well known to them as those of their crofts. The people meet at church on the 1st day of February, Gaelic, La-Fheill-Bride, the festival of St. Bridget, and having ascertained among themselves the number of boats engaging in the long-line fishing, they assign these boats in proportionate numbers among the banks according to the fishing capabilities of each bank. The men then draw lots, each head-man drawing the lot for his crew, and thus the boats are assigned to their respective banks for the season. Should a bank prove unproductive the boats of that bank are considerately allowed to distribute themselves among the other banks, the boats of which are then at Ii berty to try the deserted banks. The fishermen say the ways and migrations of the fishes of the sea are as unaccountable as those of the fowls of the air-here today and there tomorrow. They say also that fishes resemble birds in their habits; some fishes, as the cod and the conger, in being solitary like the raven and the skua; while some other

*Records of Argyll, by Lord Archibald Campbell. 152 Religion fishes, as the saithe and the herring, are gregarious in their habits, and live in communities, like the razor­ bill and the guillemot. I am indebted to the intelligent and observant fishermen throughout these islands for much interesting and curious information regarding fishes and sea-birds. Having completed their balloting the fishermen go into church accompanied by fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, wives and children, and sweet­ hearts. The good priest says a short service, wherein he com­ mands those "who go down to the sea in ships" to the protection of the holy Saint Barr, after whom Barra is named; of the beautiful Saint Bridget, virgin of a thousand charms-'Bride bhoidheach, oigh nam mile beus', on whose festival they are met; of their loved mother, the golden haired Virgin; and to the protec­ tion individually and collectively, of the Holy Trinity. The people disperse, chanting: ( in Gaelic) Father, Son and Spirit's might, Be the Three-in-one with us day and night! On the crested wave, when waves run high, 0 1\'.Iother, Mary, be to us nigh! 0 Mother, Mary, be to us nigh! This little prayer* is said by old men and women in the islands of Barra. When they see the new moon they make their obeisance to it as to a great Chief. The women curtsey gracefully and the men bow low, raising their bonnets reverently. The bow of the men is peculiar, partaking somewhat of the curtsey of the women, the left knee being bent and the right drawn

*Carmina Gadelica, Alexander Carmichael. 153 The Clan Macneil forward towards the middle of the left leg in a curious but not inelegant manner. This fragment of moon-worship is now a matter of custom rather than of belief, although it exists over the whole . In Cornwall, the people nod to the new moon and turn silver in their pockets. In Edinburgh, cultured men and women turn the rings on their fingers, and make their wishes. A. young English lady told the writer that she had always been in the habit of bowing to the new moont till she had been bribed out of it by her father, a clergy­ man, putting money in her pocket lest her lunar wor­ ship should compromise him with his bishop. She naively confessed, however, that among the free mountains of Loch Etive she reverted to the good customs of her fathers, from which she derived great satisfaction: A GHEALACH UR An Ainm Spiorad Naomh nan gras, An Ainm Athar na Cathrach aigh, An Ainm Iosa thug dhinn am bas, 0 ! an ainm na Tri tha dar diou's gach cas, Ma's math a fhuair thu sinn an nochd, Seachd fearr gum fag thu sinn gunlochd, A Ghealach gheal nan trath, A Ghealach gheal nan trath.

THE NE\V MOON In name of the Holy Spirit of grace, In name of the Father of the City of peace, In name of Jesus who took death of us, Oh! in name of the Three who shield us in every need, If well thou has found us to-night, Seven times better mayest thou leave us without harm, Thou bright white Moon of the seasons, Bright white Moon of the seasons. 154 Religion

RUIN Labhram gach la a reir do cheartais, Gach la tais him do smachd, a Dhe, Labhram gach la a reir do reachd-sa, Gach la us oidhche bithim toigh riut fein.

Gach la cunntam fath do throcair, Toirim gach la dha do nosda speis, Gach la tionnsgam fein dhut oran, Geillim gach la do ghloir, a Dhe.

Beirim gach la gaol dhut, Iosa, Gach oidhche nithim da reir, Gach la's oidhche, duar us soillse, Luaidhim do chaoimhneas dhomh, a Dhe.

DESIRES May I speak each day according to Thy justice, Each day may I show Thy chastening, 0 God, May I speak each day according to Thy wisdom, Each day and night may I be at peace with Thee.

Each day may I count the causes of Thy mercy, May I each day give heed to Thy laws, Each day may I compose to Thee a song, May I harp each day Thy praise, 0 God.

May I each day give love to Thee, Jesus, Each night may I do the same, Each day and night, dark and light, May I laud Thy goodness to me, 0 God.

About one hundred and forty years ago*, there seemed to be a great scarcity of Bibles in the Parish ( of Kintyre) . There was an Irish Bible, the property of the Kirk session, the gift of the illustrious Boyle. I find in the old iecords of the Presbytery of Kin­ tyre an urgent application of Mr. McN eill of Tirfer- *Second Statistical, Account, Kintyre. 155 The Clan Macneil gus, a respectable heritor of the parish for the use of this Bible. The following particulars are extracts from the records of presbytery- "At Campbeltoun, 3rd August 1692, for as much as John McN eill of Tirfurgus addressed the presbytery for the loan of the Irish Bible gifted by Sir Robert Boyle to the parish of Southend, in Kintyre, for the use of the ministers that shall be in the said parish, promis­ ing that he will have special care of it, and that he shall return it upon demand,-the presbytery considering the present vacancy of Southend, the presbytery con­ descends that Mr. Robert Duncanson (in whose custody the Bible is at present) deliver the same to the said John McN eill he being obliged to return the same in as good condition as he now received it to the future minister of the said parish, or to any other whom the presbytery of Kintyre shall appoint, under the penalty of such a sum as the presbytery shall nominate." "At Campbelltoun, the 14th December 1692,- foras­ much as the presbytery convened at Campbelltoun, the 3rd day of August 1692, allowed Mr. Robert Duncan­ son to give to John McN eill of Tirf ergus the use of the Irish Bible bestowed by Mr. R. Boyle on the parish of Southend, the said John McNeil! giving in his obli­ gation to be accountable for the same. "Mr. Robert Duncanson declared that he did deliver the said Bible to the said John and that he received his obligations for the same, of the date the 16th day of November last, which obligation was produced in pres­ ence of the presbytery, and appointed to be recorded in futuram rei memorium." 156 Religion

Followeth the tenor of the obligation granted by the said John McN eill for the above mentioned Irish Bible:- "!, John McN eill, of Tirfergus, grants me to have received from Mr. R. D., Minister of Campbelltoun, (according to appointment of the presbytery of Kin­ tyre) the Church Bible of the Irish Character, bestowed by the Honorable Sir Robert Boyle on the parish of Southend of Kintyre, which Bible I oblige me to re­ store sound and entire, and to deliver the same to the Minister of the said parish or to the presbytery when required under the penalty of In witness whereof I have written and subscribed these presents at Campbelltoun, the 16th November 1692 years sic subscribitur, Jo. McN eill."

157

Photo b;,• Sact')'Cr, London ]. G. S,nFT 11Ac:-..:Eiu .. ESQUIRE

CUSTOMS OF THE MACNEILS

HEN a tenant's wife in this or the adjacent Islands dies, he then addresses himself to Mac­ W neil of Barra*, representing to him his loss, and at the same time desires that he would be pleased to recommend a wife to him, without which he cannot manage his affairs, nor beget followers to Macneil, which would prove a public loss to him. Upon this representation, Macneil finds out a suit­ able match for him;_ and the woman's name being told him, immediately he goes to her, carrying with him a bottle of strong waters for their entertainment at m,arriage, which is then consummated. When a tenant dies, the widow addresses herself to Macneil in the same manner, who likewise provides her with a husband, and they are married without further courtship. There is in this Island an Altar dedicated to St. Christopher, at which the natives perform their de­ votion. There is a stone set up there, about seven feet high, and when the inhabitants come near it, they take a religious turn round it. If a tenant chance to lose his milk cows by the sever­ ity of the season, or any other misfortune, in this case Macneil of Barra supplies him with the like number he has lost. When any of these tenants are so far advanced in years that they are incapable to till the ground, Mac-

*Description of Western Isles, M. Martin, 1703. 159 The Clan Macneil neil takes such old men into his own family, and main­ tains them all their lives after. The natives observe, that if six sheep are put grazing in the little island of Pabbay five of them still appear fat, but the sixth a poor skeleton, any number not ex­ ceeding five on this island are always fat. There is an Island not far away from this called Micklay (Mingulay), of the same extent as Pabbay. These isles are com'.monly called the Isles, because they are held by the Bishop. Some isles lie on the east and north of Barra as, Fiaray, Mellifay, Buya Major and Minor, Lingay, Fuda. The Steward of the lesser and Southern Isles is reckoned a great man here. He gets a particular share of all the island's produce, the measure of barley by each family is about two pecks. There is an interior officer who also hath a share of all the products, next to these come in course those of the lowest posts, such as the Cockman and Porter of the Castle, each of whom hath his respective share, which is punctually paid. All the inhabitants observe the anniversary of St. Barr, being the 27th of September; it is performed riding horseback and the solemnity is concluded by three turns around St. Barr Church. They also observe St. Michael's day in Kilbar vil­ lage. After the solemnity is over, every family bake St. Michael Cake and all strangers, together with those of the family, must eat the bread that night. This Island, and adjacent islands, belong to Macneil, being the thirty-fourth of that name by lineal descent 160 Customs of the Macneils that has possessed this island, if the present genealogies may be credited. He holds his lands in vassalage of Sir Donald Macdonald of Slate, to whom he pays £40 per annum, and a hawk, if required, and is obliged to furnish him a certain number of men upon extra­ ordinary occasions. (This superiority was removed by Crown Charter in 1688.) Every heir, or young Chieftain of a tribe, was obliged in honour to give a public specimen of his valour be-­ fore he was owned and declared governor or leader of his people, who obeyed and followed him upon all . occasions. The Chieftain was usually attended with a retinue of young men of quality who had not beforehand given proof of their valour, and were ambitious of such an opportunity to signalize themselves. It was usual for the Captain to lead them, to make a desperate incursion upon some neighbour or other that they were in feud with; and they were obliged to bring by open force the cattle they found in the lands they attacked, or die in the attempt. After the performance of this achievement, the young Chieftain was ever after reputed valiant and worthy of government, and such as were of his retinue acquired the like reputation. This custom, being reciprocally used among them, was not reputed robbery; for the damage which one tribe sustained by this essay of the Chieftain of another was repaid when their Chieftain came in his turn to make his specimen; but I have not heard an instance of this practice for these sixty years. 161 The Clan Macneil

The formalities observed at the entrance of these Chieftains upon government of their clans ,vere as follows: A heap of stones were erected in the form of a pyra­ mid, on the top of which the young Chieftain was placed, his friends and followers standing in a circle round about him; his elevation signifying his authority over them and their standing below their subjection to him. One of his principal friends delivered into his hands the sword worn by his father and there was a white rod delivered to him likewise at the same time. Immediately after the Chief druid ( or orator) stood close to the pyramid and pronounced a rhetorical pane­ gyric, setting forth the ancient pedigree, valour, and liberality of the family, as incentives to the young Chieftain, and fit for his initiation. It was their custom, when any Chieftain marched upon a military expedition to draw some blood from the first animal that chanced to meet them upon the enemy's ground, and thereafter sprinkle some of it upon their colours, this they reckoned as a good omen of future success. They had their fixed officers, who were ready to at­ tend them upon all occasions whether military or civil, some families continue them from father to son; partic­ ularly Sir Donald Macdonald has his standbearers and quarter-master. The latter has a right to all the hides of cows killed upon any occasion mentioned above; and this I have seen exacted punctually, though the officer has no charter for the same but only custom.

162 Customs of the Macneils

They had a constant sentinel on the top of their houses called gockm,in or in the English tongue, Cockman; who was obliged to watch day and night and at the approach of any body, to ask, "Who comes there?" This officer is continued in Barray still and has the perquisites due to his place paid him duly at two terms in the year. There was a competent number of young gentlemen, called Luchktach, or Guarde de Corps, who always at­ tended the chieftain at home and abroad. They were well trained in managing the sword and target, in wrestling, swimming, jumping, dancing, shooting with bows and arrows, and were stout seamen. Every Chieftain had a bold Armour-bearer whose duty was always to attend the person of his master, night and day, to prevent any surprise, and this man was called Galloglach; he had likewise a double portion of meat assigned him at every meal the measure of meat usually given him is called to this day biey fir, this is a man's portion; meaning thereby an extra­ ordinary man whose strength and courage distinguished him from the common fort. Before they engaged the enemy in battle the Chief druid harangued the army to excite their courage. He was placed on an eminence, from whence, he addressed himself to all of them standing about him putting them in mind of what great things were per£ ormed by the valour of their ancestors, raised their hopes with the noble rewards of honour and victory, and dispelled their fears by all the topics that natural courage could_ suggest. 163 The Clan Macneil

After the harangue, the army gave a general shout, and then charged the enemy stoutly. This in the ancient language was called brofuichiy kah, i.e. an incentive to war. This custom of shouting aloud is believed to have taken its rise from an instinct of nature, it being at­ tributed to most nations that have been of a martial genius, as by Homer to the Trojans, by Tacitus to the Germans, by Livy to the Gauls. Every great family in the isles had a chief druid, who foretold future events, and decided all causes of civil and ecclesiastical. It is reported of them that they wrought in the night-time, and rested all day. Caesar says they worshipped a deity under the name of Taranis, or Taran, which, in Welsh signifies thunder; and in the ancient language of the Highlanders, Torin signifies thunder also. The manner of drinking used by the chief men of the isles is called in their language streah, a round; for the company sat in a circle, the cup-bearer filled the drink round to them, and all was drank out, whatever the liquor was; they continued drinking sometimes twenty four, sometimes forty-eight hours. It was reckoned a piece of manhood to drink until they became drunk and there were two men with a barrow attending punctually on such occasions. If a man chanced to go out from the company, though but for a few minutes he was obliged upon his return, and before he took a seat, to make an apology for his absence in rhyme. It hath been an ancient custom in these islands that if a number of persons go to a house the door of the 164 Customs of the Macneils house stands open and a rod is put across the same, which is understood to be a sign to all persons without distinction not to a pp roach; and if any one should be so rude as to take up this rod and come in uncalled, he is sure to be no welcome guest; for this is accounted such an affront to the company, that they are bound in honour to resent it; and the person offending may come to have his head broken if he do not meet with a harder reception. The Chieftain is usually attended with a numerous retinue when he goes a hunting deer, this being his first specimen of manly exercise, all his clothes, arms and hunting-equippage are, upon his return from the hills, given to the forester, according to the custom. Every family had commonly two stewards, the first of these served always at home, and was obliged to be well versed in the pedigree of all the tribes in the Isles, and in the Highlands of Scotland, for it was his place to assign every man a seat at table according to his quality, and this was done without speaking a word, by pointing with a white rod. They had also cup bearers who filled and carried the cups round to the company and he himself drank off the first draught. They had likewise purse-masters who kept the money. Both these officers had an hereditary right to their office in writing. Besides the ordinary rent paid, certain other customs prevailed; if a tenant's wife bore twins the master had to take one of them and bring it up in his own family. I have known a gentleman who had sixteen of these twins in his family at one time. 165 The Clan Macneil The ancient leagues of friendship were ratified by drinking a drop of each other's blood, which was com­ monly drawn out of the little finger. This was religi­ ously observed as a sacred bond, and if any person after such an alliance happened to violate the same, he was from that time reputed unworthy of all honest men's conversation. It was an ancient custom among the islanders to hang a he goat to the boats-mast, to procure favourable wind. They had an universal custom of pouring a cows milk upon a little hill, or big stone, where the spirit called Browny was believed to lodge, this spirit always ap­ peared in the shape of a tall man with very long brown hair. There was scarce any village in which this super­ stition did not prevail. On Eriska (an island adjacent to Barra),* there is a tower which has been a stronghold of the Macneils; though small it is striking from the scarcity of objects of art in this doleful country. In Carstare's state papers, there is a letter from the Earl of Argyll, laughing at the formality and state with which an ambassador from the Chief ( of the Macneils) had presented to him a letter offering aid "as if he belonged to another kingdom." The other story re­ lates to the wreck of a Spanish vessel which the gentle­ men of the Clan had proposed to appropriate, and respecting which, when it was questioned what the King of Spain would say, the answer was that Macneil and his Majesty must settle that between themselves. If he was the thirty-sixth Chief of his race in Queen

