Clan MacInnes Crest
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CREST: A sinister arm from the shoulder bendways, attired in a close sleeve of the proper tartan of Clan Aonghais, cuff flashes yellow with three buttons Or, grasping a bow Vert, stringed Gules MOTTO: Ghift dhe Agus an righ TRANSLATION: By the grace of God and king VARIATIONS: McInnes |
| The name MacInnes finds its roots in the Gaelic name “Macaonghuis,” meaning “son of Angus.” This clan’s early existence can be traced back to the seventh-century chronicle, Senchus Fer n’Alban, which documents the history of the Men of Scotland. The MacInneses were part of the larger Scots of Dalriada, a kingdom spanning parts of modern-day Scotland and Ireland.
Within the Scots of Dalriada, the MacInnes clan was one of three kindreds, alongside Gabran and Lorne. The kindred of Angus was said to have held Islay, an island that would later become the seat of the Lordship of the Isles. While there is limited concrete evidence linking the MacInneses as a distinct family to these territories, it is believed they emerged around Morvern, an area in western Scotland. |
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| One notable stronghold associated with the MacInnes clan is Kinlochaline Castle. The castle’s history intertwines with the Macdonalds, who attacked it in 1645 during their uprising for Montrose against the Convenanters. While it is unclear whether the MacInneses held the castle as keepers or captains, they had become increasingly dependent on the Campbells by that time.
Another intriguing aspect of the MacInnes clan’s history lies in their connection to the Mackinnon chiefs on the Isle of Skye. A section of the MacInnes family served as hereditary archers to the Mackinnon clan. This allegiance is reflected in the clan’s crest, often depicted as an arm holding a bow, symbolizing their role as skilled archers. During the Jacobite period, the MacInneses found themselves divided in their allegiances. The main body of the clan stood with the Campbells, supporting the Hanoverian cause, which favored the British monarchy under the House of Hanover. However, one branch of the MacInnes family, connected with the Stewarts of Ardsheal, fought for the Jacobite cause, seeking to restore the exiled Stuart dynasty to the British throne. Like many other Scottish families, the MacInneses experienced a dispersion during periods of significant emigration. The clan name can now be found throughout the English-speaking world, with notable concentrations in Canada and New Zealand. These dispersed branches of the clan carry their heritage and contribute to the rich tapestry of Scottish culture in their adopted homelands. |
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