Kennedy

The name of this clan means 'ugly head', and can be traced to the early 12th century, with their origins in the south west of Scotland, principally the Carrick District of Ayrshire, in which the Kennedys account for most of the early history.

The Kennedys claim to be descended from the 1st Earl of Carrick. The Kennedys of Dunnure acquired Cassillis and later married into the Royal family of Robert III. The son of that marriage was made Lord Kennedy in 1457, and the 3rd Lord was made Earl of Cassillis.

There is a story concerning the 'infamous' 4th Earl, Gilbert who roasted the Abbot of Crossraguel, in order to gain the lands of the Abbey.

The 6th Earl raised an army to fight in the defeats of Alford and Kilsyth in the Covenanting struggle. this army suffered terrible losses and casualties.

The 12th earl was made Baron Ailsa in 1806, and later became Marquess of Ailsa. Culzean Castle was built between 1775 and 1790 by the 9th and 10th Earls.

The Kennedys came north when Ulric Kennedy fled from Ayrshire for breaking the law and eventually settled in Lochaber where his descendants were known as Clan Ulric. The Kennedys of Skye trace their descent from this branch of the family.

The Lochaber Kennedys are an accepted part of the Cameron sept.