Donald Grumach MacDonald had a son named Donald Gorm MacDonald. Unfortunately there appears to have been several men by that name.
They are difficult to separate and their dates overlap somewhat. Here is the list the best I can piece together:
1. Donald Grumach d. 1539 son of Donald Gallach married
1st Catherine MacDonald of Clanranald.
2nd Margaret MacLeod of Lewis daughter of Roderick MacLeod
a. Donald Gorm d. after 1546
2. Donald Gorm d. after 1546 married
1st Mary MacLeod daughter of Roderick MacLeod
a. Donald Gomeson d. 1573
3. Donald Gomeson d. 1573 married
1st Mary MacLean daughter of Hector Mor MacLean of Duart and Morven
a. Archibald MacDonald
b.Donald Gorm Mor MacDonald d. Dec 1616
4. Donald Gorm Mor MacDonald d. Dec 1616 married
1st Margaret MacLeod daughter of Norman MacLeod of Harris
2nd Married Mary Mackenzie daughterof Colin Mackenzie of Kintail or Janet Mackenzie sister of Kenneth Mackenzie
1534
Donald Grumach died.
1539
Donald Gorm Mor MacDonald of Sleat laid waste the country of MacLeod of Dunvegan
1539
Donald Gorm died at siege of Eileandonan Castle. This appears to me to actually be Donald Grumach because of the date of death.
Sometime before 1553
A William MacLeod entered an agreement with Donald Gorm MacDonald of Sleat, making over all his old rights to Sleat and Troterness for a sum of money and appointed him the Taoitear of his grandson, in case of his death before his grandson came of age. William Macleod died in 1552-53
This is most likely the Donald Gorm who married Mary MacLeod He died after 1546
1589 Donald Gorm MacDonald, Angus MacDonald of Isla, and Lauchlan MacLean of Duart were invited to Edinburgh by James VI, and he treachorously ordered them to be arrested and subjected to a long and severe captivity.
1596,
Donald Gorm MacDonald of Sleat received a new charter, specifying that he was not to let North Uist to 'hielandmen' without permission.
1601
Donald Gorm MacDonald married a daughter of MacLeod. For some reason he decided to divorce her. The account I found of this written by Alexander MacGregor follows:
Donald Gorm MacDonald of the Sleat had married Sir Rorie MacLeod of the Harris' sister, and for some displeasure or jealousy conceived against her, he did repudiate her; whereupon Sir Rory MacLeod sent a message to Donald Gorm, desiring him to take home his sister. Donald Gorm not only refused to obey his request, but also intended divorcement against her; which when he had obtained, he married Kenneth Mackenzie, Lord of Kintail's sister.
Sir Rory MacLeod took this disgrace (as he thought it) so highly, that, assembling his countrymen and followers without delay, he invaded, with fire and sword, a part of Donald Gorms's ladnds in the Isle of Skye, which lands Sir Rory claimed to appertain to himself. Donald Gorm, impatient of this injury, convened his forces, and went into the Harris, which he wasted and spoiled, carried away their store and bestial, and killed some of the inhabitants. This again did so stir up Sir Rory Macleod and his kin, the Siol Tormoit, that they took a journey into the Isle of Uist (which appertaineth to Donald Gorm), and landing there, Sir Rory sent his cousin, Donald Glas Macleod, with some 40 men, to spoil the island, and to take a prey of goods out of the precinct of Kiltry- naid, where the people had put all their goods to be preserved as in a sanctuary, being a church. John Macian-MacJames (a kinsman of Donald Gorm's) being desired by him to stay in the island, accompanied with 20 others, rencountered with Donald Glas Macleod. This small company of the Clan Donald behaved themselves so valiantly, that, after a sharp skirmish, they killed Donald Glas Macleod, with the most part of his company, and so rescued the goods. Sir Rory, seeing the bad success of his kinsmen, retired home for that time.
Thus both parties were bent headlong against others with a spirit full of revenge and fury, and so continued mutually infesting one another with spoils and cruel slaughters, to the utter ruin and desolation of both countries, until the inhabitants were forced to eat horses, dogs, cats, and other filthy beasts. In end, Donald Gorm assembled his whole forces the year of God 1G01, to try the event of battle, and came to invade Sir Rory's lands, thinking thereby to draw his enemies to fight. Sir Rory Macleod was then in Argyle, craving aid and advice from the Earl of Argyle against the Clan Donald. Alexander Macleod (Sir Rory's brother) resolves to fight with Donald Gorm, though his brother was absent; so, assembling all the inhabitants of his brother's lands, with the whole race of the Siol Torino!t, and some of the Siol Torquil, out of the Lewis, he encamped beside a hill called Ben-a-Glmilimi, in the Isle of Skye, with a resolution to fight against Donald Gorm and the Clan Donald the next morning, which were no sooner come but there ensued a cruel and terrible skirmish, .which lasted the most part of the day, both contending for the victory with great obstinacy. The Clan Donald, in the end, overthrew their enemies, hurt Alexander Macleod, and took him prisoner, with Neil MacAlister Roy, and 30 others of the chiefest men among the Siol Tormoit, killed two near kinsmen of Sir Bory Macleod's, John MacTormoit and Tormot MacTormoit, with many others. After this skirmish there followed a reconciliation betwixt them, by the mediation of old Angus Macdonald of Kintyre, the Laird of Coll, and others. Then Donald Gorm delivered unto Sir Rory Macleod all the prisoners taken at Ben-a-Chuilinn, together with his brother, Alexander Macleod; since which time they have continued in peace and quietness.
