THE MAC DONNACHAIDH  

McConaghey of Bute (DF97)

(Isles of Bute)

The patronymic surname MacConnaughey, McConnachie, McConachy or McConaghy is a variant form of the Gaelic name MacDonnchaidh, which means son of Donnachaidh: it is anglicised as Duncan and in Latin as Doncani. The earliest reference to the name McConaghy appears as MacDuncan in the linage name of Nicholas “Makdunkan” who was present at the pleas held at Dull in Atholl, Perthshire, in 1265. The surname also appears in records relating to the old sheriffdom of Dumfries, which in the 1300s included the present district of Kirkcudbrightshire in Galloway. Other families bearing the name McConachie or McDonnachie are cadet branches of the Clan Campbells in Argllshire. However, these branches are believed to be distinct and of separate origin from the well attested McConaghy family in Isles of Bute. In the ‘History of the County of Bute’ by John Reid, it is noted that besides the noble royal family of Bute, the McConaghys of Ambrisbeg, located in the south of Island, were believed to be the only remaining connection between the island’s landholders in 1864 and those who held property under the general charter of James IV in 1506.

King James IV’s great Rental of the lands and tenements granted in ‘fee and heritage’ at Palace of Linlithgow on 16 August, 1506, names six McConachys in the Isles of Bute.  

John Makonochy the half of the lands of Cowleing, Alexander MakWrerdy the other half

Malcolm Makconochy the lands of Kyngawane with the pertinents

Donald Makconochy half the lands of Dunguild, Patrick M’Koee the other half

Duncan Makconochy the lands of Kerymanuch with the pertinents

Ewen Makconochy the lands of Almorus beg

Gilchrist Makconochie 16s and 8d worth of the lands of Baron with pertinents

In the Bute Archives, there are late fifteenth century records naming several McConaghys. The earliest is “Donald McConoquie”, one of several witnesses to an instrument of resignation by Ninian Stewart, sheriff of Bute and Arran, to “Finlay McMurardi” of the two merk lands of Branser on 8 May, 1494. In the 1506 list of crown tenants, “Donald Makconochy” held one half of the land of Dunagoil, ‘Patrick Makkee’ held the other half. On 24 April, 1496, the king granted a tack to “Ewin Mackconnoquhy” son of “Donald Mackconoquhy” of the two and a half merk lands of Ambrisbeg in the lordship of Bute. It notes that these lands had been held by Donald and given by the king to Ewin his son. The king made a further grant on 16 June, 1496, to “Malcolm Mackconnoquhy” also son of “Donald Mackconoquhy” (on back of charter, Malcolm son of Donald McDuncan) of the land of Kingavin near Dunagoil. “John McConnochie”, possibly another son or brother of Donald, witnessed a sasine in favour of John McWyen of the land of Cwan (Culevine?) on 5 December, 1499. It is evident from these references, “Donald Makconochy” held several properties under the king, and probably had been granted by the king’s ancestor to Donnchaidh, at an unknown date in the fourteenth century.

The old McConaghy family seat was located at Ambrisbeg, and in Bute, they were generally known as Baron McConachy of Ambrisbeg, which with Dunagoil, Kingavin, Kerrymenoch and Culevine, are all located in the parish of Kingarth. In a letter dated 10 January, 1787, by John, Lord Mount Stuart, to Peter May, factor to his father the Earl of Bute, 'Duncan McConnachie' is called the ‘Baron of Ambrisbeg’. May was factor to the Earl between 1778 and 1794, and responsible for the land improvements and re-valuation of the land rents due by Earl’s tenants. Mention is made in Lord Mount Stuart’s letter of a memorial sent by the Baron of Ambrisbeg stating the peculiar hardship he was labouring under. Lord Mount Stuart writes that he was ‘unable at this time to say whether in this instance of generosity and goodwill towards an old zealous adherent of the family was to be followed by any further indulgence, but it is as a relief for which Mr. Maconochie ought to feel himself greatly indebted’. In another letter, he says May was ‘perfectly right in opposing any deduction from the money he was authorised by the Earl to pay for that old fellow, as he undoubtedly meant to bestow it as a free and charitable gift’, and instructed May to pay no more to him.  The last Baron of Ambrisbeg was 'Alexander McConachy', who sold the farm to the Marquess of Bute in 1865. He married Beatrice daughter of Andrew Haig, a farmer of Kilmory and had one son and four daughters.  

The earliest dateable reference to the McConaghys in Bute is found in a papal letter of Clement VII (1378-1394), who issued a mandate at Avignon on 12 July, 1393, to collate Malcolm de Bute, priest of the diocese of Sodor, to the perpetual vicarage of the parish of church of St Blaan of Kingarth, vacant by the death of “Maurice Doncani”. Maurice is the Anglicized form of the Gaelic Muirgheas, meaning seafarer or sea valour. In some instances, it can also be applied as Muirheartach, a Gaelic name meaning sea ruler. In this form, it appears in McCurdy, McMurty and McMurtrie in both the Islands of Bute and Arran.  It is very likely, the ‘mac’ in the Latin Doncani had been dropped, forming a similar style to John Donkan, bishop of Sodor and Man. Between 1275 and 1348, five Scottish priests in succession received the Episcopal dignity of Bishop of Sodor and Man, and ruled over the churches within the diocese for nearly 75 years. The Scots bishops, which included three men from Galloway, apparently selected St Brioc's Church, Rothesay in the Isle of Bute, for their cathedral; St Mary's Chapel, which was probably rebuilt in this epoch, served as their place of sepulchre. In his book on ‘The Isle of Bute in the Olden Time’, James Hewison outlines the succession of Scottish Bishops, who held the see of Sodor and Man, and it is worth noting three out of five bishops came from Galloway.

