Andrew Macthomas of Finegand ~ 19Th Clan Chief Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

Andrew MacThomas of Finegand ~ 19th Clan Chief Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

Ben Gulabin to the East Auld Brig (Old Bridge) built around 1750 over the Shee Water Spittal of Glenshee of Dalmunzie Hotel October 2010 (Note :2 local resident Pheasants using the bridge)

View from the Old Bridge to the North, toward the head of the Glen October 2010

Dalmunzie Castle The North Slope of Ben Gulabin The Glenshee Kirk North of the Old Bridge © Isabelle McInally Small dots on the skyline in the center of picture are a October 2010 small heard of Red Deer, pointed out by Peter Tipton, one of the directors of Dalmunzie Hotel.

Finegand Farm from the North Side

James Lyle Thomas at the “Cockstane” October, 2010 Finegand FarmOctober, from the 2010 front entrance October 2010

Official Clan Website: Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

The U.S. & Canadian Branch of the In This Issue Clan MacThomas acknowledges Feature Articles and yields allegiance to: 3 The Chief Andrew MacThomas of Finegand Andrew MacThomas of Finegand 19th Chief of the Clan MacThomas Summary Financial Status 2010 3 Cathy‘s Convener Corner US & Canadian Branch 5 James‘ The Views from My By Cathy McComb Ludemann 4 US AND CANADIAN BRANCH Saddle EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

BRANCH CONVENOR 4 Ken‘s Northern Hi Lights Cathy McComb Ludemann 1653 Hydram Avenue North 4 Cindy‘s Perspective Oakdale, MN 55128 USA State & Province [email protected] 4 Charles‘ Contemplations 5 Representatives By Cathy McComb Ludemann 5 State & Province TREASURER Representatives Charles S. Tam 2917 Algonquin Drive 5 Summary Financial Status—

Lafayette, IN 47909 USA US & Canadian Branch

[email protected] National Tartan Day April 6 (USA & Canada) 6 Upcoming North American 7 Highland Games

By National Tartan Day Website COMMITTEE MEMBER ~ USA James L. Thomas 7 National Tartan Day N1198 - 29th Avenue Continued p.12 & p.13 Berlin, WI 54923 USA

[email protected] 8 Glenshee Gathering May 2011 Your Wandering 8 MacThomas Website— Convenor COMMITTEE MEMBER ~ CANADA 11 Members Secure Area Cathy McComb Ken McComb By 1433 - 151 Country Village Road NE Ludemann 9 Genetic Genealogy Notes Calgary, AB, Canada, T3K 5X5 New Members [email protected] 9 CHANGE OF ADDRESS 10 MacThomas Website— COMMITTEE MEMBER ~ USA EMAIL or POSTAL ADDRESS Family Trees John C. (Chris) McComb 6171 Cedar Creek Way Please remember to advise the Branch Convenor / 10 Scholarship Fund & Essay Farmington, NY 14425 USA Treasurer when you change your postal or email Contest address. If you fail to so, we will be unable to advise [email protected] Learn from the Easter Bunny you of all upcoming activities. 10 Mail or email your changes to:

EDITOR 11 Your Wandering Convenor Cindy McComb BRANCH CONVENOR Cathy McComb Ludemann 14 Feature Recipe GRAPHIC DESIGNER 1653 Hydram Avenue North Ken McComb 15 Wine Review Oakdale, MN 55128 USA MAILING ADDRESS [email protected] 16 Membership Renewal (Revised) 1433 - 151 Country Village Road NE Calgary, AB, Canada TREASURER T3K 5X5 17 New Membership Application Charles S. Tam (Revised) EMAIL 2917 Algonquin Drive [email protected] Lafayette, IN 47909 USA WEBSITE [email protected] Future Newsletter Editions www.clanmacthomas.com This Newsletter is your source of information for the Branch and your Photos on the front cover courtesy: “This Newsletter is for member use and may be printed for voice to other Members. Pictures taken around Glenshee 2010 — private use only – no part of this newsletter may be duplicated The Executive Members and editor James and Kathleen Thomas and published for any other purpose without the express encourage you, our valued members, to Dalmunzie Castle (centre of the page) — written consent of the Executive Committee of the US and submit your articles or photos for the Isabelle McInally Canadian Branch of the Clan MacThomas” benefit of all of our readers.

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 2 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

DEO JUVANTE INVIDIAM SUPERABO — WITH GOD’S HELP I SHALL OVERCOME ENVY!

A Message From Our Chief Cathy’s Convenor Corner Andrew MacThomas of Finegand Cathy McComb Ludemann

Anneke and I celebrated our twenty-fifth My, but the weather has been a challenge in wedding anniversary on St. Andrew's Day last many areas of the country this year. Snow in November. We are now looking forward to places that don‘t usually get it and way too welcoming all of you who are attending the much in some of the areas where some snow Clan Gathering in Glenshee in May. The US will be well is normal. Spring is definitely here now. After several represented and it promises to be a wonderful four days. balmy 50 degree days the large piles of snow have quickly disappeared. The first issue of this newly designed Branch Newsletter certainly seems to justify the decision by your Branch I am delighted to announce that Chris McComb has Executive to move from the old style paper version and recently agreed to fill a vacancy on the Branch Executive "go digital". What a difference this makes in both clarity of Committee. Chris has been active in the Society for many print and design. It looks so much fresher and modern years and was the Convenor of this Branch from 2001 to than before. 2004. He was very instrumental in creating stability to the Branch during this period. I know the new Editor will ensure that not only are you kept updated with the main Council's thinking and the I have been told that we will have 4 Branch members and relevant developments that affect you but also that you are spouses (including my husband and me) going to Scotland aware of all that happens in the US and Canada as far as in May for the Gathering. I know you won‘t regret making your branch and fellow members are concerned. But the trip. I am eagerly looking forward to meeting you! I am please always remember that this is your Newsletter so let sorry to say that the period for signing up for the gathering Cindy McComb have your views too - both positive and has now passed unless you can convince the organizers negative - and when appropriate she will be happy to to include you. share your thoughts with you all. So if you like something the Society and/or your Branch is doing tell her and We continue to offer a copy of the ―Newsletter‖ CD for similarly if you have concerns about any aspect of Society every $25 donation made to the scholarship fund this year. and/or Branch proposals or policy, please let Cindy know. The CD is a compilation of each newsletter produced by our Branch and the annual newsletters from Scotland One area I have been stressing for years is the need for dating back over 30 years. It is truly a wonderful history of greater advertising in North America for our Clan. More our Branch and the Society and well worth the cost of the publicity of our sept names will lead to more members donation. joining. This remains a key priority for your Executive. Please let Convenor Cathy have any ideas or views you And lastly, I have been providing our Branch members may have which may help in this regard. You can assist with their membership numbers this year, either on the too by ensuring that our Clan and sept names are envelope label to those who received their recent prominently displayed in your local Burns, Caledonian and newsletter from Scotland on paper or on the membership St. Andrew's Societies. Utilise the fact that Clan card when you renew your dues. In the past, this number MacThomas is a member of the Clan Chattan Association was required to gain access to the ―members secure area‖ of Clans too. If you would like to help grow our Clan of the Clan website. I see that it is no longer required, but locally, let Convenor Cathy know and guidance and help is helpful to the webmaster to authenticate your request. will be forthcoming. The booking form for the Clan Gathering in Glenshee does ask for it and there will probably be other requests in the Clanship today is not only about heritage and kinship but future as well. So we suggest that you to keep the also about meeting new people and fostering friendships number handy to make those requests easier. and long may that be so. Above all, it is about having fun. Spring is around the corner to help lift the gloom of recent Enjoy the Spring weather! months. With best wishes,

Andrew MacThomas of Finegand, Cathy McComb Ludemann BRANCH CONVENOR, PRESIDENT, Clan MacThomas Society U.S. & Canadian Branch of the Clan MacThomas

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 3 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