*Highlands and Western Isles, 1Iacculloch, 1824. 166 Customs of the Macneils

Anne's time, as Achmar says, he had indeed something to boast of. Barray is one llland* being in the maine seas farr from the mainlands. It is of fyve miles of length with certane glenns verie profitable for goods to feed therin­ till. And this Illand is verie f ertill of corne and milk and abundance of fish is slaine in the sea of Barray. There is certane Illands on the north-end of Barray pertaining to the superior which are named Erisgae, fuda, Linga, fara with certaine other little lllands. On the south-end or southwest there are several litle Illands which are profitable and fertill both of corne and abundance of milk. And none can goe scutts or boatts to those southwest Illands but in those tymes of the yeare such as Aprill and summer and in the beginning of August. The master or superior of these lllands hath in due payments from the inhabitants and tennants of the saids Illands for his dewtie, the half of ther cornes, butter, cheese and all other comodities, which does incres or grow to them in the yeare. And hath ane officer or serjeant in everie Illand to up take the samen. The names of those Illands is called Watersa, San­ dira, Pappa, Mewla, and Bearnera. These Illands ar farr off from all countries. There is one church in Barray on the north or northeast end of it which is called Kilbarray, and in this toune there is one spring and fresh water well and the Inhabitants

*McFarlaine's Geographical Collections. 167 The Clan Macneil and ancient men and woemen both of men and woemen in this toune and of the countrie especiallie one ancient man being of five or sexscoir zeares old doeth say that when appearance of warrs wer to be in the countrey of Barray that certaine drops of blood hath oftyme bein sein in this spring and fresh water well. The Laird and Superior of this Countrey was called Rorie McN eill being ane verie ancient man of sexscore yeares old or thereby did report this to be true. And also did report this to be true likewise. When­ soever appearance of peace wold be in the Countrie that certain litle bitts of Peitts wold be sein. There is one litle spring and fresh water running out of ane grein hill above the church, which doeth flow into the sea, and there is spring and there certane litill cockles shells which they alleadged that the samen doth flow into the sea out of the well and doeth grow in another place next the church not the tenth part of ane myll from the church of Barray called Killbarray. And there is abundance of litle cockel shells found. The wholl countreymen and tenants doe conveen togidder to this place when the sea doeth ebb and bring with them certaine number of horses and gather in this place abundance of cockels. The length of this sandie place is ane myll and ane half or thereby, and no less broad. Certaine of these Inhabitants will come fyve mylls with ther horses, and bring home asmuch with thame as their horses will beare of these cockles. And if ten thousand cold come, they should have als many as there horses were able to carrie everie day _gotten and gathered in this place. 168 Customs of the Macneils

And it is gotten below the sand, and when you doe come and stand on that sand with your horses you will think the place verie dry, but when you doe put your hands below into the sand you shall see abundance of the saids cockle comeing above the sand, and als much of the sea water as will wash them from the sand. Next to this place there is ane plaine ground of fa ire green earth on the west syde of this sandie place, and this is called Mealloch. In his Mealloch there is ane litle Chappell called Kilmoir and it lieth on a verie pleasant grein. And one Ii ttle hill of green ground is betwixt this Cha pp ell and the principal! Church of the Countrie for this Church of Kilmoire is on the northsyde of the litle hill, and the Chappell of Kilmoire on the southsyde. In this Chappell as the Inhabitants say that there is certaine earth within this Chappell which if ane man wold carrie the samen with him to the sea, and if the wind or stormie strong weather were cruell and vehe­ ment if he wold caste a litle of this earth into the sea it wold pacifie the wind and the sea wold grow calme immediatlie efter the casting the earth into the sea. The main seas and the seas next to Scotland are on every side of this Chappell. The main seas doth come from the west and the other seas from the east, and almost the saids two seas doth forgadder and meet with other. And they have cutt and broke the lands in divyding the Illand of Barray into two pairts almost next to the litle Chappell of Kilmoire. The Inhabitants of this llland are called Clan Neill Barray. 169 The Clan Macneil· There is one Castle on this Illand on the southend in one litle Illand of craig or rock builded verie strong. And there is ane fresh water Logh betwixt Kilbarr and this Castle of Kiesimull and there is a little toure of stone and lyme builded in ane litle Illand in the midst of this Logh, and the toune wherein this litle toure is builded is called Arnistill. There is no great rivers of fresh water in Barray but one litle water in a toune called Quir, and there is a litle mill in that water and no more mills in all the Illand. Bot everie husbandman in the countrey his ane In­ strument in their houses called one Kewrne and the two stones doth lye on the house floore, and that place is made cleane. The most corne which doth grow. in this countrie is good barley an one verie fertill countrie of that kinde of corne and there are manie Uyld birds or fowls in this countrey. The Inhabitants thereoff are verie antient Inhabi­ tants and the Superior or Laird of Barray is called Rorie McN eill, he is sex or sevin score of years as him­ self did say. This ancient man in tyme of youth being a valient and stout man of warr and hearing from skippers that oftymes were wont to travel! to ane Illand which the Inhabitants of the Illand alledged this McN eill and his predecessors should be their Superiors, which Illand is sein oftymes from the tope of the mountains of Barray. This Rorie hearing oftymes the same newes reported to him and to his predecessors, he fraughted a shipe

170 Customs of the Macneils but nowayes could find the Illand, at least was driven to Ireland on the West syd thereoff, and took up a Spreath and returned home. This McN eill had several noblemens daughters and had sundrie bairnes and at last everie one of them think­ ing and ·esteeming •himself to be worthie of the countrie after the fathers deceased being on lyff as yet. The saidis sons haveing sundrie mothers, at last -everie on of them did kill others except one that is alyff and another drowned in the sea.

171

ANCIENT DESCRIPTION OF THE CLAN'S ISLANDS*

Lingay 130 ROM the Ile of Sky towards the southwest be fourscoire myles of sea lyes ane Ile callit Lingay, Fguid for gressing and fishing, ane Ile of half e myle lange. It hes a Falcon nest in it. perteins to the Bishop of the Iles. Gigarun 131 Backward to the North besydes the Ile of Lingay lyes ane lyl callit Gigarun, half myle lang, pertaining to the Bishope of the lyles. Berneray 132 Besydes the Ile of Gigarum towards the north, lyes ane lyle, inhabit and manwrit, ane myle lange callit Berneray, very f ertill and guid for fishing, pertaining to the Bishope of the Isles. Megaly 133 (Mingulay) Besydes the Ile of Berneray towards the north lyes ane Ile callit Megaly twa myle lange inhabit and veill manwritt, guid for fishing and corne perteining to the Bishope of the Isles. Pabay 134 (Pabbay) Besydes the Isle of Megaly to the N orth-northeist lyes ane Ile callit Pabay ane myle lange, manwrit. In it is guid take of fisch, it perteins to the Bishop of the Isles.

*Monro's Western Isles, 1545. 173 The Clan Macneil Fladay 135 (Flodday) Besydes the Isle of Pabay lyes ane prettey little Isle to the north wart callit Fladay, of ane myle lange, fruit­ full, in corne and als in fishing, perteining to the B ishope of the Isles. Scarpnamut 136 N eire the Ile of Fladay towards the north lyes ane Ile namit Scarpnamut twa myle lange, with a kake nest in it, full of pastures and verey guid fishing per­ teining to the Bishop of the Isles. Sanderay 137 (Sandray) N ixt to the f orsaid Ile lyes ther ane uther callit Sanderay Inhabit and manwrit, guid for corn and fish­ ing twa myles lange, it perteining to the Bishop of the Iles. Wattersay 138 (Vatersay) Besides this Ile northwart lyes ane Ile callit V ater­ say, twa myle in lenth and ane myle in breadthe, ane excellent Raid for shippes that comes ther to fisch, ane faire maine land inhabit and manwrit, abounding in corne and gersing with good pastorage for sheepe. All thir 9 Iles forsaid had a Cha pell in every Ile. This Ile perteyns to the Bishop of the Isles.

Barray 139 (Barra) Not far from this Ile of W atersay towards the north be twa myle of the sea lyes the Ile of Barray, being seven myle in lenthe, from the southwest to the north­ eist and be north and 4 in breadth from the southeist to · the northwest; ane fertile and fruitful! in corne abound-

174 Photo by Under-;,e•ood & [:ndcr-;,e•ood. New York RE\'EREXD JoHN McNErLL

Ancient Description of the Clan's Islands ing in fishing of Keilling, Ling and all uther quhyte fishe with ane paroch Kirk namit Killbare. Within the southwest end of this Ile ther enters a Salt Water Loch, verey narrow in the entres and round and braide within. Into the middis of the saide Loche there is ane castle in ane Ile upon ane Strenthey craige callit Kileuin per­ teining to McKneill of Barray. In the north end of this Isle of Barray ther is ane round heigh know mayne grasse and greine round about it to the heid on the top of quilk ther is ane spring and fresche water well. This well treuly springs up certaine litle round quhyte things less nor the quantity of ane confeit corne lykes to the shape and figour of ane litle cokill, as it appearit to me. Out of this well runs ther ane litle strype downwith to the sea, and quher it enters the sea there is ane myle braid of sands, quilk ebbs ane myle, callit the Traymore of Killbarray that is the greate sands of Barray. This sands is all full of Cokills and alledgit be the ancient Countreymen that the same cokills comes down out of the forsaid hill throughe said strype in the small fore that we have spoken off and after ther coming to the saidis sandis growis grate Cokills alwayes. Ther is na fairer and more profitable sands for Co­ kills in all the wor Id. This Isle pertains to McN eill of Barray. Orvansay 140 Betwixt Barray and Ywist ther lyes first Orvansay half myle lange with ane falcone nest, ane guid profit-

175 The Clan Macneil able Ile manwritt, guid for sheepe, perteining to McN eill of Barray. N acharrache 141 Besides this Ile Lyes Ellan N acharrach by the Erishe so callit and in Englishe the Sheepe Ile, ane Iitle Ile full of grassing and store perteining to McKneill of Barray. N ahakersait 142 N airest this f orsaid Ile lyes ane Ile callit N ahaker­ sait half a myle lange with ane heavin for heighland galleyis perteining to McKneill of Barray. Garulanga 143 Besides this Ile lyes ane Ile callit Garulanga guid for fishing and verey fruitful!, perteining to Mak­ Neill of Barray. Fladay 144 Besydes this lyes ane Ile callit Fladay half myle lange with ane Falcone nest in it, verey fertile and fruitfull, it perteins to McN eill of Barray. Bwyabeg 145 Besides Flada Jayes ane Ile namit Bwyabeg half myle lang guid for gersing and fishing, perteining to McKneill of Barray. Bwya Moir 146 N arrest Bwyabeg lyes ane Ile namit Bwya Moir twa myle lange manwritt, full of gersing and pasture with ane Falcon nest in it, perteining to MakN eill of Barray.

176 Ancient Description of the Clan's Islands

Hay 147 Not far from Bwya Moir, lyes ane Ile callit Hay halfe a myle lang, fertille and fruitfull, and guid for fishing, perteining to McN eill of Burray.

Hellesay 148 Besides Hay lyes ane Ile callit Hellesay ane myle lange, fertill and f ruitfull, weill man writ and excellent for all sort of quhyte fishe taking. It perteins to Mak- neill of Barray. · Gigay 149 Besides this Ile lyes ane Ile callit Gigay ane myle lang, f ertil and f ruitfull, guid for store and fishing, perteining to Makneill of Barray.

Lingay 150 N arrest to Gigay lyes ane Ile callit Lingay half mile lange ane verey guid Ile for gressing and pastures and for Sheiling, perteining to Makneill of Barray.

Feray 151 Besides this Ile lyes ane Ile laiche, namit by the Erishe Feray halffe a mile lange, guid for corne and gersing and excellant for fishing, perteining to Mak­ neill of Barray. 152 Besides this Ile lyes ane maine sandy Ile callit Fudayt f ertil for beare and murenis, the quhilk Ile pay murenis zeirly to Makneill of Barray for pairt of mailles and dewties.

177 The Clan Macneil Eriskeray 153 (Eriskay) To the Eist of this Ile of Fuday be three myle of sea lyes ane Ile callet Eriskeray, twa myle lang, inhabit and manwrit. In this Ile ther is daylie gottin aboundance of verey grate pintill fishe at Ebb seas and als verey guid for uther fishing, perteining to l\1ackneill of Barray.

Ywst 154 (South Uist) N orthwart f ra thir Isles forsaid, lyes the grate Isle of Ywst 34 mile lange from southwest to the northeist, sex myle braid, ane fertile countrey and maine laiche land, full of heigh hills and fores ts on the eist cost, ore southeist and all pleinisht laiche land on the northwest, with five paroche Kirkes. Within this south part of Ywst on the east coste of the same, !ayes ane salt water Loche callit Vayhastill. This countrey is bruiked by sundrey Captains, to wit, the southwest end of it callit Baghastill be McKneill of Barray.

