The MacLachlans of Inneschonnel appear to have been the Hereditary Captains of Inneschonnel Castle, the primary fortress of the Campbells of Lochow, which was located on an island in Loch Awe. This cadet family, descendent from a younger brother to the Laird of the MacLachlans of Craiginterve, took its position in 1613 after the previous incumbent, a member of Clan Arthur, was convicted of theft. The MacLachlans of Inneschonnel had probably broken their allegiance with Clan MacLachlan and sworn a new allegiance to the Campbells. It is unlikely that the Chief of Clan Campbell would have entrusted a key fortress to another clan.