A native of Galloway, by name Mark, after the customary disputings, in 1275 occupied the bishop's chair, and proved himself not only to be a practical man but a patriotic Scot. He rose to be Lord Chancellor of Scotland, suffered much for his loyalty to the Scottish Crown, and was taken prisoner to London by Edward I. He died blind in 1299, after being for twenty-four years in office, and was buried in St German's. The synodal statutes he promulgated are also preserved, and one of them is thoughtfully practical in its injunction upon married persons not to sleep with their children lest they should smother them. His seal is also preserved in a document in the Chapter-house, Westminster. Under a Gothic niche is the figure of a bishop vested, and in the act of benediction. The inscription runs: “S. Marci Dei Gratia Sodoren Episcopi."

The Chronicle of Man states that after Mark, "Alan, a native of Galloway, ruled the Sodorian church honourably, died on the 15th of February 1320, and is buried in the church of the blessed Mary of Rothersay in Buth."  This Allan or Onachus was consecrated by lorund at Drontheim.

The Chronicle further informs us: “To whom succeeded Gilbert Mac Lelan, a native of Galloway. He was the bishop of Sodor for two years and a half, and is buried in the said church of Both."  Gilbert, like his predecessors, was a man of figures, and appears in 1326 auditing the books of the constable of Tarbart Castle. He seems to have been a favourite of King Robert Bruce, and in constant attendance upon him in different parts in Scotland, as we gather from the Exchequer Rolls. The same year his lordship pays a tax in barley to the king and saw that his clergy did the same, for after his death in 1327 the 1/10 penny of Man is not being paid.

In the accounts for 1329 an entry stands, from which we can infer that Gilbert was a staunch supporter of the Bruce's throne: "Et Cudberto, frater domini Gilberti, quondam Episcopi in pattern expensarum factarum circa sepulturam ejusdcm, iiii lib." To Cuthbert, brother of Lord Gilbert, formerly bishop, towards the expenses incurred in his burial. It is a pity that this monument, partly erected by King Robert to his faithful bishop, is no longer distinguishable.

The next bishop was the Chancellor of Scotland under Robert the Bruce, Bernard de Linton, who had been appointed Abbot of Aberbrothoc in 1211, an office he held till the spring of 1328, when he was elected to Sodor. Bernard was a patriotic Scot, an esteemed adviser of his sovereign, and an able administrator.

In 1328 King Robert grants him £100 "for his expenses about the business of his election," probably incurred in going, like his predecessors, to Trondheim for consecration. The following year he also receives a small gift of 6, 133. 4d. So well did the Bruce love his bishops.

In the 'Book of St Thomas of Aberbrothoc' is found a deed of gift assigning to Bernard a pension out of the benefice, and in laudatory terms declaring how he had "lived well, laudably, and honestly," prudently and circumspectly ruled the house, and had expended the fees of his chancellorship in repairing and maintaining the abbey.'

Bishop Bernard, after four years' service, was laid to rest in Kilwinning. His successor, Thomas, another Scot, according to the Chronicle was eighteen years bishop, died on the 20th September 1348, and was buried in Scone. But he could only have been fifteen years in the office, since we find his successor, William Russell, in the summer of 1349, returning from Avignon, where he had been consecrated bishop by Bernard, Bishop of Ostia. Pope Clement VI., in confirming this appointment, directed letters, among others, "to his beloved son, the noble man, Robert, called Stuvard, the Senescall of Scotland, Lord of the Isle of Bute, in the Diocese of Sodor."  William was a Manxman, and had been Abbot of Russin for eighteen years. After an episcopate of twenty-six years he died, and was buried in Furness.

[Hewison, James King: The Isle of Bute in the Olden Time (Edinburgh, 1843), Vol. 1, p. 272-5]

Maurice Duncan, Gaelic Muirgheas MacDonnchaidh, was rector of the parish church of Kingarth, once a monastery dedicated to St. Blane (Old Irish Bláán). The Martyrologies of Ireland and Aberdeen Breviary relate that his mother was called Eretha and she was the sister of St. Cathan. It was Cathan who saw to Blane’s education in Ireland under St. Comgall and Kenneth, before he returned to Bute to found his monastery at Kingarth in the sixth century. According to the notation in the tenth century Martyrology of Oengus, the monastery of St. Bláan of Cenngarad, modern Kingarth, lay in Gallgaidelaib, Gall Ghaidheil, the territory of the foreign Gael.  Interestingly, Dunagoil takes its name from the Iron Age vitrified fort or dun, Gaelic Dún na gall, fort of the foreigners, similar to Donegal in Ireland. There is genetic evidence to show the ‘McConnachy’ family of Bute share a common ancestry with the Seacht Sliocht Uí Dhochartaigh Inis Eoghain in County Donegal, Cenn Fáelad (c.720) of the historical Síl Lugdach. The area in which the Síl Lugdach was located is known, even today, by a modern form of the name Cloch Cen Fáelad, Cloch Chionnfhaolaigh, Cloghaneely or the ‘Stone of Cenn Fáelad’. The territory of Cloghaneely is larger than the original Síl Lugdach territory and combines civil parish of Tullaghabegley and part of adjacent parish of Raymunterdoney to the east.

