Throughout the month of May we have been celebrating Clan MacKinnon. We have looked at the famous faces, the castles, got a great insight to the Clan MacKinnon society and discovered a rivalry between the Mackinnon's and the MacLeans. Finally, we called upon the valued Clan members to share their stories; the response was amazing and we are so excited to share them.
Finding McKinnon Roots
Ann Marie, Brian and their Scottish Terries at New York City Tartan Day Parade. While Ann Marie and her pups have marched in the parade for years, it wasn't until 2022 that her husband Brian joined her. His first march he felt very out of place in his jeans and sweater, while chatting with his Mother she said "your maternal grandmother was a MacKinnon". That was enough for Brian to go out and buy his very own kilt in the MacKinnon Hunting Ancient tartan. This year the whole family are happy in Tartan, and of course we cant wait to see their family photo next year.
Shannon MacKinnon
Shannon is the talented author behind the works of 'The Fairy Key'. Shannon MacKinnon is a former member of the Clan MacKinnon Society, and has a deep love for Scotland and the myths, folklore and stories that Scotland is known for. Shannon has visited Scotland numerous times and continues to fall in love with the scenery and and the mystery and magic that Scotland is known for. You can find out more about Shannon, as she answers all our questions on our blog.
Music from MacKinnons
Marc got in touch to share the creation of a truly Scottish CD. Something exciting has been created by the Benelux branch of Clan MacKinnon. The members have pulled together artists to create "the musical theme of clan MacKinnon", with the help of 'The Hoggies, Inge Frimont and Clan Hay Pipe Band, the team have put together a CD of traditional Scottish medleys but most notable will be the release of their original creation "On Mull, On Skye". A beautiful blend of ceilidh music, a harp and a pipe band is sure to get your toes tapping along. Get in touch with the clan to order your CD here.
Sister in Law Duo
Ashley and Christa Hunter are a sister-in-law duo and are both proactive members of Clan Mackinnon. Ashley Hunter is a third (at least) generation Floridian, whose great-grandmother Ruby Mackinnon emigrated to North Florida from Scotland. It's thanks to Ruby Mackinnon that Ashley has a passion for her Scottish history and heritage in Clan MacKinnon. She is Clan Mackinnon Society’s Florida Commissioner, as well as an art photographer and pursuer of a good Scottish myth, legend, or tall tale. Christa Hanson Hunter began her association with Clan Mackinnon when she married her husband, Evan Hunter (Ashley’s brother). Christa is a talented artisan, and curates Scottish traditional clothing (historically accurate to the mid-1700s) for lassies of all ages. Her All Scottish Lassies gowns can be seen around Highland Games throughout the United States. When not at the sewing machine (or hand stitching button holes), Christa is a mother to a 1-year-old little girl, Keira, and still manages to have the energy to teach traditional Scottish and English country dances.
Karina MacKinnon
As we celebrate Clan MacKinnon we were delighted to be able to speak with Karina MacKinnon from The Golf Shop of St Andrews. Karina has connections to the MacKinnon clan and spends every day surrounded by not only golfing attire, but also copious amounts of tartan. We uncover Karina's many talents, her heritage and deep love of the plaid. Karina created her own dress using the MacKinnon Red Modern tartan, and we think it looks gorgeous. You can find out more about Karina on our blog.
The Story of Clan MacKinnon
Join Lauren and Emma as they discover the fascinating history of Clan MacKinnon, from the historic battles to the legend of 'Saucy Mary', they discuss it all. Whether you're a brainy history buff, a genealogy enthusiast, or simply curious about the fascinating world of Scottish clans, this video is a must-watch.
Unfortunately May has come to an end, that certainly doesn't mean our love for Clan MacKinnon is over, so be sure to get in touch with us if you fancy chatting all things MacKinnon!