TheThe LeodLeod VoiceVoice Clan MacLeod Societies Canada National Council Newsletter # 50 spring, 2009

Raasay House 2006

Spring, 2009 Page 1 President’s Report by Don M. McLeod Dear Clansfolk, he spring is finally here for us Canadians and we are all busy withT our projects. My wife, Christine and I have just planted another 600 grape plants at my parents’ vineyard in Naramata, BC, which we have taken over. We are in the process of replanting barley on the hayfield and we will be preparing for the Merritt Mountain Music Festival again for the 17th year. Most of all we look forward to family reunions. We hope to see as many MacLeods as possible in St. Louis in June 2009 and we will try to see as many friends and family as we drive back from our destination in New York, where one of our twin boys is in 3rd year medical school. Preparing for the Olympics in Vancouver for February 2010 we be another venture for most of us here in BC. Christine and I have just returned from Victoria where we attended the Victoria Highland Games with our daughter, Skye. We love wandering through the various tents and reacquainting with the past highland danc- ing and piping days. The MacLeod Clan tent was organized by Malcolm and Karen from Vancouver Island and was a hotspot of activity as people streamed by to talk. Malcolm’s parents are a fixture and Judy Tipple is always snapping pictures round-and-about the games. Wine, music and piping made the day perfect and sunscreen kept the evening cool and exciting. Neil R. and June McLeod have organized an event at Shuswap Lake for dinner and show with Celtic entertainment to follow. Now I know the truth, that retirement can be busier than working days. I really am afraid of retirement, for fear that my routine could be shat- tered by unlimited new projects. I think for now, I will keep on working as the recruitment of new physicians seems to be getting more difficult in the smaller communities. We hope to see everyone soon at various events with a culmination at Clan Parliament next year in 2010 at Dunvegan. It should be an excit- ing year. We have already had discussions about a new “Dunvegan Cup” organized and presented by MacLeods to Gaelic singing events. This CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 2 could be added to a list of ever- growing venues to keep some of the old traditions alive with some excitement. You will hear more of this idea soon as it becomes rooted and develops. Hold Fast and Prosper Don’s brother Stewart joins him with the piping duties at son Malcolm and Alison’s wedding

Scotland Visit February 2009 By Canadians By Don M. McLeod been organized for March but since inter is coming to an end Gaelic is the common ground, we for the Canadians. Winter think that piping and highland beef Wis a four-month process of mostly should be part of the celebration. living indoors with weekend forays The entertainment will likely be out to the world of winter sports Red Hot Chili Pipers and Celtic like skiing, curling and hockey. Just Women interspersed with bever- what the stereotypical Canadian is ages and scones. supposed to do. As we get older, Christine and I have just re- we become more socially gregari- turned from the MacLeod ACMS ous again and look for reasons to gettogether in Edinburgh and we celebrate. This seems to be no prob- must report a wonderful time. Trav- lem for the Irish and our Scottish eling in the winter in the northern ancestors weren’t far behind. Our hemisphere means nippy weather St. Patrick’s Day celebrations have but no crowds and no children on Spring, 2009 Page 3 the streets. Most attractions were open and the traffic is generally light, so enjoyable. It is such a warm feeling to be amongst a group of MacLeods with a com- mon purpose that revolves around family. I feel like sitting in a church hall, listening to plans for a family reunion. There is such a smooth commonality in the topics brought up at the meeting. It is a pleasure MacLeod travelers anywhere seeing the dedication and the expe- in the world. If you do enjoy riences of MacLeod families from meeting with MacLeods, I sug- around the world. gest that you always include some The ceilidh in the evening at the visible tartan. My wife and I Holiday Inn on Londonferry Road wore green MacLeod jackets and was especially different as people whether we were in Paris, Brussels, from the audience sang beautiful Dublin or London, people would Gaelic songs to us all. The music either ask where in Scotland we from the Celtic fiddle and accor- were from or tell us that they had dion was extraordinary and made MacLeods or Scottish roots in their for an all around attempt at Scot- family. This was amusing because tish Country Dancing. This was the often in Scotland, strangers would highlight of a trip that included a greet us on the street with “Good car trip to the Blarney Castle to kiss morning Mr. and Mrs. McLeod”, the stone of “eloquence” and a visit just because they identified the to Dublin to see if they had learned tartan. any Scottish music to go along with We were proud of the fact that their standard “Irish Eyes”. Our trip we have the only cultural dress in concluded with a visit to Brussels the galaxy as far as we know, that to meet with representatives from identifies our family name from a each European country to discuss distance. If you are law abiding, strategies for dealing with depres- then this is fine. Europe is expen- sion and dementia in Europe. There sive but then traveling is expensive is a feeling that “presenteeism”, anyway. There will be no finer which is being present at the work- time to reacquaint ourselves with place but not effective at your job our past and help each other with due to illness, is as bad a problem our futures than to stay in touch for productivity as “absenteeism”. and hopefully meet in Dunvegan I do have some advice for 2010. ∆ CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 4 CMS Van Island By Malcolm MacLeod We signed up five new mem- h e C l a n berships and would like to extend MacLeod a warm welcome to them: SocietyT of Van- * Bruce McLeod and Penny couver Island from Brentwood Bay B.C. (Dr had a very busy Don’s older brother) and successful * Skye and Lachlan McLeod, two days at the Dr Don’s daughter and son from 72nd Victoria Victoria. Highland games * Janet and Dorothy MacLeod, and Celtic Festival. Karen and I sisters from Victoria. attended a meet and greet recep- * Duncan Taylor and Calum tion on Friday night in the officer’s MacDonald-Taylor from Victoria. mess at the Bay Street Armories, * Eric Ages, from Victoria. and were at the field early to set * Don & Lonia MacLeod of Salt our tent up on Saturday morning. Spring Island. We were busy with visitors right We were also visited by mem- away. CMSC President Dr. Don bers John McLeod from Sidney, and Chris arrived on Saturday my parents Neil and Fran MacLeod morning accompanied by their from Duncan and my sister Carol daughter Skye. Avon. Judy Tipple made it over on

