MacFarlane’s Lantern Newsletter of the Clan MacFarlane Society, Australia, Inc. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ No.123 September 2012 Website: http://www.clanmacfarlane.org.au The Scots and their Kirk (Part One) By Malcolm Lobban

The Abbey & Nunnery, Iona, Argyllshire.

The practice of creating Christian names in honour of saints has a long history in , and is a good indication that Scots were an evangelised nation from an early period in history. It was a common trait especially among Gaels. It is also apparent that those names prefixed with ‘ Gille’ (servant) and ‘Maol’ (tonsured one) are among the earliest examples, many of which are found in our oldest written records. In most cases they serve well in identifying persons of native stock from among the numerous incomers, whose names came to dominate later charters after the Norman Conquest of 1066. It is therefore reasonable to suggest that those clans, identified by such patronymics, may have remote origins, and were among the oldest inhabitants of Celtic Scotland. During the Dark Ages (5th to 10th century), when the Celtic missionaries made their appearance in the Highlands and Islands, the natives were probably organised into several small , each zealously guarding its territory. Evidence of their acceptance of the Christian faith appears with the practice of naming their children in honour of saints. It is likely that the tribal chiefs would be the first converts. Indeed, this was possibly the only way in which the common folk could display their dedication and professed faith. Later, the more wealthy members of society would donate land and give other material tribute to one or other of the many religious sites being established throughout the land. The earliest of the ecclesiastical personal names are those dedicated to Christ and the Biblical saints. Examples are Gilchrist (servant of Christ); Gillies (servant of Jesus); Gilmour (servant of Mary); Gilmichael (servant of St. Michael); and Gillean (to St. John). Later, after many of the Celtic missionaries had been canonised they, too, became a focus of adoration, resulting in names like Gilbride (St. Bridget); Gillespie (servant of the bishop); Malcolm (tonsured servant of St. Columba); Gilfillan (to St. Fillan); and Gilfinnan (to St. Finnan). Next Page 1

Kirk: Cont. from Page 1 , by way of the Abbey of Lindisfarne, According the Venerable Bede (circa AD 730) the , and even down as far as the River southern Picts were evangelised by the elusive Saint Thames. Ninian, a native Briton who studied in Rome. On the death of Columba, Saint Augustine had Certainly it would appear that Galloway was been sent from Rome by Pope Gregory to establish introduced to Christianity from the early part of the Roman ideology in England. Gradually this new 5th century. form of Christianity moved northwards. It soon In the north-west, the task fell to Saint Columba became apparent, that although the Celtic and Roman during the 6th century, who founded his church on churches both worshipped the same God, there were the island of Iona. He is accredited with the fundamental differences in their ritualistic approach conversion of Brude MacMaelchon, king of the to this. A major argument arose over the actual date northern Picts (circa 555-584). Columba had twelve of Easter, and since neither side would yield, there monks with him, and soon there were some thirty were periods when Easter was celebrated twice in churches dedicated to Cholum Chille (Columba of one year. However, the matter was finally resolved the Churches), as he came to be known throughout at the Synod of Whitby (circa AD 640) where the Highlands and Islands. Roman rites prevailed. Among the earliest evangelists was Saint Further conflict arose from the style of tonsure to Maelrubha (c.642-722) who founded his church at be adopted throughout the Church. The Celtic system Applecross, wester Ross-shire. Like Columba, he favoured the tonsure of Saint John, by shaving all the was of the Irish aristocracy, claiming descent via the hair in front of a line drawn over the head from ear to Ui Neill, from the mysterious Celtic chief known as ear. The Roman version, however, preferred most of “Niall of the Nine Hostages”. It has been claimed the head to be shaved clean, permitting only a circle that Maelrubha was martyred at the hands of Danish of hair to grow around the crown; this was called the raiders somewhere on the Black Isle, near Urquhart Saint Peter tonsure. Church. However, during the medieval period During the 8th century, King Nechtan of the Picts Applecross was the centre of a ‘privileged’ girth, settled for the Roman creed, which greatly isolated stretching in a radius of six miles. In Gaelic, the Iona from other religious centres. However, by the place is called A Chomraich (The Sanctuary). year 716 Iona had also accepted Roman dogma. Saint Comgan (Cowan), along with his widowed Throughout the 8th and 9th centuries, almost all the sister Saint Kentigerna and her son Saint Fillan churches in Scotland suffered greatly from frequent worked around Lochalsh and Glenelg. Comgan was incursions by Norse invaders. Many of the religious a prince of Leinster who gave up his royal relics and literary works were either stolen or inheritance in favour of missionary work in the West removed to for safety. It was during this Highlands. His headquarters would seem to have period that the Scottish church fell out of step with been the Lochalsh area, which for a time was known the rest of Christendom. Many of the religious as Cille Chomhghan (Kilchoan) parish, being now houses became secularised and controlled by Culdee identified with the modern Kirkton of Lochalsh. communities (old Greek, cele de = servant of God). Nearby are other place-names associated with the A particular aspect of this was the non-observance of three saints. Killilan, traditionally linked to Saint celibacy among the priesthood. Fillan. Meanwhile, Saint Kentigerna, who is better It was not until the time of King Malcolm III known for her association with the island of (Canmore), when his queen, the English Margaret Inchcailloch (Nuns’ Isle), , is said to (later canonised), re-established Roman observance. be remembered in the place-name Chill-Chaointeart She introduced Benedictine monks into Dunfermline, (Kilkinterne) in Glenshiel. which sparked off a period of monastic foundations Yet another two ancient clerics deserve mention. in Scotland. They are Saint Donan, whose presence is com- By 1100, the system of district parishes began to memorated at Eilean Donan on which stands the take shape. The Culdee clerics were gradually being famous castle of that name, and Saint Duthac, whose replaced by the Augustinian order, which introduced name is recalled in Loch Duich ( Dubhthaich) and control by a hierarchy termed Canons Regular. Kilduich in Kintail. All of the foregoing founded During the reign of King David I ~ who did more churches which, until the time of the Reformation, than any other Scots king to extend feudalism came under the jurisdiction of the ancient bishopric throughout Scotland ~ other religious orders, of Ross. including Cistercians, were being encouraged to The Columban monks appear to have held sway for settle. Cistercian monks were skilful agriculturists, the better part of 300 years. Their sphere of influence and their monasteries are usually located on well- was widespread, and even stretched into areas of cultivated lands. (Continued Page 9 ). 2

