Clan Mackenzie

Clan Mackenzie is a Highland Scottish clan, traditionally associated with Kintail and lands in Ross-shire.

History

Origins

Traditional origins

The surname Mackenzie in Scottish Gaelic is MacCoinneach which means son of the fair bright one. The Mackenzies are believed to have the same ancestry as the Clan Matheson and Clan Anrias. All three are said to be descended from Gilleoin of the Aird, a Celtic dynast who lived in the early 12th century, and the chiefs of the Clan Mackenzie are said to have been settled at their great stronghold on Eilean Donan by 1297.