The name McCREA is one of several variants of the Scottish surname MacRAE, or in Gaulic

MHIC RATH,which means "SON OF GRACE". The Mhic Raths were an ancient Highland Clan

and the name suggests an eccesiastical origin. In ancient times, celibacy was not always an

essential condition for a man belonging to the priethood, at least as far as clans claim descent

from a priest.

The earliest known branch of the Clan were the MacRaes of Cluny, which are believed to have

migrated earlier from Moray. In the 14th century, the Clan removed to Kintail in Ross-shire and

resided on lands belonging to the MacKenzies. During an invasion of MacKenzie lands by the

MacDonalds, the MacKenzies sought the assistance of the MacRaes, who accordingly joined the

MacKenzie forces. In the course of one battle, one of the MacRaes, Surachan, acquitted himself

with admirable bravery, having slain a notable personage in the MacDonald ranks. He is

described as coolly setting himself down on the body of the slain. Conduct so extraordinary

attracted the attention of the Chief of the MacKenzies, who went up to Surachan MacRae and

asked how he could sit with so much indifference while the battle raged. "I have done my day's

work" replied MacRae "and if every man do as much it will go well with us." "Kill more"

exclaimed MacKenzie "and I shall not reckon your labour by the day.", on which MacRae started

up and dealt fearful destruction amonst the MacDonalds, who were defeated with great

slaughter. "Spaidsearach Mhic Rha", the march of the Clan, commemorates this battle. During

this same invasion, the Chief of the MacRaes, Duncan MacRae, who also held the post of

Hereditary Constable of Eilean Donan Castle, launched an arrow which broke the MacDonald

seige of the castle.

From this time on the MacRaes formed the bodyguard of the Chief of the MacKenzies,

becoming known as "MacKenzie's Shirt of Mail".

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