McFarlane (Third son, above) for special mention Colin Dawson McFarlane (photo below). (More on his descendants) Mary Hamilton Mc- In this issue we look at the family of Old Farlane , born 1915 at Colin’s third son John Muir McFarlane Cowell, SA, was the (1852-1887) who married Sarah Eliz. Close elder of the two. She trained as a nurse in John Muir McFarlane Adelaide and with the (photo left) was born in outbreak of WWII she Strathalbyn, SA, where he volunteered to serve as had his own saddler an army nursing sister. business. He was a She was posted to the prominent citizen in the ill-fated hospital ship district and served as ‘Centaur’, which was town mayor from 1881 to sunk without warning 1883. by a Japanese navy Tragically, however, due submarine off the coast to financial problems he of Queensland in May developed an alcoholic 1943. Of the 332 persons on board, only 64 survived, problem which resulted in his committing suicide by and Mary was one of the eleven out of twelve army cutting his own throat. nurses who perished. John and Sarah had four sons: Percy Muir McF . Although the incident took place around 0400hrs in (1880-1946); Herbert Buchanan McF . (1881- the morning of the 14 th , the ship was well lit and 1936); John Clyde McF . (1883-1943); and Colin clearly marked as a hospital ship. The sinking caused Dawson McF. (1885-1965). international disgust and was listed as an official war First son , Percy M. (aka Peter) became a Trooper crime. in the 4 th South Australian Imperial Bushmen, eventually rising to Brigadier. He served in the South African wars and in WWI and was wounded at Gallipoli. He appears to have been a career soldier and never married. He retired at the outbreak of WWII, but was permitted to travel to France with the BEF as an observer, and was the first Aussie soldier to do so. Second son , Herbert B. (aka Buckie) served as a Staff Captain in the 4 th Australian Light Horse Brigade, he married Annette May Western, by whom he had a son John Bent McFarlane (1926-1990) in Cowell, SA. Hospital Ship Centaur photo Wikipedia Third son , John C. married Mabel May Hyde and John Norman Muir McFarlane , pictured with they had two children (discussed later). John died of Mary above, was born in Adelaide in 1918. He also prostate cancer aged 60. volunteered for military service and trained as a pilot Fourth son , Colin D. Married Evelyn Pearl Broad with the RAAF at Parafield airport, where he became and they had a daughter, Effie (1913-1997) and a an instructor. He attained the rank of flight lieutenant son, John Herbert McFarlane (1918-?). and was later posted to 31 Beaufighter Squadron at Collectively, the four sons of John Muir Moratai and the islands off New Guinea until the war McFarlane, by their marriages, eventually produced ended. several descendant collateral branches of the Possessed of considerable business acumen, John extended family – all now proud Australians. returned to civilian life in 1945 and took over the However, a great many of them still keep alive the reins of his late father’s business, McFarlane’s Ltd., memory of their Scottish forebears. Much of the eventually buying out the other shareholders. He credit goes to our members Marie Pennykid and her later became interested Cowell Electric Supply Co. parents for their dedicated research and enthusiasm. where he became chairman, and he was largely Indeed, space does not here permit in-depth responsible for improving the electric power supply acknowledgement of all the worthy descendants, but to rural areas. He was appointed esteemed Emeritus we return now to the two children of John Clyde Director in 1991. (Continued Page 5 ) 3

