Archibald Macneil of Colonsay facts for kids

Colonel Archibald Macneil (who lived from about 1773 to 1805) was a Scottish laird. A laird is like a landowner or lord. He owned the island of Colonsay. Archibald also served as an officer in the British Army. He was part of the Napoleonic Wars.

A Laird and Soldier

Archibald McNeill was the son of Donald McNeill. Donald was the 3rd Laird of Colonsay. Archibald became the Laird of Colonsay on February 12, 1773.

In 1796, Archibald married Lady Georgina Anne Forbes. She was the daughter of George Forbes, the 5th Earl of Granard. They had two children, a son and a daughter.

Leading the Argyll Fencibles

Archibald McNeill helped create a special army group in 1798. It was called the Argyll Fencibles. He became the colonel, or leader, of this group.

The name "Argyll" was a bit misleading. Not many soldiers from Argyll joined this group. The Argyll Fencibles could serve anywhere in Europe.

In 1800, they were sent to Gibraltar. They stayed there until 1802. This was when the peace of Amiens treaty was signed. After the peace, the group was sent home and then disbanded.

Life on Colonsay

Archibald lived on Colonsay, an island in Argyll, Scotland. People remembered him as a popular laird. However, many people from Colonsay moved away during his time. They went to places like America and Canada.

Archibald McNeill died on Colonsay in 1808. His cousin, John Macneill, took over the estate. John had been managing things for Archibald on Colonsay. Over time, John bought many of Archibald's debts. This led to Archibald selling Colonsay to John.

After Archibald's death, Lady Ann moved to Ireland. She later married Reverend Anthony Hastings.

Family

McNeill married Georgina Forbes. She was the daughter of George, 5th Earl of Granard.