Francis and Neil have a long chat with a visitor who had taught French on Skye. Several new members were signed up at the tent. Spring, 2009 Page 5 Sunday, after which she came to went to the other side. Were they Duncan with us to stay over and ever excited and she was saying visit. “MacWoud, MacWoud. Thank On Saturday evening, Karen you, Thank you!” This puzzled and I went out to dinner to a res- me how they knew we were Ma- taurant called The Bard and Banker cLeod’s since I had no name tag with Dr. Don and Chris and Skye on and they didn’t speak English. then we walked back to our motel. It then dawned on me that they On our way we noticed an Orien- must have watched the TV show tal couple and she was taking his “The Highlander” and anyone in picture and trying to get me in it a kilt to them was a (MacWoud) as well. I sidled over to him and MacLeod. put my arm around him and Karen

Lining up for the Parade of Clans: Karen, Malcolm and Judy invited banner-holding help from two friendly Murrays from the tent next to the MacLeod’s

CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 6 CMS Manitoba by Prairie Bob McLeod

elcome to Winterpeg & Manitoba. Six months of Wsnow, wind, and icy roads. What ever happened to global warm- ing? Coming up for the summer Clan MacLeod Manitoba will months will be the Manitoba High- celebrate its 21st anniversary on land Games in Selkirk and hope Saturday evening, October 3rd, that we are invited to set up our with our annual dinner being held MacLeod table etc. Early August at the Victoria Inn, close to the air- will be the week long Folklorama port. Forty to fifty Mac/McLeods and the Scottish Pavilion will be are expected to attend, so come held at a new location, the Glen- on out. wood Community Centre, 27 It is with deep sadness that we Overton St, in St.Vital. Volunteers announce the passing of two of are needed for setup and take down, our members. J. David McLeod, and others to work a few hours on age 43. son of Carole (McLeod) the Macleod display table. A head and John Cox also Robert Erle person has not come forward yet so McLeod, age 89, father of Barbara, in the meantime, for information, Shirley and son Robert. phone our president Roy McLeod May they rest in peace. 661-0818. Genealogy Reports By Leslie McCrimmon • I don’t have much ell, spring has sprung and information the outdoor work has begun. • I need to speak to Great- WWhile you are making up your “to Aunt ?? first do” list, be sure to include sending • I’m not sure of the in MacLeod Family Tree forms. spelling Our database of MacLeods and • I only have the birth year, septs is slowly growing. With your not the whole date help we may be able to connect Please send in what you have more people together. I hear the right now. We can fill in the blanks following from people: later and this may just kick-start Spring, 2009 Page 7 some people into doing some re- To get more information or search. It is helpful to have date- Family Genealogy Forms to help of-birth and location, date-of-death you fill in your information, please and location, marriage date and contact me by snail mail at: Lesley location, as well as middle names McCrimmon, 16619 Innis Lake or initials. If you are searching Road, Caledon, ON L7C 3A4 for the family of John MacLeod (Canada) or by e-mail at: (McLeod), it is difficult to pin [email protected]. down the proper family, as there Have a great summer. ∆ are many, many John MacLeods. Yours in Clanship, Lesley Just do your best. Selkirk Settlers Monument

