Sources
There is little authority for the existence and life of Alexander which pre-dates the (frequently unreliable) clan histories written in the 17th century. MS 1467, a 15th century genealogy, demonstrates that the Mackenzies were by then already recognised as a family of long standing, but does not refer to Alexander himself.
The historicity of Alexander was for a long time based on two alleged charters in his favour dated 1463 and 1477. However, J.R.N. Macphail KC cast doubt on these:
According to Mr. P. J. Anderson (Scots Peerage, vol. vii. p. 497) he had a charter of Killin and other lands from the Earl of Ross in 1463, and a crown charter in 1477 of Strathconan and other lands forfeited by the Earl. But the authority cited is only an Inventory of the Allangrange Papers. He does not appear in the Register of the Great Seal or other public records.
Although the existence and terms of these two charters may be doubtful, it is established that “Alexander McKennye de Kintail” did witness a charter executed by John of Islay, Earl of Ross at Dingwall in 1471.
He also appears in a papal marriage dispensation dated 13 September 1465, which was granted to his son, who was styled as “Kenneth, son of Alexander, family of Kenneth”.
Read more about this topic: Alexander Mackenzie Of Kintail
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