In the Papal records, there is also mention of the death of “Duncan Meckaodich” of Bute, late rector parish church of St. Modan in Cowal, a peninsula next to Bute. Nigel Campbell, deacon of Dunblane, had appealed to Benedict XIII of Avignon for validation of his possession of the rectory, following the death of Duncan, he was still alive in 1392, when he resigned the rectorship of St. Modan. A papal mandate to confirm his title was issued on 17 June, 1396. Meckaodich is formed from two words, Mec is 'mac' and Kaodich a terse attempt at spelling either Conachy or more likely Donchaid, as in 'MacDonchaidh'. If correct, the names of Duncan Meckaodich and Maurice Duncan would place the McConaghy family amongst the oldest in the Isles of Bute. It also suggests, Maurice and Duncan were associated with a family attached to the parish church of Kingarth. This church was gifted to Paisley Abbey by Alan son of Walter, the steward of William I, king of Scots (1165-1214), in or about 1200.

In Bute, the earliest traces for the name Donnchaidh are found in Latin texts relating to gifts made by the Lords of the Isles to Paisley Abbey. “Ferchar son of Nigelli” of Bute witnessed two grants made by Angus son of Donald, grandson of Somerled of Argyll. In the first, his brother Duncan appears alongside him as a witness, and in the second, their father’s name is given in Latin as Nigelli, the English Nigel, Norse Njáll, which is derived from the Gaelic Niall. In the second charter, Fearchar is followed by “Douenaldo clerico de Kildufbenin”, that is, clerk of Kildavanan in Bute. Fearchar of Bute appears to have been a native chief, and local baron under the Steward of Scotland. It is an intriguing possibility, though probably impossible to prove, the MacDonnchaidh clergy of Kingarth, descended from Donnchaidh mac Niall of Bute. If it could be proved, it would extend our understanding of the Gall Ghaidheil, and their presence within the Firth of the Clyde and mainland of Scotland. Their influence and power in these areas suffered much at the hands of the Canmore dynasty and their steward, who appears to have taken control of Bute, as early as the second half of the twelfth century.  On the other hand, with names like Niall, Fearchar, Donnchaidh and Dovenald, it is evident the Gaelic way of life survived and continued to play an important part in island’s community and its history.   

An Inventory of Documents relating to the early history of the McConaghys

[1] Gift of the church of Kingarth to Paisley Abbey.

1177-1204. Gift by Alan son of Walter, steward of the king of Scotland, to his house of Paisley, for the souls of King David and King Malcolm, and for the souls of his father Walter and his mother Eschina, and for the welfare of his lord William, king of Scotland, and others, he donates, grants and by this his charter establishes to Paisley Priory, the church of Kingarth (sic. Kengaif) in the island of Buite (sic. Bote), with all chapels and the parish of the whole island, and with all the land that is called St Blane’s.<br>

[Registrum Monasterii de Passelet (Edinburgh, 1842), No. 16, p. 15]

[2] Fearchar of Bute and Duncan his brother

1220-49: Angus, son of Donald, Lord of the Isles, following the example of his grandfather and father, has given, granted, and established by this his present charter, to Paisley Abbey, in pure and perpetual alms, amongst his gifts, a half mark annually from his own house, and 1d. annually from every house from which smoke is expelled throughout all his lands. Witnessed by Alexander, brother of Angus son of Donald of the Isles; “Ferchardo de Buit”, “Duncano” his brother; Thornfinn, Gilbert son of Samuel of Renfrew; Peter, clerk; Henry Russell, clerk; Thomas, baker; William de Strathgryfe; Laurence, clerk.

[Registrum Monasterii de Passelet (Edinburgh, 1842), No. 132, p. 127]

[3] Fearchar son of Neill of Bute

1241-1249: Inspection by Laurence, bishop of Argyll, the charter by Angus, son of Donald, Lord of the Isles, the gift and grant to St James and St Mirren of Paisley Abbey of the church of St Queran in his land of Kintyre, in free, pure and perpetual alms, with all its just pertinents. Witnessed by Alan of Ness, knight, “Ferchar filio Nigilli de Buyt”, Donald, clerk of Kildufbenin, Cainnech (Kenneth) mac Gilla Rúad, Gillies mac Dub Síde, Gillespie, messenger, and many others.

[Registrum Monasterii de Passelet (Edinburgh, 1842), No. 133, p. 127-128]

[4] Duncan de Bute

June 9, 1392: To the official of Glasgow. Mandate to collate Malcolm Cristinin, priest of Lismore diocese, to the parish of church of St. Modan in Cogallo (Cowal), same diocese, vacant by the resignation of Duncan de Bute, last rector, made freely into the hands of bishop John of Lismore. The bishop provided Malcolm to the living by his ordinary authority, but since his provision has been contested, Malcolm has petitioned the pope for confirmation. Avignon, 5 Id. June, anon 14; expedited, 5 Id. July, anno 14 (11 July, 1392; consigned, 3 Id. July, anno 14 [13 July, 1392].