James’ The Views From My Saddle Ken’s Northern Hi Lights James Thomas Ken McComb

In the Fall of 2010, we were fortunate to make our A brand new year is upon us and as we begin to 4th return trip to Scotland. Both my wife and I have prepare for the many Highland games, we hope you undergraduate degrees in History, so we tend to get the opportunity to support these events. A great primarily tour castles, ruins and other historic sites many individuals give a lot of their time to prepare in the areas we travel, as well as other places of interest. In these events, so it would be great if you can support Scotland, this includes whisky distilleries. This trip, we flew into them. Cindy and I have committed our attendance this year to 6 Glasgow, as we have done before, rented a car, and headed off games in Alberta and several Robbie Burns Nights. This past northwest, into the wilds of Argyle. After stopping at several of January & February, we were able to attend 10 different suppers. our favorite locations we made our way to a ferry to Isla, where Unfortunately this was about 5 less than last year. Due to we stayed for several days and explored the mysteries of the scheduling conflicts we will not be able to attend games in other whisky of the Isles. From there we made our way by ferry and Provinces this year. road to Skye to continue the whisky tour, having covered Mull in We are also very saddened that we will be unable to attend The a previous trip. On the way to go over the sea to Skye, we Gathering in Scotland this Spring. We wish the executive stopped at several locations to explore Neolithic sites and the members well in their deliberations and we hope that everyone early 19th Century Crinan Canal. After leaving Skye, we revisited attending will have a joyous time and a safe journey. the Ft. William, Loch Ness and Inverness areas seeing some sites we first saw in the mid 1980s like the Culloden battlefield Ken (much better developed now), and new areas on the Black Isle peninsula and Beauly.

From Inverness, we struck south, through the Cairngorms When you are in deep KaKa, National Park into the Grampian Mountains to the Spiital of Look straight ahead, Glenshee, and spent a couple of days exploring the Clan lands Keep your mouth shut and sites. We stayed at the Dalmunzie Castle Hotel, where the And say nothing! Clan Gathering will be held this May. The Hotel is a 19th Century hunting lodge, while the Castle is a ruin near the 6th tee on the FOX HUNT golf course. The facility is first rate and I am sure those attending Courtesy– James will have a memorable time. This brings us to the point of this tale. I provided the Newsletter Editor with a number of pictures we took in Glen Shee and environs and she will be including some of them in this issue. Many are pictures of the usual Clan icons, but some are landscapes that give a good flavor of the Cindy’s Perspective remote area unchanged in hundreds of years. How ever many Cindy McComb she can include, I am wondering if this is something the Members might be interested in for future issues about the other Welcome to the Spring instalment of our new cultural treasures we have found in Scotland. There is no Quarterly Electronic Clan Newsletter. shortage of topics or material. If the answer is "Aye", let the Each and every year there are hundreds of Scottish Editor know. Our webmaster may also put some on the website. Themed Events and Games organized throughout Warmest Regards, Jas. Thomas <);-}o> North America. In this issue is a small sampling (with links for those of you using the electronic version of the newsletter) of some of the events that are coming up in the various states and Charles’ Contemplations provinces within the next few months. In future editions I will Charles Tam continue to supply you with lists of upcoming events. Please let me know if there are any particular locations or events that you It is time to renew. would like me to add or research for you. It is time to renew your dues for the 2011 calendar in order to continue to receive these newsletters and Just as a thought; as you travel throughout our two vast the annual Clan magazine. You may use the dues countries this spring and summer plan to attend event(s) in your renewal page included in this newsletter together area or along the way. As those of us that have can confirm, we with a check for $25 and send to have made many friends, gained increased awareness of our Charles Tam, 2917 Algonquin Dr., Lafayette, IN 47909 Scottish roots and eaten way too much shortbread and besides that, it‘s just a whole lot of fun. You may even meet a long lost A hearty thank you to all the members who have already sent in relative along the way. When you get home drop me a quick their dues. note and possibly some pictures so that we can share your experiences with the rest of our membership in future editions. I Also In this newsletter you will find a Summary Financial Status look forward to hearing from you and sharing your for 2010. (Submitted on Charle’s Behalf) adventures. Have a fantastic Spring. Charles Cindy

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 4 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATUS – 2010 STATE AND PROVINCE U.S. AND CANADIAN BRANCH OF THE CLAN MACTHOMAS REPRESENTATIVES Bank balance as of 12/31/09 $1,834.79 (A) We are fortunate in having several of our Branch INCOME members who are willing to act as State or 2010 Receipts (dues & miscellaneous income) $2.358.00 Province Representatives. Total Donations Scholarship Fund $ 731.00 Donations to US/Can. Branch $ 5.00 These are, at present: Donations - Scotland/Cockstane Fund $ 130.00 British Columbia: Hamish and Caulene Thoms Interest received from bank $ 10.72 California: Doc Thom and Susan McCombs Total Income $3,234.72 (B) California: Leslie Kenyon OUTLAY Connecticut: Rod Mooney and Mary Gelsomino Dues Payment to Scotland for 2009* $ 762.12 Minnesota: Jerry and Cathy Ludmann Cockstane Donations (to Scotland for 2009) $ 25.00 Nevada: Sam and Heather Palmer Mailing Costs to Branch Convenor* $ 68.88 New York: Tim and Annie Thom Bank Currency Conversion (Canadian $) $ 11.13 North Carolina: Mike and Jan Rogers Payments for 2010 Newsletters (7) $ 700.00 Wisconsin: Scott and Jeanne Thomson Subscription to The Highlander $ 225.00 Subscription to Scottish Life $ 150.00 Representatives Duties & Responsibilities Payout from Scholarship Fund $ 500.00 (There are no specific requirements or prescribed duties for Total Payments and Deductions $2,442.13 (C) this position, but those presently so designated usually perform some of the following functions, at their convenience:) Bank Balance as of 12/31/10 (A) plus (B) minus (C) Setting up or coordinating arrangements for a Clan (Confirmed by bank statement) $2,627.38 MacThomas booth at Scottish events in their area. Check — recently sent to Scotland for : $1,155.00 Dues Payment for 2010 ($1,095.00) Applying to the Convenor for available financial or and Donations ($ 60.00) informational support for Branch representation at Scottish events in their area. Additional anticipated 2011 expenses: Remainder of donations for 2010 $ 70.00 Maintaining contact with fellow Clan MacThomas  Advertisements $ 375.00 members in their area. COSCA membership $ 25.00 Keeping our Convenor informed of Scottish events in Note: * The amount paid in dues to Scotland was reduced in their State or Province and any ways in which the order to reimburse the Convenor‘s costs in mailing the Society support of Clan MacThomas and its members might be magazine to Branch members as agreed by the Society enhanced in their area. Treasurer. Activities to the Scholarship Fund Provide reports or interesting articles to the Newsletter 2009 balance $ 525.00 Editor as well as a list of Scottish events in their area at 2010 donations $ 731.00 which a MacThomas booth is expected to be set up, so Donation from Branch Treasury $ 200.00 that this information may be published, to encourage Payout ($ 500.00) attendance and support by other members. Balance as of December 31, 2010. $ 956.00 (This amount is included in the bank balance reported above.) We are anxious to expand the coverage of Branch Representatives into areas where there are Submitted by: Charles S. Tam, US and Canadian Branch Treasurer currently none. Records Audited by: Donna A. Goenner, Are YOU interested in becoming a Representative Accountant in your State or Province? Approved by: Catherine McComb Ludemann,

US and Canadian Branch Convenor More information please contact Convenor Cathy THANKS! CLAN CHATTAN ASSOCIATION The MacThomas Clan is a current member of the Clan Chattan [email protected] Association. To learn more about the history of the Clan Chattan

(An updated list of Representatives will be included in upcoming Association, check out the Wikipedia link below: editions of our Clan Branch Newsletter.) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chattan_Confederation

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 5 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011 UPCOMING NORTH AMERICAN HIGHLAND GAMES

