The Founding of the Clan
Clan MacNeil descends from Niall, a descendant of Aodh O’Neill. Niall stood twentieth in line from Niall of the Nine Hostages, the legendary founder of the U’Neill dynasty of High Kings of Ireland. In 1049, Niall established himself on the Isle of Barra and became the first chief of Clan MacNeil.
The Early Chiefs
The fifth chief, Neil MacNeil, earned recognition as a Prince at the Council of the Isles in 1252. He then helped defeat the Norse at the Battle of Largs in 1263. His son, the sixth chief Neil Og MacNeil, fought alongside Robert the Bruce at Bannockburn. As a reward, he received lands in Kintyre.
Barra and Gigha: Two Branches
In 1427, a second branch of the MacNeils established themselves on the island of Gigha under Torquil MacNeil. After 1493, however, the two branches divided. They took opposite sides in the long feud between the MacDonalds of Islay and the MacLeans of Duart. The Barra MacNeils sided with the MacLeans, while the Gigha MacNeils fought with Clan Donald.
Ruari the Turbulent
The MacNeils built a strong reputation as sailors. They also earned notoriety for lawlessness on the high seas. The fifteenth chief of Barra, Ruari MacNeil, carried the title of hereditary outlaw and earned the nickname “Ruari the Turbulent.” From his fortress at Kisimul Castle, he raided ships of all kinds. Many historians describe him as the last of the Vikings. Eventually, the King issued a writ against him. His own nephews then captured him and took him in chains to Edinburgh in 1610. His son Neil Og succeeded him as chief.
The Jacobite Cause
Neil Og’s grandson, Roderick Dhu (the Black), led his clansmen at Killiecrankie and fought staunchly for the Jacobite cause. Furthermore, he rallied Clan MacNeil again to support the Old Pretender during the Rising of 1715.
The Sale of Barra
By the time General Roderick MacNeil became the 21st chief, the family faced economic ruin. As a result, he sold the Island of Barra in 1838. Roderick had no children, so the chiefship passed to a cousin whose line had already emigrated to the New World.
The Return to Barra
In 1937, the family reclaimed Kisimul Castle and most of the Island of Barra. Robert L. MacNeill, a descendant of the 22nd chief, returned from the United States and purchased most of Barra. He then devoted his life to restoring Kisimul Castle. Today, his son serves as the 46th chief and divides his time between Scotland and the United States.