show that the army retreated voluntarily and orderly, EDITORIAL at the instigation of its General, Lord George Murray Don’t aye blame the poor and, although winning a major battle at Falkirk, it was only finally defeated at Culloden. The writer English! -- hae a guid look then tells how the English Government [not British at oorsel’s! Government] passed Acts to disarm all Scots, and Thinking back to my school days in Scotland, I prevent them from wearing Highland dress. Thus, by often recall one of my chums who frequently spoke placing incorrect emphasis on Englishness the theme of somebody called ‘Wallace the Bruce’ who fought of the article ignores the fact that, at the time in the English at the Battle of Hastings! My wee pal question, the conflict was between the British had a somewhat fragmented sense of British history. Government and those who supported the Stuart In reality, he was like so many others of my cause, namely Jacobites. Moreover, there were erstwhile peers, utterly disinterested in the subject; probably as many Scots in the government ranks than more so since it generally had damn all to do with had mustered under Prince Charlie’s banner. Scotland’s ‘real’ culture, the ongoing wars between The writer then goes on to describe the ‘origins’ of Celtic and Rangers football clubs at Ibrox and Kirkin the , where we are told of certain Parkhead stadia! clandestine church services held annually throughout In adult life, things are not all that different. I am Scotland where each member of the congregation still surrounded by many fellow Scots who might ‘smuggled’ into the church a small piece of the, think Bannockburn was something to do with King otherwise banned, tartan. Then, at a certain point in Alfred burning the cakes! And that Edward I the service the tartan was touched while the minster (‘Hammer of the Scots’) was the guy who abdicated pronounced a blessing on all . so that he could marry his ‘fancy wumman’! Apart from the fact that no source of contemporary Yet, give these same punters a few drams of the reference was quoted for the above ritual, the very hard stuff, and play “Flower of Scotland” and they idea of any Presbyterian minister -- of the Auld Kirk will rise again and seem ready to fight anyone who – blessing anyone or anything, for that matter, takes has the temerity tae meddle wi’ Auld Scotia! a wee bit of swallowing! Periodically, however, we are still confronted with Historically, the Presbyterian clergy were almost to distorted views concerning Scotland’s turbulent past a man totally against the Jacobite cause, and that – much of which reflects the many conflicts with our would extend to those ‘rebels’ wearing tartan. The English neighbours over the Border. Of these battles, real support for the Stuarts came from the Catholic we often overlook the fact the English actually won and Episcopalian clergymen, most of whom most. We were never very good at winning ‘away practised in the north eastern counties of Grampian games’ on English soil, but did a wee bit better on Region. And who often preached their support our own home ground, as it were. Either way, the openly from the pulpit! In any event, it seems that poor English were always the bad guys in every we Scots are often too quick to blame others for our argument! own shortcomings, and the poor Sassunachs (which To certain a degree, this attitude has been carried includes Lowland Scots) are put in the front line for a on into modern times – England still get a bad report great deal of often unwarranted abuse. whenever Scots get around to recalling days of yore; Of course part of the problem lies in the fact the and often the criticism comes from Scots who really UK parliament is located on English soil. Unlike should know better, like leaders of modern clan here in Australia, where they had the good sense to societies and other Scottish organisation. site the national capital, Canberra, on land Recently I read an article in a well-known specifically dedicated to the purpose, London is still Australian Scottish newsletter on the subject of viewed across the world as essentially the capital of “Tartan Day” and “Kirkin’ the Tartan” – they being dear old Merry England! And at times, it has been more recent rituals which seem to have their origins argued that a great deal of the legislation being outside Scotland. The author of the piece began by spawned in the great ‘Whitehall Dream Factory’ has outlining the sad events which followed the Battle of trouble reaching out beyond Watford! Culloden, 1746. He goes on to write about the But when one really gets down to it, the English Scottish attempt to put the Stuarts back on the throne folk are not the worst by any means, even though of England and Scotland [no mention of Great they often bore everyone with their pet game cricket Britain since 1707]. and profound weather predictions! Scots and English He then tells of ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’ and how have in the past stood shoulder to shoulder in times his army fought its way from Scotland almost to of real trouble – and we must not forget the Welsh London and was beaten back to Scotland and and Irish. Rule Britannia, but Advance Australia defeated at Culloden. Fair enough, although facts do Fair! Ed. 4

A Tribute to Julian Dawson Millar 1917–2005 Former Editor of the Australian “MacFarlane’s Lantern” Commissioner for Australia - Clan MacFarlane Society, Inc. (USA and Canada) Patron of the Clan MacFarlane Society in Australia. Julian Millar’s love of Scotland began when he was in the Australian Army Scottish Regiment in 1941-1944. However, it wasn’t until the early 1970s that he really started to explore his heritage by joining the Gold Coast and District Scottish Society, Queensland, and taking on a active role as Treasurer. Full of enthusiasm, Julian and his wife Margaret travelled to Scotland in 1974 where a MacFarlane was purchased with associated regalia. There followed many hours of research into the Millar surname – a recognised of Clan MacFarlane – and to his own family lineage traced to Cadder and Anderston in Glasgow, Scotland. Cadder, although now embraced within Glasgow, was originally an area of Dunbartonshire and therefore Old Lennox. On 3rd March, 1980 Julian joined the Clan MacFarlane Society of USA and Canada. With his interest in all things MacFarlane now firmly set, he then returned to Scotland with Margaret to take photographs of MacFarlane country. Within two months of his return home to Australia, Julian produced the first newsletter for the growing number of Australian members. Issued quarterly by the Society, and edited by Julian until March 1991, the Australian “MacFarlane’s Lantern” was essential for keeping members informed. The newsletter also did much to create and foster greater social interaction. The first social gathering of Australian members was at the Orange Highland Gathering in New South Wales on 29th October 1983. This led to the inaugural meeting of the Clan MacFarlane Society of Australia (as it was first called) being held a few days later, on 3rd November. On 17th August, 1991 the Clan MacFarlane Society, Inc. (USA and Canada) made Julian an Honorary Member and on 15th October of the same year, he was appointed as Commissioner for Australia. In March 1996 Julian was appointed as Patron of the Clan MacFarlane Society in Australia and remained so until his death in November 2005. The Society became incorporated in 2002 and is now known as The Clan MacFarlane Society, Australia Inc. The present Society acknowledges the important role that Julian Millar played in the establishment of an independent society in Australia.

