About us
SUMMARY
Our research in the McGraw and variants Y-DNA project has identified six Gaelic groups that are genetically linked to the paternal heritage of testers with variants of the Mac Craith surname. These groups are shown in the attached graphic and briefly described below.
If you would like to learn more, please feel free to contact me (stan.megaw@gmail.com).
Northern Uí Néill -- related families in what is now Donegal, Derry, and Tyrone, claiming descent from Niall of the Nine Hostages. Their leaders controlled key territories in Ulster and produced dynasties such as the O'Neills of Tyrone, who shaped regional politics for centuries. They first appear in written records in the 6th century and by the 8th century had come to dominate much of the north.
Southern Uí Néill -- settled in central Ireland, mainly around present-day Meath and Westmeath. Their control of the royal site of Tara placed them at the centre of power struggles for the High Kingship of Ireland, keeping their families prominent in national affairs. They are recorded in the annals (medieval Irish chronicles) from the 6th century and emerged as leading rulers from the 7th century onward.
Mac Craiths of Termonmagrath -- hereditary guardians of church lands around Lough Derg in northwest Ireland. Their control of a major pilgrimage centre, combined with their position between powerful neighbouring families, made them influential custodians of both ecclesiastical and political life in the region. They appear clearly in records from the late 13th century.
Connachta -- a group of families in western Ireland who gave their name to the province of Connacht. Their descendants founded several ruling dynasties, with their early expansion transforming western Ireland and extending into parts of southern and western Ulster. They first appear in early Christian writings and the annals from the 6th century.
Dál gCais (Dalcassians) -- a rising power in north Munster who later produced Brian Boru, one of Ireland's most famous kings. Their rulers extended their authority across Munster and claimed the highest kingship in Ireland, elevating the group to national prominence. The earliest records of the Dál gCais appear in the 10th century.
Corcu Loígde -- an early ruling group in west Cork. Their early dominance in Munster placed them at the centre of the province's political and legendary traditions before later dynasties rose to power. Although they appear in early genealogies, their influence declined by the 7th century with the rise of the Eóganachta.