178 THE HOME OF THE MACNEILS THE ISLE OF BARRA*

HERE is small evidence of Norse blood in Barra. Brughs, or Broes are to be found on the T Island, the dwellings of those mound dwellers which are found all over the North and West of Scot­ land from Orkneys to Galloway. They are usually looked upon as graves and ascribed to Norsemen, as is the case with the "Brugh nam braithearan", that big brugh which stands on the machair near Borve on the west coast of Barra, which is said to get its name from three brothers who fought and were buried there. . But imagination can go back much farther than the Norsemen, and, meeting with traditions of the time when these and similar mounds were really the dwell­ ings of a race of "Skraelings", the dwellings of the "Good People", and tales are still handed down of how mortals have spoken with mysterious inhabitants. Here is one that is told of the "tolman" near Baile Thangusdail, Barra: There was a woman in Baile Thangusdail, and she was out seeking a couple of calves; and the night and lateness caught her, and there came rain and tempest, and she was seeking shelter. She went to a knoll with the couple of calves, and she was striking the tether-peg into it. The knoll opened. She heard a glee gashing as if a pot-hook were clashing beside a pot. She took wonder, and she stopped striking the tether-peg. *De l'Hoste Ranking, LL.D., 1904. 179 The Clan Macneil

A woman put out her head, and all above her middle. and she said, "What business hast thou to be troubling this tolman in which I make my dwelling?" "I am taking care of this couple of calves, and I am but weak. Where will I go with them?" "Thou shalt go with them to that breast down yonder; thou wilt see a tuft of grass; if thy couple of calves eat that tuft of grass, thou wilt not be a day without a milk cow as long as thou art alive, because thou hast taken my council." Another tradition is that which mentions the Barra witches as sellers of winds favourable and unfavour­ able. This dealing in winds is, I fancy, purely the at­ tribute of pre-Aryan races. Of early Celtic days in Barra we have no record, but we know that, like all western Isles, it was one of the outports of Celtic Christianity. Not an Island, hardly a rock of the western seas but bears some trace or tradition of a chapel or cell, and is linked with the name of one of the early Celtic Saints. Barra itself, so far as the largest of the Islands is concerned, takes its name from St. Barr. The ancient residence of the Macneills was Cios­ muill Castle, at the head of the bay where stands "Baile Mhic Neill", now called Castlebay. Martin, who visited Barra about 1703, speaks of it as being then in­ habited: but the family seem to have deserted it about 1720, and to have built houses in various parts of the island finally settling at Eoligarry in the north end. Barra, though the name is now confined to the princi­ pal Island, is in fact the name of a group of Islands, eight of which are inhabited. Of this group Mingu- 1so The Home of the M acneils

laidh is from all accounts one of the most wonderful and magnificent of the Islands off the coast of Scotland. It is most precipitous, Biola-creag, the highest point, going sheer down nearly 800 feet to the sea. Biolacreag was the ancient of the Macneills of Barra. These cliffs are honeycombed with marvelous sea caves and passages. This Island is difficult of access and the post goes there once a month and then only when the weather is favourable. On Barra northward the road passes by the Machair, the great sandy plain on the seaward side where, in years gone by, the Odha was held annually. This was the yearly festival when all the inhabitants of the dis­ trict met to see the champions compete in feats of strength and skill. It must be seventy or eighty years since the last Odha

was held on the Machair, in Barra. I could not find any one who could speak from personal knowledge of these meetings, though many had heard their fathers speak of them. Out to the west beyond Machair lies the promontory where stands the ruins of St. Branden's cell, and the cemetery, while close by are the Brugh nam Braithrean, and the Clachan Lochluin. Soon the road turns inland again and crosses the northern part of the Island towards North Bay, passing the Mill Loch. Half a mile away over the moor is Loch na nighean ruaidhe. From North Bay a road goes away to the left to the Traigh Mhor-the great strand. Here a great bay, nearly a mile across, cuts deep into the island on the east side, so deep that only a strip

181 The Clan Macneil of shore a few yards wide separates the bay from the Atlantic Ocean; beyond the bay the penninsula widens out again to form the district of Eoligary. · The Traigh Mhor itself is one mass of shells of all kinds. At the fringe of high water mark they lie piled up in heaps a foot high: cockle, clam, oyster, razor, scallop, trochus, mussel, and numberless other kinds. The bay itself. is one solid mass of cockles, some of an enormous size. The centre of the Island is hilly, the highest peak is Heave!, and Hellavel.

CASTLE BAY*

The bay is almost circular, the opening somewhat narrow, and the first thing that strikes the eye is the quaint little Castle of Kisimul, the old stronghold of the Macneils, sitting firmly on a tight little island which just holds it with not an inch to spare. The Castle is said to be six hundred years old, the fort is hexagonal in form, the walls nearly thirty feet high. There is a high square tower in one angle which tradition says was always occupied by a watchman who let fall a heavy stone on the head of any one attempting to surprise the gate. There is a local story that he used to repeat rhymes to keep himself awake. It is entirely inaccessible except by water, and a more interesting example of its kind could hardly be found.

*Outer Isles, A. Goodrich Freer. 182 The Home of the M acneils

The Macneils of Barra as every one knows had a boat of their ain at the flood. Thirty-three Rodericks in succession before the first one known to have possessed a charter; Gileonan, son of Roderick, grandson of Murchard, about 1427, pos­ sessed not only Barra but also of "all and sundry other castles, f ortalices, manor places, fishings, tofts, crofts, muirs, marshes, islands, lochs, pasturages, pendicles, annexes, connexes and pertinents, whatsomever per­ taining to the said Isle of Barray, remanent isles above specified or possessed by the said Macneil, all lying within the Sheriffdom of Inverness, and now united, annexed and incorporated in ane heil and free barony called the baron of Barray." The local importance of the Chiefs of the Macneils is humorously alluded to by James Wilson, in his Voyage Round the Coasts of Scotland and the Isles, published in 1842. It is related, says Mr. Wilson, that in ancient times it was customary for a herald to sound a horn from the battlements of the Castle, and proclaim aloud in Gaelic: "Hear oh ye people, and listen, oh ye nations 1 The great Macneil of Barra· having finished his meal, the princes of the earth may dine"

KISIMUL CASTLE

Kisimul Castle, the ancient home of the Chiefs of the Clan, is very well described in MacGibbon and Ross' Castellated and Domestic Architecture of Scotland, published in 1887, given hereinafter. Its name un­ doubtedly is from the Gaelic words cios, tax or tribute,

183 The Clan Macneil and mu!, mound, meaning the place where taxes were paid. According to Clan tradition it was built by Niall, XXI, about the year 1030, probably as a simple wall around the edge of the islet on which it sets . "This very interesting Castle was the ancient strong­ hold of the Macneil of Barra. It stands on an islet in :Castlebay, on the south coast of the island of Barra, in the Outer Hebrides. The structure is of some primi­ tive type, as the castles in the Sound of Mull and on the mainland, and shows that the same influences which produced the latter were also in operation in the re­ moter islands. "As above mentioned the castle of Kisimul is of the type of the first period ( 1200 to 1300) and consisted originally of an enclosing wall of an irregular outline following the shape of the rocky site, so that at full tide the whole of the island outside the walls was covered with water. At a later period a keep tower has been added at the southeast angle of the enclosure, in the same way as a similar structure was added at Du art and many of the ancient fortresses of the first period. "The castle is of considerable size, measuring about 100 feet in diameter. The principal entrance to the courtyard was on the southeast side, where a door is still visible, though built up, surmounted by a machi­ colated defence at the parapet. Like the doors of Min­ garry and Ellan-Tirrim, this one is very narrow. "Opposite the south wall a narrow creek in the rock, def ended by a wall from the waves, is considered to have been the harbour or dock for the Chief's galley. Externally the walls present an appearance very similar

184 The Home of the Macneils to those of Mingarry and Duart, being solidly built with rubble stones and mortar. The angles have a sharp arris at the base, but the northern angle is rounded as it ascends, and becomes a turret containing a small plat£ orm or sentinel's stance on top. Below this is what is called "the dungeon", there having probably been two apartments in the height of the tower formed by rounding the angle,-the lower one of which may have been a prison, while the upper one was a guard­ room. The stones which covered the platform or roof of the latter still partly exist. A ruined stair leads to the upper chamber and the sentinel's stance. There are two windows or loops for defence in the upper chamber. The walls of the enceinte are four feet in thickness on the north and west and seven feet thick on the east side, which is nearest the land, and about fifty feet in height. A parapet walk goes round the top, and the para pet, which is 18 inches in thickness, has been crenellated. A number of holes are visible all round the outside at the level of the parapet walk. These, like similar apertures at Mingarry, are evi­ dently gutters or gargoyles to run water off the walk. "The wall on the northwest presents two rounded projections, which seem to have been embryo towers somewhat like those of Dunstaffnage, introduced as points of vantage from which the curtains might be defended. Within the enceinte, a number of buildings have been erected at later dates for residential pur­ poses. These have extended all round the walls, but they are now almost completely ruined. The portion at the western angle is best preserved. It shows a building two stories in height, with square doors and 185 The Clan Macneil windows and crow-stepped gables. This range has ap­ parently been divided into a number of apartments on the ground floor, each having a separate door from the courtyard. The width of the range is 18 to 19 feet .. Each floor has a fireplace in the southwest gable, and these are the only fireplaces visible in the whole struc­ ture. There was also an attic floor, as is apparent from a door through the upper part of the central gable. In the open space between the gable of above building and in the southwest wall is one of the two wells which supplied the castle with fresh water; the other was in the centre of the courtyard, but is now filled up, and is no longer visible. That at the southwest angle is en­ closed with a wall and partly covered with large stones. It is still ten feet deep, although to some extent filled up with rubbish, and contains fresh water. This is certainly a somewhat remarkable circumstance, and the existence of this spring was doubtless one of the induce­ ments which lead to the adoption of the island as the site for the castle. "The keep occupies the southeast angle of the en­ ceinte. It measures 29 feet by 27 feet 8 inches, aod is, carried up from a broadly-splayed or battered base. The entrance door is in the north side, towards the interior of the courtyard, and is placed on the level of the first floor, so that it could only be entered by means of a ladder, or possibly by a moveable bridge from the parapet walk. There are remains of two stone stairs which led up to this door from the courtyard, but these are doubtless additions of a much later date. From the first or entrance floor, a stair, 3 feet 3 inches wide, runs up in the thickness of the wall to the second floor,.

186 The Home of the M acneils whence it is coctinued to the third or top floor. A similar stair descends in the thickness of the wall to the basement, but it is now choked with rubbish. The walls are 6 feet in thickness, and have been pierced with two loops on the ground floor. On the first floor there are two recesses, 7 feet high, with small windows, and larger arched openings at the stair landings. Very few and small window openings are now visible ex­ ternally. The basement probably, as usual, contained the stores. The hall would occupy the first floor, and above this would be the Chief's private apartment, which has windows in three sides. "The gutter-holes, which were formed at the level of the original parapet, with their drip-stones, are still observable, but the parapet has been raised at a sub­ sequent date so as to provide an additional story. In the upper story there occurs, on the north side of the keep, a projecting bartizan immediately over the en­ trance door, with a machicolation for its defence. A similar bartizan ( as already noticed) is placed at the parapet of the wall of enceinte adjoining the northeast angle of the keep, for the protection of the entrance which existed in the rounded angle of the wall at this point. The doorway would also in this position be masked and protected by the keep. It is observable that the angles of the enceinte have been raised higher than the curtains, but they do not form projecting bartizans."

187

SOME LEGENDS OF THE MACNEILS OF BARRA

HOW THE MACNEILS WENT TO SEALLTUINN

"BLACK Ruairidh the Unjust"went to Sealltuinn (Shetland) to try the "Warrior of Sealltuinnn with the sword and to take tribute from him if so be he could overcome him. He had an ochdram­ hach ( eight-oared boat), and a strong sturdy crew with him, and there was a certain lad in the boat, the son of a widow, and it was in Castle Ciosmal at Castle­ bay, Macneil's own house, that he was reared. Now· this youth, who was a Macneil too, was so strong that no two men in the castle need seize him, and neither could any two put his back to the ground. Black. Ruairidh did not like him at all because he was stronger than he was himself, and many were the ways in which he had tried before this to put an end to him, but he could not do that. They reached Sealltuinn, and Black Ruairidh sent word to the Warrior of Sealltuinn that he was there to try him with the sword when he would have time to come down. "There is no time better than this time itself", said the Warrior, and down he went. Now before this Black Ruairidh had warned the Widow's Son, and he had said, " If you see me taking a step back in the fight you may be sure I am growing weak, but take no notice, and if you see me looking back once

*Alexander Macdonald, The Celtic Review, January, 1905. 189 The Clan Macneil the matter will be going against me, but do nothing yet till you see me looking back the second time. I shall then be exhausted, and take you my place without delay; and if you are successful in our object you will get two shares of the spoil which we lift in the place." Well, the Warrior and Black Ruairidh began at each, and the sparks were leaping out of their swords. It was not long till Black Ruairidh took a step back, for the Warrior of Sealltuinn was a man of name with the sword. A little while after that Black Ruairidh gave an eye over his shoulder, and it was not long till he gave an eye over his shoulder the second time, and there in his place leaped the Widow's Son. He and the Warrior were a good while combating without much being done on either side, but the Widow's Son was giving no advantage in any way, and at last Black Ruairidh called out to him to give the Warrior the end he desired, and there was the head off the Warrior in the wink of an eye with one sweep of the sword. Now the Widow's Son had had no intent but to wound the Warrior, and when he saw what had resulted he turned to Black Ruairidh and he said, "You son of the other man! It is you who are to blame that I killed this man and he innocent, and if you and your men do not take your feet out of here and go away with your boat you shall not have a head on a shoulder in a minute. You shall not get spoil or spoil in this island, for I am now going to be lord of it." Now they all had such fear of the Widow's Son that they went away and they left him there. And that was how the Clan Neil first went to Sealltuinn, and there are plenty of them there till this day. 190 Some Legends of the Macneils of Barra

BLACK RUAIRIDH AND ROB ROY MACGREGOR

At another time Black Ruairidh went to Rob Roy. When he reached the district of Rob Roy he met a little man on a horse, and the little man looked very tired. Black Ruairidh asked him where Rob Roy lived. "You have him here", said the man, "and he will be very glad to welcome you to the district." "Well", said Black Ruairidh, "I am Macneil of Barra, and since I heard of your having a great name I came to try you." "I am very tired just now", said Rob Roy, "after making a great journey, and you had better dwell peacefully with me this night and we will try each other to-morrow." "Out of here I will not go," said Black Ruairidh, "till you try me." "Right enough, if that is how it is", said Rob Roy, coming off the horse. The heroes began at each other, and at the first be­ ginning the top of the ear was taken off Black Ruairidh and Rob Roy asked him if that would do. But with the way that Black Ruairidh was so full of wickedness that had given him his name, he said it would not do. At the next draw his right arm was in two even halves above the elbow. He could not do more at that time and he yielded. Rob Roy took him home with him till his arm healed and Black Ruairidh was as faithful a friend as Rob Roy had after that.

191 The Clan Macneil HOW BLACK RUAIRIDH THE UNJUST DIED

Black Ruairidh the Unjust went to Duart to lift a cattle spoil. He had an eight-oared boat and a strong crew with him. When they went on shore at Duart, at night, with cloth round their oars for fear of making any noise, Black Ruairidh went up by himself to see what he could see. He did not see any one about but a lame tailor sitting at a window sewing, with his legs crossed. Black Ruairidh thought that there was no one at all in the castle but the tailor and that the others had gone to lift spoil in some other place, and he thought that the best thing he could do was to go in by himself and kill the tailor, and sack the castle with­ out the help of any other person, and there in at the door he went. But who was at the back of the door but a watchman and in Ruairidh's body he put his dagger. Black Ruairidh caught the place where the dagger had gone, and he kept his hand tightly on it,· and he ran swiftly back to the boat and asked his men to put back to Barra as quickly as they could so that he might be on his own land before he died. They returned, and Ruairidh never let go his hold till they reached Castle Ciosmal. When he got in the castle he let go his hold and he fell down there and life left him. The following was prophesied by Mac a Chreachair: Ri linn Ruairidh an t-seachdamh Ruairidh Thig an cuaradh air gach neach, 11ac na baintighearna caola bana, 'S minic a bhios ann ri linn, 'S mi-niarach a bhios ann ri linn Bi Ciosmal na gharraidh bhiastan-dubha, 'S na nid aig eunlainn na speuran. 192 Sonie Legends of the Macneils of Barra

In the time of Rory the seventh Rory Distress shall come on each person ; The son of the slender, fair lady, Woe to those who are in his time, It shall be unenviable for those in his time. Ciosmal will become a den of otters And a nesting-place for the birds of the Heavens.