(Continued from Page 3). John also became involved in community affairs, including the Cowell District Hospital and RSL veterans affairs. Due to his love of flying, he acquired his own light aircraft, which he used for business – and there were many times when he took on the role as an all-weather Air Ambulance Service in company with local physician, Dr Thompson. Between 1956 and 1982 he made 72 mercy flights. He married Hilda Anne Heath in 1942 and they had Thus, the ongoing increase of collateral five children (John, Robert, Stephen, David and branches of McFarlane descendants from pioneer Susan). In 1985, for his service to the community, he migrants Colin Dawson McFarlane and Marion was awarded the Order of Australia medal. Below is Muir seems assured in future Australia. Long may a photo of John and Hilda McFarlane’s headstone at they flourish in the memory of their hardy old their grave in Cowell Cemetery, SA. By their five Scottish forebears! End, children they became grandparents eleven times and With grateful acknowledgements to Marie Pennykid for great-grandparents twice. (Next column) research data and photographs. Ed. 5

Yes, Norma , it is nice to hear from you again. Aren’t ~ ~Root Lines ~ ~ you the lucky girl getting a trip to the Auld Country? Currently our NZ Member, Andrew Macfarlane, is (Members’ Genealogy Page) working on a revised Travel Guide for members use Remembering World War 1 when visiting Clan sites in Scotland. But until it is ready, I will send you a few suggestions and at the In the previous issue of ‘Lantern’ we listed names same time pass your request on to Andrew. Have a of some soldiers who were killed on active service nice time, dear. . .ED. during World War 1. This prompted the following * * * * * submission from Queensland member Joan Grayson. The three soldiers named were the sons of John A Reader’s e-mail query and Susan Kemp (nee McFarlane) from Toowoomba, Dear President, I would like to have the burial site of Queensland. the late William Christie McFarlane clarified. He th was my paternal g-great grandfather, who died in Alexander Kemp , 26 Battalion, AIF, b. Sept.1896, th d. Sept. 1915: Buried in Ari Burnu Cemetery, Anzac Wodongo, Victoria, on 18 December 1906. Cove, Gallipoli. Turkey. In your Clan information it says that he was buried John Kemp , 26 th Battalion, AIF, b.Dec.1894 d. Aug. in the Aldbury Pioneer cemetery (NSW). However, 1916, (unmarked grave) France. we believe that he was buried in Wodonga cemetery, William McFarlane Kemp , 14/26 th Battalion, AIF, but we are unable to find him in either site. Would b. Jan. 1889 d. May 1917, (unmarked grave) France. you have any further information for me? Thanking Also, overlooked in the previous issue of ‘Lantern’, you---- Julie Star. are the details of two New Zealand soldiers buried at The forgoing message was something of a puzzle Lone Pine Cemetery, Gallipoli – submitted by our for us, since we could not recall ever dealing with the NZ member Andrew Macfarlane. late Clansman in question. However, it soon became David McFarlane , Private, No.8/671,Otago Infantry evident that the lady had been browsing our own Battalion. Killed in action Gallipoli, 2 nd May 1915. website http://www.clanmacfarlane.org.au and had Son of Mrs Esther McFarlane, 146 Macandrew Rd. linked up with our New Zealand member, Andrew Dunedin, NZ. (See: URL: http://www.cwgc.org Macfarlane, via his private website, which contains a George Rattray MacFarlane , L/Cpl . No.12/159, wealth of MacFarlane genealogy. We advise others Auckland Infantry Battalion. Killed in action, to have a look. www.clanmacfarlanegenealogy.info Gallipoli, 5 th May 1915, son of Mr. And Mrs, D.R. The outcome was that we have since passed Julie’s Macfarlane, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. query to Andrew, who has indeed considerable data (See: URL: http://www.cwgc.org on this particular family, with root-lines back to * * * * * Stirlingshire – and numerous Aussie descendants that we would be happy to hear from and who might like A Member writes to join us? Dear Malcolm , Quite some time ago we met for * * * * * information at the home of my daughter, Meredith, in Marion, SA. whilst I was visiting from home in Old Scottish Maps online Mount Gambier. Now I ask you could you give me a Another new innovation to assist family history few names in Scotland. My son, Dean, and I are to researchers has been provided by The National visit that beautiful country in October and although Library of Scotland. Some 25,000 detailed Ordnance we do have some ideas, there may be places we Survey (OS) maps of Scotland can now be viewed MUST see and do not know of. online. Maps from the 1840s to 1880s are already on Some of the areas we hope to see are the the library’s website, with many more to follow. The MacFarlane stamping grounds around Arrochar, website allows easy access to the maps by a Tarbet, Crianlarich also Tarbert and Knapdale zoomable Google facility. This is worth looking at, () being the district from which our family more so for all those involved in family research – to came in 1854. We also hope to go up to Aberdeen, be found at : http://geo.nis.uk/search where Dean worked for six months about 20 years * * * * * ago. We are leaving on Oct 3 and have just two weeks to drive around. I do hope I am not being too Let’s be hearing from you rash asking this time of you. There are still several recently joined members I love reading your stories in the Lantern and have who we would like to hear from with view to taken some information from them. Just have to keep publishing their family data. We are gradually myself fit to make the most of this unexpected chance. working our way through the mass of Colin Dawson If you can offer a name or two I would so appreciate McFarlane lineage. However, there are other Clan it. My regards - Norma Lock. ( Reply next column) branches yet to be revealed. Please get in touch. 6