The MacDonald's Salute, "Faille Chldnn Doinhnuill " will be found in MacKay's Collection. It was composed by Donald mor MacCrimmon on the reconciliation of the MacLeods and the MacDonalds after the battle of Beinn-a - Chuilinn in Skye. When the unfortunate differences which led to that battle were adjusted, Donald Gorm MacDonald of Sleat was invited to a banquet in Dunvegan Castle, by Ruairidh Mor MacLeod. When Donald Gorm appeared in sight of the Dun, he was met by MacLeod's famous piper, Donald mor MacCrimmon, who welcomed the Chief of the MacDonalds by playing the " MacDonald's Salute," which he had composer! for the occasion (see "History of the Clan MacLeod," p. 71). "
1609
The King commissioned Bishop Knox with power to make arrangements for promoting the peace and obedience of the Isles; and, at his instance, nine chiefs agreed to a bond of obedience to the authority of the King at Icolmkill on the 24th of August 1609. The names of these chiefs were--Angus MacDonald of Dunivaig in Islay; Hector MacLean of Duart in Mull; Donald Gorm MacDonald of Sleat in Skye; Lauchlan MacLean of Coll; Donald MacDonald of Ylanterim in Moydart, Captain of Clanranald; Lauchlan MacLean of Lochbuy in Mull; and Gellespie Macquharrie of Ulva: these bound themselves by solemn oaths to future obedience to the King and the laws of Scotland. This Donald is likely 3. above
1609
June 30, 1609, Kenneth Mackenzie and Sir George become cautioners for Donald Gorm MacDonald of Sleat to the amount of L10,000 that he will appear before the Lords Commissioners on the 2nd of February next, to come under their orders, and Kenneth is charged to keep Donald Gorm;s brother's son, "who is now in his hands," until MacDonald presents himself before the Lords Commissioners. (This is probably 4. above)
1610
February 22, 1610, this caution is repeated for Donald's appearance on the 8th of March. He appears and Mackenzie is finally relieved of the bond on the 28th of Jne following.
1616 Several West Highland and Island chiefs were brought before the Privy Council in Edinburgh, and bound over in restrictions as to the quantity of wine they wer respectively to use in their houses. Donald Gorm (Big Blue Donald) of Sleat and Skye, was among them. He died the same year.
1617
Donald MacDonald husband of Janet McKenzie appeared with other chiefs before the council and continued annually to do so
1622
Donald on his and their appearance to make obedience to the privy council as usual, severla acts of importance were passed relating to the Isles, one in which the chief of Sleat and three other chiefs were bound not to molest those engaged in fishing in the Isles under heavy penalties
1625
July 14, 1625 after having concluded in an amicable manner all his disputes with the MacLeods of Harris and another controversy with the captain of Clanranald he was created a baronet of Nova Scotia by Charles I, with a special clause making him the second of that order.
1639
The king commissioned Donald Gorm of Sleat and the Earl of Antrim, an Irish MacDonald, as his lieutenants in the Highlands.
1639
On January 23 1639 Dame Janet Mackenzie wrote a letter to her uncle Alexander Mackensie. She was the wife of Sir Donald MacDonald, who had been knighted by James I in 1617. (she the daughter of Baron Kenneth MacKenzie and Ann Ross) (See 4. Above)
1648
Donald MacDonald died
Sources:
State and society in early modern Scotland - Page 271
by Julian Goodare - History - 1999
Who are the Scots?: and, The Scottish nation - Page 229
by Gordon Menzies - History - 2002
Memorials of the Castle of Edinburgh - Page 292
by James Grant - Castles - 1850
McGehee descendants - Page 12
by Ethel Clyde Woodall Grider, Jane Nicholson Grider - Reference - 1991
Skye - Page 148
by Derek Cooper - Travel - 1983
History of the Mackenzies (Webster's German Thesaurus Edition) - Page 175
by Icon Group International, Inc. Staff, Alexander Mackenzie - Language Arts & Disciplines - 2008
Witchcraft & second sight in the Highlands & islands of Scotland: tales and ... - Page 212
by John Gregorson Campbell - Body, Mind & Spirit - 1902
History of the Mackenzies
By Alexander Mackenzie--1894
The Scottish Clans and Their Tartans
by Anonymous, Kessinger Publishing Company - History - 2005
The Celtic monthly: a magazine for Highlanders - Page 68
by John Mackay, Annie Maclean Sharp Mackay - Clans - 1903
Transactions - Page 66
by Gaelic Society of Inverness - Scottish Gaelic philology - 1900
The feuds of the clans - Page 136
by Alexander Macgregor - History - 1907
Gregory's History of the Western Highlands and Isles, Page 295
The history of civilisation in Scotland - Page 242
by John Mackintosh - Scotland - 1895
Showing posts with label Sleat. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sleat. Show all posts
Friday, April 17, 2009
Donald Grumach MacDonald of Sleat
Donald Grumach MacDonald of Sleat was the son of Donald Gallach MacDonald of Sleat.
Donald's nickname, Grumach, means ill favored or grim or gloomy, It indicates that he had a scowling or frowning countenance.
Different sources name his wife as Catherine or Margaret MacDonald,daughter of Allistair MacDonald of Clanranald and Moidart.
Donald Grumach was murdered by his brother, known as Black Archibald or Archibald the Clerk. Archibald invited him to dinner to see his new gallery and during dinner stabbed him in the back. Archibald had previously killed his other brother by strangling him. I have seen the word clerk attached to other mens names and it meant they were in some way trained for service to the church. If this is how Archibald received his education, he certainly did not turn out to be a saint.
The Highlands and Islands of Scotland and a few other places say that the fortress of Eilean Donan was besieged by Donald Grumach in 1539, but if Scottish Clans and Their Tartans is correct, then it was his son Donald Gorm who beseiged it. That is exactly what George Hill records in his book on the MacDonnells of Antrim. So it seems that it was Donald Gorm who besieged the castle of Eilean Donan.
Scottish Clans and Their Tartans says that Donald Grumach died in 1534, and was succeeded by his elder son, Donald Gorm, who claimed the lordship of the Isles and was killed in 1539 in pursuit of his claim. He in turn was succeeded by his son Donald, known as Domhnull Gorm Sasunnach, because he had spent his minority in England. He died in 1585, and was succeeded by Donald Gorm Mor, his son. Donald Gorm Mor died without issue and was succeeded by his nephew, Donald MacDonald of Sleat.