[Burns, Charles (ed): Calendar of Papal Letters to Scotland of Clement VII of Avignon 1378-1394 (Edinburgh, 1976), p. 174]

[5] Malcolm de Bute & Maurice Duncan

July 12, 1393: To the dean of St Pierre, Avignon, Nicholas de Irwyne, canon of Glasgow, and the official of Glasgow. Mandate to collate Malcolm de Bute, priest of Sodor diocese, to the perpetual vicarage of the parish of church of St Blaan de Kyngarth, same diocese, value not exceeding £7 sterling, vacant by the death of Maurice Doncani. Avignon, 4 Id Jul., anno 15; expedited, 19 Kal., Sept., anno 15 [14 August, 1393]; consigned, 17 Kal. Sept., anno 15 [16 August, 1393].

[Burns, Charles (ed): Calendar of Papal Letters to Scotland of Clement VII of Avignon 1378-1394 (Edinburgh, 1976), p. 195-6]

[6] Duncan Meckaodich de Bute

June 17, 1396: To the bishop of Sodor, the dean of Dunblane and the dean of St. Peter’s, Avignon.

Mandate to confirm, with the King’s consent, after due examination Nigel Cambel, deacon, Dunblane diocese, in possession of the parish church of St. Modan in Cowal, Argyll diocese, as Nigel doubts the validity of his presentation by Robert, king of Scots, patron of the parish and his institution by John, bishop of Argyll, within the proper time, following the death outside the curia of Duncan Meckaodich de Bute, late rector. Nigel’s possession is to be valid whether the church is vacant because of the above, or because the late Maurice Clerici, former rector of the church who had held it for more than a year without being promoted to priests orders, did not have a canonical dispensation and had hindered lawful cession, or vacant for any other reason. Avignon. 16 Kal. July, anon 2; expedited, 15 Kal. August, anon 2 [18 July, 1396]; consigned, 14 Kal. August, anon 2 [19 July, 1396].

[McGurk, Francis (ed): Calendar of Papal Letters to Scotland of Benedict XIII of Avignon 1394-1419 (Edinburgh, 1976), p. 64]

[7] Donald McConaghy

May 8, 1494: Instrument of resignation by Ninian Stewart, Sheriff of Bute and Arran to Finlay McMurardi of the two merk lands of Branser in the Isle of Bute. Dated at Rothesay. Notary: Walter Stewart, clerk in the diocese of St. Andrews. Witnesses: Sir Donald Bannatyne, rector of St Brides’s in Arran and Commissary of Bute and Arran; James Stewart (Ninian’s brother): Alexander Bannatyne of Kerrylamond; William Bannatyne McGibbon; Donald McConoquie; Ninian McKaw and John Stewart.

Note: In the Isle of Bute 1506 list of crown tenants: Donald Makconochy half of the land of Dunguild (Dungoil), the other half of the same with ‘Patrick Makkee’.

[8] Ewen McConaghy

April 24, 1496: Tack by King James IV to Ewen Makconnoquhy son to Donald Makconnoquhy of the two and a half merk lands of Ambrisbeg in the lordship of Bute.

Note: In the 1506 list of tenants in the Isle of Bute: Eugen Makconochy land of Almorusbeg’.

[9] Malcolm McConaghy

June 16, 1496: Instrument of Sasine in favour of Malcolm Makconnoquhy son to Donald Makconnoquhy for the lands of Kingavin in the Isles of Bute. Notary: Walter Stewart, clerk in the diocese of St Andrews.

Note: In the Isle of Bute 1506 list of crown tenants: ‘Malcolm Makconachy de Kyngawane’.

[10] John McConaghy

December 5, 1499: Instrument of Sasine by Ninian Stewart, Sheriff of Bute and Arran in favour of John McWeyn of ‘Cwan’ [Culevin?] in the southern part of the Isle of Bute. Notary: Walter Stewart, clerk in the diocese of St. Andrews. Witnesses: David Stewart; Harisbald Stewart (son of Andrew); Donald Spens; Molecrus McGilkerane [?]; John McConnochie: John McCwn [McEwen] and Finlay McChaell.

Note: In the Isle of Bute 1506 list of crown tenants: ‘John McConochy half of the land of Cowleing, the other half of the same with ‘Alexander Makwrerdy’.