Robert believes that we should be asking our News from Oot ‘n’ Aboot! younger members to explain why they chose to join a What does the future hold for Scottish Scottish organisation. Which then leads to the groups? A worrying trend due to ageing question of what do they actually expect to gain from members! being a member of their chosen group. We are really On Sunday 22 July this year a Special General aiming at adult members in the 30s and 40s age Meeting was held in Victoria by Scottish Clans & group. Associations Council (SCAC) to determine the future We realise that there is the tendency whereby it is of the organisation. The need to meet arose from the more often those members who have recently retired lack of volunteer members willing to take on from working life who generally find the time to executive positions (President, Secretary, and two become more interested in family history. They have Committee Members) as per SCAC Constitution. more time to reflect on past life and family concerns. The outcome of the special meeting was that no But we would still like to hear from younger candidates came forward to fill the posts, and if there adults and even young teenagers on how they now is no change by 30 th October this year the existing feel about their sense of Aussie Scottish(ness). And three Committee members will be obliged to attend what advice do they have to pass on to the current Consumers Affairs, Victoria, to discuss plans to ‘old brigade’ who are currently running things. dissolve SCAC. We really are interested in your views! This is bad news for Scottish organisations in * * * * * * Victoria, who will lose the central guiding body which has served so well for many years. But it is an ever-present worrying trend affecting many Scottish organisation, including our own Clan MacFarlane Society in Victoria, this being the State in which we are registered. The crux of the matter appears to lie with the lack of interest shown by younger family members, who seem no longer attracted to the programs on offer to them by Scottish groups. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that these groups are being held together largely by an ageing population of otherwise dedicated individuals. In effect, something must be done to make the Scottish scene more attractive to youngsters, most of whom are by nature first and foremost proud Australians and therefore more tuned into a modern culture. Ideas and serious debate is urgently required We are hoping to have our MacFarlane display tent at in every Scottish organisation. this venue, which has strong Clan connections with The following is part of a statement made by the pioneer Colin Dawson McFarlane and family. We look current SCAC Secretary, Robert Stewart. forward to seeing some of our members there. Further “I have a concern that disbanding our Scottish information from Membership Secretary, Anita, at Clans and Associations Council, due to a lack of an [email protected] or (08) 8248 4465. executive committee, may have a flow on to individual clans and associations who may have a Beechworth Celtic Festival, 2012 similar problem and may suffer closure. I feel sure you all have concern like I do, that the Victoria, 9-11 November. younger generation is not interested in following The Scots have had at least one Information our path. Why? Because they are Australians and Stall at this event each year, and it is hoped that some have only a brief knowledge of Scotland... this tradition can be upheld. In the past the task ... At the moment we have the same people, almost has fallen to SCAC Secretary Doug McLaughlin all of whom are retired and looking to ease up, but to organise the Scottish element. Now, due to the are concerned that if they do, there is great concern lack of managerial support within SCAC, he is about their clan or association folding. The people seeking assistance from Scottish groups who wish we are seeking need a reason to join, and that is to be represented at this Year’s Festival. what we should be seeking to find out from this PLEASE, PLEASE help this bloke and keep the next generation.” (Next column) Scottish Flag at Beechworth! Tel: 03 9836 4323.

