Hi Edward,
How did you get on in tracing where your MacDonald's originated?
I'm curious because I've just discovered my g-g-grandmother Jane MacDonald was born in Inverness in 1865. Her mother Jane MacDonald was from Clachnaharry, and her grandfather was a Clachnaharry ship carpenter called James MacDonald (1816-1881) m. Ann MacKay (1817-1880).
James MacDonald's father John MacDonald was also a ship carpenter from Clachnaharry. His wife was named Jane Grigor or MacGregor.
It may just be a coincidence that we both have Clachnaharry boat building MacDonald ancestors, but I wonder if there is a connection. I still have much research to do to catch up. Do you think my John MacDonald might be related to your folk?
Thanks,
Alasdair