Mac a Chreachair was bound and exiled to l\1aol­ donaich in the little island of Muilaidh as a punishment for his prophesy, which, however, came true. There is a little brown bean about an inch in diameter, with a black stripe around the edge, called by the Islesmen the niullaca bean. It is a voyager from the far-distant Carribean Sea, being brought to the shores of Barra by the Gulf Stream. It is worn as a charm and is supposed to bring its wearer, and es­ pecially its finder, good luck so long as it is carried on the person. Dr. George F. Black, formerly Assistant Keeper of the Museum of the Society of Antiquaries of Scot­ land, and now of the New York Public Library, has given an interesting account of this amulet in his article, "Scottish Charms and Amulets", published in the Pro­ ceedings of the Society as follows: "At the same meeting in January last ( 1893), a second specimen of lpomeoe tuberose, mounted in silver, evidently for use as an amulet, formerly pre­ served in the Lyon Office, was exhibited and deposited in the Museum. The silver mounting is probably of the last century and has engraved on it a Rock in the Sea, the cognisance of the family of Macneil of Barra, and the motto Vincere vel mori.

193 The Clan Macneil

"The earliest reference I have been able to find of the use of these seeds as amulets in the West Highlands is in J ohne Morisone's Description of Lewis, supposed to have been written between 1678 and 1688: 'The sea casteth on shore sometimes a sort of nutts growing upon tangles, round and flat, sad broun or black coullered, of the breadth of a doller, some more, some less; the kernal of it being taken out of the shell is an excellent remedie for the bloodie flux. They ordinarlie make use of the shell for keepin·g their snuff. Any other sort of nutt is found in the same manner, of less syze, of a broun colour, flat and round, with a black circle, quhilk in old times women wore about their necks both for ornament and holding that it had the virtue to make fortunate in cattle, and upon this account they were at the pains to bind them in silver, brass or tinn, according to their abilities. There are other lesser yet, of a whiter coulour and· round, which they call Sant Marie's Nutt, quhilk they did wear in the same maner, holding it to have the virtue to preserve women in childbearing.' "Martin ( 1716) also refers to these seeds, and gives some additional particulars of their use as follows: 'There is a variety of Nuts, call'd Molluka Beans, some of which are used as Amulets against Witchcraft, or an Evil Eye, particularly the white one; and upon this account they are wore about Childrens N eeks, and if any Evil is intended to them, they say the Nut changes into a black colour. That they did change colour, I found true by my own observation, but can­ not be positive as to the cause of it.' "

194 Some Legends of the Macneils of Barra

These same customs prevailed in Ireland, and Dr. Black has given several examples of them there as well as in other parts of the Highlands. Once there was a pirate who infested the Sound of Mull. He had a boat painted white on one side and black on the other and by these means managed to escape capture for a long time. At last, however, he was taken and some of the Chiefs tried him. Macneil of Barra, as one of the judges, came in for particular vengeance on the part of the pirate, who, as he was condemned, shook his fist at him and made this threat: "Barra is far off but it can be reached." Once Kisimul Castle was besieged for a long time and at last the Chief's food gave out. He and his ad­ visors were contemplating surrender, when a happy thought came to them. They had several cattle skins within the castle to be tanned, and there was also a dog there. They killed the dog and took its blood and put on the skins then hung them up on the parapets as if to dry. When the besiegers saw these apparently fresh skins they said, if they have all this newly killed cattle they can hold out for a long time and they left in dis­ gust. South of Barra on the west side of the Isle of V ater­ say there is a deep inlet which, from the sea, resembles the Sound of Vatersay. In the year 1853, the sailing ship Ann Jane, of Liverpool, bound for Quebec with about 600 on board, ran into a bad storm from the· southwest. She endeavoured to run before it, soon reaching the Hebridean shore, and her captain mistook

195 The Clan Macneil the inlet for the Sound of V atersay, through which he could escape, with the result that his ship crashed to pieces on that rocky coast. There was a loss of lives to the number of 360 and the very old clansmen still tell of many pitiful scenes connected with the disaster. The victims were buried in one huge grave and a large granite obelisk was erected in their memory.

COLONEL MacNEILL AND HIS BROWNIE*

In Keil Churchyard lie buried the remains of Lieutenant-Colonel Malcolm MacN eill of Cariskey (Cathair-Sgiath), a gallant officer, who had served in the island of Jersey in such a manner as to merit the approbation of his commander. His mother was Penelope MacDonald of Sanda, who married Archi­ bald MacNeill in 1742. Down as far as Colonel McNeil's time, a creature called the brownie was believed in, and the Colonel is said to have been the last of the family she followed; and the following account of the brownie is no old wife's tale, but has been affirmed by many people be­ longing to the locality. It is: there was an old creature that attached herself to the Cariskey family called Beag-Bheul, from Ire­ land, who had previously followed the Montgomery family in that country and came over with them to Kintyre. That she accompanied the Colonel when abroad in the army, and was behind him in the battle of Jersey; and when a ball went through the crown of his hat, he *Records of Argyll, by Lord Archibald Campbell. 196 Some Legends of the Macneils of Barra jumped four feet from the ground, and turned round, spoke to her, and said it was a good thing for him that she was behind him that day. This remark was made by the Colonel in Gaelic. It is said that when the Colonel would be on his way home from Campbeltoun, she would jump up behind him on horseback, but one day he put her off, after which she met him again in Kepergan (Ceapargan) wood, and gave him as hard a slap on the side of the cheek as he ever got in his life. When any gentry came to Cariskey House to visit the Colonel, if the house was not properly cleaned by the maids she would come after they would go to bed and pull them out, and make them clean the house. She was very careful of the Colonel and his property; and is said to have told him of a battle that would be fought in Kintyre.

197

KILLIECRANKIE* ''r-r-'HE , 1689: Mackay's J_ ~osition precluded him from attacking; Dun- dee held that advantage, and used it to adapt his assault to the formation which Mackay offered. He met Mackay's extension of his line by enlarging the intervals between th_e Clan regiments. Thereby their density and the force of their impact were maintained. Each regiment was directed to en­ gage a particular unit in the line opposed to it. Like Mackay, Dundee was nervous lest his wings should be outflanked; hence the centre of Mackay's line where Leven's regiment stood, had no part of Dundee's force directly opposite to it. On the extreme right of his line fronting Brigadier Balfour, Dundee placed the Macleans under Sir John Maclean of Duart. Cannon's Irish contingent was on their left. The· Clanranald Macdonalds, and Glengarry's clan com­ pleted, from right to left, the infantry on the right . wing. On the extreme left of the line were the Macdonalds. of Sleat. Next to them was a mix battalion, Macleans, Macneils of Barra, and Stuarts of Appin under Sir Alexander Maclean. On the left centre facing Mackay's own regiment were the Camerons under Lochiel. Dundee himself, with the few horse he had, was on the left. The battle of Killiecrankie, in the deliberation which marked its preliminaries, followed the traditional

*Dundee, By C. S. Terry. 199 The Clan Macneil

practice of war in the seventeenth century; two hours and more wore slowly away before it began." Dundee to Macleod of Macleod.* Moy, June 23, 1689. Sir: Glengarry gave me an account of a letter he received from you. I shall only tell you that if you hasten not to land your men, I am of opinion you will have little occasion to do the King great service. For if he land in the west of Scotland you will come too late, as I believe you will think yourself by the news I have to tell you The Prince of Orange hath written to the Scots Council, not to fatigue his troops any more by following us in the hills, but to draw them together in a body to the west; and, accordingly, several of the forces that were in Perthshire and Angus, are drawn to Edin­ burgh, and some of Mackay's regiments are marched that way from him. He further informs them, that, besides the fifty-two sail in Ireland of French men-of-war, there are eighty more from Brest, who have fifteen thousand land soldiers aboard. And that he knows not whether they design for England or Ireland. He orders the whole kingdom to be put in a posture of defence; so that all persons must draw arms, and take part one way or other. There came an express some weeks ago, from Lon­ donderry to Duke Hamilton, telling if they got not immediate relief they could hold out no longer. We hear also, from Edinburgh, that they offered to render if the King would give any capitulation, which the *Memoirs of Dundee, Napier, Vol. III. 200 Killiecrankie

King refuses, being advised that it is necessary to make example of them for the terror of others. Mr. Hay, who came hither yesterday from Ireland, gives account that, above three weeks ago, he was at the siege, and then horse flesh was sold at sixpence a pound, and for cannon bullets they were shooting lumps of brick wrapped in pewter plates. It is now certainly rendered. Mr. Hay saw relief offer to land, but was beat back with great loss. Some of the French fleet hath been seen amongst the islands, and hath taken the two Glasgow frigates. The King, being thus master by sea and land, hath nothing to do but bring over his army, which many people imagine is landed already in the west. He will have little to oppose him there, and probably will march toward~ England; so that we, who are in the greatest readiness, will have ado to join him. I have received by Mr. Hay a commission of Lieutenant-General, which was miscarried by Brady. I have also received a double (copy) of a letter, mis­ carried by Brady, to me, and a new letter dated the 18 of May; both which are so kind that I am ashamed to tell. He counts for great services, which I am conscious to myself that I have hardly done my duty. He promises, not only to me, but to all that will join, such marks of favour as after ages shall see what honour and advantage there is in being loyal. He says in express terms that his favours shall vie with our loyalty. He hath by the same letters, given full power of council to such councillors here as shall be joined in the King's service; and given us power with the rest of his friends, to meet in a convention, by 201 The Clan Macneil his authority to counteract the mock Convention at Edinburgh, whom he hath declared traitors, and com­ manded all his loyal subjects to make war against them; in obedience of which I have called all the Clans. Captain of Clanranald is near us these several days. The Laird of Barra is there with his men. I am persuaded Sir Donald (Macdonald) of Sleat is there by this time. Maclean lands in Morven to-morrow certainly. App in, Glencoe, Lochiel, Glengarry, Keppoch, are all ready. Sir Alexander (Maclean of Ottar) and (Macdonald of) Largie have been here with their men, all this while with me: so that I hope we will go out of Lochaber about three thousand. You may judge what we will get in Stratherrick, Badenoch, Athole, Mar, and the Duke of Gordon's lands; besides the loyal shires of Banff, Aberdeen, Mearns, Angus, Perth, and Stirling. I hope we will be masters of the north, as the King's army will be of the south. I had almost forgot to tell you of my Lord Breadal­ bane, who I suppose now will come to the fields, Dum­ beth, with two hundred horse and eight hundred foot, are said to be endeavouring to join us. My Lord Seaforth will be in a few days from Ire­ land to raise his men for the King's service. Now I have laid the whole business before you, you will easily know what is fit for you to do. All I shall say further is, to repeat and renew the desire of my former letter, and assure you that I a1n, Sir, your most humble servant.'' (signed) Dundee. "You will receive the King's letter to you." 202 ROBE.RT LISTER OF BARRA, XL V

THE MACNEIL OF BARRA

MONY Rieland Chiefs I've seen 0 In flaming pictures painted, In blue an' yellow, red an' green In tartan ornamented. But painters' themes are maistly dreams,­ ! never met their marrow Until my sicht the ither nicht Took in Macneil of Barra.

His kindly face, his noble grace Eclipsed my fancy fairly; . In breathless awe I thocht I saw The winsome royal Charlie; But blythe's could be nae ghaist was he­ But brawn an' bane an' marrow, An' gripped my loof,-a livin' proof,­ The real Macneil o' Barra.

The echoes of a thousand years Cam through the centuries ringing; Our voices answered just as clear's The mated mavis singing; By Beltane fires our martial sires Wha shot the swift-winged arrow, Could never be mair f reends than me An' young Macneil o' Barra.

203 The Clan Macneil

Ye toun-bred louns wha sport the At picnics gallavantin', I'll tak my aith if pitten till't There aye seems something wantin', The sparrowhawk aye bears the bell Aboon the barnyard sparrow, Sae is it when ye set yoursel' Beside Macneil o' Barra.

Ye Scottish lairds, wi' due regairds To your curtailed dominions, Y e've muckle need to pause an' heed A humble Bard's opinions: Gin ye wad thrive while ye're alive An cauf-grund gettin' narrow,­ Come off your perch an' westward march Like the Macneil o' Barra.

Here where the bird o' freedom screams There's room for them that's willin', Gude nicht to ancient, vanished dreams,­ Here's lairdships for the tillin'; We need mair men f rae hill an' glen, There's no on earth their marrow; Come hither hike if ye are like The fine Macneil o' Barra.

The above poem was written on the occasion of the visit of Robert Lister, XLV, to the National Convention of the Order of Scottish Clans at Brooklyn, New York, 1921, by the famous Scottish American poet, James Kennedy, who was born at Aber­ lemno, Forfarshire, November 3, 1850, and died at New York,. August 14, 1922. 204 THE CLAN MACNEIL ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

HE Clan Macneil Association of America was organized at a meeting held at the New York T Caledonian Club, May 26, 1921, following a call to Clansmen which had been sent out by Hermon Atkins MacN eil. The Chief of the Clan and several ladies and gentlemen were present and the Association was formally organized, the constitution adopted and officers elected. The first Annual Meeting was held in New York, December 16, 1921, at which time many greetings from distant Clansmen were received. The Macneil of Barra presented to the Association the autographed photograph he had received from the President of the United States of America, which bore the following inscription: "To the Clan Macneil Association, with very cordial greetings and good wishes, Warren G. Harding." Honorary Membership was conferred on the Scottish American poet James Kennedy and on Colonel Walter Scott of the Order of Scottish Clans, a prominent merchant in New York, and widely known as a liberal promoter of education, art, athletics and patriotism. The second Annual Meeting and Dinner was held in New York, December 21, 1922, when a very in­ teresting program was carried out in the presence of many Clansmen and guests. The following are the first three articles of the Asso­ ciation's Constitution:- 20s The Clan Macneil Article I. The name of the Association is "The Clan Macneil Association of America." Article II. The objects of the Association are to foster and promote traditions, sentiments and interests, especially those relating to the Clan Mac­ neil; to cultivate social intercourse among the Members; to render assistance to necessitous and de­ serving Clansmen and Clanswomen; to uphold good citizenship of the Members in their respective countries; and to encourage cordial relations among the English speaking nations. Article III. All persons of good moral standing are eligible to membership in the Association who bear, by birth or marriage : 1. The surname Macneil, in any of its various forms and spellings, or any sept names of the Clan Macneil. 2. Other than the surname Macneil, but whose maternal parent or grandparent bore either the surname Macneil or sept name. The fallowing ladies and gentlemen are Charter Members of the Association: The Macneil of Barra, XLV, Chief and Honorary President. Robert H. McNeil!, Washington, D. C., President, mentioned elsewhere. Alexander McNeil, Washington, D. C., Vice-Presi­ dent, mentioned elsewhere. Reverend Allan MacN eill, Ridgefield Park, New Jersey, Vice-President, whose father Lachlin MacN eill (son of Allan) was born in Scotland and emigrated to Prince Edward Island in 1803.