An historical account of the Macdonnells of Antrim
By George Hill
Chambers's English dictionary: pronouncing, explanatory, and etymological ... - Page 909
by James Donald - Foreign Language Study - 1872
History of Skye: a record of the families, the social conditions, and the ... - Page 49
by Alexander Nicolson - Hebrides (Scotland) - 1930
The Highlands & islands of Scotland - Page 73
by Allan Campbell McLean - History - 1976 -
The Scottish Clans and Their Tartans
by Anonymous, Kessinger Publishing Company - History - 2005
http://www.scotclans.com/scottish_clans/clans/macdonald_of_sleat/history.html
Donald's nickname, Grumach, means ill favored or grim or gloomy, It indicates that he had a scowling or frowning countenance.
Different sources name his wife as Catherine or Margaret MacDonald,daughter of Allistair MacDonald of Clanranald and Moidart.
Donald Grumach was murdered by his brother, known as Black Archibald or Archibald the Clerk. Archibald invited him to dinner to see his new gallery and during dinner stabbed him in the back. Archibald had previously killed his other brother by strangling him. I have seen the word clerk attached to other mens names and it meant they were in some way trained for service to the church. If this is how Archibald received his education, he certainly did not turn out to be a saint.
The Highlands and Islands of Scotland and a few other places say that the fortress of Eilean Donan was besieged by Donald Grumach in 1539, but if Scottish Clans and Their Tartans is correct, then it was his son Donald Gorm who beseiged it. That is exactly what George Hill records in his book on the MacDonnells of Antrim. So it seems that it was Donald Gorm who besieged the castle of Eilean Donan.
Scottish Clans and Their Tartans says that Donald Grumach died in 1534, and was succeeded by his elder son, Donald Gorm, who claimed the lordship of the Isles and was killed in 1539 in pursuit of his claim. He in turn was succeeded by his son Donald, known as Domhnull Gorm Sasunnach, because he had spent his minority in England. He died in 1585, and was succeeded by Donald Gorm Mor, his son. Donald Gorm Mor died without issue and was succeeded by his nephew, Donald MacDonald of Sleat.
An historical account of the Macdonnells of Antrim
By George Hill
Chambers's English dictionary: pronouncing, explanatory, and etymological ... - Page 909
by James Donald - Foreign Language Study - 1872
History of Skye: a record of the families, the social conditions, and the ... - Page 49
by Alexander Nicolson - Hebrides (Scotland) - 1930
The Highlands & islands of Scotland - Page 73
by Allan Campbell McLean - History - 1976 -
The Scottish Clans and Their Tartans
by Anonymous, Kessinger Publishing Company - History - 2005
http://www.scotclans.com/scottish_clans/clans/macdonald_of_sleat/history.html
Donald "Gallach" Huchounson MacDonald of Sleat
Donald Gallach may or may not have been a legitimate son of Hugh of Sleat. There does not appear to be any record of Hugh marrying his mother, who was the daughter of a man named Gunn who was either a Crowner or Shefiff of Caithness (Reliquiae celticae says her father was the Coroner of Caithness and Scottish Clans and Their Tartans says she was Elizabeth Gunn, daughter of the Coroner of Caithness).
When Donald Gallach's brother resigned all of his possessions in 1505 to the king, it left Donald and his other brother without legal title to their father's lands. Archibald Mackenzie says this forced Donald and his brothers to become rebels. Donald Gallach and another of his brothers were murdered by their brother Archibald, in 1506.
The following items are what I was able to find concerning the MacDonald lands of Sleat
By a charter under the Great Seal, in August 1498, the office of Bailliary, with two unciates of the lands of Trouterness, was confirmed to Alexander Macleod of Dunvegan,having been formerly held by the Lord of the Isles, and being then in the hands of the crown, being forfeited.
Two months later another charter under the Great Seal, granted eight merks of land to Torquil Macleod of the Lewis. Both of these grants were rendered null by the great revocation in 1498 or 1499.
In 1505, the eighty merk lands of Trouterness were let, by the commissioners of the Crown for three years to Ranald Bane Allanson of Moydert, the Earl of Huntly being surety for the payment of rent by the later.
In 1510, Archibald Dubh, Archibald Dubh, was acting as Bailie of Trouterness and a letter in his favor was directed under the Privy Seal to the tenants of Trouterness.
Ronald Bane of Moydert was executed at Perth in 1513. and Archibald Dubh was killed by his nephews for killing his brothers.
Macleod of Dunvegan, who seems to have been the principle Crown tenant of Trouterness some time before 1517, had a lease continue from that year until the majority of James V. Under the government of the Earl of Angus, Dunvegan appears to have obtained also an heritable grant of the lands of Sleat and North Uist, causing him to become the enemy of the Sleat MacDonalds, under Donald Grumach.
Donald Grumach and his brother by his mothers second husband (History of Skye says her name was Agnes), John MacTorquil Macleod who also had no legal inheritance expelled Dunvegan and his clan from Trouterness. By this method they succeeded in preventing him putting in force his new charter to Sleat and North Uist. Trouterness was again occupied by Clanhuistein, or MacDonald of Sleat. Donald Grumach then aided his step father Torquil Macleod in seizing the whole barony of Lewis, which he held during his life.
Origines parochiales Scotiae says
that these lands were possessed by Donald Gallach and his son Donald Grumach, even though that had been given by James IV to Ranald Alansoun of Yland-Bagrim. The following is an account of how that came to be from the Celtic Monthly:
"
Donald Gallach MacDonald, third of Sleat. The strict legitimacy of this chief has always been considered doubtful; and we can find no record of any formal marriage by his father to the daughter of Gun, Crowner of Caithness. Even the family historian, Hugh MacDonald, who on all occasions showed such an inclination to bastardise the descendants of all the other branches of the MacDonalds to glorify his own chief, does not assert that there was a formal marriage, and such was hardly possible in the circumstances which he describes. Indeed his MS., already quoted, is strong presumptive evidence the other way. The fact that his brother John made over all his possessions to the Clanranald Allansons past his own half-brother, has been held by some as an element which goes to strengthen the same assumption. In any case Donald appears to have had neither possessions nor influence, whatever may have been the reason. Gregory says on this point:---John, the eldest son of Hugh, having no issue himself, and having probably quarreled with his brothers, made over all his estates to the Clanranald; as well as those which had remained in his own hands. The rest of the Clanhuistein, on John's death were thus left without legal rights to any landed property in the Isles; and being, moreover, viewed with jealousy by the Government, owing to their propinquity to the last Lord of the Isles, they were in a manner forced to become rebels. Donald Gallach, their leader, was, with another of the brothers, murdered by their own bastard brother, Archibald, or Gillespick Dubh, an unprincipled and ambitious man, whose attrocities seem to have been winked at by the Government, on the ground, probably, that his brothers were proclaimed rebels, whom it was desireabel to exterminate. This happened about the year 1506; and Archibald, the fratricide, having endeavored to seize the lands of Sleat, was expelled from the North Isles by Ranald Allanson the heir of Moydart, to whome Sleat had been made over by John Huchonson, the last legal possessor."
