Bean Seonaidh Raghnaill | Ceatag an t-Saoir | Ceatag ni'n 'Illeasbuig 'ic Iain Mhóir 'ic Ruairidh

Catherine “Katie” MacDonald, affectionately known as Katie at Johnny’s or Ceatag an t-Saoir, was born March 6, 1877 in Judique, Inverness County. She was the daughter of Archibald “Archie the Carpenter” and Sarah MacDonald of Hillsdale, and a proud member of the Muinntir an t-Saoir, the carpenter MacDonalds.

Katie's paternal grandfather came from the South Uist. She married Johnny Ranald MacDonald (Seonaidh Raghnaill) of Judique, and together they raised a family of four children.

The carpenter MacDonalds were well-known in the community for their musicality and step dancing, a gift which is said to have originated from the Gillises of Arasaig through Katie's maternal grandmother, Flora Gillis. It is through this line that many well known and talented Cape Breton musicians and step dancers are descended including Wilfred Gillis, and Katie's nephews Alex Francis MacKay and Dan R. MacDonald. Katie herself was musical and full of fun, giving a step at her 100th birthday celebration.

Katie was also known for her incredible memory, especially when it came to local history and genealogy. She had an encyclopedic knowledge of family connections and community stories. At the age of 101, she was recorded for the Cape Breton Folklore Collection.

Katie passed away January 26, 1982 at the remarkable age of 104, remembered with affection and admiration for her vitality, memory, and cultural pride.