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! In parts of Scotland, a black dog was sometimes Kelpies, Kirkyards An’ A’ That looked on as an evil omen. Just such an animal was (Taking a wee look at some Scottish myths) once owned by the Chief of the MacFees of by ‘Calum MacCalum’ Colonsay. Strangely, however, the very name of this well known clan also has a certain mythological Scotland – especially the Highlands – has a wealth connotation, being derived from MacDuffie (Gaelic: of traditional folklore, much of which is centred on MacDubhsidhe -- literally, ‘son of black fairy or the supernatural. Indeed, so interwoven with fact witchcraft’. are the many legends, that it often becomes difficult The ‘Black Dog of Murroch MacFee’ is said to have to isolate truth from fantasy. been a gift to the chief from a friendly witch, who History books would be dull reading, were it not promised that it would one day be of great service for those wee fabulous tit-bits which often add to him. But although MacFee tried to get the dog to romance to many an otherwise mundane subject. hunt with him, it had a mind of its own and always Loch Ness, for instance, would be just another refused. stretch of water, were it not for the elusive Nessie – One day, however, the dog decided to go with its which, as yet, modern science has failed to prove or master, and while camping in a cave, the chief’s disprove! Moreover, many of our ancient castles party was attacked by a terrible supernatural and stately homes are all the better for the untimely creature, so unsightly that they could only call it ‘The appearances of green ladies, phantom pipers and Thing’. After the spirit had slain all the chief’s other things that go bump in the night! followers, the Black Dog sprang to the rescue and Whether or not we care to admit it, most of us are chased the demon, thus saving MacFee’s life! possessed of an inherent love – or fascination – for The very nature of Scotland lends itself to an aura the extra-dimensional spirit world, which has of mystery and imagination. Mist-covered hills; the nothing to do with whisky! It is nice to feel that remoteness of the glens and moorlands; the spine-tingling sensation when we come across starkness of winter with trees standing in skeletal something weird, which offers no immediate logical relief against grey skies and snow-covered explanation: like the premonitions some folk have landscapes. Add to all this the moss-covered stone prior to the death of a loved one, or the unusual dykes; derelict shielings; castle ruins; kirkyards with sensation when we enter a strange place and feel their squint and fallen headstones; and a north wind strongly that we have been there before! howling through the dark corries, giving an overall Human imagination has no bounds. But, in picture of haunting loneliness – what more could Scotland, most of our legends are of the ‘homespun’ any story-teller wish for? variety. Unlike the ancient Greeks, who filled their Some years ago, I stood on a heather-clad hillside literature with mythical gods and bizarre creatures, above the small Perthshire town of Comrie. It was the Scots would much prefer to accept the existence at sunrise on a clear autumn day and I could see for of a two-headed cow that yields two gallons of miles the distant Highland peaks, yet the strath Atholl brose daily, than to waste time thinking about below me lay hidden beneath a blanket of thick the antics of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own white mist. Then, as the warming sun began to reflection. It is all a question of priorities. penetrate, the mist began gradually to disperse and Like the Irish – who are our kin-in-culture the town began to appear as if by magic. It neighbours -- we Scots have always had a soft spot reminded me of the legendary village of ‘Brigadoon’ for the ‘wee folk’ and the ‘banshees’ (Gaelic bean- awakening from its hundred-year slumber! I thought sith , fairy women). Such tales were once common in perhaps just such a vision had inspired the author of the Highlands. that famous story. Kelpies, or water horses, are yet another product Many people claim to have seen ghosts and other of Celtic imagination. Indeed, it is said that Loch Eck such phenomena. But then perhaps there are some (lake of the horse), Argyllshire, was so named after a folk who are genuinely more perceptive than others particular kelpie, which materialised from the and therefore better tuned to the so-called – non depths of the loch in the shape of a magnificent alcoholic -- spirit world! charger, allowing itself to be captured. But when Sceptics in society will no doubt pooh-pooh any anyone was foolish enough to mount the creature, it idea of ghosts. And yet even among them there will would immediately charge back into the loch, rider be the devout Christians, who are (Next page) and all! 8

(From Page 9) (The Kirk: Continued from Page 2 ). meanwhile quite happy to accept without question The formation of territorial parishes came about the concept of the ‘Holy Ghost’! I find this very with the granting of land and the creation of feudal strange. lordships. King David I gave considerable tracts of Nevertheless, it’s probably best to keep an open land to those Norman and Flemish knights who mind over such issues – just in case, whilst aye assisted him in re-organising his hitherto unstable keeping a wary eye over your shoulder! kingdom. In many occasions such land grants were End. at the expense of native Scots, who suddenly NOTE: the above story is based on an article first published in discovered themselves becoming vassals to foreign “BSD DYEJEST” (1969), House journal of The British Silk Dyeing overlords. Co. Ltd., Scotland, UK, by same author. In theory, a landowner was obliged to erect a parish church on his property and thereafter provide * * * * * sufficient land for its upkeep. The new church would GRANNY MAC: Household Tips then be appropriated by one or other of the religious When I was a wee lassie, nearly orders which, in turn, would delegate a vicar of their everyone had a lemon tree in own choice, and thereby receive whatever revenue the back yard. My Granny (lands, tiends and oblations) the parish provided. popped a slice of lemon in her However, it seems the hierarchy of the established cup of tea. She also used the church eventually became more interested in the skin of the lemons to rub on lucrative earnings than the actual saving of souls; the back of her hands after washing the thus did the power and wealth of the church grow steadily. During the early part of the 15th century the dishes, to keep her skin white. She squeezed papal courts dominated the church in Scotland. They some lemon juice into a glass of water first had complete control over the election of bishops and thing in the morning to help prevent colds abbots, and their acquisition of land almost matched and flu and a windy, acidy stomach. Let’s not that of the crown. Indeed, it has been said that the forget the healing properties Church of Rome owned half of Scotland. of the humble lemon. Corruption among the clergy was rife, with many Granny Mac. of the leading clerics returning to Rome and taking their vast wealth with them. As a consequence, King James I acted to restrict money leaving the country, and to further control the movement of churchmen he Joint MacFarlane/MacDonald Luncheon, SA. created the offence of ‘Barratry’ or unauthorised Again this year, we are happy to announce our 5th dealings with Rome. Joint Annual Luncheon with our friends in Clan The Crown continued to challenge the power of Donald, South Australia. Again, the event Rome over church matters, and by the mid-15th To be held at century the seeds of anti-popery had begun to The Enfield Hotel germinate. But it could also be argued that the royal 184 Hampstead Road, Clearview, SA eye was focussed enviously on the increasing wealth (Ample car parking available) of the church, most of which was creamed off by the Sunday 28th October 2012 Vatican. 12 for 12.30pm. Another great worry for a Scots king lay in the fact This year we will be treated to traditional Scottish that prelates were also members of his parliament. music by celebrated harpist Siobhan Owen; excellent He therefore had to be careful over who was piping by Jason Moore (Clan Farlane) and Hamy appointed, and not have persons foisted on him by Marcelin (); lots of couthie patter; Rome. Eventually, in 1483, Pope Sixtus IV issued anecdotes and assorted guid humour! bulls commanding the Scots nobles and prelates to Silver Service Three-Course Meal obey their king. This had the effect of allowing the (Cost $40 pp (Make up a table of 8) king alone to ‘nominate’ candidates, while the actual ...... ‘provision’ (sanction) was retained by the Pope. Please send cheque of money order payable to: The ecclesiastical shake-up had some horrendous consequences. James IV, for instance, managed to ‘CLAN DONALD’ Mrs, Eileen Murphy have his eleven-year-old bastard son Alexander 86 Whites Road, Salisbury North, SA 5108 installed as Archbishop of St. Andrews. Phone: 8258 5756 or Secretary 8265 0978 (To be continued).

