The surname of McCASKILL

The surname of McCASKILL was derived from the gaelic MacAsgaill

Gaelic was the main language of the part of Scotland not subject to English influence, a rather more extensive area than the present day Highlands and Islands, where Gaelic is still spoken in places. It is from these northwestern and western area of Scotland that surnames of Gaelic origin.

Early records of the name mention William MacAskill, probably a member of the family of MacCaskill of Ebost, who led the Clan MacLeod against the fleet of Clanranald at Eynot, west of Skye in the sixteenth century. Donald M'Askle was a corporal in the Reay Fencibles in 1795.

The Macaskills are known as Clann t-Asgaill. At first the coat of arms was a practical matter which served a function on the battlefield and in tournaments. With his helmet covering his face, and armour encasing the knight from head to foot, the only means of identification for his followers, was the insignia painted on his shield, and embroidered on his surcoat, the draped and flowing garment worn over the armour.