McDonnells of Knocknacloy facts for kids

The McDonnells of Cnoc na Cloiche (pronounced: knock-na-cla-sha) were a powerful family of professional soldiers. In Ireland, they were known as Mac Domhnáill Gallogáigh. This family came from the Kingdom of the Hebrides, which is now part of Scotland. They were known as Clann-Somhaire, named after their ancestor Somhairle. Later, around 1346, they changed their name to Clann-Domhnáill, named after Somhairle's grandson, Donnell. This name then became permanent for the clan.

Their first leader was Eoin Dubh McDonnell. He was the son of Alasdair Óg McDonnell. Eoin Dubh was killed in 1349. His brother, Raghnall, then became the next leader. All the McDonnells of Cnoc na Cloiche are descended from Raghnall McDonnell.

Who Were the McDonnells?

The McDonnells of Cnoc na Cloiche were a famous family of warriors. They played a big role in the history of both Scotland and Ireland. They were known for their fighting skills and loyalty.

From Scotland to Ireland

The McDonnells had a long history with Ireland. Many people believe their connection goes back to the Vikings in the 800s. In 1164, Somhairle, an early ancestor, fought alongside the Vikings of Dublin. They battled against the Scots who were trying to invade the Kingdom of the Hebrides.

Donnell, who the family is named after, died in Ireland in 1246. He was helping the O'Donnell king of Tir-Connail fight against the English. Fifty years later, Donnell's sons, Aonghus Mor and Alastair Mor, helped their nephew become king of Tir-Connell. Aonghus Mor is also known for starting a monastery in City Armagh in 1264.

In 1315, the McDonnell family helped move a large army. They and their cousins, the McRuaidres, provided 300 ships. These ships moved Edward de Bruc's 6,000 soldiers from Scotland to Ireland. Edward de Bruc wanted to be declared king of Ireland. However, in 1318, Donnell McDonnell was killed. His cousins, Alasdair Óg McDonnell and MacRuaidri, were also killed by the English a few months later, alongside Edward de Bruc.

Becoming Professional Soldiers

In Ireland, the McDonnells first worked as professional soldiers. These soldiers were called gallogláigh. They served the O'Connors, who were kings of Conaught. The McDonnells, along with their cousins the MacSuibnes, MacSheelys, MacDowells, and MacRuaidris, became the first of a new military class in Ireland.

Later, more people from Scotland came to Ireland. For example, Eoin MacDonald of the Clann-Donald married Margarey Bissets in 1395. In the 1500s, many more Scottish soldiers, known as "redshanks," came to Ireland.

Serving the O'Neills

Around 1425, the McDonnells became the main military force for the O'Neill kings. The O'Neills ruled Tir-Eoghan (Tyrone). The McDonnells served the O'Neills for many years, until 1652.

The last McDonnell leaders, Maolmuire, Aodh Buidhe, and Randall, were killed during the Eleven Year War (1641-1652). They were fighting for Sir Phelim O'Neill and Hugh O'Neill. Because of their loyal service between 1425 and 1550, the McDonnells were given lands. These lands included Cnoc na Cloiche in Tyrone, areas near City Armagh, and large parts of the Fews in southern Armagh.