The Macdonnells of Antrim are a leading branch of the Scottish Clandonnell, and, as such, they rank among the most distinguished representatives at the present day of the ancient Irish Clann-Colla. Their history, therefore, is important, as being bound up with that of a once powerful and widely extended race. It is, perhaps, not less so, as preserving an authentic account, during many centuries, of the territories in which their leading houses were gradually built up—and often suddenly cast down.
The records of the Antrim Macdonnells are thus found to touch the shores of our North Channel with a truly historic light, restoring, so to speak, the ruined castles now crumbling on so many bold positions, along the coasts of Antrim and Argyle. Several records, illustrative of this branch, are here printed for the first time, relating to periods of great historical interest, and to persons whose names must have been once familiar as household words throughout this northern province.
