Introduction

This evening, I am focusing on Clan MacRae. This clan has long been associated with the famous Eilean Donan Castle in Kintail, Scottish Highlands.

Eilean Donan Castle

Information on Clan MacRae

In the early days, Eilean Donan was held by the MacRaes on behalf of Clan Mackenzie.Under this arrangement the Macraes benefited from expansion of the latter’s territory at expense of the MacLeods.

Post Reformation in 1560 senior MacRaes established reputations in the fields of religion and culture. Included in their expertise was the Gaelic language and poetry.

Unfortunately, the MacRaes did suffer discrimination in the 17th century.This was due to their adherence to Episcopalianism at a time when Calvinism was gaining ascendancy.

This Highland clan has no chief and is therefore considered an armigerous clan. The surname Macrae (and its variations) is an anglicisation of the patronymic from the Gaelic personal name MacRaith. This personal name means “son of grace”.

Although without a Clan Chief, Eilean Donan is recognised as the premier MacRae site in Scotland.

Another view of Eilean Donan Castle

More Information

For more information on Scotland please refer Visitors Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This extensive publication is also available via Kindle.