In 1531, Donald Grumach MacDonald Gallich of Dunskawich was among several Highland chiefs who were frequently cited by parliament.
In 1542 James V granted the lands of Slait, of the old extent of L20 and extending in the King's rental to 9 Scots marks, in liferent to Alexander MacCloid (of Dunvegan), and in heritage to his son and apparent heir William and his heirs male, with remainder to his second son Donald and his heirs male, to his third son Tormot, to John MacCloid in Myngynnes, to William's heirs male whomsoever, and to the eldest female heirs whomsoever without division.
In 1541 Archibald Ilis, styled Archibald the Clerk (son of Donald Gallach), appears among a number who had remission from James V for various ravages, and in 1545 he appears as Archibald Maconill captain of Clanhustoun and a councillor of Donald Lord of the Isles. (A History of the Scottish Highlands says that Archibald tried to sieze the lands of Sleat but was expelled for the North Isles by Ranald Bane Allanson of Moydart, eldest son of Clanranald).
In 1549 Slait was held by Donald Gormesone the grandson of Donald Gruamach.
In 1533 Queen Mary appointed Archibald Earl of Argyle bailie of the lands of Trouternes and Slait. In the same year that queen granted to her chancellor George Earl of Huntlie the nonentry and other dues of the lands of Slait and all others belonging to the deceased William MacCloid of Dunnevagane.
In 1567 Archibald Earl of Argyle became bound to obtain for Donald MacDonald Gorme (Donald Gormeson) of Slait heritable infeftment in the land of Tronternes, Slait, and the north part of Weist, to be held of Queen Mary, on concition that Donald should pay 1000 marks Scots to the Earl and 500 marks to mary MacClid (the heirss of Dunvegan),and giv his bond of manrent to the Earl.
In 1572 King James VI in lieu of the fulfillment of several promises which he had given with the advice of his successive regents James Earl of Murray and Matthew Earl of Leuenox, to the effect that he would grant to Donald Gormeson of Sky for his good and faithful serveice all the lands in the countries next to him when they should be forfeited by the owners, and also the liberty of presenting to the bishoprick of Ross then vacant, granted to him a yearly pension of 1000 marks Scots out of the fruits of the bishoprick of Aberdeen then also vacant through the forfeiture of Bishop William.
In 1617 Donald Gorme of Slait was served heir to his uncle Donald Gorme of Slait in the lands of Slait, of the old extent of L20, and the new extent of L80 and L6, 13s, 4d, augumentation, and in other lands in the Lordship of the Isles and sheriffdom of Innernes, all held on condition that the castle of Camys (in Slait) should be always open and in readiness for the King, and his lieutenants, chamberlains, and other servitors resorting thither.
The general appearance of these records of Sleat, is that although the MacDonalds didn't outright own Sleat, the held it by whatever means available to them.
Donald Gallach married a daughter of John (Cathanach) MacDonald of Isla and the Glynns and had a son named Donald, another named Archibald the Clerk(Archibald murdered his brothers, but was later killed by his nephews for revenge), and a third named Alexander.
He also had a daughter who married Alexander Keppoch.
The oldest son succeeded him.
Sources:
Origines parochiales Scotiae: The antiquities ecclesiastical and territorial ...
Origines parochiales Scotiae: The antiquities ecclesiastical and territorial ... - Page 341
by Cosmo Innes, William Anderson, Joseph Robertson, James Brodie Brichan, John McNab - Parishes Scotland History - 1854
Reliquiæ celticæ: texts, papers and studies in Gaelic literature and ... - Page 213
by Alexander Cameron, Alexander Macbain, John Kennedy - 1894
The Celtic monthly: a magazine for Highlanders - Page 11
Art - 1896
The Celtic magazine, conducted by A. Mackenzie and A. MacGregor - Page 422
edited by Alexander Mackenzie - 1880
Donald or Domhnull Gruamach MacDonald was the son of Donald Gallach MacDonald of Sleat. His early history is unknown.
The Scottish Clans and Their Tartans
by Anonymous, Kessinger Publishing Company - History - 2005
When Donald Gallach's brother resigned all of his possessions in 1505 to the king, it left Donald and his other brother without legal title to their father's lands. Archibald Mackenzie says this forced Donald and his brothers to become rebels. Donald Gallach and another of his brothers were murdered by their brother Archibald, in 1506.
The following items are what I was able to find concerning the MacDonald lands of Sleat
By a charter under the Great Seal, in August 1498, the office of Bailliary, with two unciates of the lands of Trouterness, was confirmed to Alexander Macleod of Dunvegan,having been formerly held by the Lord of the Isles, and being then in the hands of the crown, being forfeited.
Two months later another charter under the Great Seal, granted eight merks of land to Torquil Macleod of the Lewis. Both of these grants were rendered null by the great revocation in 1498 or 1499.
In 1505, the eighty merk lands of Trouterness were let, by the commissioners of the Crown for three years to Ranald Bane Allanson of Moydert, the Earl of Huntly being surety for the payment of rent by the later.
In 1510, Archibald Dubh, Archibald Dubh, was acting as Bailie of Trouterness and a letter in his favor was directed under the Privy Seal to the tenants of Trouterness.