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CLISHMACLAVERS leaders will spend wisely on your behalf. Fret ye not over the worries of State. Go instead to thy sacred stone and pray loudly for thy Tory leaders. For were “Taking the Michael” we not born to serve thee and to carry forth all the By burdens of life – and its richness?” Calum Curamach And so it was that the Heedrumites listened in awe A passage from the ‘Unholy Book of Heedrum’ to to the preaching of the Divine Michael. And when celebrate the return of the Stone of Destiny to Scotland he had finished his sermon, he stretched wide his in 1996 by the then UK Conservative Government. benevolent arms to his flock, saying unto them: “What sayeth ye, o children of Heedrum? What IT IS TOLD that, in the days of Edward the King of epistle must I carry forth to the sacred throne of Smoothland in the south, how he ravaged the Smoothland? northern kingdom of Heedrum. And it came to pass And, behold! The people were greatly moved – and that he carried off the Sacred Stone of the people, some were without a change of raiment! And when and the Heedrumites were much wrathed, and a great the Holy Heedrumite again pleaded the cause of the sadness fell upon the land. House of Tory, the people arose as one great voice No more could generations of Hairy Heedrumite saying unto him: “GETTETH OAN YER BIKE, bums sit upon the sacred seat of their forebears. And WEE MAN!” Amen. the people were made to strain under the yoke of the ______ruling Smoothfolk, and their wee bairns were hungry and forced into the wilderness. ‘Wee deoch-an-doris’ song translated Some sailed the great ocean to the West, where Many Scots, and ither folk, will remember the above- they preached among the Feathered people, and did named old song made famous by Sir Harry Lauder spread their wisdom – and other nasty things – and other Scots comedians, the chorus line of which among the heathen. Others went South to the land of runs: Oz, and dwelt among the Didgery folk! “Just a wee deoch-an-doris, So it was, that after eight-thousand, four-hundred Just a wee yin, that's a'. moons had crossed the cold northern skies, there Just a wee deoch-an-doris, came unto the Land of Heedrum the Blessed Michael Before we gang awa'. of the House of Tory – self-proclaimed hero of There's a wee wifie waitin', Heedrum. And he preached unto the multitude, saying: “In my Father’s house there are many In a wee but-an-ben; mansions. . .mortgages can be arranged!” If you can say, "It's a braw bricht moonlicht So it was that the Heedrumites were struck by his nicht," countenance, and they begged him to go forth to the Ye're a' richt, ye ken.” leaders of Smoothland and to plead the cause of his The title is partly Gaelic: deoch (drink) and dorus northern hairy kindred! (door), literally a drink for the door, i.e. the last drink Whereupon, as it is now writ, the Venerable before leaving. A ‘but-an-ben’ is a small two-roomed Michael – of the balding heid – did labour (?) among cottage. the Smoothfolk. And it came to pass that he again The final tongue-twister means: ‘It is a lovely spake unto the brethren: “Behold! I have this day moonlight night tonight’ which, if said clearly and brought forth from the Throne of Smoothland yon distinctly in the mother tongue to the wee wife great lump of stone on which the ancient fathers of waiting, would be an indication that you are not too our nation did sit and did receive their regal piles!” drunk, really! And he said: “I beseech ye o brave Heedrumites, think ye not of vengeance upon thy Smooth Female logic! neighbours in the south. For are we not ‘Toried’ of A women went into the office of a cemetery manager the same brush? And do we not share with them the and complained: “I can’t find my husband’s grave. oil of our lamps, so that all the peoples might enjoy I know he’s buried here!” the warmth and VA(s)T profits thereof? “What’s the name?” asked the manager. He spake further: “Verily I say unto you, content “Thomas Jackson,” she replied. thyselves with the simple pleasures. Rejoice and Referring to his records, the manager said: “Madam, sing loudly at your ceilidhs, and vent thy spleens we have no Thomas Jackson. We just have an only within the sacred temples of Ibrox and Elizabeth Jackson.” Parkheid! And when cometh the tax collector, give “That’s him,” she replied. “Everything is in my willingly, in the certain knowledge that your noble name!” 10

INTIMATIONS Daft Lines Column Joke for the Day Happy 100th Birthday Auntie Edna! An elderly man is stopped by the police around 1 a.m. and is asked where he was going at that time of (Is she the oldest Macfarlane in Oz?) night. The man replies: "I am going to a lecture about alcohol abuse and the effects it has on the human body!" The officer then asks: "Really? Who is giving that lecture at this time of night?" The man replies, " That would be my wife!"

