Goraidh Mac Eachann MacAlasdair facts for kids
Goraidh Mac Eachann MacAlasdair, also known as Godfrey MacEachan MacAlester or Gorrie, was born around 1570-1580. He became the 5th Chief of Clan MacAlister in 1587, leading his clan from Loup. He passed away around 1636 in Tarbert, Argyll, Scotland.
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Becoming a Clan Chief
Gorrie MacAlester became the Chief of Clan MacAlister when he was still young, in 1587. Because of his age, Charles MacAlester of Tarbert became his guardian and teacher. During this time, Gorrie learned all the important skills and abilities needed to lead his clan.
A Family Dispute
Later, a disagreement happened involving Gorrie and Charles. Charles wanted a young woman to marry one of his own sons, but Gorrie had other plans for her. When Gorrie found out about Charles's actions, Charles quickly left the area.
In 1598, Charles MacAlester returned. During a conflict, Charles died. After this, Charles's sons fled to Askomill House in Kilkerran, Kintyre. This house was the home of Angus Macdonald, the 8th Chief of Clan MacDonald of Dunnyveg.
The Siege of Askomill House
Gorrie wanted to capture Charles's sons. He asked for help from Sir James Macdonald, who was having his own disagreements with his father, Angus MacDonald. Between 200 and 300 armed men surrounded Askomill House. When Charles's sons refused to surrender, the house was set on fire.
Sir James MacDonald knew his father and mother were inside the house. However, he did not allow the fire to be put out and took his father prisoner.
Clan MacAlister's Actions
It is not known if Gorrie took part in the Battle of Traigh Ghruinneart in 1598. However, members of Clan MacAlister were sent to help Sir James Macdonald in that battle.
Two years later, Clan MacAlister attacked the lands of Clan Montgomery on the Isle of Arran. They took many valuable items belonging to John Montgomery of Skelmorlie, the Chief of Clan Montgomery. This included possessions worth a large sum of money.
Family Life
Gorrie MacAlasdair married a daughter of Allan MacDougall of Raray in 1578. They had the following children:
- Eachann Mac Goraidh MacAlasdair (Hector), who later became the 6th Chief of Loup.
- Finovola, who married Hector Maclean, 4th Laird of Coll.
- Isabel, who married Archibald Campbell of Glen Carradale.