April 16~17 Las Vegas Games Las Vegas, Nevada The games and events listed here are only April 30 Celtic Festival of Southern Maryland Prince Frederick, Maryland a partial list and each of their web sites are current for 2011. May 6~8 Th' Gatherin' Ancient Festival of Beltane WaKeeney, Kansas From the electronic version of this May 6~8 Scottish Festival & Celtic Gathering Bridgeport/Clarksburg, West Virginia newsletter, you will be able to go directly to May 7~8 Sacramento Valley Scottish Games & Festival Woodland, California the web page by clicking on the blue link. Enjoy! May 7 Prescott Highland Games Prescott, Arizona May 7 Savannah Scottish Games Savannah, Georgia May 14 Minnesota Scottish Fair & Highland Games Farmington, Minnesota May 14 Kentucky Scottish Weekend Carrollton, Kentucky May 20~22 Smoky Mountain Highland Games Maryville, Tennessee May 21 Comox Valley Highland Games Courtenay, British Columbia May 21 Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan May 21 Colonial Highland Gathering Fair Hill, Maryland May 21~22 Victoria Highland Games & Celtic Festival Victoria, British Columbia May 28~29 Scots Fest Costa Mesa, California May 28~29 Alma Highland Festival Alma, Michigan May 22 Regina Highland Games Regina, Saskatchewan June 2 Glasgow Highland Games Glasgow, Kentucky June 3~5 Texas Scottish Festival & Highland Games Arlington, Texas June 4~5 Bellingham Scottish Highland Games Bellingham, Washington June 10~12 Blairsville Scottish Festival Blairsville, Georgia June 10~12 Kansas City Scottish Highland Games Riverside, Missouri June 11 Grande Prairie Highland Games Grande Prairie, Alberta June 11 Rhode Island Scottish Highland Festival Richmond, Rhode Island June 11 Clover Highland Games & Scotch-Irish Festival Clover, South Carolina June 17~19 BC Legion Highland Gathering Ladysmith, Vancouver Island, BC June 23~25 Ohio Scottish Games Wellington, Ohio June 25~26 Red Deer Highland Games Red Deer, Alberta June 24~25 30th Annual Alaska Scottish Highland Games Anchorage, Alaska June 25 BC Highland Games and Scottish Festival Coquitlam, British Columbia June 25 Tacoma Highland Games Graham, Washington June 25~26 San Diego Scottish Highland Games Vista, California July 1~3 Kincardine Scottish Festival Kincardine, Ontario July 3~10 Antigonish Highland Games Antigonish, Nova Scotia July 2 Round Hill Highland Games Norwalk, Connecticut July 7-10 Grandfather Mountain Highland Games Linville, North Carolina July 8~9 Payson Scottish Festival Payson, Utah July 8~9 Saline Celtic Festival Saline, Michigan July 9~10 Athena Caledonian Games Athena, Oregon July 9~10 Skagit Valley Highland Games Mount Vernon, Washington July 16 Portland Highland Games Gresham, Oregon July 16~17 Elizabeth Celtic Festival Elizabeth, Colorado July 29~30 Glengarry Highland Games Maxville, Ontario July 29~30 Pacific Northwest Scottish Highland Games Enumclaw, Washington July 30~31 Montreal Highland Games & Festival Pierrefonds, Quebec

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 6 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011 NATIONAL TARTAN DAY APRIL 6 (USA & Canada) ~ JULY 1 (The Rest of the World)

~ as provided by The National Tartan almost half of the signers of the Declaration of 6 as Tartan or Clan Day. Next month many Day website Independence were of Scottish descent, the events around the country will www.tartanday.org Governors in 9 of the original 13 States were of commemorate National Tartan Day at Americans of Scottish descent have played Scottish ancestry, and Scottish-Americans churches, festivals, and other social successfully helped shape the Nation in its a vibrant and influential role in the gatherings. formative years and guide it through its most development of this country. However not In March 1998, the Senate designated April troubled times; 6 of each year as National Tartan Day until 1997 was this influence recognized by Whereas this resolution recognizes the because that is the date the Declaration of a single-year U.S. Senate Resolution that monumental achievements and invaluable Arbroath was drafted. appeared in the Congressional Record of contributions made by Scottish-Americans that April 7, 1997. In 1998 National Tartan Day have led to America's pre-eminence in the The House no longer permits was officially recognized on a permanent fields of science, technology, medicine, establishments of commemorations, but I basis when the U.S. Senate passed Senate government, politics, economics, architecture, am pleased to support National Tartan Day Resolution 155 recognizing April 6th as literature, media, and visual and performing and salute all Americans who will observe National Tartan Day. This was followed by arts; this day. companion bill House Resolution 41 Whereas this resolution commends the more The consideration of this resolution also which was passed by the U.S. House of than 200 organizations throughout the United provides an opportunity to review an Representatives on March 9, 2005. The States that honor Scottish heritage, tradition, important time in world history. In 1296, passage of this bill was due to the work of and culture, representing the hundreds of King Edward the First of England invaded t he National Capital Tartan thousands of Americans of Scottish descent, Scotland. The following year, Robert the Committee, Inc., and president James residing in every State, who already have Bruce responded by leading Scots in a made the observance of Tartan Day on April 6 Morrison. revolt to regain their sovereignty. Members a success; and That date commemorates the signing of the may remember Robert the Bruce as the Whereas these numerous individuals, clans, leader who continued the Scottish rebellion Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, which societies, clubs, and fraternal organizations do after his comrade-in-arms William asserted Scotland's sovereignty over not let the great contributions of the Scottish Wallace's death, as portrayed in the movie English territorial claims, and which was people go unnoticed: Now, therefore, be it an influence on the American Declaration of Resolved, That it is the sense of the House of ‘Braveheart’.' Independence. Representatives that a day should be After years of conflict, the outmanned Canada has been celebrating "National established as ``National Tartan Day'' to Scottish soldiers, led by Robert the Bruce, Tartan Day" since 1993. The idea and recognize the outstanding achievements and who had since been crowned King of motivation for creating a similar American contributions made by Scottish-Americans to Scotland, overcame the English at the holiday was provided by the Scottish the United States. Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. This battle Coalition, a group of national Scottish- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to was the culmination of Robert's struggle for American cultural organizations. the rule, the gentleman from Tennessee Scottish independence. (Mr. Duncan) and the gentleman from Afterwards, the Declaration of Arbroath Congressional Record Entry for Illinois (Mr. Davis) each will control 20 was written and completed on April 6, 1320, Wednesday, March 9, 2005: minutes. The Chair recognizes the most likely by the monks of Arbroath Abbey House Resolution 41 gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Duncan). on behalf of the Scottish barons and nobles. Regarding National Tartan Day, GENERAL LEAVE The declaration was a letter, in Latin, sent Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I move to Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I ask to Pope John the 22nd because the Pope suspend the rules and agree to the unanimous consent that all Members may had yet to recognize Scottish independence. resolution (H. Res. 41) expressing the sense have 5 legislative days within which to The declaration affirmed Scotland's deter- of the House of Representatives that a day revise and extend their remarks and mination to maintain its independence. should be established as `National Tartan include extraneous material on H. Res. 41. Ultimately, the Pope was swayed by the Day’' to recognize the outstanding The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Scottish appeal, achievements and contributions made by objection to the request of the gentleman ...viewed as greatly and King Scottish-Americans to the United States. influencing the Ameri- from Tennessee? There was no objection. can Declaration of Inde- Edwards, III, The Clerk read as follows: H. Res. 41 Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I yield pendence in 1776... recognized King Whereas April 6 has a special significance for myself such time as I may consume. Robert and the all Americans, and especially those Americans Madam Speaker, H. Res. 41 expresses the independence of Scotland in 1328. The of Scottish descent, because the Declaration of sense of the House of Representatives Declaration of Arbroath is undeniably the Arbroath, the Scottish Declaration of regarding ``National Tartan Day.'' This is a most important document in Scottish Independence, was signed on April 6, 1320, resolution for which I have the privilege to history, but it is also widely viewed as and the American Declaration of Independence be the primary Republican sponsor, and the greatly influencing the American was modeled in part on that inspirational primary sponsor on the Democratic side has Declaration of Independence in 1776. document; Members can also see Scottish-American Whereas this resolution honors the major role been the gentleman from North Carolina that Scottish-Americans played in the (Mr. McIntyre). Each year, thousands of influence throughout the history of our founding of the Nation, such as the fact that Americans of Scottish origin recognize April great Nation. Continued on Page 12

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 7 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

THE CLAN MACTHOMAS SOCIETY GLENSHEE GATHERING The Gathering Hotel—Dalmunzie Castle MAY 27 ~ 30, 2011 Final preparations are being made for the Clan Gathering in Glenshee over May 27~30, 2011 and information should have been sent to you from Scotland in February. Meanwhile, registration for the Gathering was officially closed March 30th, 2011.