[11] A Rental of King James’s lands and tenements in Isle of Bute

August 16, 1506: A Rental of the lands and tenements granted in fee and heritage of the king in the Isle of Bute. To “Johanni Stewart terras (the land) de Kerycroy et Kelspokis; Jacobo Stewart terras de Kilquhattanbeg, Kilquhattanmore, et tertiam partem de Auchintarve; Willelmo Stewart terras de Largobrachtane; Alexandro Banachtyne seniori terras de Kerelawmond; Alexandro Banachtine juniori terras de Lowpasbeg et Lowpasmore; Waltero Banachtyne dimedietatem terrarum de Brochog; Gilcristo Makwrerdy alteram dimed. earundem; Malcolmo Makfersoun terras de Kerytonla; Fynlayo Makwrerdy dimed. terrarum de Kerymanache; Finlayo Makilmon alteram dimed. earundem; Johanni Makconochy dimed. terrarum de Cowleing; Alexandro Makwrerdy alteram dimed. earundem; Donaldo Makwrerdy terras de Langilculcathla; Gilcristo Makwrerdy terras de Bransier; Malcolmo Makconachy terras de Kyngawane; Gilnew Mackaw terras de North Garachach; Gilpatrik Makkaw dimed. terrarum de South Garachach; Jobanni Makkaw alteram dimed. earundem; Donaldo Makconochy dimed. terrarum de Dunguild; Patricio Makkcee alteram dimed. earundem; Alexandro Glas dimed. terrarum de Langilculcreich; Finlayo M'Wrerdy alteram dimed. earundem; Donaldo Makalester dimed. terrarum de Langilwenach; Johanni Makyntailzour alteram dimed. earundem;Johanni Makwrerdy dimed. terrarum de Stramanane; Fiulayo Makallan alteram dimed. earundem; Duncano Makconochy terras de Kerymanche; Johanni Glas juniori terras de Ardynhowe et Barmore; Eugenio Makconochy terras de Almorusbeg; Johanni Glas dimed. terrarum do Brigadilknok, Nigello Jamesoun dimed. de Barnald; Alexandro Glas alteram dimed. earundem; Johanni Glas terras de Kericressach; Gilcristo Makwerich 22 solidatas 3 denariatas 5 mercatarum terrarium de Baroun; Gilcristo Makwerich juniori 11 sol 5 den. earundem; Archibaldo Stewart 16 sol. 8 den. earundem; Gilcristo Makconoche 16 sol. 8 den. earundem; Donaldo Makcany 11 sol. 1 den. et tertiam partem denariate terrarum de Cowane; Gilnew Makilwedy residuum earundem; Johanni Makilkeranne dimed. terrarum de Scalpsey et binam partem de Ardscalpsey; Johanni Makkay tertiam partem dictarum terrarum; Johanni Jamesoun terras de M'Kenach; Roberto Jamesoun terras de Kilmore-Chapeltoun, Over-Kilmore et Kerefern; Archibaldo Banachtyne dimed.de Cogache; Alexandro Stewart terras de Kilquhonlik; Johanni Makweriche dimed. de Nethir-Dunalhrde; Muldony Makgillemicbell dimed. de Dunallirde-Makgillemichell; Finlaio Makcaill tertiam partem terrarum de Dunallirde; Gildow Makintare unam tertiam partem earundem; Fynlaio Magillemichell alteram tertiam partem earundem; Alexandro Banachtyne terras do Ovir-Dunallirde; Archibaldo Makgillespy binam partem de Auchintarvy; Donaldo Spens terras de Escragane; Alexandro Banachtyne dimed. terrarum de Drumacloy; Johanni Stewart et Alexandro Banachtyne alteram dimed. earundem; David Stewart terras de Auchawolik; Ricardo Banachtyne terras de Scarraell; Ferquhardo Makneill terras de Lepinqubaill, dimed. de Clakinbey et Kilmechell; Willelmo Banachtyne alteram dimed. de Clakinbey; Eugenio Makkynine dimed. terrarum de Lepinquhillin; Johanni M'Kynine alteram dimed. earundem; Donaldo Makkano terras de Row; Johanni Makgylquhynnyche terras de Cawnoche; Moricio Maknachtane terras de Bronoche; Donaldo Makewin terras de Boloquhreg; Donaldo Banachtyne terras de Schanland; Roberto Stewart terras de Clonschamerag; Johanni Spens dimed. terrarum de Stouk; Johanni Banachtyne alteram dimed. earundem; Johanni Stewart terras de Knaslagwerardy; Roberto Stewart terras de Nethir-Kilmore et dimed. de Scalpsey; Georgeo Kelso tertiam partem terrarum de Brigadill; Donaldo Makwrerdy tinam partem earundem; Johanni Banachtyne dimed. de Cogache; Roberto Kynnungburgh borealem dimed. terrarum do Galachane; et Johanni Douglas alteram dimed. earundem; Fyidaio M'Wrerdy dimed. terrarum de Keremanache; Fynlaio Makilmone alteram dimed. earundem; Johanni Makconochy dimed. terrarium de Cowleing; Alexandre Makwrerdy alteram dimed. earundem; et Niniano Stewart vicecomiti de Bute terras de Almorusmoro, jacentes infra insulam et vic. de Bute”. Apud Linlithgow.

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1424-1513, Vol. 2, no. 2987]

[12] Ewen McConaghy

May 16, 1507: Instrument of Sasine in favour of Ewen McConochy of the two and half merk lands of Almorisbeg [Ambrisbeg] in the Lordship and Sheriffdom of Bute.

[13] Gilcallum and Patrick McConaghy

July 17, 1515: REX confirmavit cartam [8 August, 1529, at Stirling] Gilcristi Makcaw de Garaehty,—[qua concessit consang. suo Alexandro Makaw, et heredibus ejus masc. legit.,—25 solidatas terrarium (dimedietatis) de australi Garaehty, in dominio, insula et vic. de Bute:— Red Dend. annuatim regi tanquam seneseallo Scotie 23 sol. 3 den., 2 bollas ordei, 7 firlotas avenarum, 5 sol. 7 ½ den, pro parte unius marte, cum servitiis solitis et cousuetis: Test. Gillenyff Makaw, Gilcallum Makconquhy, Donaldo Bane Makcawe, D. Pat. Makconquhy, Pat. Roy Makcawe, Rob. Stewart de Kelspo, Joh. Makaw:— Apud Kengert, 17 Jul. 1515]:— Insuper, pro bono servitio, voluit quod hec confirmation tanti esset roboris ac si data fuisset ante sasinam susceptam.

