Aonghas Dhòmhaill Iain Ruaidh

Angus “Cù” MacDonald (Angus Donald Red John) of Northeast Mabou, Inverness County, was known for his sharp wit, vast knowledge of local history, and deep appreciation for Gaelic tradition. A natural storyteller, he had a gift for holding an audience’s attention, often weaving humor into his tales.

The son of Donald MacDonald and Ann Rankin (Anna Aonghais) of Mabou Ridge, Angus came from a rich heritage—his MacDonald ancestors hailed from the Isle of Canna, while his Rankin roots traced back to Lochaber. He was one of three siblings: Angus, Alec, and Sarah. He married Catherine Ann “Katie Ann” MacEachen and they had a family of seven.

Angus was a man of many talents and an exceptionally hard worker. Over the years, he took on various roles in his community, working as a storekeeper, lobster fisherman, and blacksmith.

Angus played the fiddle, jigged tunes, and sang Gaelic songs. His home was a gathering place for music, often visited by renowned fiddlers like Dan Hughie MacEachern and Dan R. MacDonald, who would sometimes stay for days. These visits would draw neighbors and friends eager to hear the music—Katie Ann, his wife, or their daughter Betty on piano, Mary step-dancing, and Angus himself beaming with joy as he listened.

Angus adopted the nickname “cù” for himself , meaning dog or hound, and often remarked that the hound was the MacDonald mascot, just as the cat and boar were symbols of other clans. His storytelling included many origin tales and legends passed down from Lochaber traditions.

Angus passed away at the age of 91 in November 2001, leaving behind a legacy of music, humor, and Gaelic tradition.