Ronald Bane of Moydert was executed at Perth in 1513. and Archibald Dubh was killed by his nephews for killing his brothers.
Macleod of Dunvegan, who seems to have been the principle Crown tenant of Trouterness some time before 1517, had a lease continue from that year until the majority of James V. Under the government of the Earl of Angus, Dunvegan appears to have obtained also an heritable grant of the lands of Sleat and North Uist, causing him to become the enemy of the Sleat MacDonalds, under Donald Grumach.
Donald Grumach and his brother by his mothers second husband (History of Skye says her name was Agnes), John MacTorquil Macleod who also had no legal inheritance expelled Dunvegan and his clan from Trouterness. By this method they succeeded in preventing him putting in force his new charter to Sleat and North Uist. Trouterness was again occupied by Clanhuistein, or MacDonald of Sleat. Donald Grumach then aided his step father Torquil Macleod in seizing the whole barony of Lewis, which he held during his life.
Origines parochiales Scotiae says
that these lands were possessed by Donald Gallach and his son Donald Grumach, even though that had been given by James IV to Ranald Alansoun of Yland-Bagrim. The following is an account of how that came to be from the Celtic Monthly:
"
Donald Gallach MacDonald, third of Sleat. The strict legitimacy of this chief has always been considered doubtful; and we can find no record of any formal marriage by his father to the daughter of Gun, Crowner of Caithness. Even the family historian, Hugh MacDonald, who on all occasions showed such an inclination to bastardise the descendants of all the other branches of the MacDonalds to glorify his own chief, does not assert that there was a formal marriage, and such was hardly possible in the circumstances which he describes. Indeed his MS., already quoted, is strong presumptive evidence the other way. The fact that his brother John made over all his possessions to the Clanranald Allansons past his own half-brother, has been held by some as an element which goes to strengthen the same assumption. In any case Donald appears to have had neither possessions nor influence, whatever may have been the reason. Gregory says on this point:---John, the eldest son of Hugh, having no issue himself, and having probably quarreled with his brothers, made over all his estates to the Clanranald; as well as those which had remained in his own hands. The rest of the Clanhuistein, on John's death were thus left without legal rights to any landed property in the Isles; and being, moreover, viewed with jealousy by the Government, owing to their propinquity to the last Lord of the Isles, they were in a manner forced to become rebels. Donald Gallach, their leader, was, with another of the brothers, murdered by their own bastard brother, Archibald, or Gillespick Dubh, an unprincipled and ambitious man, whose attrocities seem to have been winked at by the Government, on the ground, probably, that his brothers were proclaimed rebels, whom it was desireabel to exterminate. This happened about the year 1506; and Archibald, the fratricide, having endeavored to seize the lands of Sleat, was expelled from the North Isles by Ranald Allanson the heir of Moydart, to whome Sleat had been made over by John Huchonson, the last legal possessor."
In 1531, Donald Grumach MacDonald Gallich of Dunskawich was among several Highland chiefs who were frequently cited by parliament.
In 1542 James V granted the lands of Slait, of the old extent of L20 and extending in the King's rental to 9 Scots marks, in liferent to Alexander MacCloid (of Dunvegan), and in heritage to his son and apparent heir William and his heirs male, with remainder to his second son Donald and his heirs male, to his third son Tormot, to John MacCloid in Myngynnes, to William's heirs male whomsoever, and to the eldest female heirs whomsoever without division.
In 1541 Archibald Ilis, styled Archibald the Clerk (son of Donald Gallach), appears among a number who had remission from James V for various ravages, and in 1545 he appears as Archibald Maconill captain of Clanhustoun and a councillor of Donald Lord of the Isles. (A History of the Scottish Highlands says that Archibald tried to sieze the lands of Sleat but was expelled for the North Isles by Ranald Bane Allanson of Moydart, eldest son of Clanranald).
In 1549 Slait was held by Donald Gormesone the grandson of Donald Gruamach.
In 1533 Queen Mary appointed Archibald Earl of Argyle bailie of the lands of Trouternes and Slait. In the same year that queen granted to her chancellor George Earl of Huntlie the nonentry and other dues of the lands of Slait and all others belonging to the deceased William MacCloid of Dunnevagane.
In 1567 Archibald Earl of Argyle became bound to obtain for Donald MacDonald Gorme (Donald Gormeson) of Slait heritable infeftment in the land of Tronternes, Slait, and the north part of Weist, to be held of Queen Mary, on concition that Donald should pay 1000 marks Scots to the Earl and 500 marks to mary MacClid (the heirss of Dunvegan),and giv his bond of manrent to the Earl.
In 1572 King James VI in lieu of the fulfillment of several promises which he had given with the advice of his successive regents James Earl of Murray and Matthew Earl of Leuenox, to the effect that he would grant to Donald Gormeson of Sky for his good and faithful serveice all the lands in the countries next to him when they should be forfeited by the owners, and also the liberty of presenting to the bishoprick of Ross then vacant, granted to him a yearly pension of 1000 marks Scots out of the fruits of the bishoprick of Aberdeen then also vacant through the forfeiture of Bishop William.
In 1617 Donald Gorme of Slait was served heir to his uncle Donald Gorme of Slait in the lands of Slait, of the old extent of L20, and the new extent of L80 and L6, 13s, 4d, augumentation, and in other lands in the Lordship of the Isles and sheriffdom of Innernes, all held on condition that the castle of Camys (in Slait) should be always open and in readiness for the King, and his lieutenants, chamberlains, and other servitors resorting thither.
The general appearance of these records of Sleat, is that although the MacDonalds didn't outright own Sleat, the held it by whatever means available to them.
Donald Gallach married a daughter of John (Cathanach) MacDonald of Isla and the Glynns and had a son named Donald, another named Archibald the Clerk(Archibald murdered his brothers, but was later killed by his nephews for revenge), and a third named Alexander.
He also had a daughter who married Alexander Keppoch.
The oldest son succeeded him.
Sources:
Origines parochiales Scotiae: The antiquities ecclesiastical and territorial ...
