Murchadh Ghilleasbuig Mhurchaidh

Murdoch “Dora” Gillis was a respected Gaelic tradition bearer from Skye Glen, Inverness County—a fertile valley of farmland settled by families from northern Skye in 1830. He was born on December 10, 1902, to Dora and Archie Gillis. His great grandfather, Angus Gillis was a bard. Murdoch sings one of his compositions in the Cape Breton Folklore Collection, “Tha mo dhùil” .

Murdoch lived on a small-scale farm and worked in the woods cutting pulp. He was known as a hardworking and well-respected member of the community—kind, friendly, and always willing to lend a hand.

Together with his brother Jimmy, Murdoch was widely recognized as a talented Gaelic singer. The pair were generous with their time and knowledge, often sharing songs, stories, and local history with others.

Murdoch passed away on July 17, 1993, at the age of 90. His and Jimmy’s legacy continues to be honoured in Skye Glen today through monthly milling frolics held in their name, keeping alive the traditions they so lovingly shared.