Information gleaned from an article by Hayley Brigg published was a visit to the Selkirk Settlers in the Selkirk Journal, Sept 19/08 Encampment at Fort Gibraltar, and he dedication of the Selkirk an authentic1872-style dinner gala Settlers Monument proved to for over 250 guests. beT a delight to all in attendance. The Selkirk Settlers Monu- Lord and Lady Selkirk, descen- ment is a replica of the ‘Emigrant’s dants of the original Lord Selkirk Statue’ in Helmsdale, Scotland. It who founded the city of Selkirk, commemorates the historical jour- joined other dignitaries in applaud- ney of the poor crofters forced from ing the organizers of the weekend- their homes and farms to the Red long celebrations. River area of Manitoba. The Fifth Over 350 pipers, drummers, Earl of Selkirk Thomas Douglas, and Scottish organization members a humanitarian and philanthropist, participated in the afternoon parade sponsored the 1812 emigration to from the Legislature to Waterfront the Red River valley. Drive. Planning for the 2012 Selkirk Upon arriving at their destina- Settlers Bicentennial Celebrations tion the guests of honour, including is well underway with local co- Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba operation and interest at a high the Hon. John Harvard, were ac- level. For more information on the companied across the river by voya- upcoming bicentennial, or how to geurs from the Red River Brigade become involved, contact Robert to the site of the monument. Among Bruce Barron via email at north- other highlight of the celebration [email protected]. ∆ CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 8 Simon Fraser Pipe Band News