Origines parochiales Scotiae: The antiquities ecclesiastical and territorial ... - Page 341
by Cosmo Innes, William Anderson, Joseph Robertson, James Brodie Brichan, John McNab - Parishes Scotland History - 1854
Reliquiæ celticæ: texts, papers and studies in Gaelic literature and ... - Page 213
by Alexander Cameron, Alexander Macbain, John Kennedy - 1894
The Celtic monthly: a magazine for Highlanders - Page 11
Art - 1896
The Celtic magazine, conducted by A. Mackenzie and A. MacGregor - Page 422
edited by Alexander Mackenzie - 1880
Donald or Domhnull Gruamach MacDonald was the son of Donald Gallach MacDonald of Sleat. His early history is unknown.
The Scottish Clans and Their Tartans
by Anonymous, Kessinger Publishing Company - History - 2005
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Hugh Uisdean MacDonald
Hugh of Sleat, also known as Uisdean, MacDonald was an illegitmate son of Alexander MacDonald, Lord of the Isles and Earl of Ross. Hugh's clan would become known as Clan Uisdean, or Clan Donald North.
Sources vary as to whether his mother was Elizabeth Seton or a daughter of Gillepatrick Roy, son of Rory, son of the Green Abbot of Applecross.
He was probably born in Dingwall Castle, not far from Inverness Scotland, which became the possession of his father Alexander MacDonald when he became Earl of Ross.
Some sources say he died at Paisley Abbey, Paisley, Scottland, and was buried at a place called Sand, on the island of North Uist. This place is called Clachan Shannda. Clachan means, a small village with a church. Shannda means, Sand or Sand Island in Norse. Alexander MacKenzie, wrote that he died in 1498.
Hugh received a charter from his brother John, for the lands of Sleat on the Isle of Skye, which lies off the western coast of Scotland. This happened in about 1449, when his brother was about 15 and Hugh was around 13. Despite the spelling, Sleat is pronounced "slate".
Besides Sleat,Hugh held lands under his brother John, in Uist, Benbecula and Garmoran.
the Orkney Islands with William Macleaod of Dunvegan and Harris and other chieftains in 1460.
Hugh was a powerful warrior and not only maintained his own rights, but ravaged
There are different opinions as to when Hugh became "of Sleat", but he signed a charter of his brother's in 1461 as Hugh of Sleat. Hugh received a royal confirmation of his lands in 1476, and it was reconfirmed on paper in 1495.
Hugh had six or seven other sons by different women, and at least one daughter.
Hugh's first wife was Fynvola Macian, daughter of Alexander Macian of Ardnamurchan,by whom he had a son named John, who was his heir. This John died without issue. John of Sleat, resigned his lands into the hands of James IV in 1505. He supposedly did this because he had no heirs and disliked his brothers. His resignation left his brothers with no legal title to their lands for a while.
Hugh had a son by the daughter of Gunn in Caithness. He was named Donald Gallach, which means of Caithness. History of the Western Highlands and Isles says that they were married.
Donald Gallach, became the heir after the death of his brother.
The History of the MacDonalds and Lords of the Isles says that he had a son named Donald Herrach, by a daughter of Macleod of Harris, who was the progenitor of the MacDonalds of Balranald and others in the Western Isles. Also listed is a son named Gillespic Dubh(Archibald).
The Black Book of Clanranald names the first four sons of Hugh: Eoin mac Huistiuin (John MacUisdean); Domhnall Gallach mac Huisdiuin (Donald MacUisdean); Domnhnall Hearach mc Huisdiuin (Donald Harris); and Giolla Asbuig mc huisdiuin (Archibald McUisdean)
When Hugh's brother John died, Hugh and his descendants, by virtue of being nearest realtive, became rightful representatives of the family. Hugh's great grandson Donald claimed right to the title, Lord of the Isles, but James V refused to restore the title, believing that its suppression was advisable in order to keep peace in the country, being well aware that this Donald's forebears had been very rebellious.
The descendants of Hugh incresed rapidly in the sixteenth century, and were known as Clan Huistein, or children of Hugh and sometimes Clan Donald north. The name of Clan Donald may have begun because the next six chiefs after Hugh's son John were all named Donald, and North being added to distinguish them from the Clan Ian Vor of Isla and Kintyre who were known as Clandonald also. The direct line of the MacDonald clan became extinct in the 16th century and since that time MacDonald of Sleat has been called in Gaelic, MacDhonuill na'n Eileen, or in English, MacDonald of the Isles.
All of Hugh's sons died violent deaths in the contest over his title, Chief of Clan Donald of Sleat. However, his line has carried down through Clan Donald to the present day. Lord Godfrey Macdonald is Chief of all Clan Donald, and Sir Ian Macdonald is Chief of Sleat. Sir Ian is also Premier Baron of Nova Scotia. Both men descend from Hugh.
Donald Gallach's son, Alexander, took the names of Hugh to Ireland, in 1565, to fight for his first cousin, Sorley Boy McDonnell, leader of Clan Donald South. Sorley Boy "and others" were the earliest known people to be noted as being "of the Scotch-Irish race", in a manifesto from Queen Elizabeth I, of 1573. In Ireland, the McQuiston, Hutchinson, and Houston names thrived as early members of the Scotch-Irish race, until immigration began, in earnest, to America.
Castle Uisdean was the last castle built on the Isle of Skye, by one of Hugh's descendants It is located on the Trotternish Peninsula of Skye, whereas Hugh of Sleat ruled from the Sleat Peninsula of Skye, at Dunscaith Castle.
The McQuiston Church, which still stands in Belfast, was once the largest Presbyterian congregation, with over 1600 children in Sunday School. McQuistons currently play major roles in peace efforts in Northern Ireland and the preservation of ancient Irish architecture. A McQuiston in Scotland is also instrumental in the historic preservation of DunDonald Castle.
In America, the legacy and family line of Uisdean is still alive and well.
From Hugh's line came Captain Jack McQuesten, Father of Alaska, Father of the Yukon. Jack was a principal grubstaker for hundreds of Yukon gold miners. He was a friend of the great American author, Jack London; he helped the Smithsonian collect rare samples of animals from Alaska; he was considered the expert on the border between Alaska and the Yukon Territory; and there is some evidence that Yukon Jack whiskey is named for him.