206 The Clan Macneil Association of America James P. McN eill, Florence, South Carolina, Vice­ Presiden t, mentioned elsewhere. Paul H. Macneil, New York City, Vice-President, mentioned elsewhere. Charles A. McNeil, Pelham, New York, Councillor. Hermon A. MacN eil, New York City, Councillor, mentioned elsewhere. Malcolm McN eill, Brooklyn, New York, Council­ lor, born in Edinburgh in 1863, Past President of the New York Scottish Society. Robert W. McNeil, Brooklyn, New York, Council­ lor, from Mull of Kintyre, whose father was Alexander McNeil, Edinburgh, son of John McNeil, Paisley. Walter W. McNeil, New York City, Councillor, mentioned elsewhere. John A. Macdougall, Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, Councillor, whose mother was Mary Macneil, daughter of John Macneil, who emigrated from the Isle of Barra in 1817 and settled in Cape Breton, and great­ granddaughter of Roderick Macneil, piper to the Chief of the Clan. Reverend John McNeil!, New York City, Chap­ lain, the widely known Scottish evangelist, who was educated at Edinburgh and Glasgow universities. His first pastorate was the McCrie-Roxburgh Church, Edinburgh, followed by service in historic Regent Square, London. Associating himself with Dwight L. Moody, he conducted meetings throughout the British Empire and America. He did magnificent work in the British Y. M. C. A. during the Great War and is now pastor of Fort °\\7 ashington Presbyterian Church, New York City.

207 The Clan Macneil Most Reverend Archbishop Neil McNeil, Toronto, Ontario, Chaplain, mentioned elsewhere. Mrs. Elizabeth D. Macneil, New York City, Secre­ tary, mentioned elsewhere. R. McNiel Browne, New York City, Treasurer, whose grandmother was Janet, daughter of Captain Dougald McNiel, Barra, Scotland. Donald Buchanan, Avenel, New Jersey, Piper, from the Isle of Barra, Scotland. Miss Agnes F. MacN eil, Brooklyn, New York. Alexander McNeill, Southold, New York. Alexander D. MacNeill, Woodridge, New Jersey, brother of Reverend Allan MacN eill, before men- tioned. · Doctor Ambrose Macneil, Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia, grandson of "Hector the Piper", who in turn ,vas the great-grandson of "Roderick the Piper", piper to the Chief of the Macneils. This family is still known in Nova Scotia as Na Piobairean or "The Pipers." Benedict McNeil, Washington, D. C., son of Alex­ ander McNeil, Vice-President, before mentioned. Claude L. MacN eil, son of Hermon A. MacN eil, before mentioned. Donald MacN eil, West Fort Lee, New Jersey. Edgar E. McNeil, Stockton, California, son of Cyrus Granville McNeil, whose brothers were James, John, Peter and William. George B. McNeil, Port Chester, New York. Mrs. Hermon A. MacNeil, nee Carol Brooks, men­ tioned elsewhere.

208 The Clan Macneil Association of America James W. McN eill, Washington, D. C., mentioned elsewhere, son of Reverend Milton McN eill, great­ great-grandson of Reverend George McN eill, chaplain in the American Revolutionary Army. John Macneil, Jersey City, New Jersey, from the Isle of Barra. John McNeil, Jersey City, New Jersey, from the Isle of Barra. John B. MacN eill, Ridgefield Park, New Jersey, brother of Reverend Allan MacN eill, before men­ tioned. John B. McN eill, 1020 Jefferson Avenue, Buffalo, New York. Mrs. Josephine MacN eil, Elmhurst, New York. Lincoln McNeil, Mount Vernon, New York. Miss Margaret McNeil, New York City. Miss Mary Macneil, Jersey City, New Jersey, from the Isle of Barra. Neil MacN eil, New York Times, mentioned else­ where. Doctor Norman M. Macneill, Philadelphia, whose paternal grandfather and both maternal grandparents emigrated from the Isle of Barra early in the nine­ teenth century. Mrs. Natalie Macneil, New York City. Ralph McN eill, Newark, New Jersey. Ralph L. McNeil, Elmhurst, New York. Roderick McNeil, Jersey City, New Jersey, from Barra, Scotland. Stephen B. McNeil, Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, Government Inspector of Mines, grandson of Alexan­ der McNeil, who was born in Barra, Scotland, and son 209 The Clan Macneil of Michael McNeil, who was born in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Thomas MacN eil, Kansas City. Wallace MacN eill, Ridgefield Park, New Jersey, brother of Reverend Allan MacN eill, before men­ tioned. William H. McN eill, Paterson, New Jersey, son of William J ., son of John McN eill, who emigrated from the North of Ireland and settled in Connecticut about the year 1840. The brothers of William H. McNeill are David, Robert, Aaron and Frank. Professor Wilbur MacN eil, Oahu College, Hono­ lulu, Hawaii. Mrs. R. McNiel Browne, New York City. Miss Adelaide McNiel Browne, New York City, whose grandmother was Janet, daughter of Captain Dougald McNiel, Barra, Scotland. Mrs. George Monroe Clammer, Fort Collins, Color­ ado, nee Ida McN eill, daughter of Moore McN eill, born November 9, 1830, probably the oldest living Clansman in America and now in his ninety-third year. This family emigrated to and were in the famous siege of Derry. After ~ short resi­ dence in Wales they went to America. Thomas McN eill married Mary Hughes and had a son Jona­ than, who married Phoebe Moore; they had William, who married Nancy Griffin, with issue the above men­ tioned Moore McN eill. He married Eliza Caldwell, who died November 26, 1922. Mrs. Anna E. McNeil Judkins, San Diego, Cali­ fornia, daughter of James McNeil, fourth son of Peter

210 The Clan Macneil Association of America and Mary Stile~ McNeil, of New Boston, New Hamp­ shire. Mrs. Lydia McNeil Langdell, New Boston, New Hampshire. Charles MacKinnon, Jersey City, New Jersey, from Barra, Scotland. Miss Catherine McNeil Smith, Astoria, New York, ( daughter of Murdoch). Murdoch Smith, Astoria, New York, from the Isle of Lewis, Scotland, and maternally descended from the Macneils. John Patterson Talbot, Stillwater, Oklahoma, son of Hannah Elizabeth MacN eil Talbot, daughter of Peter and Mary Stiles MacN eil. Miss Nora Amaryllis Talbot, Stillwater, Oklahoma, daughter of John Patterson Talbot.

211

GENEALOGICAL TABLES

THE CLANN NIALL

1.st, ~!ALL NAOlGH1ALLACH, Neil of the Nine llosta&(!s, High-KiLtll of I lreland, A.lJ. J79-405 2n1, EVPHAN, d. A.lJ. 465, Ki11g ol Aile:11:h & Pri1ic~ of Ulsttr

3rd, MGtREADACH, A.D. 480, King of Aileach

41h, MJIRCEARTACH Mor, High-King A.D. 480-.'iJJ, ornd Kmg of Ail-each

3th, DOINAL llchealgach, High-King A.D. 559.61, and King of Aileach

6th, AO~H Uariodhuach,· High-King A.O. 599-607, 11.nd King of Ailcach

7th, MA1OLFREACH, Prmoe. of L'lster, d. A.D. 626-J0 8th, MA:ELDUIN, Pri11ce of Ulster, d, A.O. 706

9th, FEARGAL, 1-Hgh-King A.D. 709-18, Ki11g of Ai\each & Prince of· Ulste~

10th, NllLL Frassach, High-Kin~ A,p. 759-66, d. 773

11th, AOhH Ordnigh, High-King A.D. 793-818, King tJf Aileach & Prince of Ulster

12th, NIALL Caille, High-King A.D. 832-45, King of Aileach & Prince of Ulster

13th, AObH Finnlaith, High-King A.O. 861-78, King of Aileach & Prince of Ulster

14th, N11LL C!undubh, High-King A.D. 878-916, Kir1g of Aikach & Priocc 01 Ulster

15th, MJIRCEARTACH, High-King A.D. 937-43, King of Aileach & Prince Of Ul~ter

J6tl1, DOrAL Armagh, High-King A,D, 954-:78, Ki11g of Aileach & Prince of Ubter

17th, MUIRCEARTACH, d, A,D. 975

18th, 1-JTHARTACH, King of Aileach & Prince of Ulster A.O. 975-1030

!!lth, AObH Athlamh, K(11i:_oi Aileach & Prince of U!oler & Tyrone

20th, AObH Aonr.adian

Zht, NIALL, Clan11 Niall of Scotland

22nd, A01nH 2Jri-l, DOINAL.

24th, MdrncEARTACH I 25th, NEtL

2611i. NJL OG, .~r,1d to 17a.-0c hecll at ,,,. Barmockfrurn, Jur.e 24, 27th, MqRCHARD

~'M!~J~;ll1~f·oc~i;;tr .} 28th, RObE~~7'~iaGic~:cuq~::1~:n~aclea11 Recdvcd Charter, Ld, of } 29th GILL-b.ONA~-lst unknown Isles. 1427 ' nct', dau. John Macleod of Harris, wid. of Maclean of Dllart. 30th, RODE1RICK, John Garve Maclean's protcgl;!. Jlst, GILL!ONAN, 'ih~a~~~J:n~~ tas~~,::~~BO. I I Precept of Remissio.m, ISl' 32nd, GU.LEONA:,{, Daughter, it1 Alla11 Nan I Sop's escapade. JJrd, GILLEONAN, In Coundl of Isles, 1545. I I 7 34th, RODERICK QG=,Mary, dau. Wm. Macleod Gillco11a11, ki!kd at Daughtcr=Coll Macdonald r,------~1 c~~~:~ob~r:1~it·~of~i~,~s~~,~~!~~ie. f5l9~.livat, of Coiousay. Ls,, '.\laciem1 of Dltart's=JSth, RODERICK, Turbulc11t""°2nd, Mariorr, ister , John, Murd(), flora,~~:i.cR:~~~\~~~r!~~n~f Treshnish. 1 ~~:;ter I l~_M_ac_do_n_,l_d_ol_C_la_n_"_n,_lo_.------~----, {~ic~\~'folhootb, { ~~1~'o~,;~~;,2G~ ~l!~Fea;;~t~ifa=l1~~i~h. Gilleonan ~t~Pisi1~;~, GilkOLrnn Og, ,------/ f 37th, G[LLEONAN=C.i.tbctrn ej (1.rn, Ii.foe- Jol-m=C~harine, (!au. Lachlai1 Neil, Hc-ctor, . _\jurdoch. [1.farnli:ne=Alexamkr Ma1:kc•d Mi'lrior.=Ro11a'.d Da·Jghter=l1c11ald IJ::iualLl, Znoi. do11ald of Clanr;:mald. r.tm:fran .of Jorloisk. Ls;. of Vaslan. ' of Gle11dnl'I' MacUonal

THE MACNEILS OF TA YNISH & GIGHA

1. Neil, said to have been a brother of I M orchard of Barra, XX VII 2. Torquil, 1429 ------''------~ I I I Neil, 1455 3. Hector, 1464 Malcolm, 1478 I I I Colin, 1495 4. Neil, 1516 Torquil, 1531 I I I 5. Neil, ·1542 Annahella, 1542 I I I l l 6. Neil of John Og. of Malcolm, Hector, Taynish, 1590 Gallachalli e, 1590 1564 1576 I ''------I I I ! I 7. Hector of Neil Og. Neil Donald of Malcolm Beg, Taynish, of Durlacher Og. Gallachallie 1628 1613 1628 I I I I I I I I I 8. Hector Donald John Annette Macneils Macneils Neil Og. of of of of of Arichonan Tavnish Ardbeg Tirfeargus Gallachallie . I Lossit I I Cushendun i. Mary 9. John Donald Tarbert I I I ii. Isobel of Ugadale Malcolm John of Donald iii. Margaret Tavnish Faughart Arichonan of 1653 Crear I I I Macneils Macneils Elspeth 10. Neil of Taynish of of I t697 Arichonan Colonsay I I I I I I 1. Hector Daniel Archibald Neil Margaret of Taynish I I I l 12. Roger of Archibald Daughter Taynish I I 13. Roger of Taynish and Raploch I I 14. Daniel Henry l\1acNeill Hamilton of Raploch and Broornhill I I - .. ·---· - -- --·-·- ----··-- ! I 15. Thomas Montgomery MacN eill Hamilton Wilham Henry MacN eill Hamilton of Raploch and Broornhill of Raploch and Broomhill I 16. Henry Montgomery MacNeill Hamilton of Raploch and Broomhill ( of Taynish and Gigh~)

INDEX

A Aulaf the White, King of the Danes, 22. Adhamhar Foltchaion, 6. Auldearn, Battle of, 123. Aedhan Glas, son of Nuadhas, 4. Aefa, daughter of Alpin, 9. B Agnomain, 1. Agnon, Fionn, 1. Bachca (Lorne), battle at, 58. Aileach, Fortress of, 14, 15. Badhbhchadh, 5. Ailill, son of Eochaidh, 12. Baile Thangusdail (Barra), 179. Aillin, 4. Baine, daughter of Seal Balbh, 8. Airer Gaedhil ( see ARGYLL). Baliol, Edward, 40. Aithiochta, wife of Feargal IX, 19. Bannockburn, Battle of, 40. Alba (Scotland), 13. Baoth, 1. Alexander II, King of Scotland, 38. Bar, Barony of, Kintyre, 40. Alexander III, King of Scotland, 38. Barra, origin of name, 26, 150 et Alladh, 1. seq.; Allan, son of R uari, 39. description, 167, 174, 179 et seq.; Allan nan Sop, ( see ALLAN 1fAc- settled by the Macneils, 24; LEAN OF GIG HA). Charters, 42, 45, 83, 99 ; Allen, Battle of, 19. Norse occupation, 27-32 ( see Alpin, King of the Picts, 9. Norsemen); America, Emigration to, 90, 93, 122, under Lordship of the Isles, 39, 133 et seq., 206, 207, 210. 41; Ancrum Moor, Battle of, 100. sale of, 137; Angus Og, son of John of the Isles, brooches, 28-31 ; 45. religion, 145 et seq. (see MAC­ Ann Jane, wreck of the, 195. NEIL). Antigonish, settlement at, 136. "Barra Song," 25. Aodh Aonrachan, 41. "Barra Register," quoted, 25, 33. Aodh, son of Aodh Aonrachan XX, Barton, Robert, 49. 24. Baruma, The (a tax), 19. Aoife, wife of Fiacha, 10. Battle customs, 161-164. Aongus Olmucach, 4. Bealgadain, Battle of, 4. Aongus Tuirneach-Teamrach, son of Bearnera, Isle, ( see B erneray). Eochaidh, 6. Beatson, Rev. Henry, 149. Ard Macha ( Ardmagh), 5. Ben Eoligarry, 34. Ardmagh ( Ard Macha), 5. Benia, daughter of Crimthan, 7. Ardnacross, Macneils of, v, 107, Beotact, 6. 122-126. Beauman, 1. Ardnamurchan, 45. Bern Bige, Battle of, 62. Ardtornish, 44. Berneray, Isle of, 167, 173. Argyll, 13, 16. Bible, Irish, 155. Argyll, Duke of, Chief of Clan Biey fir (man's portion), 163. Campbell, q. v., iii, v, 41, 107, 111, Bilius, 2. 121. Binns, Elizabeth Dixon, wife of Argyll, Earl of, 49, 50, 61, 82, 166. Roderick Ambrose XLIV, 90, 208. Arichonan, Macneils of, v, 106. Binns, Thos. Dixon, 90. Arran, 55. Biola-creag (Mingulay), 181. Arran, Earl of, 49. Bishops Isles, 160, 173. Art Ean £hear ( Art the Lonely), son Black, Dr. George F., 193. of Conn, 9. Blatact, 6. Art Imleach, 4. Bloody Bay, Battle of, 45. Art of Uellthan, 7. Boisdale ( South Uist), 42, 64, Si, Asruth, 1. 88. Assaman Eamhna, 6. Bolito, Colonel, 107. 213 The Clan Macneil