By Ron MacLeod reetings, a mes- sage about a rath- erG unique fund-raising campaign by the SFU Pipe Band. Glaswegian Celtic-rock group Travel to the Worlds Pipe Band Wolfstone will open and also per- Competition with the SFU Pipe form with the Band. Former SFU Band Pipe Band members Stewart Lid- The Band is very excited to dell and Steven McWhirter, taking offer a special once-in-a-lifetime a break in their leadership roles opportunity to become an hon- with the Grade II Inverary & Dis- ourary SFU Pipe Band member trict Pipe Band, also will make an and travel to Glasgow this coming appearance. Tickets are available August. This trip is being auctioned from the Glasgow Royal Concert off to the highest bidder on e-Bay Hall’s box office or online at http:// as a fundraiser for the Band. The www.glasgowconcerthalls.com/ trip includes airfare, accommoda- whatson/event/84135-The-Simon- tion for the week, a ticket to our Fraser-University-Pipe-Band-:- ‘Affirmation’ concert, and a seat Affirmation. in the preferred seating section in The concert will be recorded and the Grade I World Championship released as a CD before the end arena. But this insider’s trip also of 2009. gives you access to all of the Band’s Vernon Concert practices, the annual pre-Worlds As a warm-up for the Glasgow dinner (where you’ll be required show, the Band will perform in to participate in the traditional Vernon, BC on Friday, July 10th rookie speeches) and a seat on the at the end of the first week of the Band bus. very popular Piping Hot Summer As earlier indicated, the Band Drummer School. This will be the will be performing at the annual second time that the Band has taken pre-Worlds concert on Wednesday, the stage at the Vernon and District August 12th at the Glasgow Royal Performing Arts Centre. Tickets Concert Hall. The show, entitled are available now at the online ‘Affirmation’ will feature both new store http://sfupipeband.com/html/ and retrospective material. cdn_order.htm ∆ Spring, 2009 Page 9 News from http://www.culloden.org.uk. The Trust needs to raise £1.95 million Scotland ($3.6m) to complete this world- The Culloden class visitor centre. Please consider Battlefield sponsoring a stone to demonstrate Memorial Project your lasting support. We all have an opportunity of (Retrieved from the Culloden putting our own mark (and sup- Battlefield Memorial Project port) on this enterprise by buying Website and Rampart Scotland ‘s a stone engraved with name, clan, ‘Scottish Snippets) and/or inscription to be laid in the n 16th April 1746, Govern- Culloden Walk pathway alongside ment forces led by the Duke those of others from around the ofO Cumberland defeated the army world. The Walk will be located in of Prince Charles Edward Stuart the approach to the Visitor Centre, a and ended hopes of restoring the lasting reminder to all who visit and Jacobite Stuarts to the British those who have contributed to such throne. The battle, staged on open a symbolic heritage site. In addition moorland, saw a decisive victory to buying a stone to be laid in the for the 9000 strong Government walk you can also purchase replica army. Within one hour, the 5000 stones to keep at home, each one an hungry and exhausted Jacobite exact replica of the stone laid in the soldiers were defeated and the re- walk. To find out more about this bellion crushed. project, click on Culloden represents a turning http://www.cullodenwalk.org. point in Scottish history. In the uk/ The National Trust for Scotland years following the battle, many is a registered charity SC 007410. Highlanders sought to begin new lives around the world, free from Heraldry and The Lord Lyon the oppression they faced in their obin Orr Blair, LVO, WS, Lord homeland. The events of that day RLyon King of Arms, was in remain deep and significant in the United States this winter, and the national psyche of the Scot- proved to be a great hit with ev- tish people. Acknowledging this, eryone fortunate enough to meet The National Trust for Scotland is him. Appointed in 2001, Lord Blair building an exciting and innovative has been to the U. S. before, but new multimedia visitor center at this time he toured the Southeast, the site, which presents with dig- with stops in Sarasota, Savannah, nity and objectivity the dramatic Charleston, Raleigh, then to New events surrounding the battle”. York before flying back to Scot- CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 10 land. The Lord Lyon explained the endangered species and is designed function of the Court of the Lord to close a number of loopholes and Lyon http://www.lyon-court.com, bring Scotland into line with other which is the heraldic authority for EU members. So those wearing full Scotland. It deals with all matters highland dress with a sporran made relating to Scottish Heraldry and of such material will have to be able maintains the Scottish Public Reg- to produce a license or face a fine isters of Arms and genealogies. The of up to £5,000 and six months in Lord Lyon answered many ques- jail. (Retrieved from http://www. tions about clans, coats of arms, rampantscotland.com/letter.html ) etc. One of the myths he dispelled is that there