Alexander Mackenzie

With little formal schooling, he began working life as a labourer and ploughman before moving into the cloth trade. After settling in Inverness in 1869, he and his brother opened a shop at Clach na Cudainn House, a connection that gave him the nickname "Clach." From there he built a second career in journalism and publishing, contributing to the Daily Free Press and later editing and publishing the Celtic Magazine and the Scottish Highlander.

He wrote widely on Highland life, clan history, and legend. His best-known works include History of the Highland Clearances, which remained influential long after his death, as well as books on the Mackenzies, Macleods, and other Highland families, and The Prophecies of the Brahan Seer. He was also involved in public life, campaigning on the Highland land question and supporting greater security for crofters.

A fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and a founder member of the Gaelic Society of Inverness, he was deeply involved in preserving Highland culture and history. He died in 1898, leaving behind a body of work that blends research, advocacy, and a strong sense of place.