Grave concern! Donny and Dougie, two local worthies, were casually viewing workmen laying out the site of a new cemetery.. Says Donny: “Ah dinna like the place, and Ah wud die afore Ah’d let them bury me in there!” (photograph by Janet Marsh) Dougie replied: “Ah quite like it, and if God spares me that’s whaur Ah wud like tae spend the Edna Vesty Simes (nee McFarlane) was born rest of ma days!” on the 14th of September 1912, at Wells Street, Birkenhead, South Australia. She was the third Alphabetic Drive! daughter of Ernest David McFarlane and Sarah Ann A rich blonde buys a new automatic Jaguar XKR Vesty. Her paternal grandfather was shipwright Sport. She drives the car perfectly well during the Alexander McFarlane (bn. 1841 in Greenock, day, but at night, the car just won't move at all. Scotland) who arrived in Port Adelaide in 1866, After trying to drive the car at night for a week (but where he later founded the boat building yard of A. without any luck), she furiously calls the Jaguar McFarlane & Sons. This family has root-lines dealers and they send out a technician to her. reaching back several generations in the Rosneath The technician examines the car and finds nothing Peninsula, old Dunbartonshire, to one Dugald wrong with it. So he turns to the blonde and asks: Macfarlane (b.1706) and his wife Janet Niven. The "Ma’am, are you sure you are using the right family business featured in our “Lantern” No. 105, gears?" March 2008. Full of anger, the blonde replies: "You fool, you Back to modern times, Edna is aunt to a fair clutch idiot, how on earth you could ask such a question? of McFarlane descendants, including our own SA I'm not stupid. Of course I am using the right Councillor, Janet Marsh and her cousin, Membership gears; I use D during the day and N during the Secretary, Anita Renfrey. night." The old lady is still very alert and looking forward this month to celebrating her 100th Birthday with Farmer’s Lament! her extended family and friends. All of which led us A bank officer heard the following explanation for a to wonder if, perhaps, she now rates as the oldest farmer’s financial troubles. living McFarlane in Australia? “It all started back in ’66 when they changed from In any event, Clan MacFarlane Society, Australia, pounds sterling to dollars! My damned overdraft Inc., takes this opportunity to Congratulate Dear doubled. The they brought in kilograms instead of Aunt Edna and wish her Every Happiness on her pounds – my wool dropped in half! Then they Great Day! Slainte Mhath! changed rain gauges into millimetres and we Reader’s Query haven’t had an inch of rain since. A reader in SA is seeking any information on the Then they brought in Celsius and it never got to family of Janet ‘Jessie’ McFarlane who married 40 degrees – no wonder my wheat won’t grow! William Neilson on 31st August 1840 in Edinburgh. Then they changed acres to hectares and I ended up They had two children, William (1842) and John with have the land I had. (1844) both of whom migrated to Australia and So by this time I’d had enough and decided to sell settled in Penola, SA. Anyone with information, up – they changed miles to kilometres – now I’m please get in touch: [email protected] too far out of town for anyone to buy the place!” 11

Committee of Management 2012/13 PRESIDENT/EDITOR/HISTORY RESEARCHER: Malcolm Lobban, 9 Davies Place, Pooraka, SA 5095. Tel: (08) 83590578, E-mail : [email protected]

VICE-PRESIDENT / PUBLIC OFFICER : Chris Culling, 81 Farnham Road, Bayswater, VIC 3153 E-mail : [email protected]

SECRETARY/TREASURER: Glenda Dickson, 23 Blamey Drive, Melton Sth., VIC 3338 E-mail : [email protected]

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY: Anita Renfrey, 579 Military Road, Largs North, SA 5016 E-mail: [email protected]

STATE COUNCILLORS: NSW: Roy Nash, 1 Sale Street, Grenfell, NSW 2810 E-mail [email protected] Tel: (02) 6343 1085.

QLD: Louise Piper, 126 Curtis Road, North Tamborine, Qld. 4272 E-mail [email protected] Tel: (07)5545 2107

SA: Janet Marsh, 648 Burbridge Road, West Beach, SA 5024, E-mail : [email protected] Tel: (08) 8356 7785.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS : Leona Job, 21 Spruzen Avenue. Kew East, VIC 3101. Robert P. Millar , [email protected]

Clan Merchandise for Sale

MacFarlane crest teaspoon/s (unboxed) $10.50 each Or ~ at $8.00 each ~ the following:

MacFarlane crest lapel badge (butterfly clip) MacFarlane crest lapel badge (brooch fitting) MacFarlane crest tie pin Macfarlane crest key ring

(Please note the above prices include postage and are subject to availability of current stock).

Please make your cheque/money /order made payable to Clan MacFarlane Society, Australia, Inc. and post to the Membership Secy., 579 Military Road, Largs North, SA 5016 Badges are approximately 2cm in diameter.

FINAL NOTES

Please note: a “Renewal Reminder” form is included with this issue for Members who have not yet submitted payment for 2012-13 which was due on 1 st of July this year. If in the meantime you have already renewed your membership, please disregard this message, and accept our Sincere Thanks! * * * * * * * Articles in this newsletter which carry an author’s name are considered Copyright and permission should be sought from the Editor “MacFarlane’s Lantern” by anyone wishing to reproduce them elsewhere.

¬ ¬ ¬ “Suas Clann Pharlainn” ¬ ¬ ¬ 12