Clan Mackenzie facts for kids

A picture of a Clan Mackenzie clansman from 1845.

The Clan Mackenzie is a famous Scottish clan from the Scottish Highlands. They are known for their history in the lands of Kintail and Ross-shire.

The clan often fought against other clans and the English. In 1746, they won a battle against the British government and its supporters. However, they were later defeated in other conflicts.

What Does the Name Mackenzie Mean?

The name Mackenzie comes from the Scottish Gaelic language. It is MacCoinneach, which means "son of the fair bright one."

People believe the Mackenzies share ancestors with Clan Matheson and Clan Anrias. All three clans might have come from Gilleoin of the Aird, a important Gaelic leader from the early 1100s.

Another idea is that they all came from Kermac Macmaghan in the 1200s. The Mackenzie chiefs are thought to have lived at their strong castle, Eilean Donan, by the year 1297.

Mackenzie Tartans

The Mackenzie dress tartan is a modern design.

The Mackenzie tartan, also known as the Seaforth Highlanders' regimental tartan.

A tartan is a special pattern of colored lines that represents a Scottish clan. Here are some tartans linked to the Mackenzie name:

• Mackenzie Tartan
  • This tartan is the official pattern for the Seaforth Highlanders. This army group was formed in 1778 by the Earl of Seaforth.
  • The design was recorded in 1816.
  • Members of the Royal Military College of Canada Pipes and Drums band wear this tartan today.

• Mackenzie Dress Tartan
• Mackenzie Hunting Tartan
• Mackenzie Millennium Tartan
  • This tartan is also called the Mackenzie 78th Highlanders tartan.
  • It was recently "discovered" and remade for a special gathering called the "Millennium Gathering." The Clan Mackenzie Society sells this tartan.

Where Did the Name Mackenzie Come From?

The surname Mackenzie is Scottish and comes from the Gaelic language. It is an English version of the Gaelic Mac Coinnich. This means "son of Coinnich," where Coinnich means "comely" or "handsome."

Today, the Gaelic name Coinneach is often changed to Kenneth in English. However, Kenneth was originally an English version of a different Gaelic name, Cionaodh.

Images for kids

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  The oldest known image of a Mackenzie. This is a statue of Kenneth Mackenzie, 7th of Kintail (who died in 1491 or 1492) at Beauly Priory.

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  Commemorative stone for the Mackenzies of Seaforth on the Isle of Lewis. The Mackenzie chief's title, Earl of Seaforth, came from Loch Seaforth.

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  A Clan Mackenzie tent at the 2005 Bellingham Highland Games.