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1513-46, Vol. 3, p. 179, no. 819]

Note: Adjusted to date granted 17 July, 1515, and not the confirmation date 8 August, 1529.

[14] Gillecrist and John Roy McConaghy

June 22, 1517: Roberti Stewart de Drumcly qua concessit consang. suo Davidi Stewart, et heredibus ejus masc. quibuscumque: — 20 solidatas terrarum de Drumclye, in dominio, insula et vic. de Bute: — Reddend. annuatim regi tanquam senescallo Scotie 18 sol. 6 den. argenti, 6 firlotas ordei, 6 firl. avenarum, et 4 sol. 6 den. pro parte marte, cumservitiis solitis et consuetis: — Test. Niniano Stewart vicecomite de Bute et Arene, Jac. Stewart filio et herede dicti Nin., Rob. S. ejus germano, Joh. Stewart filio et herede Jacobi S. de Kilchatane, Gillecrist M'Conquy, Alex. M'Fersoun, John Roy M'Conquy. Apud Rothissay in Bute.

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1546-80, Vol. 4, no. 166]

Note: See charter dated 30 January, 1541-42

[15] Duncan and Alan McConaghy

November 12, 1517: Rex confirmavit cartam Duncani Makconnquhy de Keremnach [Dated at Stirling 8 April, 1534]: — [qua concessit Alexandro Stewart filio naturali Jacobi S. de Kilchatane, et heredibus ejus masc. legitimis,—2 marcatas terrarum de Keremnnach, in dominio, insula et vic. de Bute: — Reddend. annuatim regi tauquam senescallo Scotie 26 sol. 8 den. argenti, 2 bollas ordei, 2 bol. avenarum, quartamdeciniam et vicesimam partes marte, cum servitiis solitis et consuetis:—Test. John Stewart de Kerecroy, Jac. S. ejus folio, Alano 'M'Conquhy, John Wrarty, John M'Lelane, John M'Morich, Finlaio Lenax vicario de Kengart: —Apud Kilchatane, 12 November 1517]: Apud Stirling.

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1513-46, Vol. 3, p. 303, no. 1377]

Note: Adjusted to date granted 12 November, 1517, and not the confirmation date 8 April, 1534.

[16] Finday McConaghy

1518-19: Vicecomes respondebit pro 3 li. 6 s. 8 d., pro 5 bollis ordei 5 bollis, avenarum et una le lardnare mart per duplicationem feodifirme terrarum de Amros Beg cum pertinen. jaoentium infra insulam de Bute et balliam suam, allocando pro le mart et avenis 5 s. de summa predicta, regi tanquam senescallo Scotie debitis per sasinam datam Flnlaio Makconoquhy de eisdem apud Edinburgh dicto die a.r. prenotato.

[Exchequer Rolls of Scotland 1513-1522 (Edinburgh, 1893), Vol. XIV, p. 617]

[17] Finday McConaghy

1528: Vicecomes de Bute respondebit pro x s. usualis monete tribus ferlotis ordei tribus ferlotis avenarum dimedietate quinte partis et dimedietate decime partis de le lardinar mart de firmis terrarium de Kingawane cum pertinentiis jacentium in insula de Bute infra bailliam suam existentium in minibus regis termini Sancti Martini ultimo preterit sasina non recuperate et de xx s. dicte monete sex ferlotis sex ferlotis avenarum et quinta parte de decima parte de le lardinar mart per duplicationem feodifirme dictarum terrarium cum pertinentiis allocando pro avenis et le lardinar mart tres solidis de summa predicta regi tanquam senescallo Scotie debitis per sasinam datam Finlaio Makcannoquhy de eisdem. Apud Edinburgh vicesimo sexton die mensis Martii anno regni regis predicto.

[Exchequer Rolls of Scotland 1523-1529 (Edinburgh, 1895), Vol. XIV, p. 660]

[18] Patrick McConaghy

April 21, 1529: Ane Lettre maid to Archibald Campbell, sone and are apperand to Colin Erle of Ergile, his airis and assignais, ane or maa, - of the gift of all guidis movable and unmovable quilkis pertaenit to umquhill Schir Patrik McConnoquhy, chaplane, lady prest of the kirk of Kyngarth, within the schirefdome of Bute, and now pertenyng to our soverane lord be resound of eschete becaus the said umquhill Schir Patrik slew himself wilfully, etc. Per Signaturam Regis et thesaurarii. Gratis. Date at Edinburgh.

[The Register of the Privy Seal of Scotland 1529-42, Vol. 2, p. 7, no. 52]

[19] Patrick McConaghy

[April ?], 1529: Grant by King James V to Archibald Campbell son and heir of Colin, 3rd Earl of Argyle, of all the goods that belong etc to the deceased Sir Patrick McConnaquhy “late priest of the Kirk of Kyngarth (in Bute) which were escheat to the King “because the said umquhill schir Patrick slew himself wilfully”. Date at Dumbarton.