Borniskittaig, 82. Campbell, Alex., of Dunstaffnage, Borve, (Barra), 88, 179. 102. Boyle, Sir Robert, 155-156. Campbell, Archibald, 107. Brath, 1. Campbell, Archibald, of Inverawe, Bras d'Or lakes, settlement at, 136. 102. Breachd-Achada, Castle of, 43, 44. Campbell, Barbara, 107. Breasioghacta, 4. Campbell, Catherine, 107. Breoghan, 2. Campbell, Catherine Anne, 98. Brevaig, Macneils of, 89, 93, 97-98, Campbell, Duncan, of Castleswynie, 134. 57. Brian, son of Eochaidh, 12. Campbell, Elizabeth, 101, 102, 104. Brigantia, City of, 2. Campbell, Elizabeth, 103. Brolas, 82. Campbell, Lady Emma Augusta, Brooks, Carol ( see MRs. HERMON 110. A. MAcN EIL). Campbell, Esther, 107. Browne, Adelaide 1'fcNiel, 210. Campbell of Glenlyon, 62, 77. Browne, R. McNiel, 208. Campbell, Isabella, 102. Browne, Mrs. R. McNiel, 210. Campbell, John Livingston, of Brownie, 166, 196. Achallader, 88. Brownlow, Charles, Lord Lurgan, Campbell, Marie, 103. 88. Campbell, Neil, of Duntroon, 102. Brownlow, Lt. Col. Charles, of Lur­ Campbell, Rev. Neil, 104. gan, 88. Campbell, :Mary, 102. Bruce, Robert the, King of Scotland, Cape Breton, Emigration, 93, 207, 39, 40, 119. 210, 133 et seq. Bruidhi, King of the Picts, 26. Carolan, Rev. Mr., 146. Buchanan, Donald, 208. Carlton Point, settlement at, 137. Buchanan, Michael, of Borve, 33. Carman, Battle of, 4. Burgoyne, General, 94. Carmichael, Edith, 104. Burton, Dr. John, 87. Carmichael, Thomas, 104. Bute, 55. Carskey, Macneils of, v, 120. Bute, Macneils of, 126-128. Carstairs, Anne Elizabeth, 111. Buya Minor, Isle of, 160, 176. Carthage, 1. Buya Major, Isle of, 160, 176. Carthan Cais Dubh, mother of Niall Bwyabeg (see BuJ,1a). Mor, 10, 11. Bwya Moir, (see Bu:ya). Castlebay (Barra), 147, 180, 182. Castlehill Church, 121. C Cathal, honours the head of Feargal, 19. Cacht, wife of Maelduin, VIII, 18. Cathcart, Lady (Gordon), 110. Cairbre Lifeachar, son of Cormac, Ceirb, 10. 9. Chambers, Catherine, 103. Cairnburg, 47, 49. Charles II, King of England, 81. Caldwell, Eliza, 210. Chief, trial of a, 161 et seq. Calvagh, King of Ulidia, 10. Chisholm, Alexander, 98. Cameron, Duncan, pilot for Prince Chisholm, Canon, 147. Charles, 86. Christmas Island, Church at, 136. Cameron, Sir Ewen, of Fassifern, Church of Scotland, 145, 148. 88. Cille-bharra, (see Kilbarray). Cameron, Rev. Hugh, 148. Cingcris, Pharaoh, 1. Cameron, Sir John, 88. Ciosmuill Castle (see KrsrMuL). Cameron of Lochiel, 48, 51, 62, 199. Clammer, Mrs. George Monroe, 210. Campbell, Clan, iii, v, 121 (see also Clans, Early History of the Scot- ARGYLL). tish, v, vi. Campbell, Alex., of Craignish, 102. Clontarf, Battle of, 32. 214 Index

Cnoc mBaine, 8. Dermod, King of Ireland, 18. Cobhthach Caomh, 6. Dian, son of Deman, 4. Cockle Shells, 168, 175. Dingwall, 44. Cockman ( see GocKMIN). Donal an Togdhamh, son of Aodh Coffey the Slender ( Colethach Caol­ XIX, 24. bhreagh), 5. Donald Dubh, 47, 48, 52, 53, 56. Colethach Caol-bhreagh ( Coffey the Donald Gruamach, 50. Slender), 5. Douglas, Lt. Col. Baird, 130. Coll, 43. Drinking customs, 75, 164. Colla da Chrioch, 10. Druid, Chief, 162-164. Colla Mean, 10. Druin-na-n Druagh, 7. Colla Uais, 10. Duach Fionn, 5. Collier's Hall, 115. Duach Ladhrach, son of Fiacha, 5. Colonsay, Macneils of, v, 106-114. Dubh Galls, 20. Colpoys, Susan, 95. Dubhteach, son of Moindeach, 14. Conal the Speckled, 18. Dublin, Norse Kingdom of, 22, 28, Conla Caomh ( Conla the Comely), 35. 6. Dugan, Rev. Dermit, 145, 146. Conmael, son of Heber Fionn, 3. Duinseach, daughter of Duach Conn Ceadcathach (Conn of the Teangabha, wife of Muirceartach Hundred Battles), 9. IV, 17. Connecticut, Emigration to, 210. Duncanson, Robert, 156. Cormae Ulfhada, son of Art, 9. Dundas, Ann, 109. Craigston (Barra) Chapel at, 147, Dundee, Viscount, 84, 199. 148. Dunoon, Hugh, 135. Cratloe Mountains, 11. Dynes, Abel, the affair of, 67 et seq. Crear, v, 106-107. Crimthann Niadh Nar, son of E Lughaidh, 7. Crimthann, King of Ireland, 11. Eadhna Dearg, 5. Criomthan Cosgrach, 6. Eddy, Mrs. Mary Baker, 142. Crofinna, daughter of Art of Uell­ Edge, Commander, R. N., excava- than, 7. tions in the Hebrides, 28. Crom Cruadh, idol of Tighernmas, Egypt, Niall of Scythia, in, 1. 3. Eighty-second Regiment, disbanded Cromwell, Oliver, 81. in Nova Scotia, 133. Cross Creek, N. C., 138. Eiliomh MacConrach, 8. Culloden, Battle of, 138. Eionbiothad, son of Tighernmas, 3. Customs of the Macneils, 152, 159 Eithrial, son of !rial Faidh, 3. et seq. ( see Religion). Elizabeth, Queen of England, 62. Cushendun, McNeills of, 116. Emigration, America, 133 et seq.; Cape Breton, 93, 207, 210, 133 et D seq; North Carolina, 138, 122 ; Dalaruan, Castle of, 121. Nova Scotia, 93, 133 et seq., 206,. Darletus, King of the Picts, 7. 207, 210; Dale, David, 134. Dalriada, Kingdom of, 6, 13, 15, Ontario, 137; 16, 26. Prince Edward Island, 97, 206- Danes (see Norsemen). 133 et seq.; Davarr, 27. United States, 90, 210, 137, l3S­ David II, King of Scotland, 41. et seq., 142. Deag, 1. England, alliance of the Clans with,. Deman, son of Roitheachtaigh, 4. 52. Derbforguill, wife of Lughaidh, 7. Enna Aighneach, son of Aongus, 6~ 215 The Clan Macneil

Eochaidh ( of Leinster), assassin of Fionn Fionnlogha, 7. Niall, 13. Fishing, customs, 152 ; Eochaidh Altleathan, son of OlioU, dues, 79. 6. Fladay, (see Flodday). Eochaidh Buadhach, son of Duach, Flodday, Isle of, 174, 176. 5. Foll-Aich, son of Eithrial, 3. Eochaidh Feidhlioch, son of Fionn, Forbes, Lady Georgina, 108 7. Forestan, Rev. Mr., 146. Eochaidh M uigh Meadhoin, son of Four Masters, The, 23. Muireadach, 10. Fraser Highlanders, in Canada, 133. Eoligarry (Barra), 180, 182. Fuda, Isle of, 160, 167, 177. Erca, daughter of Loarn Mor, 15. Fullarton, Rev. Robert, 106. Eriskay, Isle of, 86, 166, 167, 178. Ersary, Macneils of, 85, 89, 93, 134. G Ethne, daughter of Imgheal, 8. Ethne, daughter of Dunlang, 9. Gabhra, Battle of, 10. Gaedhal, 1. F Galicia, Gaelic occupation of, 1-2. Fanning, Rev. George, 146, 149. Gallachallie, Macneils of, v, 100, 105. Fara (see Fiara31). Garulanga, Isle of, 176. Faroes, 31. Gigarun, Isle of, 173. Farquhar, Lady (Helen Eva Forbes Gigay, Isle of, 177. McNeill), 102, 114. Gigha, Macneils of Taynish and, v, Faughart, McNeills of, 115. 40, 41, 58, 98-104, 120. Fayetteville, N. C., 138. Gilireamhach, 44. Fearchorb, son of Modhchorb, 6. Gillies, Annabelle, 104, 107. Feargus Fortamhail, 6. Giolchadh, son of Olioll, 4. Glengarry, 199, 200. Febric Glas, 1. F edhlimidh Rachtmar ( F edhlimidh Glenlivat, battle at, 61. the Lawgiver) , 8. Gockmin, 160, 163, 182. Fenius the Antiquarian, 1. Godred Crovan, son of Harald the Feray, (see Fiaray). Black, 35. Feredach Fionn-Feachtnach (Fere­ Gold, discovery in Ireland, 3. dach the Just), 7. Gometra, 57. Fergus, "The Withered," son of Gordon of Glenbucket, 87. Eochaidh, 12. Gordon, Lt. Col. John, of Ouny, Fergus, brother of Loarn, King of sale of Barra to, 137. Dalriada, 16. Gormfhliath, wife of Niall XII, 21. Fergus, son of Muirceartach IV, 17, Graham, D. Cunningham, 110. 18, 25. Grand Narrows, settlement at, 136. Fiachra, son of Eochaidh, 12. Grant, Rev. James, 146, 149. Fiachra, of Munster, 10. Griffin, Nancy, 210. Fiacha Labhrainn, son of Smiom­ H ghall, 3. Fiacha Fionn Ola, son of Feredach Hafursfiord, Battle of, 31. the Just, 8. Hamilton, Daniel Henry MacN eill, Fiacha Firara, brother of Enna, 103. ancestor of the Scottish Kings, 6. Hamilton, Henry Montgomery Mac­ Fiacha Srabhteine, son of Coirbre, N eill, 103. 10. Hamilton, Thomas Montgomery Fiacha Tolgrach, 5. MacN eill, 103. Fiaray, Isle of, 160, 167, 177. Hamilton, Wm. Henry MacN eill, Finbar, ( see St. Barr). 103. Finn Eamhna, son of Eochaidh, 7. Harold Harfager, King of Norway, Finn Galls, 20. 31. 216 · Index

Harding, Warren G., 205. J Harlaw, Battle of, 42. Hay, Isle of, 177. James I, King of Scotland, 42. Heavel (peak in Barra), 182. James III, King of Scotland, 39. Heber, son of Milesius, 2, 11. James IV, King of Scotland, 45, 47, Heber Glunfionn, 1. 48. Heber Scot, 1. James V, King of Scotland, 51, 99. Hebrides, 9, 10, 24, 31, 35; James VI, King of Scotland, 60, 62. Ceded to Scotland, 39 ; James II, King of Great Britain, Charters revoked by James IV, 83. 45, 47; Jamison, Neil, of Bute, 127. Religion, 145 ; Japhet, 1. Under Cromwell, 82. John, Bishop of the Isles, 56. Hellavel (peak in Barra), 182. John Mor, the Tanister, 42. Hellesay, Isle of, 177 John of Moidart, 51 Henry VIII, King of England, 52. Johnson, Duncan James, 139. Heremon, son of Milesius, 2, 5. Johnson, James McNeill, 139. Highland Emigration to America, Johnson, Dr. Samuel, 148. 133 et seq. Judkins, Mrs. Anna E. McNeil, 210. Hughes, Mary, 210. Humphrey, Barbara Allen, wife of K Iain XLIII, 90. Humphrey, William, 90. Kearney, Anna, 94. Huntley, Marquis of, 65, 82. Keily, Horace R., 1, 91. Hy Nials of the North, 14; of the Kenguba, Battle of, 8. South, 14. Kennedy-Fraser, Mrs. Marjorie, 25, 131. . Kennedy, James, poet, 204, 205. I Kil bar ( see K ilbarray). Kilbarray (Barra), 27, 151, 160, 167, Iain Garbh ( see MACLEAN). 168, 170, 175. Iaran Gleofathach, son of Melghe, Killiecrankie, Battle of, 84, 199. 6. Kilmoire, Church of, 169. Iceland, 31. Kilmore, Macneils of, 127-128. Idh Moran (the Chain of Moran), 7. Kinlochmoidart, 82. Imgheal, King of the Picts, 8. Kintyre, 13, 27, 40, 82, 94, 119, 155. Indorba Finn, wife of Eoghan II, Kintyre, Macneils of, v, 27, 120, 123. 14. Kisimul Castle, 72, 86, 149, 170, 175, Ineachtfee, daughter of Dubhteach, 182, 183 et seq., 195. wife of Niall Mor, 14. Ingemund, Norse Governor of the L Hebrides, 35. Inhaistye, Loch, 44. Labraidh Lore, 6. Innesfail, 2. Laeghaire Lore (Leary the Fierce), "Instructions for a King" (Teagusc 5. na Righ), 9. Lagman, son of God red, Norse Iona, 20, 26, 129, 151. Governor of the Hebrides, 35, 36. Ireland, learning in, 21. Lamhfionn, 1. Irial Faidh, son of Heremon, 3. Lamont, Clan, v, 24, 41. Irish descent, Ancient, of the Mac- Langdell, Mrs Lydia McNeil, 211. neils, iv, v, 1 et seq. Largs, Battle of, 38, 39. Isaac, Jane Bun bury, 103. Leary the Fierce (Laeghaire Lore), Islay, 57, 62. 5. Isles, Council of the, 37. Lewis, Island of, 36, 38, 65, 69, 75. Ith, 2. Lewy, son of Leary, 16. 217 The Clan Macneil