exist “family” coats of Driving in Scotland & Mobile arms. In fact, only an individual can Phones be granted a coat of arms. It cannot esearch shows that people us- be inherited. ing mobile phones while driv- Ring are four times more likely to Wearing a Sporran have an accident and are as danger- e aware of new regulations ous as those driving while over the for wearing a sporran while alcohol limit. So in December 2003 Bin Scotland. legislation came into force which A word to the wise if you plan penalized those caught risking their to wear a sporran to any of the own and other people’s lives. “Homecoming Scotland” festivi- The fine for car drivers is £60 ties. Recent legislation by the Scot- and three penalty points on the tish Parliament means that those license. The maximum fine for wearing fur or any part of a pro- a bus, truck or van driver is now tected animal such as badger and £2,500. ∆ otter can face prosecution if they do not have a license for it. It also applies to other vulnerable animals like deer, wildcats, hedgehogs, bats, lynx, moles, seals, whales, dolphins and porpoises. The rules will apply to the fur on sporrans, unless they were made before 1994. Applicants must prove that the animal was killed lawfully before they will be able to get a license. The new law is aimed at protecting Any more questions? Spring, 2009 Page 11 Two interesting reads Let the truth be told… Scotland, July 1746: an army of occupation commits atrocities that will reverberate across generations. From this bloody cataclysm, the hardened English soldier Mordaunt saves an infant who will become his heiress and his obsession, and a traumatized Franco-Scottish laird, Ewen Sterling, offers refuge to a boy damaged by unspeakable horror. Their lives, fatally bound, un- fold against the turbulence of the eighteenth century, in a magnifi- cent, uncompromising saga of love and human cost of war. Available through the Toronto author, now living in England. Web site: www.douglasreeman.com. ISBN 978-1-4343-1298-3. ∆ Scotland’s Books A Brief Review by Ron MacLeod cotland’s Books was written by earliest remnants, some of which SRobert Crawford, Professor of reaches as far back as 1,500 years Modern Scottish Literature at the to touch on the monks Columba of University of St. Andrews. The Iona and Adomnán. All of the lan- copy I am reading is published in guages of Scotland during that long soft cover by Oxford University span are featured, whether Gaelic, Press, copyright 2009, printed in Latin, old English and Scots and New York. An earlier edition was English (which flow from Old Eng- published in Britain by Penguin lish). Except for a few names, the Books Limited in 2007. Pictish language is lost forever. This is marvellous work by The interaction of Scottish lit- a renowned scholar. The author erature with that of the internation- reaches back from the present al community is well explained. state of literature in Scotland to the In that respect, the inscription CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 12 ‘Scottish by Nationality, in Spirit a Hamilton flavoured by a taste Citizen of the World’ says it all. of modern poetry composed by Don’t be restrained by the Kathleen Jamie, Don Patterson and thought of reading through 728 others. A feast that is better nibbled pages. This is the kind of book than attacked gluttonously. that you can dip into. A veritable I can only repeat, this is a feast of experience awaits you as remarkably fine piece of work. I you follow the scholar as he moves have only one nit to pick. There along the multitude of paths down is no mention of Duncan MacRae which the Muse wandered for fif- of the Silver Cups, who published teen centuries. Along that winding and authored much of the Fernaig way you will find much that will Manuscript, circa 1690, a collec- delight, stimulate, inform. The au- tion of Gaelic poetry written in the thor’s erudite, lucid writing makes ‘old Gaelic’, that is, before English for pleasurable reading. words began to enter the language. Do you want to sip at the poetic The Fernaig Manuscript is consid- table of the modern-day Gaelic ered to be a valuable resource in poets, Sorley MacLean, Catriona the study of the remnants of early MacDonald, Donald MacAulay? Gaelic literature. Or earlier Gaelic poets such as If your interest is tweaked by Mary MacLeod (Mairi nighean the author’s reference to a poem Alasdair Ruaidh), Robb Donn, Iain or author, there is a guide to fur- Lom? Or perhaps at the feast set ther reading as well as to web out in Blind Harry’s Scots medieval resources: poem about William Wallace? Or http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/ is it a taste of William Dunbar’s english/ or, http://www.thepoetry- poetic virtuosity that you seek? Or house.org ∆ Ferguson, Burns, Hogg, Scott? Or the modern nationalist poet, Hugh MacDiarmid? On the other hand, you might be intrigued to read about the writing of James Bruce who searched for the source of the Nile in the 18th century. Macpher- son and Ossian are waiting for you as is Robert Louis Stevenson. And so much more, such as a dash of modern-day fiction writers Allan Massie, Muriel Spark and Ian

