Hugh Mackay of Bighouse facts for kids
Hugh Mackay of Bighouse was a Scottish nobleman and soldier. He was an important member of the Clan Mackay, a famous Scottish clan from the Scottish Highlands.
Early Life of Hugh Mackay
Hugh Mackay was the oldest son from his father's second marriage. His father was George Mackay, 3rd Lord Reay. Hugh's mother was Janet, daughter of John Sinclair of Ulbster, from Caithness.
Military Adventures
During the Jacobite rising of 1745, Hugh Mackay supported the British government. He was a Captain in the 2nd Mackay Independent Highland Company. This company fought in several important events.
One of these was the Skirmish of Tongue on March 25, 1746. Here, Hugh's company helped capture money and supplies from a French ship. They also took 156 Jacobite prisoners.
He also led his company at the Battle of Littleferry on April 15, 1746. In this battle, the Jacobites were defeated again. His company was also part of the Raids on Lochaber and Shiramore. Later in his career, he became a Lieutenant-Colonel in the 1st Sutherland Regiment.
Hugh Mackay's Family
Hugh Mackay married Elizabeth in 1728. She was the eldest daughter of George Mackay of Bighouse. Hugh took his title "of Bighouse" from her family. He officially gained control of the Bighouse Estate in Strathhallade on February 28, 1742.
Hugh Mackay of Bighouse married a second time to Isabella, daughter of Alexander Mackenzie of Lentran. However, they did not have any children.
From his first marriage to Elizabeth Mackay, he had several children:
- Hugh Mackay "younger of Bighouse" was a Lieutenant in Captain George Mackay of Skibo’s Independent Highland Company.
- Colin Mackay, who sadly died when he was a baby.
- Janet Mackay, who married Colin Campbell of Glenure. He was involved in a famous historical event in 1752, known as the Appin Murder.
- Mary Mackay, who married William Ballie of Rosehall. She passed away in 1808.
- Marion Mackay, who married George Mackay, 5th Lord Reay.
- Robina Mackay, who never married and died in Harrogate in 1762.