For the newest updates on scheduling and events check the Clan MacThomas Gathering page on our website www.clanmacthomas.com. Programs have been planned for all ages.

Planned Program (at time of publication and may change): If you are attending —You Must Have Registered Friday, May 27, 2011 Saturday, May 28, 2011 Sunday, May 29, 2011 Monday, May 30, 2011  Registration  Clan Gathering at the  Clan AGM  Clan Breakfast  Chief‘s Reception Cockstane  Activities for young  Official Closing  Clan BBQ  Bar Luncheon  Bar Lunch  9-hole Clan Golf Team (weather permitting)  Clan Society Dinner  Sporting events Championship  Society Lecture — Scott  Whisky Presentation  Haggis & Neeps —  MacThomas Golf — Poole (Tasting) — Scott Poole Address Robin Thoms Trophy Presentation  Team Quiz — Quiz  Musical Interlude —  Clan Ceilidh — with Raffle Master Finegand Ken McColm & prizes

Upcoming Vote on the Latest Memorial Proposal The Clan Council has been considering a proposal to sell small parcels of land at the Cockstane site to members as a memorial to a loved one. A request for comments from the membership was made during the past year and a tally of those comments is reported in the members secure area of the website, along with details of the proposal.

The comments were not considered to be heavily on one side or the other. Therefore a vote on the proposal will be taken at the AGM in Glenshee in May. There are instructions in the same location on the website allowing you to send a proxy vote for the AGM. If you feel strongly about this issue, use this opportunity to send in your vote. If you have not gained access to the members secure area, look for instructions below.

Members Secure Area - Clan MacThomas Website If you have not checked out the Clan MacThomas website,  The login page appears. If you already have a user name we encourage you to take a look. It is fresh, modern and a and password, you can enter them here great source of information of all sorts with regards to the If you need a password: Clan. There is a members secure area that has information that is not accessible to the general website visitor. Here  Click on ―Request Password‖ you will find items such as Society newsletters and Council  Enter your name, email reports, as well as other information such as the upcoming address, and a desired user gathering and AGM in May together with current issues. name To gain access to the members secure area:  The webmaster would appreciate it if you also include your membership number in the ―Additional Notes‖ box  Submit Request  You will be contacted by the webmaster. Please note that your membership dues must be up to date to gain access to this area of the website. What’s in the Member’s Secure Area?

 New Members  Newsletters  Anniversaries  Society Documents  AGM‘s  Survey Results  Go to our website www.clanmacthomas.com  Forms  Society Rules  On the Home page, click on ―Members‖ on the top menu  Important Addresses  US & Canada Branch  On the member‘s page, click on ―Member‘s Log In‖ (on the menu on the left side of the page)  Memorial Policy  Watch for new links Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 8 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

The book is available from Amazon.uk and Amazon.com. It is now Genetic Genealogy Notes available in the UK and the US publication date has been moved ~ courtesy Sharon Fontenot up so that Amazon has notified me to expect delivery of the copy I pre-ordered in early March between April 7 and April 11. Webinar – (n.) a web-based seminar Although one can no longer listen to full episodes of the BBC In the first months of 2011, Elise Friedman of Relative Roots Scotland Radio program online (http://www.bbc.co.uk/ began presenting a series of webinars about genealogy, and in programmes/b00zfpdj), there are still a few clips available to particular, genetic genealogy. Of particular interest to those who people in the right part of the world, and any of us can check out are considering DNA testing and would like to know more before the BBC Radio Scotland blog entries connected to the program, they take the step is the introductory webinar, Genetic Genealogy or read the series of articles by Alistair Moffat which appeared in for Beginners: DNA is the ―Gene‖ in Genealogy! the Heritage pages of the Scotsman newspaper.

This webinar covers DNA basics, inheritance paths, the various This is a link for the first BBC Scotland Radio blog entry: tests available, how to choose the right test for you, and so on. http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/radioscotland/2011/02/the-scots---a- This beginner level webinar is FREE, but requires registration. genetic-journet.shtml

Visit Relative Roots‘ webinar page http://relativeroots.net/ And one to my favorites: webinars/ for more information and a schedule of upcoming http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/radioscotland/2011/03/the-scots-a- programs. While you‘re there, you can sign up to receive email genetic-journey-ep-1.shtml notification when the schedule is updated or registration for a I particularly like the second link because of the photographs of webinar is opened. some of the historical sites where the radio program was The Scots: A Genetic Journey recorded.

The Scots: Genetic Journey is the title of a new book by Alistair The first article in the Scotsman series can be found here: Moffat and James F. Wilson as well as a recent six episode http://heritage.scotsman.com/features/Scotlands -DNA-Who-do- program on BBC Scotland Radio. The end notes describe the you.6725538.jp Links to the rest can be found on that page. book in this way: A DNA Project for all Scots History has always mattered to Scots, and rarely more so and those with Scottish ancestry than now at the outset of a new century, with a new census appearing in 2011 and after more than ten years of a new Visit http://scottishdna.net/ to learn about the Scottish DNA parliament. An almost limitless archive of our history lies Project, administered by the Genealogical Studies team at the hidden inside our bodies and we carry the ancient story of University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland. Alasdair Scotland around with us. The mushrooming of genetic MacDonald, one of the admins of this project, is also FTDNA‘s UK studies, of DNA analysis, is rewriting our history in representative and can offer FTDNA test kits to UK customers at spectacular fashion. In The Scots: A Genetic Journey, US project prices.

Moffat and Wilson explore the history that is printed on our Alasdair talks about the project in this YouTube interview from the genes, and in a remarkable new approach, uncovers the recent ―Who Do You Think You Are? Live‖ expo in London: detail of where we are from, who we are and in so doing http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=509DWMVw9sQ colour vividly a DNA map of Scotland. © Birlinn General

New Members UPDATE CLAN FAMILY ALBUM We extend a warm welcome to the new members of our US and We are updating the Clan Family Album to Electronic Canadian Branch. format. Please send a recent photo via return email or by  James Hamill of Chevy Chase, Maryland — James is a lawyer postage with any information that you consent to have published with the Federal Trade Commission in Washington, DC. about yourself, your interests and your branch of the family tree. We want to hear from you!!!!  Tiffany (McComb) Whitnack of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Once a new album is compiled, it will be made available to all Tiffany has just completed her Masters Degree in Architecture members.  Amber McComb, a paralegal from Calgary, Alberta, Canada — Amber and Tiffany are the daughters of Cindy and Ken [email protected] McComb, our Newsletter Editor and Executive Committee member, respectively. Check Out These 2 Strappin’ Lads  C.J. Thom, from New York, N.Y. — CJ is involved in theater in New York City.

We wish them all a long and happy association with our Clan MacThomas family.

Also, Elias and Zachariah McComb Ludemann (picture to the right); twin sons of Doug and Lori Ludemann. Doug is the son of Convenor Cathy and her husband Jerry. Zach and Eli are keeping their Mom and Dad busy as well as their Grandma who is sharing in the babysitting duties. Elias and Zachariah McComb Ludemann

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 9 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

MacThomas Web Site Feature Everything I Need to Know, Genealogy — Family Trees http://clanmacthomas.co.uk/GenealogyTreesMenu.aspx I Learned from the Our web master invites you to check out this link on our website containing further links to family tree information provided by Clansfolk. We hope that it may assist you with family research or Easter Bunny… maybe connect you to a long lost relative.