Spring, 2009 Page 13 Raasay House Community Company Patron: — John MacLeod, Chief of MacLeods of Raasay

Newsletter February 2009 the building have been supported, ince the fire on 18th January, the discussions will take place with board of Raasay House Com- insurers and Historic Scotland to munityS Company has been working identify the way forward. Planning with Highlands and Islands Enter- permission will then be sought prise, Raasay Outdoor Centre and and rebuilding will take place. We the contractors, ROK, to ensure a hope that it will be possible to use future for Raasay House. The situ- at least the façade of the original ation is very complicated, but the building. board is determined that Raasay House will be rebuilt with the aim Highlands & Islands of leasing it to Raasay Outdoor Enterprise (HIE) Centre, as originally planned. HIE has made it clear that they intend to support Raasay House The House Community Company throughout We have received a preliminary the long process ahead. The HIE structural report on what remains board met the day after the fire and of the House, which shows that it discussed it at length. Willie Roe, requires a considerable amount of Chair of HIE, visited the island the structural work, including disman- week after the fire and met with tling some areas to make it safe to representatives of RHCC and ROC enter. Approximately three-quarters to reassure them that HIE would of the House has been left roofless help in whatever way they could. and it has now been fenced off to HIE will remain as developers the public and site security has been for RHCC throughout, but RHCC implemented. Listed Building Con- will ensure that it is consulted and sent has been applied for to allow involved at all stages. structural work to go ahead. Forensic investigations inside Raasay Outdoor Centre the House cannot take place un- (ROC) til this work is complete, but the RHCC’s top priority is to en- police advise us that as far as they sure that the rebuilding project are concerned there are no suspi- sticks to a realistic timeframe, to cious circumstances. ensure that ROC has a building Once the remaining parts of in which to base itself as soon CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 14 as possible. In the meantime the board will assist ROC by leasing the new building on the north drive which was undamaged in the fire and is now nearing completion. It provides showers, toilets, office, The Pacific Institute workshop and storage space and of Piping it is hoped that Raasay Outdoor & Celtic Performing Arts Centre will be able to make good use of it to help keep their business CeltFest 2008 running during the time the House Summer School & Concert Series is being rebuilt. July 7th to July 11th Malaspina University-College Site Security Nanaimo, Vancouver Island The grounds around the House, including the Walled Garden, are Celtic Harp & Song part of a secure site. Members of the public are not permitted within the sealed off area for health, safety and security reasons. We would be very grateful if all residents and Instructors: visitors to the island would keep Clarsach ~ Wendy Humphreys Tebbutt, BC ~ Ruth Sutherland, ON away from the site. Song & Songwriting ~ Eileen McGann, BC ~ Doug Feaver, ON Gaelic Song ~ Ruth Sutherland, ON Thanks CONCERTS Celtworld Dance! to the Music The board of RHCC would like July 5th: Royal Theatre, Victoria Sunset & Stars Gala to thank everybody for the many July 12th: Port Theatre, Nanaimo messages of sympathy and support STUDENTS OF ALL AGES & LEVELS WELCOME CAMPUS “STAY & EAT” • ACCOMMODATIONS AVAILABLE received after the fire. They would Highland, Uilleann and Northumbrian Piping• Drumming Highland Dance • Irish Dance • Celtic Harp • Fiddling • Cello also like to thank those who have Penny Whistle • Celtic & Gaelic Song • Smallpipes Guitar Accompaniment • Celtic Knotwork Art • Cape Breton Stepdance given practical help, particularly Bodhran •Percussion • Ceilidh Dancing Raasay Fire Brigade who did such a good job in difficult circum- (250) 758-0208 or 1-866-301-CELT (2358) stances. www.celticperformingarts.com An AGM is planned towards FOR FULL DETAILS the end of March which will also serve as a public meeting to give more information on progress and plans. ∆