[Argyll Transcripts, Glasgow University Scottish History Department, Vol. III, p. 219]

[20] Patrick McConaghy

November 14, 1533: REX confirmavit cartam Gilpatrik Makcee de Dungall [Dated at Stirling, 8 April, 1534].—[qua concessit Willelmo Hyndman, et heredibus ejus masc. legit.,— 13 solidatas 4 den. terrarum de Dwngull, in dominio, insula et vic. de Bute: Reddend. regi tanquam senescallo Scotie firmas regias solitas et consuetas: Test. Jac. Stewart de Kilchatane, Joh. S. filio et apparente herede, Joh. Makaw de Garachty, Alex. de Garacbty, Joh. Glas do Ardinhow, Joh. M'Gilguf M'Wrarty, Joh. Hyndman, Pat. M'Conquby scolari:—Apud Kengart, 14 Nov. 1533].

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1513-46, Vol. 3, no. 1378]

Note: Adjusted to date granted 21 February, 1537, and not the confirmation date 10 August, 1539. This charter was confirmed by the king on the same day, 8 April, 1534, as no. 15 above.  

[21] Patrick McConaghy

February 21, 1537: REX confirmavit cartam Archibaldi Cunyburce de Gallachane [Date at Pethley, 10 August, 1539],—[qua, pro summa pecunie persoluta, vendidit Duncano Makwrarty, Katherine levenax ejus sponse, et eorum alteri diutius viventi in conjuncta infeodatione, et Finlaio Makwrarty eorum filio sivo heredibus dicti Dunc, quibuscunique masc, 20 solidat. terrarum de Gallachane, in insula et vic. de Bute: Tenend. dictis Dunc, et Kath. ut supra, dicto Fin. et heredibus ejus masc, quibus deficientibus, heredibus dicti Duncani quibuscuraque, de rege tanquam senescallo Scotie: — Reddend. annuatim 20 sol. argenti, 6 firlotas ordei, 6 firl. aveuarum, cum quarta et vicesima partibus unius lie lardijnar mart, allocando de dicta summa argeuti pro avenis et partibus marte 3 solidos; cum servitiis solitis et consuetis: Reservato fructu tenement M. Finlaio Levenax pro ejus vita:- Test. Arch. Bannachtyne de Kerolamune, D. Pat. Makwrarty capellano, Pat. Makconquy, M. Pat. Lorane capellano capelle regie S. Brigide, Joh. Makwrarty, Symone Evyne, Joh Ranquyn, Willelmo Cunyburce filio et herede dicti Arch. Apud Scolok, 21 Feb. 1537]. Apud Petlethy.

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1513-46, Vol. 3, p. 450, no. 2006]

Note: Adjusted to date granted 21 February, 1537, and not the confirmation date 10 August, 1539.

[22] Gillchrist, John Roy, Finlay and John McConaghy

January 30, 1541-42: Rex, tanquam senescallus Scotie, confirmavit cartam Roberti Stewart de Drumcly [qua concessit consang. suo Davidi Stewart, et heredibus ejus masc. quibuscumque: — 20 solidatas terrarum de Drumclye, in dominio, insula et vic. de Bute: — Reddend. annuatim regi tanquam senescallo Scotie 18 sol. 6 den. argenti, 6 firlotas ordei, 6 firl. avenarum, et 4 sol. 6 den. pro parte marte, cumservitiis solitis et consuetis: — Test. Niniano Stewart vicecomite de Bute et Arene, Jac. Stewart filio et herede dicti Nin., Rob. S. ejus germano, Joh. Stewart filio et herede Jacobi S. de Kilchatane, Gillecrist M'Conquy, Alex. M'Fersoun, John Roy M'Conquy:— Apud Rothissay in Bute, 22 June 1537]:—Necnon cartam David Stewart de Drumcly, [qua, pro summa pecunie sibi persoluta, vendidit Roberto Stewart de Ambrismore, et heredibus ejus masc. legit, quibuscumque: — 20 sol. terrarum de Drumclye: —Reddend. ut supra:—Test. Jac. Stewart vicecomite de Bute, Arch. Stewart de Largayane, Fynlaio M'Conquy de Ambrisrig, Donaldo M'Urarty de Brigadull, John Glass de Ardinhow, Fynlaio Moir M'Urarty de Langull, Donaldo M'Urarty de Culewyue, John M'Conquy de Culwyne:—Apud Roy in Bute, 11 March 1540]: — Necnon cartam Roberti Stewart de Drumcly,—[qua concessit Johanni Kelso, et heredibus ejus masc. quibuscumque,—20 sol. terrarium de Drumcly ;—ratione excambii 25 solidatarum terrarum de Birgadillovyno, in domiuio, insula et vic. de Bute: — Reddend. ut supra :—Test. Jac. Stewart vicecomite de Bute, Arch. Stewart de Largayane, John Stewart de Kilcattane, John Bannachtyno de Skarall, Duuc. M'Meche, John M'Ge vic. (sic), Pet. Spence, Tho. Auld:—Apud Rothissay in Bute, 10 March 1540]:— Insuper, pro bono servitio, voluit quod dicta contirmatio tanti esset roboris ac si ante sasinas susceptas data fuisset. Apud Stirling.