If you have information that you would like to share with your Clansfolk please contact the webmaster: Don't put all your eggs in one basket [email protected] Walk softly and carry a big carrot Everyone needs a friend who is all ears There's no such thing as too much candy All work and no play can make you a basket case A cute little tail attracts a lot of attention Everyone is entitled to a bad hare day Let happy thoughts multiply like rabbits Some body parts should be floppy Keep your paws off other Scholarship Fund & Essay Contest people's jellybeans DONATIONS REQUESTED Good things come in small- The U.S. and Canada Branch Scholarship Fund needs your donation for a Scholarship Award to be made to the student sugarcoated packages who submits the best essay of approximately one thousand words on a Scottish subject. Any student between the age The grass is greener in of 17 and 23 attending a school of his or her choice beyond someone else's basket the high school level, who is the child or grandchild of a member of the U.S. and Canadian Branch of Clan An Easter bonnet can MacThomas, is entitled to enter. cover the wildest hare This program is dedicated to the generation of interest in Scottish subjects in general, and in Clan MacThomas in To show your true colors, you particular, among members of the younger generation who represent the future of our clan. have to come out of your shell The best things in life are In Far Away Lands still sweet and gooey

To all those members of the Clan MacThomas who may be travelling, or are with our Armed Forces and are deployed in foreign lands:

May your time away from home be safe. May the Good Lord watch over you. May all good angels, guard us all.

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 10 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

the Warsaw ghetto, and her experiences at the camps tell a YOUR WANDERING CONVENOR horrific tale of luck and cunning that kept her alive. “Hope is the ~ from Cathy McComb Ludemann Last to Die”, Halina Birenbaum. ISBN: 978-83-85047-1-7.

Life sometimes takes unexpected turns and this happened to me Near our hotel was a small synagogue. On the wall outside the this winter when Cyndi, our flight attendant daughter, suggested I cemetery were signs commemorating the lives of loved ones lost join her on 2 interesting trips overseas. I was fortunate that her during the Holocaust. Most were in Hebrew, but one had the flight benefits made these trips possible for both of us. I wanted following in English: share some of the highlights of these trips with you. But a word of In Loving Memory of the Ferber Family warning: they have nothing to do with Scotland, so feel free to 88 Members Murdered by the Nazis skip this article and wait for a report of the May gathering in Holocaust 1939-1945 Glenshee in the next newsletter. May their Souls be Eternally Blessed.

The first trip was to visit the Christmas markets in Germany. So in The Nuremburg market did have a greater variety of foods and early December, we were off to goods for sale and had the most festive atmosphere as the store Nuremberg, Germany, to experience fronts were gaily decorated. There was even a man and his dog, the Christmas market. As the trip both dressed as Santa, playing an accordion on the street. continued, we discovered Christmas Gluhwein (hot spiced wine) fortified us against the winter weather, markets in Krakow and Prague also, served in cute mugs bearing Christmas and winter designs. and found them all to be quite Gingerbread in various forms seemed to be a local favorite. It was similar, with small stalls selling in Nuremburg that we discovered native and holiday wares as well as the only touch of Scotland during local food items. Cyndi suggested the whole trip. One area of the Cindi (Cathy’s daughter) also visiting Auschwitz in Poland and a market was devoted to booths day in Prague and I agreed. from different countries. There was a Scottish booth, boasting While in Nuremburg, we toured the ―Documentation Center Nazi tartan and Scottish items, Party Rally Grounds‖, a museum located on the huge area in the whiskey and of course, city where Hitler staged demonstrations to recruit and indoctrinate shortbread, my favorite! They his followers. The area eventually occupied 11 sq. km. but not all also advertised something called the buildings were completed. Hitler‘s rise to power there was well ―Gluhwhisky‖ for hot toddies – documented with photographs taken at the time, ending with the Slainte! postwar trials. At the Krakow market, many of An hour outside of Krakow, our tour of Auschwitz and Auschwitz- the displays were hand carved Birkenow (a larger camp built just beyond the original facility) was wooden items and straw a somber one, emphasized by the gray, rainy day we had. Much ornaments as well as some of what we saw we have all seen in pictures, movies and Scotland—in Nuremberg brightly colored Polish pottery. The documentaries, but there were other unexpected sights that most interesting sight were the brought all the horror and hardships of the camps to life. The displays of cheese; not slices as we would see, but balls of wrought iron sign at the entrance to the camp ―Arbeit Macht Frei cheese the size of baseballs. There were other decorative shapes (Work Shall Set You Free) is familiar, but next to it are two too, but to hungry tourists, small flat dumpling shaped pieces drawings done by a prisoner, showing fellow prisoners walking out (similar to cheese curds) that were heated on a grill and served of the gate in the morning for work, and another showing them with a tasty cranberry sauce were wonderful! There were wursts coming back in the evening. But this time, they are shown of various types and sizes at all the markets, many larger than the carrying the dead, and the ones too exhausted by work and bun that held them. Europeans use their cities so much better starvation to walk. We were unprepared to see one entire barrack than we do. When the workday ended, the locals were clearly where display cases on both sides of the central corridor were enjoying the festive markets as much as the tourists. filled with nothing but piles and piles of shoes. The wooden barracks at Birkenow were not closed off to the weather and had Our brief stay in Prague began with dinner at a wonderful almost no heat, but were home to 500-600 people with 4-5 people restaurant recommended by our hotel host. Peklo, which was built sleeping on a bunk. There were standing cells, which were brick in the wine cellar beneath a monastery, had a wonderful cave-like enclosures less than 3 feet square where, as a punishment for atmosphere. The food was good and varied, with some items we some offense, several people were forced to stand together all don‘t see much in the US such as rabbit and many organ meats. I night, before going back out to work the next day, allowing no would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Prague. This is a rest. The walls of one barrack corridor was lined with photographs beautiful city whose many historical buildings had minimal the Nazis had taken of each prisoner, listing the day they came to damage during the war. I heard 2 stories relating to that. One was the camp and the day they left, i.e. died or were murdered. The that the bombing that did occur was done by the Nazis, and the inhumanity of it all was appalling and it is impossible to imagine other maintained that the bombing was done by the Allied forces, how someone could do these things to another human being. We having mistaken the city for Dresden. Our trip ended in Prague, bought a book written by a young girl who was in four different but it was time to plan our next trip to China just after Christmas. camps, Auschwitz being one of them, before she was liberated at But, that‘s another story, for another issue. age 15. She describes her family‘s attempts to avoid capture in

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 11 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

