I'm interested in anyone having Mackay connections with the Kilmuir district on Skye, particularly the far North around Shulista, Clachan and Balmacqueen. My ancestor Neil Mackay and Janet Beaton were still living in Shulista in 1881. Neil was born in Balmacqueen circa 1842. His parents were Kenneth Mackay and Catherine MacDonald. Kenneth was a crofter born circa 1802. He and his family are at Balmacqueen in both the 41 and 51 Censuses. They had 11 children that I know of.
Kenneth died at Balmacqueen in 1863 and his death certificate names his parents as Neil Mackay and Marion Munro. The 1851 Census gives his birthplace as Stensholl, about 10km to the South.
There are only a few other Mackays in the North part of the island in 1841, any of whom could easily be connected.
In Balmacqueen:
Lachlan Mackay, Crofter, Aged 30 and wife Catherine Ross with 5 children.
In Shulista:
William Mackay, Ag Lab, Aged 85 and a John Aged 30 and Catherine Aged 25.
Donald Mackay, Ag Lab, Aged 40, wife Margaret and 4 children.
In Kendram:
Kenneth Mackay, Crofter, Aged 60 and wife Margaret, daughter Ann.
Norman Mackay, Crofter, Aged 55 and wife Catherine and 6 children.
I think this Kenneth could be an Uncle of my Kenneth, but all of these Mackays were born at Kilmuir, whereas mine was allegedly born at Stensholl, so maybe he was an incomer to the area?
If anyone can help out with this lot or has anything to add, please do so!
