The connection between the McBeans & McKays began with the marriage of Catherine McKay, daughter of Duncan & Isabella, to Angus McBean on 16 Dec 1864 in Petty, Inverness.  Catherine had been a maid servant at Brae of Cullmore House, Killearnan, Ross & Cromarty, prior to her marriage, and Angus a Ploughman living at Culcabock Village, Inverness.  Angus also worked as an agricultural labourer, quarrier and roadman 

They had children Donald Alexander, Ann, James who died in infancy,
 John James Fraser, Francis Duncan who did not marry, Isabella & Catherine. 

The 1871 census states the address of Angus & Catherine as Clunes or Fingash St Kirkhill in a  house with 2 rooms with 1 or more windows.  

Angua died of a stroke of 7 days duration at Crofthouse Farm, Ross & Cromarty.  His death certificate was witnessed by his son, Francis Duncan McBain.  He is interred in Killearnan Cemetery Ross & Cromarty along with his wife Catherine and their children, Ann & Francis. 

The 1881 census of Killearnan gives Angus McBean as head of the house, Crofthouse Farm, Agricultural labourer born in Croy, aged 43.  Catherine McBean, his wife, was born in Petty, Inverness, and was aged 37 with children Ann McBean, 13, a scholar born in Inverness, Francis McBain 7, Isabella McBain 5 and Catherine McBain 1, all born in Killearnan

Crofthouse circa  1927

Catherine McKay & her daughter Annie McBean

Note Luckenbooth Brooch also worn by Catherine’s mother Isabella McKay

Catherine McKay McBean Crofthouse