NATIONAL TARTAN DAY ~ continued (p7) we know they will in the future. are some examples of great Scottish- Thirty-five U.S. Supreme Court justices April 6, Tartan Day, is a significant day for Americans past and present: Neil have been of Scottish descent. Nearly half all Americans. Since the founding of our Armstrong; Alexander Graham Bell; of the Secretaries of the U.S. Treasury, and Nation, Scottish-Americans have played a Andrew Carnegie; Julia Child; Hugh one-third of the Secretaries of State have key role in the growth of the United States. Downs; Thomas Edison; Malcolm S. Forbes; been of Scottish origin. Nine of the signers Contributions made by Scottish-Americans Katherine Hepburn; Billy Graham; of the Declaration of Independence were have helped America's preeminence in the Washington Irving; Andrew Mellon; Samuel directly or indirectly descended from the fields of science, technology, medicine, F.B. Morse; Grandma Moses; and with the Scots. And nine out of 13 Governors of the government, politics, economics, ACC tournament coming to Washington, newly created United States were Scot or of architecture, literature, the media, visual James Naismith; Edgar Allan Poe; Willard Scottish descent. and performing arts, and yes, athletics and Scott; Robert Louis Stevenson; Elizabeth The 2000 census reported that almost 5 entertainment as well. Taylor; and James McNeil Whistler, just to million Americans are of Scottish heritage, Tartan Day has a special significance for all mention a few. In fact, one in 10 of all Nobel and 4.3 million of Scots-Irish descent. of us who share prizes awarded have gone to people of Madam Speaker, almost everyone who ...fight not for Scottish heritage. Scottish ancestry. settled my home area of east Tennessee was glory, nor riches Next month, the Today, there are more than 200 of Scottish or Scots-Irish origin. The Scots- nor honors... 685th anniversary of organizations throughout the United States Irish were originally the poorest people in the Declaration of that honor Scottish heritage, tradition and Scotland. Then they moved to Ireland and Arbroath, the Scottish declaration of culture, representing hundreds of became the poorest people there. Then the independence, will be celebrated. The thousands of Americans who are of Scottish Scots-Irish moved to the United States and Declaration of Arbroath was signed on April descent. Every year, the observance of became the poorest people here. They seem 6, 1320. This declaration of independence Tartan Day on April 6 is a success because to have a knack for it. includes these inspirational lines: “We fight of these fine organizations. There are Scottish-Americans, however, also have a not for glory, nor riches nor honors, but for Scottish-American clan societies, clubs, knack for working hard to preserve their freedom alone, which no good man gives up fraternal associations and individual ancestry and heritage. There are more than except with his life.'' Scottish Americans that represent literally 200 organizations through the United Since that important day, April 6 has been millions of Americans nationwide. States that honor Scottish heritage. In my set aside to honor the millions of Scottish In North Carolina, my home State, district, the Scottish Society of Knoxville descendants who have made outstanding Mecklenburg County first officially recently held its annual Robert Burns contributions to our great society. Over 450 observed Tartan Day in 1996. The City of Night when they honored Scotland's most years later, the American Declaration of Greensboro has followed suit. Tennessee celebrated poet. Independence was modeled in part on that and Colorado also have special days Each year in Gatlinburg, right outside my inspirational document. When our Nation honoring Scottish heritage. The Alaska district, Scottish-Americans from all over was founded, almost half of the signers of Highlanders pipe band in Anchorage has the country gather for the Gatlinburg America's Declaration of Independence celebrated this special time as has Scottish Festival Games, or better known were of Scottish descent, and nine of the California with proclamations issued by as Highland games. Festivities include Governors of the original 13 States were of several cities and counties as well. throwing the battle axe, the kilted mile, Scottish ancestry. Throughout the history Later this month, a congressional and highland wrestling. Highland games of our country, three-fourths of our delegation will be traveling as guests of the like these are held all over the Nation. Presidents have been of Scottish ancestry. British government to Scotland. It will be A few years ago, the airline magazine This tells us despite the fact we are few in our great honor to present this resolution to ``World Traveler'' of Northwest Airlines number, Scots tend to take seriously the the Scottish Parliament with a declaration profiled my Scottish ancestry. In that words from the Declaration of Arbroath. that the United States has officially interview I told them one cannot get much Many of us in the House of Representatives recognized at long last the outstanding more Scottish than having the name can claim Scottish ancestry as well, achievements and contributions made by Duncan, being Presbyterian, and having including the gentleman from Tennessee Scots everywhere. most of one's relatives coming from Scott (Mr. Duncan), an original cosponsor of this A Tartan provides instant recognition of County, Tennessee. resolution. Every day those of us of Scottish family and kinship. Passing this resolution Madam Speaker, I am proud of my Scottish descent in this Chamber live by the words honoring Tartan Day will further and Scots-Irish heritage. I am pleased to of the Declaration of Arbroath that I quoted emphasize the many Scottish contributions join with the gentleman from North a moment ago. We are here to advance to the growth and development of our great Carolina (Mr. McIntyre) in support of freedom. country, the United States of America. House Resolution 41. I thank him for Today it is my honor to recognize the 685th On behalf of all of us of Scottish descent, I offering this measure and urge its adoption. anniversary of this historic declaration. We urge all of my colleagues to support this Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of have friends in the gallery from the resolution. my time. National Capital Society, St. Andrew's Help us officially honor the contributions Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I Society, and if they would stand. Many of made by Scottish Americans by voting yield such time as he may consume to the them are in their Scottish dress and kilts as ``yes'' on H. Res. 41, a resolution gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. well. We thank them for their presence as recognizing National Tartan Day. McIntyre), the other cosponsor of this well. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER resolution. Scottish-Americans have left their mark on PRO TEMPORE Mr. McINTYRE. Madam Speaker, I rise America as pioneers and innovators. Their The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Issa). today to honor all of those of Scottish contributions to the history and The Chair would remind all Members to ancestry who have had an impact on development of the United States are refrain from making references to persons America in the present and the past, and invaluable. Who are we talking about? Here in the gallery. Continued on Page 13

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 12 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

NATIONAL TARTAN DAY ~ continued (p12) with the gentleman from North Carolina the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis) for Mr. DUNCAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield such (Mr. McIntyre) and the other 56 cosponsors his words and especially thanking our time as she may consume to the of H. Res. 41. This bill recognizes the colleague from North Carolina (Mr. gentlewoman from Michigan (Mrs. Miller). outstanding achievements and McIntyre) for his great leadership on this Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. I thank the contributions made by Scottish Americans legislation. I thank you for your noting the gentleman for yielding me this time. to the United States by expressing the origins of the great game of golf in Scotland. Mr. Speaker, as a proud second-generation sense of the House of Representatives that As one who loves golf, and you mentioned Scottish American, I join my colleagues in a day should be established as National golf jokes, I might just tell you that when I recognizing the tremendous contributions of Tartan Day. come in from playing golf and people ask Scottish Americans who immigrated to Scottish Americans have played important me how I did, I just tell them unbelievable, America because they hoped for a better life roles in the growth and development of this and they can take it anyway they want to and all the wonderful possibilities that is Nation. Three such Scottish Americans are then. America. Their ambitions, their braveness, John Witherspoon, Andrew Carnegie and I think this is important legislation, and I their pioneering spirit helped build our Alexander Graham Bell. John Witherspoon will tell you why. There are very few economy, helped build our culture and, immigrated to the United States in order to countries that have as close ties as the more than anything, contributed to our become the sixth President of Princeton United States and Scotland. We have history. University. He was a member of the mentioned many of those ties and much of I think it is significant to note, certainly, ratifying convention that made New Jersey that heritage here today. But until this day that one-half of the signers of the U.S. the third State to ratify the Constitution of and until this legislation, those close ties Declaration of Independence and at least 11 the United States. He also is identified with between Scotland and the United States United States Presidents have been of the Common Sense Philosophy, which is have not been recognized in any way by the Scottish ancestry. They were pioneers, of considered to be of importance in the United States House of Representatives. course, but they also had an ability and the development of our national life. And so I urge my colleagues to support this desire to work hard. Andrew Carnegie came to the United States very important resolution. Some of the great Scottish Americans not as an educated man but as a poor * [Begin Insert] include Alexander Hamilton, one of the immigrant. His vision and business acumen Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise architects of our Constitution and the first today to recognize the many achievements and earned him a fortune in steel during the contributions that Scottish-Americans have made to Secretary of the Treasury; John Paul Jones, industrial revolution. Carnegie used his the United States. I have long touted the importance the father of the United States Navy; wealth to establish one of the largest of immigration as a source of strength for our Nation, Andrew Carnegie, one of the most philanthropic foundations in the United and I am gratified to see the Scottish-American successful businessmen ever, renowned for States. Much of his collected fortune was immigrant population be recognized by this House Resolution. his charitable activities; Alexander Graham spent to establish over 2,500 public Scottish -Americans have made significant Bell, inventor of the telephone; Buzz Aldrin libraries and to support institutions of contributions to American society and have played an and Neil Armstrong, who both captured the higher learning and public education. By influential role in the history of our country. Not only imaginations of the entire world by floating the end of his life, Carnegie gave away $350 was Alexander Hamilton, one of our founding fathers, above it and exploring what no person had million. a Scottish-American, but at least eleven U.S. Presidents were also of Scottish descent. Among the ever explored before. Inventor Alexander Graham Bell, like ranks of proud Scottish-Americans were almost half In fact, the term `Great Scot' is meant to Carnegie, was primarily self-educated, and of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and express oneself in the presence of he, too, accomplished much during his life. two of the first Supreme Court Justices. Andrew something extraordinary. I think I speak Graham is best known for inventing the Carnegie, one of this country's most successful for all Americans of Scottish heritage and entrepreneurs and philanthropists, came to this telephone, though he explored the realm of country as a poor Scottish immigrant. lineage when I say that the Scots brought a communications and engaged in a great To honor the contributions of Scottish immigrants, it spirit of freedom and rugged individualism variety of scientific activities. is appropriate that Congress recognize April 6 as that found fertile soil in America. Almost a decade ago, Congress recognized “National Tartan Day”. The recognition by Congress On a final note, I might add that it was the the influential role of the Scottish that immigrants of all backgrounds contribute immeasurably to our success as a nation is a Scots, of course, who originated the game of community in our country by making April sentiment to which I could not more strongly agree. golf, and it is well known that, less than 1 6, 1997, National Tartan Day. April 6 was Madam Speaker, I am pleased to recognize the hour after golf was invented in Scotland, chosen because it commemorates the achievements of the Scottish-American community. that the first golf joke was heard. signing of the Declaration of Arbroath, On behalf of this body, I express my support for Mr. Speaker, Scots are usually members of which asserted Scotland's sovereignty over establishing April 6 as ``National Tartan Day'' and congratulate the Scottish-American community on a clan, from the term `clanna' which means English territorial claims and influenced their numerous contributions to our Nation. ``group function as a family,'' coexisting, our own Declaration of Independence. * [End Insert] succeeding and overcoming as a family. Therefore, Madam Speaker, I want to take Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I yield Today, we pay tribute to all Scottish this moment to thank the originators of this back the balance of my time. Americans who have strengthened our bill for their leadership and want to The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. Miller American family. I urge all my colleagues to reiterate my strong support for H. Res. 41. of Michigan). The question is on the motion support this resolution. Our Scottish citizens have made a offered by the gentleman from Tennessee Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I tremendous impact on the development of (Mr. Duncan) that the House suspend the yield myself such time as I may consume. this Nation, and all of us are proud of them. rules and agree to the resolution, H. Res. Madam Speaker, from time to time, it is Madam Speaker, I have no further requests 41. important that we acknowledge our for time, and I yield back the balance of my The question was taken; and (two- individual histories and the characteristics time. thirds having voted in favor thereof) that define us as Americans. Last month, Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I yield the rules were suspended and the we celebrated African-American History myself such time as I may consume. resolution was agreed to. Month. Today, I am very happy to stand Let me just close by, first of all, thanking Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 13 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

