MCALINDEN Family History
Developed in the 16th century from the pre 10th century Gaelic surname Mac Giolla Fhiondain, meaning "The son of the follower of St Finian", this is an Irish surname of great antiquity. Originally from County Fermanagh, and later prominent in Counties Armagh and Down, the clan was prominent in the various attempts to overthrough English rule in the 17th and 18th centuries. They reached they peak of power in the heyday of the Gaelic order before the 16th century, and like several other clans including the O'Doherty's, they claim descent from the famous Niall of the Nine Hostages.