Lingay, Isle of, 160, 167, 173, 177. Macdonald, Donald, of Clanranald, Lia Fail, "Stone of Destiny," 16. 87. Loarn Mor, King of Scottish Dal Macdonald, Sir Donald, of Sleat, Riada, 15, 16. 161, 162. Loich, son of Darletus, 7. Macdonald, Donald Gorm, of Sleat, Lords of the Isles, 28, 37, 41, 42, 44, 64. 45, 50, 53, 56, 98. Macdonald, Dougald, 89, 93. Lossit, Macneils of, v. Macdonald, Flora, 83, 87. Louden, Agnes, 107. Macdonald, J arnes, of Clanranald, Lughaidh, 2; (2), 9. 88. Lughaidh Laighe, son of Oilioll Macdonald, James, of Dunyveg, 52, Fionn, 5. 56, 58. Lughaidh Sriabh-n Dearg, son of Macdonald, Sir James, of Sleat, 82. Finn, 7. Macdonald, Capt. John, of Bornis- Luchtach, The (Guard), 163. kittaig, 82. Lurgan, Lord, of Lurgan, 88. Macdonald, Rev. John, 147. Macdonald, Margaret, 97. MAC, Mc, M' Macdonald, Rev. Neil, 147. MacDonald, Penelope, of Sanda, Mac a Chreachair, phophecy of, 192. 196. McAlester, Grizel, 107. Macdonald Ranald, son of John of Macalister, Clan, 58. the Isles, 41. MacAllan, Roderick, 39, 40. Macdonnell, Rev. Allan, Sr., 147. MacAlpin, Kenneth, King of Scot- Macdonnell, Rev. Aeneas, 147. land, 22. Macdonnell, Rev. James Allan, Jr., Macaulay, Rev John, 86, 148. 93, 135, 147. MacConnel, James, of Dunyveg, 100. Macdonnell, Rev. William, 147. Macdonald, Clan, of Clan Ranald, Macdonnells of Glengarry, 199. 48, 57, 65, 67, 88, 199. Macdougall, John A., 207. Macdonald. Clan, of Islay, 57, 62. Mac Eachern, Catherine, 97. Macdonald, Clan, Lords of the MacEachern, Catherine, 97. Isles, 28. MacEachem, Rev., at Christmas Is- Macdonald, Clan, of Sleat, 57, 199. land, 136. Macdonald, Aeneas, 87. MacEwen, Clan, 24, 41. Macdonald, Alastair, 123. MacFergus, Godfrey, Lord of the MacDonald, Rev. Alex., 147. Isles, 28. Macdonald, Rev. Alex., of Arisaig, Macfies of Colonsay, 58. 136. Macgill, 43. Macdonald, Alex., of Boisdale, 87, Madan of Arnamurchan, 48, 49, 58. 88. MacIntyre, John, 96. Macdonald, Alexander, of Dunyveg, Mackay, Clan, 123. 50. Mackay, Catherine, of Ugadale, 118, Macdonald, Alexander, of Kinloch- 120. rnoidart, 82. Mackay, Donald, of Strathnaver, 51. Macdonald, Allan, of Morar, 94. Mackay, General, at Killiecrankie, Macdonald, Angus, 86. 84, 199 et seq. Macdonald, Rev. Angus, 147, 148. Mackay, Gilchrist, 119. Macdonald, Angus, of Balfinlay, 83. Mackay, Georgina, 109. Macdonald, Angus, of Dunyveg, 57. Mackenzie, Clan, 69, 75. Macdonald, Rev. Archibald, 149. Mackenzie, Roderick, Tutor of Kin­ Macdonald, Catherine, 97. tail, 63 et seq., 72, 76, 83. Macdonald, Captain, of Arisaig, 89, Mackenzie, Sir John, son of Tutor 94. of Kintail, 52, 66. Macdonald, Cole, of Colonsay, 56. Mackenzie of Seaforth, 75, 83, 89, Macdonald, Rev. Donald, 147. 93. 218 Index

Mackenzie, Rev. Wiltiam, 148. Macleod, Roderick, 1st, of Ulinish, Mackinnon, Clan, 48, 57, 62, 64, 77. 96. MacKinnon, Charles, 211. Macleod, William, of Luskintyre, 83. Mackinnon, John, 87. Macleod, Torquil, 47. Mackinnon of Barra, 33. Macleod, Rev. William, 148. Mackinnon of Strath, 58. Macleod, Rev. William, 96. Mackintosh, Rev. William, 147. Macmanus, Barra Chronicler, 33. Maclachlan, Clan, 24, 41. MacMaster, Rev. William, 148. Maclachlan, Lachlan, 103. Macmemeny, Barra Chronicler, 33. Maclean, Clan, 45, 47, 48, 57. MacNaghten, Jane, 116. Maclean of Borreray, 58. MACNEIL, CLAN (Clann Niall of Maclean of Duart, 48, 50, 52, 67, 77, Scotland). Name, iv, 34. 82, 99, 199. Ancient Irish Descent, iv, v, 1 ; Maclean of Lochbuie, 48. Sources of history, 24; Maclean, Sir Alexander, 199. Charters, 42, 45, 83, 99 ; Maclean, Allan, of Gigha (Allan Customs, 159 et seq.; nan Sop), 47, 49, 57, 99. Legends, 189; Maclean, Charles, 57. Religion, 145 et seq.; Maclean, Donald, of Cairnburg, 58. Friendship Macleans, 42, 47 ; Maclean, Donald, of Brolas, 82. Under Lords of the Isles, 39, 41; Maclean, Ferquhard, of Glenurchart, At Bannockburn, 40; 42. At Battle of Killiecrankie, 199; Maclean, Sir Fitzroy Donald, of Emigration, 90, 93, 122, 133 et seq, Duart, Chief of the Clan, 82. 206, 207, 210; Maclean, Ewen, of Treshnish, 57. In American War of Independ­ Maclean, Hector, of Duart, 42. ence, 88, 94, 133, 139, 209 ; Maclean, Hector, of Duart, 58. In the World War, 116, 119, 128, Maclean, Hector Mor, 47. 130, 138; Maclean, Hector Og, of Duart, 62. Macneil Association of America, Maclean, John Garve (Iain Garbh), 205 et seq., 138, 140. 43-44. CHIEFS OF THE CLAN : Maclean, Sir Lachlan, of Duart, 57, I-Niall Naoighiallach or Niall 62. Mor (Neil of the Nine Hos­ Maclean, Lachlan Bronneach, of tages) or Neil the Great, iv, 11- Duart, 42. 14, 24, 25. Maclean, Lachlan Cattanach, of II-Eoghan, son of Niall of the Duart, 47. Nine Hostages, 14, 24. Maclean, Rev. Lachlan, 148. III-Muireadach, son of Eoghan Macleod, Oan, 45, 81, 57. II, 15, 24. 1,f acleod of Dunvegan, 51, 62. IV-M uirceartach Mor MacErca, Macleod of Harris, 42, 49, 50, 52, son of Muireadach III, 15-17. 56, 57, 62, 64. V-Donal Ilchealgach, son of :Macleod of Lewis, 42, 48, 50, 51, 52, M uirceartach IV, 17, 18, 25. 56, 58, 69. VI-Aodh Uariodhnach, son of Macleod of Macleod, 200. Donal V, 18. Macleod, Alex., of Glendale, 82. VII-Maolfreach, son of Aodh Macleod, Alister, of Dunvegan, 58. VI, 18, 19. Macleod, Malcolm, of Brea, 87. VIII-Maelduin, son of Maol­ Macleod, Neil, of Lewis, "Neill the Traytour," 69. freach VII, 18. Macleod, Sir Norman, of Bernera, IX-Feargal, son of Maelduin 82, 83. VIII, 18, 19. Macleod, Norman, 2nd, of Gres­ X-Niall Frassach, Niall the hornish, 96. Showery, son of Feargal IX, Macleod, Norman, of Unish, 85. 19-20. 219 The Clan Macneil

XI-Aodh Ordnigh, Hugh the XXXIV-Roderick, Rory Og or Dignified, son of Niall Fras­ Young Rory, 56-62, 97,149. sach X, 20. XXXV-Roderick, Rory the Tur­ XII-Niall Caille, Niall of the bulent, son of Roderick XXXIV, Cullan, son of Aodh XI, 21. 57, 62-74, 95. XIII-Aodh Finnlaith, Hugh the XXXVI-Neil Og son of Roder­ Hoary, son of Niall XII, 21-22. ick XXXV, 67 et seq., 74-82, XIV-Niall Glundubh, Niall 149, 166. Black Knee, son of Aodh XIII, XXXVII-Gilleonan, son of Neil 22. XXXVI, 74, 82-83, 149. XV-M uirceartach na Cochall XXXVIII-Roderick, "Roderick Croiceann, M uirceartach of the Dhu (The Black)," XXXVII, Leather Cloaks, son of Niall 82, 83-85, 89, 93, 96, 149. XIV, 22. XXXIX-Roderick, "The Dove of XVI-Donal of Armagh, son of the West," son of Roderick M uirceartach XV, 23. XXXVIII, 24, 83, 85-88, 89, 93, XVII-M uirceartach na Midhe 149. (of Meath), son of Donal XVI, XL-Roderick, "The Gentle," 23. grandson of Roderick XXXIX, XVIII-Flathartach an Trostain, 33, 87, 88, 89, 93, 96, 133, 147, Flaherty of the Pilgrim's Staff, 149, 150. son of M uirceartach XVII, 23. XLI-Roderick, "The General," XIX-Aodh Athlamh, Hugh the son of Roderick XL, 88, 89, 94, Dexterous, son of Flathartach 137. XVIII, 23-24. XLII-Hector Edward, son of XX-Aodh Aonrachan, Hugh the Hector of Ersary, 89-90. Solitary, son of Aodh XIX, 24. XLIII-Iain (John), son of Hec­ XXI-Niall of Barra, son of tor Edward XLII, 90. Aodh Aonrachan, 24-35, 184. XLIV-Roderick Ambrose, son of XXII-Aodh, or Hugh, son of Iain XLIII, 90. Niall XXI, 35-36. XLV-Robert Lister, son of XXIII-Donal, son of Aodh Roderick Ambrose XLIV, v, 90- XXII, 36-37. 91, 203, 205. XXIV-Muirceartach, son of CADETS OF CLAN NIALL. Donal XXIII, 37. Macneils of Ardnacross, 122-126. XXV-Niall, son of Muirceartach Macneils of Arichonan, v, 106. XXIV, 37. Macneils of Brevaig, 97-98. XXVI-N iall Og, or Young Neil, Macneils of Bute, 126-128. son of Niall XXV, 39-40. Macneils of Carskey, v, 120. XXVII-Muirceartach (Mur- Macneils of Colonsay, v, 106-114. chard), son of Niall Og XXVI, Macneils of Crear, v. 40-41, 98. Macneils of Cushendun, 116. XXVIII-Roderick, son of M ur­ Macneils of Ersary, 85, 89, 93, chard XXVII, 42. 104. XXIX-Gilleonan, son of Roder­ Macneils of Gallachallie, v, 100, ick XXVIII, 42-44, 183. 105. XXX-Roderick, son of Gilleonan Macneils of Kintyre, v, 27, 120, XXIX, 44. 123. Macneils of Lossit, v. XXXI-Gilleonan, son of Roderick Macneils of Skirval and Vatersay, XXX, 45-50. 33, 85, 95-96. XXXII-Gilleonan, son of Gilleo­ The Swift Macneils, 94. nan XXXI, 50-52. Macneils of Tarbert, 104. XXXIII-Gilleonan, son of Gil­ Macneils of Tirfeargus, 104, 114- leonan XXXII, 52-56. 118, 120. 220 Index

Macneils of Taynish and Gigha, Colin, son of Neil of Taynish, 99. v, 40, 41, 58, 98-104, 120. :Maj or Cyril, 130. Macneils of Ugadale, 118, 119-120, Cyrus Granville, 208. 121, 123. . Daniel, 139. Macneils of Vaslan, 33, 85, 95. Rev. Daniel, 106. MACNEIL (For convenience in refer­ Daniel Hamilton, 103. ence, the individual spelling of the Daniel Hector, 139 name "Macneil" is disregarded in Daniel James, 130. the index ( see pp. iv, 34). The David, 210. given names follow in alphabetical Capt. David, 129. order). Donald, 133. Aaron, 210. Donald, 136. Abby Stiles, 141. Donald, 139. Abraham, 141. Donald, 208. Abraham, 141. Sir Donald, of Ardnacross, 124. Agnes F ., 208. Donald, 1st of Colonsay, 104, 106. Alden Brooks, 142. Donald, 3rd of Colonsay, 108. Alexander, 138, 206, 208. Donald, son of John Og, of Gal- Alexander, 207. lachallie, 101, 105. Alexander, 208. Donald, of Gallachallie, 103, 105. Alexander, 209. Donald, of Gallachallie, 105. Capt. Alex., 6th of Colonsay, 109, Donald, of Kenachreggan and 111. Canna, 88. Alex., of Oronsay, 109. Donald, 2nd, of Skirval, 95. Alexander Carstairs, of Colonsay, Donald, of Tarbert, 104. 112. Donald, of Taynish, 102, 103. Alexander D., 210. Donald, 1st, of Vatersay, 83, 85, Rev. Allan, 206, 208, 209, 210. 96. Rev. Allan Hugh, 130. Donald, 3rd, of Vatersay, 96. Dr. Ambrose, 208. Donald McGillepek, 127. Andrew, son of Hector Edward Donald Taynish, 140. XLII. 90. Capt. Dougald, 208, 210. Angus, ·97_ Duncan, Lord Colonsay, 109. Rev. Angus, 2nd of Vatersay, 33, Capt. Duncan, 112. 88, 96, 149, 150. Gunner Duncan, 129. Anna E. (see JUDKINS). Edgar E., 208. Annie C., 141. Mrs. Elizabeth D., 90, 208. Archibald, 129. Ewen Cameron, son of Roderick Archibald, i96. XL, 88. Archibald, executed after Cullo- Fannie, 143. den, 139. Flora, daughter of Roderick Archibald, of Arichonan, 106. XXXIV, 57. Archibald, 4th of Colonsay, 109. Florence Edith, 90. Archibald, of Colonsay, 110. Florence M., 129. Barbara, 104. Forbes, 111. Benedict, 208. Frank, 210. Betsey, 141. Frank Patterson, 142. Blair Belinda, 95. George, son of Hector Edward C. Granville, 141. XLII, 90. Caleb H., 141. George, son of Ugadale, 119. Catherine, 97. George, of Ardnacross, 125. Charles A., 207. Rev. George, 209. Charles Donald, 139. George B., 208. Charles Frederick, 90. Gilleon, son of Hector Edward Claude Lash, 208, 142. XLII, 90. 221 The Clan Macneil

Gilleonan, son of Gilleonan James, 210. XXXIII, 56, 61. James, of Brevaig, 97. Gilleonan, 1st, of Brevaig, brother James, 1st, of Ersary, son of of Roderick Og XXXIV, 97. Roderick XXXVIII, 83, 89, 93. Gilleonan, son of Roderick James, son of Hector Og, of XXXV, 67 et seq. Ersary, 89, 93, 98, 136, 147. Gilleonan, of Brevaig, 97. James P., 207. Gilleonan, son of Roderick of James Purdie, 140. Brevaig, 89. James W., 140. Gordon, 94. James W., 209. Capt. Gorrie, of Ardnacross, 124. Jane, 141. Grissel, 141. Jane, 141. H. Elizabeth, 141. Janet, 208, 210. Hannah Elizabeth ( see TALBOT). Janette, 141. Hariet, 141. John, 133. Hattie C., 141. John, 136. Hector, Emigrant to North Caro- John, 138. lina, 122. John, 140. Hector, (poet), 130. John, 141. Hector, piper, 208. John, 142. Hector, of Ardbeg, 102. John, 207. Major Hector, of Ardnacross, 107, John, 207. 124. John, 208. Rev. Hector, of Ardnacross, 125. John, 209. Hector, of Carskey, 121. John, 209. Hector Og, 2nd, of Ersary, 85, John, 210. 89, 93, 97, 134, 147. Gen. John, 142. Hector, son of Hector Og of Rev. John, Evangelist, 207. Ersary, 89, 93, 94, 97, 134, 135. Sir John( 143. Hector, of Scurrival, 33. John, son of Roderick XXXIV, Hector, 3rd, of Skirval, 83, 95. 57, 58. Hector, of Tarbert, 104. John Og, son of Roderick XXXV, Hector, of Taynish and Gigha, 67 et seq. (1) 98, 99; (2) 100; (3) 101, John, son of Gilleonan XXXVII, 102; ( 4) 103. 94. Capt. Hector, 2nd, of Ugadale, John, of Ardbeg, 102. 119. John, of Ardnacross, 124. Capt. Hector, of Ugadale, 121. John, of Arichonan, 106. Hector, 4th, of Ugadale, 119. John, 5th, of Colonsay, 109. Hector, 5th, of Ugadale, 119 John Og, of Gallachallie, 100, 101, Hector, son of Neil Og XXXVI, 105, 106. 1st, of Vaslan, 95. John, of Gigha, 104. Hector, 3rd, of Vaslan, 85, 95. John, of Parkmount, 115. Sir Hector Murray, 119. John, of Taynish, 103. Henry, of Binian, 105. John, of Tirfergus, 155. Hermon Atkins, 141, 205, 207, 208. John, son of Hector of Vas1an, Mrs. Hermon Atkins, 142, 208. 33. Hector Law Howard, 109. John, K.G.C.B., 110. Dr. Hugh, Dean of Ripon, 115. Ida (see MRS. GEo. M. CLAMMER). Prof. John, 130. Col. J. G. R. D., 117. John A., 138. J. Murdoch, 138. John B., 209. James, 130. John B., 209. James, 141. Maj. Gen. Sir John Carstairs, 111. James, 208. John Clinton, 141. 222 Index