Spring, 2009 Page 15 Burns Anniversary n 25th January 1759, Scot- land’s best-loved poet, Robert Burns,O was born amidst a blast of icy wind in a humble cottage in Alloway. This year we celebrated the 250th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns. The National Trust for Scotland is proud to be at the it the Tam O’ Shanter Experience, heart of celebrations in the redevel- Auld Kirk, Brigg o’ Doon, Burns opment of the Burns National Heri- Monument and beautiful memorial tage Park in Alloway, Ayrshire. gardens. Throughout 2009, visitors This project will involve the can see a temporary exhibition of redevelopment of whole site and highlights from the collection at the building of a new museum – nearby Rozelle House Art Gallery Robert Burns Birthplace Museum – and Museum. The new museum to house the most important Burns will be open by Summer 2010. collection in the world. The world’s most significant Work has begun on site in Al- Burns collection will also continue loway, but visitors to the Burns to be displayed in the current mu- National Heritage Park can still vis- seum and the historic Burns Monu- ment and beautiful commemorative gardens are a fitting tribute to the life of Scotland ’s National Bard. Take a virtual reality tour of the cottage at www.burnsheritagepark. com. ∆ News Links Parliament 2010 organizer The Scotsman carries interest- Dorna Caskie, is working hard ing articles and interviews of Scot- adding links to the ACMS web tish personalities such as an article site. Check out her latest on Raasay on Chief John, Dunvegan Castle House and the fire at http://www. and the restoration challenge that clanmacleod.org/acms-commit- Chief Hugh faces. tees/raasay-house-restoration.php. http://scotlandonsunday.scots- The YouTube video is especially man.com/features/interviews-john- vivid and sad. macleod-of-macleod.5137337.jp CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 16 The National Trust of Scotland for each of the charter members. has updates of projects as well as ASGF is committed to the educational and travel programs on fundamental purpose of coopera- its web site at www.nts.org.uk tion for the betterment of each of its members through sharing ex- The Council periences and providing counsel. of Scottish Clans Additionally, the ASGF provides a & Associations forum for representatives of other posts news of Scottish cultural societies. At each Highland Games, clan announce- meeting, outside representatives ments and carries its newsletter from Scottish groups such as the The Claymore on the site www. Pipe Band Association, Scottish cosca.net. Clans Societies, Highland Danc- ing people, Tartan and Genealogy Victoria Joint Scottish Coun- experts, Heavy Athletics, and oth- cil provides a schedule of events ers are invited to participate by ex- monthly pleasantly accompanied changing information and cooper- by a Scottish tune when you ating to solve problems or to create Google it. opportunities for improvement. The Association Go to www.asgf.org for a wide of Scottish Games variety of information. & Festivals (ASGF) was founded in 1981 If you plan to travel try a visit to in a spirit of coop- www.scotlandsculture.org/guides/ eration, to provides events/annual.htm to find out about its member organi- festivals all around Scotland, some zations with a clearinghouse of in Italy and elsewhere. ideas, resources, and information Celtic Design in Atlantic Can- to assist them in the production of ada is sponsored by the Atlantic Highland Games. Like the member Craft Trade Show in Halifax gives organizations themselves, ASGF a display of fine items from 23 sprouted from the vision of a few artisans and businesses. info@ and grew to be truly continental actshow.ca in scope. As to its logo, ASGF has adopt- Maybe you have a link or ed the insignia reproduced above. website which you find useful and The thistle and St. Andrew’s Cross want to suggest to our readers. reflect our Scottish heritage, while Simply email your suggestion to the chain surrounding the shield in the editor at [email protected] composed of fifteen links — one and copy [email protected]. Spring, 2009 Page 17 his most profound poem was found in a daily paper and sent to the Leod Voice by one of our Manitoba members. It was written by an airmanT from Manitoba who was shot down over Germany in WW11 and was buried in the battlefield. Another morn I gaze into the world with sorrowing eyes And see the wide-abounding fruits of hate We fight, we say, for peace and find The wars we make To be a spring of hate and source for future wars. Is there no peace for man No hope that this accursed flow Of blood may cease? Is this our destiny; to kill and maim For peace? Or is this “peace” we strive to gain A thin unholy masquerade Which, when our pride, our greed, our gains is Touched too far, is shed And stands uncovered what we are? Show me your light, oh god That I might fight for peace with peace And not with war To prove my love with love And hate no more. Donaldson MacLeod Honoured onaldson is a ‘Proud MacLeod’ facets of highway planning, design, and active member of CMS construction, maintenance and GlengarryD and we congratulate operation over the last 40 years, as him on his many achievements of an engineer, professor and project distinction. manager. He has been involved Dr. MacLeod, the manager of in most of the major highways in Highways and Bridges for Public Northern Canada and has been with Works and Government Services PWGSC since 1989, initially as the Canada (PWGSC), highlighted his Senior Highway Engineer and as career in being selected the distin- of 2000, the Manager of Highways guished lecturer for the 7th Interna- and Bridges. tional Conference on Management His specialty is Pavement Paving Assets, held in Calgary last Management Systems and he is a summer. His speech was entitled recognized international expert on “Managing Infrastructure in the the subject. He has published over Face of Climate Change.” 40 papers in scientific and engi- Dr. MacLeod has worked on all neering journals and has won sev- CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 18 eral prestigious best paper awards Engineer in three Canadian prov- including, a Best Paper Award, at inces and an active member of nu- the 6th International Conference on merous professional associations, Managing Pavements, in Brisbane Dr. MacLeod is a leader and major Australia. A licensed Professional contributor to the industry. ∆ Highland Games Fun

The heavy events were watched through a heavy wire fence, a nuisance for picture taking but a comforting safety feature for the spectators.

Can you hear the echoing sound of the massed band as they march past?

