Ferquhard Mackintosh, 12th of Mackintosh facts for kids
Ferquhard Mackintosh, the 12th chief of the Clan Mackintosh, was an important leader in the Scottish Highlands. He was also the chief of a large group of clans known as the Clan Chattan. He lived during a time of many changes and conflicts in Scotland.
Early Life and Challenges
Ferquhard Mackintosh was the only son of Duncan Mackintosh, 11th of Mackintosh. His mother was Flora, the daughter of Alexander of Islay, Earl of Ross.
When he was younger, Ferquhard took part in a rebellion in 1491. This event was known as the Raid on Ross. During this time, he captured Inverness Castle. He used a special siege machine called a "sow" to help him.
After this, the king had Ferquhard arrested. He was sent to Edinburgh Castle. Two years later, he managed to escape. However, he was soon caught again. Ferquhard was then imprisoned in Dunbar Castle. He stayed there for sixteen long years.
While Ferquhard was in prison, his cousin, William Mackintosh, managed the clan. William made sure the Clan Mackintosh and Clan Chattan remained strong.
In 1492, the Clan Cameron made an agreement with Ferquhard. But even with this agreement, the Camerons, along with the Clan Gregor and MacDonalds of Glencoe, attacked Clan Chattan lands. William Mackintosh, acting as chief, quickly took revenge. He raided their lands and even sailed up Loch Ness to surprise them.
During a rebellion in 1503–04, the Mackintoshes and Clan Chattan supported the king. They fought against the rebels.
Becoming Chief of the Clans
Ferquhard Mackintosh was finally set free from prison in 1513. This happened after the Battle of Flodden, where James IV of Scotland died.
When he returned to Inverness, about 1,800 men from the Clan Chattan welcomed him. His cousin William had gathered them. Ferquhard was only free and leading his clan for a few months. He passed away in Inverness on October 8, 1514.
Family Connections
Ferquhard married Giles, the daughter of Hugh Fraser, 1st Lord Lovat. They had one son named Donald, who died when he was very young. They also had four daughters. These daughters married into important families like Guthrie, Strachan, Clan Macdonald of Clanranald, and Clan Shaw of Tordarroch.
Ferquhard was succeeded as chief by William Mackintosh, 13th of Mackintosh. William was the son of Lachlan "Badenoch" Mackintosh. He had already done a great job leading the clan while Ferquhard was imprisoned.
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