John Gordon Swift (1) 95; (2) Mrs. Natalie, 209. 95. Neil, 138. John Quinn, 138. Most Rev. Archbishop Neil, 208, Jonathan, 210. 138. Mrs. Josephine, 209. Capt. Neil, 128. Katherine, 138. Neil, editor, 209, 138. Rev. L.G., D.D., 138. Neil of Ardmunich, 104. Lachlan, of Brevaig, 97, 98. Neil, 1st, of Ardnacross, 107. Lachlan "Buie," of Tirfeargus, Neil, of Ardnacross, 104, 107, 123. 104, 106, 114. Neill, of Ardnacross, 124. Lachlan, of Tarbert, 104, 105. Neil, J. P., of Ardnacross, 125. Lachlin, 206. Neil Og, of Arichonan, 106. Leila, 129. Neil, of Ardtally, 104. Lincoln, 209. Neil "Buie," of Tirfeargus, 115. Lydia ( see LANGDELL). Neil, of Culhane, 117. Lydia Shaw, 141. Neil, of Cushendun, 116. Malcolm, 129. Neil Og, of Dunlacher, 101, 104, Malcolm, 207. 112. Brig. Gen. Malcolm, 110. Neil Og, son of John Og of Gal­ ·Capt. Malcolm, 106. lachallie, 101. Col. Malcolm, 110. Neil, of Jura, emigration to North Lt. Col. Malcolm, of Cariskey, Carolina, 138. his Brownie, 196. Neil "Uisteach," 1st, of Skirval, Sir Malcolm, 102, 110, 113-114. son of Roderick XXXV, 67 et Malcolm Beg, son of John Og of seq., 95, 149. Gallachallie, 101, 106. Neil, 1st, of Taynish and Gigha, Malcolm, 2nd, of Colonsay, 107, 40, 98. 108. Neil, of Taynish and Gigha, 98, Malcolm, of Drumchoir, 104. 99. Malcolm, of Tarbert, 104, 107. Neil, son of Hector of Taynish, Malcolm, of Taynish and Gigha, 99. 98, 99, 100. Neil, grandson of Hector of Tay- Margaret, 97. nish, 99-100. Margaret, 209. Neil, of Taynish, 100-101, 114. Marion Moor, 142. Neil, 1st, of Ugadale, 118, 119. Mary, 207. Neil, 2nd, of V aslan, 95. Mary, 209. Newell, 141. Dr. Mary, 129. Dr. Norman M., 209. Mary, wife of Roderick XXXIV, Capt. Patrick Kerr, 129. 57. Paul Humphrey, 90, 207. !tfary, of Ugadale, 107. Peter, 141. Mary Alice, 141. Peter, 142. Mary Colpoys Dean, 95. Peter, 208. Mary Jane, 141. Peter, 210. Mary Pratt, 141. Peter Patterson, 141. Mary Stiles, 141, 211. Rachael, 141. Mathew, 133. Rachael Patterson, 141. Michael, Castlebay, 33, 97. Mrs. Rachael Patterson, 141. Michael, 210. Ralph, 209. Rev. Milton, 209. Ralph L., 209. Moore, 210. Robert, 210. Murdo, son of Roderick XXXIV, Robert H., 140, 206. 57, 58, 62. Robert Vv., 207. Murdoch, 133. Robinson, son of Hector Edward Prof. Murray, 138. XLII, 90. 223 The Clan Macneil

Roderick, 136. MacSween, Clan, 41. Roderick, piper, 207, 208. McTavish, Margaret, 103. Roderick, 209. Roderick, "The Resolute," son of M Roderick XXXIX, 85, 87, 95, 133, 150. . Mach, Queen, of the Red Hair, 5. Roderick, 2nd, of Brevaig, 89, 93, Machair, The (Barra), 181. 97, 134. Maen, son of Aongus Olmucach, 4. Roderick Og, of Brevaig, 97, 134. Maeve, Queen, 7. Roderick, son of Lachlan of Bre- Magh Cro, Massacre, 7. vaig, 98. Magh Rath (Moire), Battle of, 18. Roger, of Taynish, 103. Magh Sleacht, 3. Roger Montgomery Hamilton, 103. Magnus, Bareleg, 35-36. Ronald John, 116. Magog, 1. Sally, 141. Maion, 5. Stephen B., 209. Mal, King of Ulster, 8. Susan Carruthers, 110, 113. Malcolm II, King of Scotland, 24, Torquil, of Taynish and Gigha, 98. 32. Torquil, son of Malcolm of Tay- Man, Isle of, 31, 35. nish, 99. Maolmuire, wife of Aodh XIII, 22. Torquil, son of Lachlan "Buie," Margaret, Queen of Scotland, 39. of Tirfeargus, 118, 120. Martin, Bishop Donald, 148. Torquil Duncan F., 6th, of Uga- Mary, Queen of Scots, 57, 63, 99. dale, 119. Meadhbh, wife of Aodh XI, 21. Thomas, 210. Mealloch, 169. Thomas, 210. Melghe Molbhthach, son of Cole­ Wallace, 210. thach, 6. Walter W., 207. Mellifay, Isle, 160. Walter William, 142. Mercereau, Elizabeth, wife of Hec­ Prof. Wilbur, 210. tor Edward XLII, 90, 94. Wilbur, J., 141. Metcalf, Kathleen, wife of Robert William, 140. Lister XLV, 91. William, 141. Metcalf, Orlando Paul, 91. William, 141. Mewla, Isle, 167. William, 142. Milesius, 2, 13. William, 208. Mingulay, Island of, 26, 147, 160,. William, 210. 173, 181. Lt. William Alexander, 129. Modhchorb, son of Cobhthach William Daniel, 140. Caomh, 6. William H., 210. Moidart, John of, 51. William J., 210. Moindeach, King of Ulidia, 14. Macpherson, Rev. Colin, 147. Monk, General, 82. Macpherson, Isabelle, 98. Montrose, Marquis of, 123. Macpherson, Rev. John, 148. Moody, Dwight L., 207. Macpherson, Rev. Martin, 148. Moon worship, 153. Macquarrie, 48, 50, 57. Moor, Marion, 142. Macqueen, Mr., Parish Minister, 133. Moore, Phoebe, 210. Macqueen, Rev. Donald, author of Moran, the Councillor, 7. Statistical Account (1797), 149, M uireadach Tireach, son of Fiacha,. 150. 10. Macqueen, Rev. Edmund, 149. Mull, 47, 49, 58. MacRodericks (see MAcRUARIES). M ullaca bean, a charm, 193. MacRuari, Ranald, 40, 41. Mung-Fionn, wife of Eochaidh, 10,. MacRuaries, of Garmoran, 39. 11. MacSuibhnes (see MAcSwEEN). Munro, Dr. Neil, 120. 224 Index

M uredach Bolgrach, son o £ Simeon Patterson, Rachael, 141. Breach, 5. Pennell, Joseph, 139. Murion, daughter of Fiachra, 10. Pictou, settlement at, 136. Murray, John, of Greshornish, 96. Picts, the, 4, 13, 26. Pigeon, The, arrival in Nova Scotia, N 134. Piracy, 4, 62, 67. N acharrache ( Sheep Isle), 176. Plagues, 4, 6, 18. N ar-Tath-Chaoch, daughter of Portri, Battle of, 10. Loich, 7. Pratt, Mary Lash, 141. Nahakersait, Isle of, 176. Presbyterian Church, 145. N ectonibus, Pharaoh, 2. Prostestantism, 145. Neil, Mary Moore, 106. Price, Elizabeth, 103. Nenuall, 1. Prince Edward Island, 97, 206, 133 Niall of Scythia, 1. et seq. Niall, Clan, (see MACNEIL). Q Nic-Iain-Fhinn, poetess, 33. Nicholson, Rev. Alexander, 149. Quebec, Battle of, 87. Nicholson, Bishop, 146. Quern, use of, 170. Nile, origin of name, 1. Quinn, Elizabeth (Mrs. Neil Mac­ Noah, 1, 27. Neil), 138. Norsemen. Occupation of the He­ R brides, vi, 20, 21, 22, 27-32, 34, 35- Ranald, Oan ( see MACDONALD). 39, 179. Rath more, Palace of, 8 • North Bay (Barra), 148, 181. Rauthmell, Joan Gladys, 119. North Carolina, emigration to, 138, Reformation, effects on the Hebrides, 122. 145. Nova Scotia, emigration to, 133 et Religion, 145 ; - seq., 206, 207, 210, 93. of the Chiefs, 149; Nuadhad, 1. of the Oansmen, 150; N uadhas Fionn Fail, son of Giol­ customs and traditions, 150 et seq. chadh, 4. Revolutionary War, American, Mac­ 0 neils in, 133, 209, 139, 88, 94. Richmond Bay, settlement at, 137. Ocha, Battle of, 16. Righneach, daughter of Medabh, Ochiltree, Lord, 66. wife of Niall Mor, 14. Ogamain, 1. Rob Roy, and Black Ruairidh Mac- Olave, Norse Governor of the He- neil, 191. brides, 36. Roighnen Ruadh, 6. Oilioll Fionn, 5. Roitheachtaigh, son of Maen, 4. Olioll Aolcheoin, son of Siorna, 4. Roman Catholic Church, 145. Olioll Cas-fiachlacn, son of Conla, Rory the Turbulent ( see CHIEF 6. RODERICK XXXV). OlioII, son of Dathi, 16. Rory the Unjust, legends of, 189 Olioll Olum, 11. et seq. O'N eils, The, 25. Ross, John, Earl of, 44, 45. Ontario, emigration to, 137. Ross, William, Earl of, 41. Oransay, 106, 175. Rotheachta, 4. Orion, wreck of The, 111. Ruari, 39. Orkneys, 39, 51. Rustico Harbour, settlement at, 137. Orvansay ( see Oransay). s p St. Barr, vi, 26, 136, 180, 150 et seq., Pabbay, Island of, 160, 167, 173. 160. Parkmount, McNeills of, 115. St. Brandan, 181. 225 The Clan Macneil

St. Christopher, 159. Stone of Destiny, 16. St. Cianan, 14. Sween, Castle, 41, 98, 99. St. Columba, 25, 145, 151. Sweeneys, 41. St. Finbar, (see ST. BARR). Swift, Anna Maria, 94. St. Michael, 160. Swift, Godwin, 94. St. Patrick, 13, 14, 15. Swift Macneils, The, 94. St. Paul, 8. Sandira (see Sandray). T Sandray, Isle of, 167, 174. Sarah, The, arrival in Nova Scotia, Tai, 1. 134. Tangasdale (Barra), 26. Saran, King of Britain, 15. Talbot, Mrs. Hannah Elizabeth Seal Balbh, King of Finland, 8. Macneil, 211. Scarpnamut, Isle of, 17 4. Talbot, John Patterson, 211. Scota, 1 ; (2) wife of Milesius, 2, 13. Talbot, Nora Amaryllis, 211. Scothin, Glen, 2. Tara, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 16. Scotia, Major and Minor, 13. Taran, or Taranis (a deity), 164. Scots Magazine, of 1763, quoted, 24, Tarbert, Macneils of, 104-105. 32. Taynish, Macneils of, and Gigha, v, Scotland, name, 13. 40, 41, 58, 98-104, 120. Scott, Capt. Carolina, 87. Tea, wife of Heremon, 2. Scott, Col. Walter, 205. "Teagusc na Righ" ( Instructions Scottish kings, ancestry of, 6. for a King), 9. Seadhna, 4. Tea Mor (see TARA). Shetlands, 31, 39, 189. Thornborough, Richard, 90. Sigurd, Earl of Orkney, etc., 32. Tighernmas, grandson of Eithrial, Simeon Breac, son of Aedhan Glas, 3. 4. Tiolbraidh Tireach, son of Mal, 9. Siomeon, son of Ceirb, 10. Tirfeargus, 106. Siorna Saegalach, · son of Dian, 4. Tirfeargus, Macneils of, 104, 114- Sitchenn the Wizard, 12. 118, 120. Skirval, Macneils of, and Vatersay, Tollemache, Elizabeth, Duchess of 33, 85, 95-96. Argyll, 121. Skye, 38. Torna, prophecy of, 11. Sliabh Oighidh-an-Righ (mountain Traigh Mhor (Barra), 34, 175, 181. of the Death of the King), (see Trea, daughter of Cian, 9. Cratloe Mountains). Tuathal Teachtmar, son of Fiacha, Smiomghall, son of Eionbiothad, 3. 8. Smith, Catherine McNeil, 211. "Tweed Side," N. C., estate of Smith, Murdoch, 211. Donald Macneil, 139. Soirrean, Battle of, 3. Somerled, 37. u Songs of Barra, 25, 131, 153. Ugaine 11:or, king of Western Eu­ "'Songs of the Hebrides," 131. rope, 5. Spence, Blair, 94. Ugadale, 107, 118. Spencer, The, arrival at Prince Ugadale, Macneals of, 118, 119-120, Edward Islan~. 137. Stewart, Prince Charles Edward, 121, 123. 85, 86, 146, 147, 148. Dist, South, 36, 42, 148, 175, 178. Stewart, Commander, R. N ., 110. Una, wife of Fedhlimidh, 8. Stewart, Lady, 87. V Stewart, Rose, 115. Stewarts 'of Appin, 199. Vaslan, Macneils of, 33, 85, 95. Stiles, Mary, 141, 211. Vatersay, 28, 31, 83, 167, 174, 195. Stirling, Anna, 103. Vatersay, Macneils of, 33, 85, 95-96. 226 Index

Vernon, Elizabeth, 115. Whistler, James McNeill, painter, Vernon River, settlement at, 97, 137. ancestry, 139. Victoria, Queen, 120. White, Rev. Francis, 145. Vikings, ( see Norsemen). William, King of England, 84. Wilson, James, quoted, 183. Winster, Alexander, 146. w Wood, Sir Andrew, 49. Wood Island, settlement at, 137. Walsh, Rt. Hon. John Edward, 95. Women in battle, 17. W emse, Rev. Patrick, 146. Worcester, Battle of, 81. West River, settlement at, 137. World War, Macneils in the, 138, Whistler, Geo. Washington, 139. 116, 119, 128, 129, 130.

227