John Mackenzie, 9th of Kintail

John Mackenzie (c. 1480-c. 1561), or "John of Killin", traditionally reckoned 9th of Kintail, was a Highland chief and head of the Clan Mackenzie.

Origins and education John was the son of Kenneth Mackenzie, 7th of Kintail (d. 1492) by his second wife, or reputed wife, Agnes Fraser. The Mackenzies' origins lay in the Northwest Highlands, but the centre of their power had by the end of the 15th century shifted to Easter Ross. John succeeded his half-brother, Kenneth (died 1498-99) in the chiefship while still a minor. It is likely that he achieved his majority in 1501, which suggests that he was born in about 1480.

John is said to have been sent to be educated at Court in Edinburgh (pursuant to the Education Act 1496, a legal requirement for boys in his station of life). However, the terms of a bond subscribed by him in favour of the Earl of Huntly suggest that he remained illiterate.

Mackenzie died in 1561 and was buried at Beauly Priory.

Family Mackenzie married Elizabeth, said to have been a daughter of John Grant, 2nd of Freuchie. By her, he had a son, his successor, Kenneth Mackenzie, 10th of Kintail.