MacKayes

MacKayes refers to a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Mac Aoidh. This patronymic means "son of Aodh," where Aodh is a Gaelic given name meaning "fire." The MacKay clan is one of the oldest and most prominent Highland clans. Historically, the clan's territory was primarily in Sutherland, in the far north of Scotland. The name MacKay has been borne by a number of notable individuals throughout history, including soldiers, politicians, and artists. The spelling of the surname can vary, with common anglicized forms including Mackay, McKay, and McAy. The clan's crest typically features a crowned lion rampant. The MacKay clan society is active in preserving the history and traditions associated with the name and its heritage.