The Macdonalds of Sleat and a Gunn Crowner (coroner) link
'This important family, progenitors of the present Chief of Sleat and Lord Macdonald, was founded by Hugh, younger son of Alexander, Lord of the Isles, from whom they are named Clann Uisdein.
Hugh first appears on record in 1460... (he) stopped at Caithness where Hugh was entertained by a member of the Clan Gunn who was the Crowner of the region. Gunn's hospitality was lavish, and during the visit Hugh is said to have formed a ''matrimonial alliance'' with his daughter. How lawful this alliance was has been a matter of much dispute. Later writers, particularly those of other branches who wished to claim the headship of the Clan, have unhesitatingly declared the offspring of the union, Donald Gallach, to be illegitimate even by the easy-going standards of the day. The fact remains, however, that after the death of John, son of Hugh, by his official wife Fynvola MacIain of Arnamurchan, Donald Gallach was accepted without murmur as Chief of Sleat by the men of the Clan and their neighbours; and from him the line descends to this day.'
Page 397 Donald J. Macdonald of Castleton, Clan Donald, 2008.
Quite fascinating when you check to see what historically was going on at this time. The Macdonalds were in revolt against the Scottish king, Hugh was just a pirate. Really, no one wanting to get on in Scottish society would have had Hugh round for a meal. It makes you suspect Hugh may have rolled up at the coroner's 'castle' (more a fortified farm house when you check the measurements) and said 'feed me or else'...
Hugh first appears on record in 1460... (he) stopped at Caithness where Hugh was entertained by a member of the Clan Gunn who was the Crowner of the region. Gunn's hospitality was lavish, and during the visit Hugh is said to have formed a ''matrimonial alliance'' with his daughter. How lawful this alliance was has been a matter of much dispute. Later writers, particularly those of other branches who wished to claim the headship of the Clan, have unhesitatingly declared the offspring of the union, Donald Gallach, to be illegitimate even by the easy-going standards of the day. The fact remains, however, that after the death of John, son of Hugh, by his official wife Fynvola MacIain of Arnamurchan, Donald Gallach was accepted without murmur as Chief of Sleat by the men of the Clan and their neighbours; and from him the line descends to this day.'
Page 397 Donald J. Macdonald of Castleton, Clan Donald, 2008.
Quite fascinating when you check to see what historically was going on at this time. The Macdonalds were in revolt against the Scottish king, Hugh was just a pirate. Really, no one wanting to get on in Scottish society would have had Hugh round for a meal. It makes you suspect Hugh may have rolled up at the coroner's 'castle' (more a fortified farm house when you check the measurements) and said 'feed me or else'...