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1513-46, Vol. 3, p. 593-4, no. 2583]

[23] John McConaghy

December 18, 1547: REGINA &c., confirmavit cartam Roberti Makianny de Manach,—[qua, pro summa pecunie sibi persoluta, vendidit Niniano Stewart de Largabrechtan, heredibus ejus et assignatis,—31 solidatas 1 1/3 den. terrarum de Manach (sive Maknaucht), in dominio et vic. de Bute. Solvend. Regine feodifirmam &c. prius consuet. Test. Donaldo Makgillespe Makneill, Donaldo M'Gillespie Aig, Alex. Makgillespe, Rob. Stewart, Joh. Makconquy, Donaldo Makgileheroun. Apud Kengert, 5 Jun. 1547]. Apud Striveling.

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1546-80, Vol. 4, p. 40, no. 166]

[24] John McConaghy

January 21, 1548/49: REGINA &c., confirmavit cartam Johannis Stewart de Kilchattan,—[qua, pro summa pecunie sibi per Ninianum Stewart de Kildawanane persoluta, vendidit Roberto Stewart, filio dicti Nin.,—8 marcatas terrarum de Kilcbattan-moir et de Kilchattan-wege, in insula, dominio et vic. de Bute: Tenend. dicto Rob. et heredibus ejus masculis, quibus deficientibus, propinquiori consanguineo ejus cognominis, de regina tanquam senescalla Scotie: Reddend. annuatim 8 marcas argenti, 8 bollas ordei, 8 bollas avenarum, unam martam, dimediam et decimam partes alterius marte, lie lardnar martis, allocando de diet, summa pro dictis avenis et partibus marte 16 sol.; cum scrvitiis solitis et consiietis: Tenend. fructum tenementi diet, terrarium dicto Niniano pro ejus vita: Test. Jac. Stewart vicecomite do Bute et Arane, Wil. S. ejus fratro, Joh. Fressall, Donaldo Makgillespik Roye Makneill, Jac. M'Werarthe scolari, Donaldo M'Gilroye publico notario, Johanne M'Connonnhy:—cum subscriptionedicti Joh. Stewart per notarium, manu sua tangente pennam:—18 Maii 1548].  Apud Edinburgh.

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1546-80, Vol. 4, p. 65, no. 273]

[25] John McConachy

March 26, 1552: REGINA &c., confirmavit cartam Gilcristi M'Wartie de Bransar,—[qua, pro summa pecunie sibi persoluta, vendidit Johanni McComquhy filio Alexandri M., heredibus ejus et assignatis,—2 marcat. terrarum antiqui extentus de Bransar, in dominio insule de Bute, vic. ejusdem:—Reddend. regine tanquam principi et senescalle Scotie feudifirme firmas et devorias debit, et consuet.:—Reservatis libero tenomento dicto Alex., et tertia parte Awede M'Cawe matri dicti Joh. pro ejus vita:—Test. Duncano M'Vartie (de) Strawainen, D. Jac. M'Vartie capellano, Joh. M'Wartie ejus fratre, Gilneve M'Allane :—Apud Rothissay, 31 December 1551]. Apud Striveling.

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1546-80, Vol. 4, p. 153, no. 689]

[26] John, Finlay and Donald McConachy

May 6, 1552: REGINA &c., confirmavit cartam Johannis M'Conquhy de Cullavin,—[qua, cum consensu Finlaii M. filii sui primogeniti et heredis apparentis, concessit Donaldo M’Conquhy, filio euo secundogenito,— 20 solidat. terrarum do Cullavin antique extentus, in insula et vic. de Bute:—Tenend, dicto Don. et heredibus mase. ejus de corpore procreandis, quibus deficicntibus, Patricio M. fratri germano dicti Donaldi, et heredibus ejus masculis quibuscunque, de regina tanquam principe et senescalla Scotie:—Reddend. firmas feudifirme et dovorias debitas et consuet:—Test. Joh. Glas de Ardinho, Archibaldo Bannatyne de Kerelawment, Alex Stewart filio carnali Jacobi S. vicecomitis de Bute, Donaldo M'Weraith de Cullavin :—Apud Kingerth, 9 April 1552]: Apud Linlithgow.<br>

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1546-80, Vol. 4, p. 153, no. 692]

[27] Donald Glabro McConachy

March 15, 1552-53: REGINA &c., confirmavit cartam Johannis Stewart de Briggadilknok et Achccunteric,—[qua, pro siimnia pecunie sibi persoluta, vendidit Donaldo Makgellespik Maknele, et heredibus ejus masc,—25 solidat. terrarum orientalis partis de Birggadilknok, unani marcat. de Achecunterie, antiqui extentus, ia dominio insule de Bute, vic. ejusdem:—Reddend. Regine tanquam principi et senescalle Scotie feodifirmas et devorias debit, et consuet: Test. Math. Birstan, Fynlao More, Donaldo Glabro M'Conquhy:— cum subsoriptione D. Jacobi M'Werarthe notarii publici ex mandato dicti John:—Apud Kingerth, 20 Nov. 1552]. Dated at Linlithgow.

[The Register of the Great Seal of Scotland 1546-80, Vol. 4, p. 173, no. 6766]