Does the surname McCartan have any links with Saint McCartan?

Although both names are similarly spelled there is absolutely no connections. Understandable confusion prevails in Loughinisland. Here the parish church is called after Saint Macartan whereas the ancient church overlooking the lough (referred to locally as McCartan's chapel) is named after the McCartan sept who ruled Kinelarty from here for over 600 years.

The origin of the McCartan sept is well documented. They belonged to Clanna Rory as did the McGuinneses and the Gilmores.

The surname most likely linked to the saint is Mc Carron - mostly found in counties Armagh, Monaghan and Donegal. Anglicisation played havoc with such similarly sounding Irish surnames. Many historians believe that Mc Carron and the surname Cartin (North Derry) have the same origin.

Saint Macartan's Origin

The modern barony of Tirkeeran in North County. Derry owes its name to a people known as the Ui MacCairthin of Lough Foyle. The Irish for this barony Tir Cairthin translates 'land of Cairthin'. Named after the sacred mountain ash tree, this sept was very powerful in the North Sperrins/Donegal area prior to 700 A.D. Nomadic branches of this sept left their mark as far south as Counties Leitrim and Meath. An ogham stone with a Mac Cairthin inscription was found at Paynestown, County Meath and is now in the National Museum. This stone marked the grave of an ancient chieftain pre 7th century. By the end of the 8th century the Mac Cairthin sept had ceased to have an independent kingdom and gradually became part of the powerful Cineal Owen. The Cineal Owen from their northern base attacked the Co. Down area for centuries and had many battles with the McCartan's of County Down.

St. Mac Cairthin belonged to the Donegal-Derry sept although his name is often spelled similarly to that of the County Down Mc Cartans.

Known as Aidus, this saint was born a pagan. He was converted to christianity by Saint Patrick, who enrolled him amongst his missionary staff. Henceforth known by his patronym MacCairthin he soon became a priest. When St. Patrick became worn out by his labours MacCairthin would sometimes carry him on his broad shoulders over rough ground and marshes. Often he was referred to as the "Strongman". When Mac Cairthin became too old for this task St. Patrick appointed him Bishop of Clogher. This was an area of great importance neighbouring the chieftains of Orghialla. The rest of his life was devoted to the government of his monastery and diocese. His biographers represented him as very meek with a kind deposition. He is acredited with having performed a number of remarkable miracles. In the Diocese of Clogher Cathedrals, Churches and Schools perpetuate the name of this great saint.