Hugh's descendants also played a substantial role in the American Revolutionary War. James McQuiston was a "spy on the western frontier" of Pennsylvania, for the Colonial Army. His first cousin, Thomas McCuistion, fought at the first battle of the Revolution, at Alamance County, North Carolina, in 1771. Thomas and his family fought at the last big battle of the Revolution, the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, (also in North Carolina) where one quarter of Cornwallis's crack troops were decimated. Cornwallis took over the McCuistion homestead as his headquarters, just before the battle, as indicated in his own tactical log of the campaign.
There is also evidence that President Andrew Jackson may have had connections to Hugh of Sleat's family through his mother's Hutchinson name, and through his likely great grandmother, Jean McCuistion. Jackson also has another Clan Donald name in his lineage, that of Mary McRandall, so it seems without a doubt that he was of Clan Donald in one way or another. His best friend and protege, Sam Houston, was also very likely of Hugh of Sleat's family, as perhaps was Stephen F. Austin, another great Texas hero. Robert McCuistion, son of Thomas, was the first financier of Texas, giving Sam Houston a McCuistion family treasure worth approximately $25,000, in the money of the day, in return for 10,000 acres (40 km²) of Texas, the deed for which still exists.
His Sleat land was in the hands of the McDonalds of Sleat line until 1971, approximately 522 years. The Clan Donald Center on Skye still stands on Sleat land.
The Celtic magazine - Page 218
by Alexander Mackenzie, Alexander Macgregor -1880
Hugh, often called “Austin” and “Augustine,” being a corruption of the Gaelic equivaletn of Hugh, i.e., Huistean or Uistean. He was styled Lord of Sleat, and married, first, Finvola, daughter of MacIan of Ardnamurchan, by whom he had John, his heir, who died withut issue. He married secondly, a lady of the Clan Gunn in Caithness, by whom he had issue, who carried on the succession, and whose descendants are now held, by general concurrence, to represrnt, as heirs male, John, lat Earl of Ross and Lord of the Isles, forfeited in these honors, respectively, in 1475 and 1494. A question has been raised about the legitimacy of Celestine(Hugh's brother) and Hugh, as well as of Hugh's descndants, especially Donald Gallach, from whom is descended the present Lord MacDonald of the Isles. Respecting Hugh, after describing the results of a successful raid under him to Orkney, Hugh MacDonald says, that “Having routed the enemy, Austin (Hugh) and his party began to ravage the country, that being the only reward they had for their pains and fatigue, with whih, having loaded their galleys, they returned home. Austine having halted at Caithness, he got a son by the Crowner of Caithness's daughter, of the name of Gun, which at the time was a very flourishing name there, descended of the Danes. This son was called Donald Gallich, being brought up in that country in his younger years; for the ancient Scots, until this day call the couty of Caithness Gallibh.”
Sources:
Burke's Peerage, Baronetage & Knightage, 107th edition, 3 volumes (Wilmington, Delaware, U.S.A
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_of_Sleat
History of the Western Highlands and Isles of Scotland, from A.D. ...
by Donald Gregory - 1836
History of the Macdonalds and Lords of the Isles
By Alexander Mackenzie
http://www.macdonald.com/sleat.html
Guide to the highlands and islands of Scotland, including Orkney and Zetland ... - Page 577
by George Anderson, Peter Anderson - 1851
Chambers's Edinburgh Journal - Page 111
by William Chambers, Robert Chambers - London (England) - 1852
Sources vary as to whether his mother was Elizabeth Seton or a daughter of Gillepatrick Roy, son of Rory, son of the Green Abbot of Applecross.
He was probably born in Dingwall Castle, not far from Inverness Scotland, which became the possession of his father Alexander MacDonald when he became Earl of Ross.
Some sources say he died at Paisley Abbey, Paisley, Scottland, and was buried at a place called Sand, on the island of North Uist. This place is called Clachan Shannda. Clachan means, a small village with a church. Shannda means, Sand or Sand Island in Norse. Alexander MacKenzie, wrote that he died in 1498.
Hugh received a charter from his brother John, for the lands of Sleat on the Isle of Skye, which lies off the western coast of Scotland. This happened in about 1449, when his brother was about 15 and Hugh was around 13. Despite the spelling, Sleat is pronounced "slate".
Besides Sleat,Hugh held lands under his brother John, in Uist, Benbecula and Garmoran.
the Orkney Islands with William Macleaod of Dunvegan and Harris and other chieftains in 1460.
Hugh was a powerful warrior and not only maintained his own rights, but ravaged
There are different opinions as to when Hugh became "of Sleat", but he signed a charter of his brother's in 1461 as Hugh of Sleat. Hugh received a royal confirmation of his lands in 1476, and it was reconfirmed on paper in 1495.
Hugh had six or seven other sons by different women, and at least one daughter.
Hugh's first wife was Fynvola Macian, daughter of Alexander Macian of Ardnamurchan,by whom he had a son named John, who was his heir. This John died without issue. John of Sleat, resigned his lands into the hands of James IV in 1505. He supposedly did this because he had no heirs and disliked his brothers. His resignation left his brothers with no legal title to their lands for a while.
Hugh had a son by the daughter of Gunn in Caithness. He was named Donald Gallach, which means of Caithness. History of the Western Highlands and Isles says that they were married.
Donald Gallach, became the heir after the death of his brother.
The History of the MacDonalds and Lords of the Isles says that he had a son named Donald Herrach, by a daughter of Macleod of Harris, who was the progenitor of the MacDonalds of Balranald and others in the Western Isles. Also listed is a son named Gillespic Dubh(Archibald).
The Black Book of Clanranald names the first four sons of Hugh: Eoin mac Huistiuin (John MacUisdean); Domhnall Gallach mac Huisdiuin (Donald MacUisdean); Domnhnall Hearach mc Huisdiuin (Donald Harris); and Giolla Asbuig mc huisdiuin (Archibald McUisdean)
When Hugh's brother John died, Hugh and his descendants, by virtue of being nearest realtive, became rightful representatives of the family. Hugh's great grandson Donald claimed right to the title, Lord of the Isles, but James V refused to restore the title, believing that its suppression was advisable in order to keep peace in the country, being well aware that this Donald's forebears had been very rebellious.
