 In 1797, three years after work was started on the Crinan Canal, which subsequently divided the estate, Dunardry was purchased by Simon McTavish of Montreal, from Stratherrick, Invernesshire.Simon McTavish was born of the Garthbeg branch of the family and at this time was probably the richest man in Canada.Some Stratherrick McTavishes were considered a sept of Clan Fraser.