Let me recount to you the fascinating history of your family, the McCorquodales. The origin of your family name harks back to the old Norse ‘Thorketill’, which when translated to English, stands as ‘son of Torquil’. This Norse name, Torquil, carries the resonances of the mighty god of thunder and storms, Thor, perhaps embodying the qualities of this deity himself. The presence of this name in Scotland reflects the enduring Norse influence on the land after the eighth century.

Legends intertwine with history in the tale of the founding of the McCorquodale clan. This narrative speaks of Thorkil, a figure who stood alongside Kenneth, known as Macalpin, a key figure in the unification of the western kingdom of the Scots with the eastern realms of the Picts around 834. This unification is often considered a cornerstone moment, marking the advent of the first true King of Scots. The story unfolds around the backdrop of King Alpin of the Scots, whose tragic end occurred before Kenneth’s arrival from Ireland. Alpin’s head was displayed on a spike in the heart of the Pictish camp. It was Kenneth who offered a grant of land to anyone among his ranks who would retrieve the fallen king’s head. Thorkil, as the legend goes, rose to this daring task and secured the head, and in return, he received a charter of land, a promise fulfilled by the king.

Though no written record of this grant exists, historical records do reveal Ewan, son of Ewan Makcorquydill, receiving a grant of lands in 1434, being titled ‘Lord of Maintelan’. Expert in Scottish surnames, George Black, asserts that this place was actually Phanteland, a name subsequently believed to be linked to the notable Phanteland branch of the McCorquodale family. The tapestry of your family’s history primarily unfolds in the western reaches of Scotland, particularly in Argyll.

Despite the valorous legacy of your possible mythical ancestor, it’s worth noting that not all McCorquodales were revered equally. In 1612, your family faced rebuke from the Privy Council, being labeled ‘notorious thieves and the supporters of Clan Gregour’. During this period, the Macgreggors were known as outlaws, and the internal strife within your family seems to have fueled infighting during this era. However, your family remained steadfast in their loyalty to the Campbells during the tumultuous Civil Wars of the seventeenth century.

Through the sands of time, McCorquodales continued to make their mark. Generations later, your family’s connection to Torquil remained alive and well, as exemplified by those dwelling on Loch Aweside in the late eighteenth century, tracing their lineage directly back to this foundational figure.

Sir Malcolm McCorquodale, who graced your family’s annals, was elevated to the peerage, bearing the title Lord McCorquodale of Newton, an honor that endured until his passing in 1971. Your family’s legacy echoes through time, a testament to resilience, loyalty, and the enduring spirit of the McCorquodales. The chapters of your family’s journey reflect a heritage woven with valor and connection, a history that you can proudly cherish as part of your legacy.