The descendants of Hugh incresed rapidly in the sixteenth century, and were known as Clan Huistein, or children of Hugh and sometimes Clan Donald north. The name of Clan Donald may have begun because the next six chiefs after Hugh's son John were all named Donald, and North being added to distinguish them from the Clan Ian Vor of Isla and Kintyre who were known as Clandonald also. The direct line of the MacDonald clan became extinct in the 16th century and since that time MacDonald of Sleat has been called in Gaelic, MacDhonuill na'n Eileen, or in English, MacDonald of the Isles.
All of Hugh's sons died violent deaths in the contest over his title, Chief of Clan Donald of Sleat. However, his line has carried down through Clan Donald to the present day. Lord Godfrey Macdonald is Chief of all Clan Donald, and Sir Ian Macdonald is Chief of Sleat. Sir Ian is also Premier Baron of Nova Scotia. Both men descend from Hugh.
Donald Gallach's son, Alexander, took the names of Hugh to Ireland, in 1565, to fight for his first cousin, Sorley Boy McDonnell, leader of Clan Donald South. Sorley Boy "and others" were the earliest known people to be noted as being "of the Scotch-Irish race", in a manifesto from Queen Elizabeth I, of 1573. In Ireland, the McQuiston, Hutchinson, and Houston names thrived as early members of the Scotch-Irish race, until immigration began, in earnest, to America.
Castle Uisdean was the last castle built on the Isle of Skye, by one of Hugh's descendants It is located on the Trotternish Peninsula of Skye, whereas Hugh of Sleat ruled from the Sleat Peninsula of Skye, at Dunscaith Castle.
The McQuiston Church, which still stands in Belfast, was once the largest Presbyterian congregation, with over 1600 children in Sunday School. McQuistons currently play major roles in peace efforts in Northern Ireland and the preservation of ancient Irish architecture. A McQuiston in Scotland is also instrumental in the historic preservation of DunDonald Castle.
In America, the legacy and family line of Uisdean is still alive and well.
From Hugh's line came Captain Jack McQuesten, Father of Alaska, Father of the Yukon. Jack was a principal grubstaker for hundreds of Yukon gold miners. He was a friend of the great American author, Jack London; he helped the Smithsonian collect rare samples of animals from Alaska; he was considered the expert on the border between Alaska and the Yukon Territory; and there is some evidence that Yukon Jack whiskey is named for him.
Hugh's descendants also played a substantial role in the American Revolutionary War. James McQuiston was a "spy on the western frontier" of Pennsylvania, for the Colonial Army. His first cousin, Thomas McCuistion, fought at the first battle of the Revolution, at Alamance County, North Carolina, in 1771. Thomas and his family fought at the last big battle of the Revolution, the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, (also in North Carolina) where one quarter of Cornwallis's crack troops were decimated. Cornwallis took over the McCuistion homestead as his headquarters, just before the battle, as indicated in his own tactical log of the campaign.
There is also evidence that President Andrew Jackson may have had connections to Hugh of Sleat's family through his mother's Hutchinson name, and through his likely great grandmother, Jean McCuistion. Jackson also has another Clan Donald name in his lineage, that of Mary McRandall, so it seems without a doubt that he was of Clan Donald in one way or another. His best friend and protege, Sam Houston, was also very likely of Hugh of Sleat's family, as perhaps was Stephen F. Austin, another great Texas hero. Robert McCuistion, son of Thomas, was the first financier of Texas, giving Sam Houston a McCuistion family treasure worth approximately $25,000, in the money of the day, in return for 10,000 acres (40 km²) of Texas, the deed for which still exists.
His Sleat land was in the hands of the McDonalds of Sleat line until 1971, approximately 522 years. The Clan Donald Center on Skye still stands on Sleat land.
The Celtic magazine - Page 218
by Alexander Mackenzie, Alexander Macgregor -1880
Hugh, often called “Austin” and “Augustine,” being a corruption of the Gaelic equivaletn of Hugh, i.e., Huistean or Uistean. He was styled Lord of Sleat, and married, first, Finvola, daughter of MacIan of Ardnamurchan, by whom he had John, his heir, who died withut issue. He married secondly, a lady of the Clan Gunn in Caithness, by whom he had issue, who carried on the succession, and whose descendants are now held, by general concurrence, to represrnt, as heirs male, John, lat Earl of Ross and Lord of the Isles, forfeited in these honors, respectively, in 1475 and 1494. A question has been raised about the legitimacy of Celestine(Hugh's brother) and Hugh, as well as of Hugh's descndants, especially Donald Gallach, from whom is descended the present Lord MacDonald of the Isles. Respecting Hugh, after describing the results of a successful raid under him to Orkney, Hugh MacDonald says, that “Having routed the enemy, Austin (Hugh) and his party began to ravage the country, that being the only reward they had for their pains and fatigue, with whih, having loaded their galleys, they returned home. Austine having halted at Caithness, he got a son by the Crowner of Caithness's daughter, of the name of Gun, which at the time was a very flourishing name there, descended of the Danes. This son was called Donald Gallich, being brought up in that country in his younger years; for the ancient Scots, until this day call the couty of Caithness Gallibh.”
Sources:
Burke's Peerage, Baronetage & Knightage, 107th edition, 3 volumes (Wilmington, Delaware, U.S.A
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hugh_of_Sleat
History of the Western Highlands and Isles of Scotland, from A.D. ...
by Donald Gregory - 1836
History of the Macdonalds and Lords of the Isles
By Alexander Mackenzie
http://www.macdonald.com/sleat.html
Guide to the highlands and islands of Scotland, including Orkney and Zetland ... - Page 577
by George Anderson, Peter Anderson - 1851
Chambers's Edinburgh Journal - Page 111
by William Chambers, Robert Chambers - London (England) - 1852
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