George Mackay of Skibo facts for kids
George Mackay of Skibo (born around 1715, died June 25, 1782) was an important Scottish person. He was a lawyer, a soldier, and a politician. He helped the British Government during a big conflict called the Jacobite rising of 1745. Later, he became a Member of Parliament, which means he helped make laws for the country.
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Growing Up and Education
George Mackay was one of the younger sons of George Mackay, 3rd Lord Reay. His mother was Mary Dowell. He went to college at the University of Aberdeen. After his studies, he became an advocate in 1737. An advocate is a type of lawyer who speaks for people in court.
Fighting in the Jacobite Rising
The Jacobite rising of 1745 was a time when some people in Scotland wanted to bring back the old royal family to the throne. However, George Mackay's family, the Clan Mackay, supported the British Government.
George Mackay became a Captain in the 1st Mackay Independent Highland Company. These companies were like local defense groups. They were formed to fight against the Jacobites.
He played a key role in the Skirmish of Tongue in March 1746. During this fight, his company captured money and supplies meant for the Jacobites from a French ship. He also led his company in other actions, like the Raids on Lochaber and Shiramore. Because of his bravery, he became an officer in the regular British Army. He left the army in 1748.
Becoming a Member of Parliament
In 1747, George Mackay was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Sutherland. An MP is someone elected to represent a local area in the country's parliament. They help make important decisions and laws.
He had tried to win the seat before in 1741 but wasn't successful. However, in 1747, he won! He was re-elected in 1754 and served as an MP until 1761. After that, his younger brother, Alexander, took his place.
In 1756, George Mackay was given another important job. He was made the Master of the Mint for Scotland. This meant he was in charge of making coins for the country.
Skibo Castle History
George Mackay got Skibo Castle from his mother's brother, Patrick Doull of Winterfield. However, the castle already had many debts when he got it. It continued to have financial problems while he owned it. Eventually, he sold the property.
Family Life
George Mackay married Anne Sutherland on September 13, 1766. Anne was the daughter of Eric Sutherland, 4th Lord Duffus. They had several children together:
- George Mackay (who sadly died in the East Indies in 1790).
- Eric Mackay, who later became the 7th Lord Reay.
- Alexander Mackay, who became the 8th Lord Reay.
- Donald Mackay (who was a Captain in the Royal Navy).
- Patrick Mackay (who died when he was a baby).
- Elizabeth Mackay.
- Mary Mackay.
- Harriet Mackay.
- Anne Mackay.