FEATURE RECIPE THE CLAN MACTHOMAS Scottish Whisky SOCIETY OBJECTIVES

Tablet The Clan MacThomas Society was founded in 1954 to 2 lbs Caster Sugar develop interest in the Clan, to preserve its traditions 2 tablespoons Golden Syrup and to promote its welfare. 4 ounces Butter 2 cups Milk The Society's Aims 4 tablespoons Scotch whisky  To promote the Clan's heritage in its ancient territories (Caster sugar is very fine sugar) around Glenshee Directions:  To maintain and develop sites of historical interest  Slowly heat the sugar, syrup, butter and milk in a large heavy  To establish active branches around the world bottomed pan on low heat until all the sugar is completely  To encourage gatherings activities to promote the Clan dissolved.  To develop international kinship within the Society  When the sugar has dissolved add the whisky.  Bring to a boil until the temperature reaches soft-ball stage Benefits of Membership (240º F or 115º C). Soft Ball Stage is when a spoonful of hot  Receipt of the Society‘s annual magazine ‗Clach a‘ syrup is dropped into a bowl of very cold water. Then using Choilich‘ your fingers in the water, take the cooled syrup and form it into  Periodic newsletters from the US & Canadian Branch a ball. If it has reached soft-ball stage, the syrup can be easily  Regular gatherings in the Clan‘s ancient lands in rolled in the cold water into a soft ball that doesn't hold its Glenshee in the Highlands of Scotland shape.  Members can become involved in work for the Society  When the mixture has reached the correct temperature take  Sources available for investigation of Family History the pan off the heat. within the context of the Clan  Beat the mixture until it is grainy. This is a faint sound that is  Membership helps to make possible the broadening of made from the mixture against the pan when it has been beaten and is slightly cooler. the awareness of the Clan, its history and the preservation of its traditions  Pour into a 9 x 13 cake pan and leave to cool. When cold and set completely cut into bite sized portions and enjoy. Annual Dues for Membership Year  $25.00

Newsletter Articles Wanted MacThomas Gift Ideas [email protected] Limited Quantities Available US$ / CAN$  Family Announcements — lately, or met with other Gentleman‘s Clan Tie Ancient Tartan 22.00 B i r t h s , A n n i ve r s a r i e s , members of the Clan, share Gentleman‘s Clan Tie Modern Tartan 22.00 Memorials, Weddings your story and photos? Gentleman‘s Clan Tie MacThomas Crest 22.00  New Members — we invite  Whisky Review — do you Lady‘s Sash Ancient Tartan 50.00 new members to send us have a favourite Scotch Lady‘s Sash Modern Tartan 34.00 pictures and bios of you and Whisky that you would like to MacThomas Crested Cuff Links 25.00 your family tell us to write about? MacThomas Crested Clan Badge 20.00 MacThomas Crested Kilt Pin 23.00  Highland Games and other  Book or Website Review — MacThomas Crested Lady‘s Necklet 25.00 Scottish Events — send us let everyone know about a MacThomas Crested Shield 47.00 a report and photos of book you have recently read Travelling Rug Ancient Tartan 90.00 Games or Events (such as or a website that you found Set of MacThomas Coasters 16.00 Robbie Burns Night, etc) that  Family Tree — Share your MacThomas Paperweight 16.00 you have or plan to attend in research on your branch of MacThomas Caps in Tartan 19.00 your area the family tree? MacThomas T Shirt Adult 16.00 MacThomas T Shirt Child 13.00  Genealogy and Family  Letters to the Editor — Research — send us a MacThomas Sweatshirts Adult 28.00 report on your interests or Comments or concerns MacThomas Sweatshirts Child 20.00

your discoveries welcome, do you have a comment you want to make List Price includes shipping and handling  Recipes — want to share Prices subject to change (be it praise or just to vent), It is recommended that you check the website for stock availability and your favourite recipe? why not send an email or current pricing  Travels — have you traveled letter http://www.clanmacthomas.com/

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 14 Clan MacThomas — U.S. & Canadian Branch Official Newsletter

Volume # 2 Issue # 2 April 2011

We received these from James Thomas, our Committee Member WINE (WHISKY) REVIEW in the USA. It must be noted that though James sent these to us,

Scotland is well known for it‘s many hundreds of Whisky‘s that there is no conclusive evidence that each of these incidences are distilled throughout the Highlands, the Lowlands and in the happened to him personally. Isles. ONE But, were you aware that Scotland has Wineries? Recently, when I went to McDonald's I saw on the menu that you could In this issue, you will be introduced to one such winery. They do have an order of 6, 9 or 12 Chicken McNuggets, so I asked for a half not export wines, but when in Scotland, you may wish to visit this dozen nuggets. or perhaps one of the other local wineries. 'We don't have half dozen nuggets,' said the teenager at the counter.. Moniack Castle Wineries 'You don't?' I replied. Products include: 'We only have six, nine, or twelve,' was the reply.  Moniack Sloe Liqueur 'So I can't order a half dozen nuggets, but I can order six?'  Moniack Mead 'That's right.'  Whisky & Ginger Liqueur So I shook my head and ordered six McNuggets  Plum Brandy Liqueur TWO  Silver Birch Wine I was checking out at the local Wal-Mart with just a few items and the lady  Elderflower Wine behind me put her things on the belt close to mine. I picked up one of  Cherry Wine those 'dividers' that they keep by the cash register and placed it between  Plum Wine our things so they wouldn't get mixed.  Ginger Wine After the girl had scanned all of my items, she picked up the 'divider', looking it all over for the bar code so she could scan it. The two featured in this issue will be Moniack Mead and Not finding the bar code, she said to me, 'Do you know how much this is?' Elderflower wine. I said to her 'I've changed my mind; I don't think I'll buy that today.'

