Kenneth Mackenzie, 7th of Kintail facts for kids
Kenneth Mackenzie (died 7 February 1492) was an important leader in the Scottish Highlands. He was known as the 7th chief of Kintail and was also called Coinneach a'bhlair, which means "Kenneth of the Battle." He was the head of the powerful Clan Mackenzie.
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Who Was Kenneth Mackenzie?
Kenneth Mackenzie was the oldest son of Alexander Mackenzie of Kintail, who passed away in 1488. Clan stories often say his mother was Anna Macdougall. However, old records from 1466 suggest his father, Alexander, had been married for about 30 years to "Catherine, daughter of John, son of Ranald."
Even though he's traditionally called the 7th chief of Kintail, Kenneth was actually only the second chief for whom we have clear written records from his time.
Kenneth's Time as Chief
Kenneth managed land for the King before 1479. This land was called Ardovale (Ardival), near Strathpeffer. Records show that he often refused to pay the feudal payments (called fermes) for his land. He also sometimes disobeyed the King's officers.
In 1486, Kenneth also received land from the Earl of Ross. These lands included Meyne, the two Scatwells, Innermany, Inverchoran, and Kinloch Beannacharain.
The Battle of Blar Na Pairce
Between 1485 and 1491, Kenneth led his Clan Mackenzie fighters to a big victory. They fought against Alexander Macdonald of Lochalsh at a place called the Battle of Blar Na Pairce. This battle was an important event during his time as chief.
Kenneth officially became the owner of the Kintail lands after his father died on September 2, 1488, in Dingwall. However, he passed away less than four years later, on February 7, 1492. He was buried at Beauly Priory, where you can still find his tomb today.
Kenneth's Family
Kenneth Mackenzie likely married Finvola first. She was the daughter of Celestine of Lochalsh. They had a son named Kenneth Mackenzie, 8th of Kintail, who later became chief after him. Kenneth later divorced Finvola.
He then married Agnes Fraser, who was still alive after he passed away. With Agnes, he had several children:
- John Mackenzie, 9th of Kintail, who became chief after his older half-brother.
- Alexander Mackenzie, whose family line became the Mackenzies of Davochmaluag.
- Roderick (died March 17, 1533), whose family line became the Mackenzies of Achilty. He was probably the father of Murdo Mackenzie of Fairburn.
- Kenneth, who was a priest in Avoch and whose family line became the Mackenzies of Suddie.
- Agnes, who married Roderick Macleod of Lewis.
- Catherine, who married Hector Munro, 13th Baron of Foulis.