Moniack Mead is made from honey. It is probably the She said 'OK,' and I paid her for the things and left. oldest alcoholic drink in the world and has always She had no clue to what had just happened. been a wine for special occasions, especially during wedding celebrations, hence the name honeymoon. THREE Nowadays we recommend you drink it as an aperitif. A woman at work was seen putting a credit card into her floppy drive and In Summer it may be chilled and in winter mulled. pulling it out very quickly. http://www.moniackcastle.co.uk/mead.htm When I inquired as to what she was doing, she said she was shopping on the Internet and they kept asking for a credit card number, so she was Elderflower Wine is well-balanced with a soft floral using the ATM 'thingy.' bouquet. Enjoy it as an aperitif and serve it chilled. During the height of the Summer the Elder bush blooms in abundance across the Highlands of Scotland. Cindy McComb, our newsletter editor, just started a new job as http://www.moniackcastle.co.uk/elder.htm the controller for one of Calgary‘s most prestigious golf courses,

the Calgary Golf & Country Club. It must be noted that these My Review comments were probably not made to her personally, or as a part Though our last trip to Scotland comprised mostly of Scotch of her interview process. Whisky tastings, many of our trips include a visit to local wineries. We were excited to find a winery so close to Inverness. Staff: Golf course, may I help you? The Moniack Mead is thick and rich in the Caller: Yes, we have a tee time for two weeks from Friday. What's the weather going to be like that day? European fashion. In North America we find many of the meads produced here are Staff: Golf course, may I help you? more the consistency of wine. Caller: Do you have any open tee times around 10 o'clock? The Elderflower wine is exactly as Staff: Yes, we have one at 10:15. described above. It is a very smooth wine Caller: What's the next time after that? with a wonderful bouquet, much like a Staff: We have one at 10:22. zinfandel. Caller: We'll take that one. It will be a bit warmer.

It is unfortunate that currently Moniack Staff: Golf course, may I help you? does not export out of the United Kingdom, Caller: Do you have a dress code? however, we do look forward to visiting on Staff: Yes, we do. We require soft spikes. our return. Caller: How about clothes? http://www.moniackcastle.co.uk/ Staff: Yes, you have to wear clothes. So, the next time you travel to a foreign Staff: Golf course, may I help you? land, look for the unexpected. You may Caller: Yes, my husband just called me on his cell phone have a surprise in store. and told me he's on the 15th hole. How many more Ken McComb holes does he have to play before he gets to the 18th?

Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 15

Andrew MacThomas of Finegand ~ 19th Clan Chief

Membership Renewal Information Combie, McColm, McComas, McComb(e), McCombie, McComie, MacOmie, MacOmish, Tam, Thom, Thomas, Thoms, Thomson Surnames have only become fixed in Scotland since the 18th century, so that early members of the clan used many forms and variations. The initial letter ‗Th‘ in Gaelic having the value of ‗H‘ in English, the name of MacThomais (son of Thomas) and its diminutives MacThom (son of Tom) and MacThomaidh (son of Tommy), came to be pronounced MacHomas, MacHom, and MacHommy respectively, which readily explains the variations of the surnames still in use today. The names Thomson and Thomas also occur in other clans, and in such cases adherence should be determined by genealogical and topographical evidence as to what part of Scotland one‘s ancestors came from. Those from Aberdeenshire, Tayside, and Fife are regarded as belonging to Clan MacThomas.

FULL NAME: DATE OF BIRTH:

(DAY / MONTH / YEAR)

MAIDEN NAME: SPOUSE‘S NAME: DATE OF BIRTH:

(IF APPLICABLE): (DAY / MONTH / YEAR)

NAMES & AGES OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS (RESIDING AT SAME ADDRESS):

ADDRESS:

CITY: STATE/PROV: ZIP/PC:

TELEPHONE: CELL PHONE:

The completed form should be returned to the Society address shown on the bottom of this page, with your membership fee. Please PRINT clearly as many members have similar names. (NOTE: All personal information will never be shared outside of the Clan. Your name and address will be will be published in the Clan magazine, the Clachn’Cholich, during the year you join. It will not be published on the Clan website.)

Clan MacThomas Compilation CD (by Jan Rogers) Newsletters from Scotland / US & Canada Newsletters—1960 to 2010 We are offering a compilation CD, prepared by Jan Rogers, to all members who voluntarily donate a minimum of US$25.00 to the US & Canadian Branch Scholarship Fund. This CD contains reproductions of many back issues of Newsletters from Scotland and the US & Canada Branch. I wish to donate to this fund, please send me a CD  YES  NO

Please make checks payable to: Membership Annual Subscription ($25.00) $ Clan MacThomas Society

Donation to the Society in Scotland Mail to: Charles S. Tam $ 2917 Algonquin Drive, Designation ______Lafayette, IN 47909 USA Donation to US &Canadian Branch $ Enquiries — [email protected] Scholarship Fund

(Please remember to advise the Branch Convenor & Treasurer when you change your postal or email address. If you fail to do so, we will not be able to TOTAL REMITTED $ advise you of all upcoming activities). Membership Annual Subscription ($25) is for your Annual Dues for the membership year, which coincides with the calendar year from January 1 to December 31, and are considered to cover all family members residing at the same address. Only one Newsletter will be sent to each address. The dues payment provides membership in the US and Canadian Branch and the parent Society in Scotland. Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 16

Andrew MacThomas of Finegand ~ 19th Clan Chief New Member Information Combie, McColm, McComas, McComb(e), McCombie, McComie, MacOmie, MacOmish, Tam, Thom, Thomas, Thoms, Thomson

Surnames have only become fixed in Scotland since the 18th century, so that early members of the clan used many forms and variations. The initial letter ‗Th‘ in Gaelic having the value of ‗H‘ in English, the name of MacThomais (son of Thomas) and its diminutives MacThom (son of Tom) and MacThomaidh (son of Tommy), came to be pronounced MacHomas, MacHom, and MacHommy respectively, which readily explains the variations of the surnames still in use today. The names Thomson and Thomas also occur in other clans, and in such cases adherence should be determined by genealogical and topographical evidence as to what part of Scotland one‘s ancestors came from. Those from Aberdeenshire, Tayside, and Fife are regarded as belonging to Clan MacThomas.

FULL NAME: DATE OF BIRTH:

(DAY / MONTH / YEAR)

MAIDEN NAME: SPOUSE‘S NAME: DATE OF BIRTH:

(IF APPLICABLE): (DAY / MONTH / YEAR)

NAMES & AGES OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS (RESIDING AT SAME ADDRESS):

ADDRESS:

CITY: STATE/PROV: ZIP/PC:

TELEPHONE: CELL PHONE:

Occupation or Profession: ______Skill in any traditional Highland arts or pursuits, please give details, e.g., piping, dancing, Highland games or crafts: ______Are you interested in serving on any Committee, either at the local or national level? ______If your surname or maiden name is not one of the Clan‘s surnames, on what do you base this application? ______Where did you find out about our Society? ______What motivated you to join? ______(We would be pleased if you could provide the following information)

Please make checks payable to: New Application Fee ($25.00) $ Clan MacThomas Society Mail to: Donation to the Society in Scotland Charles S. Tam $ 2917 Algonquin Drive Designation ______Lafayette, IN 47909 USA Donation to US &Canadian Branch $ Enquiries — [email protected] Scholarship Fund (Please remember to advise the Branch Convenor & Treasurer when you change your postal or email address. If you fail to do so, we will not be able to TOTAL REMITTED $ advise you of all upcoming activities). New Application Fee ($25) is for your Annual Dues for the membership year, which coincides with the calendar year from January 1 to December 31, and are considered to cover all family members residing at the same address. Only one Newsletter will be sent to each address. The dues payment provides membership in the US and Canadian Branch and the parent Society in Scotland. Official Clan Website: www.clanmacthomas.com 17