Spring, 2009 Page 19 Parliament 2010 ith the theme of Old and New Traditions, planning is well under- way as you will have seen by the draft schedule published in the WSpring issue of the Clan Magazine. Keep track of details on the ACMS website: www.clanmacleod.org. The pre-parliament tour of Assynt area is available for a limited number of people beginning July 21 when buses will depart from Kyle of Lochalsh and return July 24 and continue on to Dunvegan. The NRG will once again be an active part of the gathering both at Assynt where they will stay at Glencanisp Lodge, and Dunvegan where they will perform their usual functions essential to the smooth operation of the Parliament. More on Parliament 2010 in the next issue of the Leod Voice. ∆ Flowers of the Forest Mona Mary McLeod orn in Renfrew County, ON, Mona created and funded a Mona grew up in Bounty, Scholarship in Nursing enabling BSK and Pine Falls, ON. She took many Manitoba recipients to attain her Registered Nurses and Public their Nursing Degree. Health Nursing training in Winni- The health and well-being of peg, going on to receive her BSC individuals in countries less fortu- and MA from Columbia University nate were of utmost importance to with graduate studies in Psychiatric Mona and she championed these nursing in Ohio State University, causes generously throughout her University or Minnesota and Co- life. “To strive, to seek, to find, lumbia University. and not to yield” (from Ulysses by As well as staff nursing and Alfred Lord Tennyson) was Mona’s giving rural public health care to life motto. many in Manitoba, Mona passed on We send condolences to Mo- her knowledge and skills as a Pro- na’s family, friends and colleagues, fessor of Nursing at the University thankful in the knowledge that she of Manitoba until her retirement. was an inspiration to so many. ∆ CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 20 J. David McLeod 1966 – 2009 e are saddened to hear of the had the good fortune to enjoy their passing of David McLeod, life together in various locations: Wson of CMS Manitoba’s active Aberystwyth, Wales; Brandon, members Carole and John Cox, MB; and then Edmonton, AB. on January 29, 2009. Graduating David’s self-stated legacy was with a PhD in International Politics his beloved family: his wife Carole from Aberystwyth, Wales, David and their three amazing children enjoyed working in the university Rhiannon, Caitlin and Andrew. Da- world where his leadership skills vid’s boundless caring, compassion and deep knowledge of interna- and affection for his family, friends tional politics could be shared with and colleagues was returned gener- others. ously to him, especially during his His outgoing and caring per- illness. sonality ensured that he made A scholarship has been set up lasting friendships wherever he at the University of Manitoba to worked and lived. David’s excep- honour David’s tireless work to tional leadership skills were shared promote international education. with others in every aspect of his We extend our condolences to short life in both his career and David’s family in their loss. ∆ volunteer roles. He enjoyed playing his bagpipes, curling, scouting and carpentry, demonstrating incredible skill in all he did. In 1989, David met and mar- ried his best friend and soul mate, Carol Manson in Winnipeg. They

Robert Erle McLeod 1919-2008 obert was raised on the family 1991. Fondly remembered as the farm in Shoal Lake, MB and neighbourhood handyman, Robert Rserved with the Royal Canadian enjoyed being of help to others. Engineers during WW II from Predeceased by his wife Glad- 1941 to 1945 in England and Hol- ys, Robert is survived by daughters land. Upon returning to Manitoba Barbara and Shirley, son Robert he married Gladys and settled in and their loving families to whom Winnipeg where he worked in we extend our condolences. ∆ construction until his retirement in

Spring, 2009 Page 21 Margaret Evelyn McLeod

secretarial duties and arranged ceilidhs for Central Ontario, and represented the MacLeods and the MacDougalls at Highland Games around Ontario. They were known worldwide as the M & M sisters. They attended Parliaments in Skye from some of the earliest ones held and all North American Gather- By Beth Mcleod ings in Canada and the United t is indeed sad news for us that States until health considerations Margaret McLeod, a member curtailed attendance. Iof the Clan MacLeod Society They made friends throughout of Central Ontario, passed away the world through their interest in on February 1, 2008. Margaret, the Clan. Although not as active in together with her sister the late more recent years, Margaret was a Marjorie, had been members of fount of knowledge for past events our society for over 50 years. and always interested in the current For many, many years, Margaret goings on as was evident in our and her sister looked after the recent telephone conversations. In Loving Memory of Margaret and By Karen McCrimmonMarjorie McLeod President, CMS Central Ontario t is with deep regret that the Clan an excerpt of my remarks. Because MacLeod Society of Central of the closeness of the two sisters IOntario has lost a longstanding in their life within the Clan, these member. Margaret Evelyn McLeod remembrances naturally focused passed away on Sunday, February on both ladies. 1, 2009 at Brampton Civic Hospi- “Margaret McLeod and her sis- tal. Margaret was predeceased by ter Marjorie became synonymous her sister Marjorie McLeod (May with the Clan MacLeod of Central 20, 2002). I was asked to say a Ontario over the years and in many few words at Margaret’s funeral ways carried the burden of ensuring service on behalf of her Clan fam- that it continues to exist today as a ily and I am passing along to you vibrant Society. Within the Clan, CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 22 they were known as the “M&M the year whenever MacLeods of the sisters”. Where one was, whether Greater Toronto Area met for food, at a MacLeod clan function, Parlia- fellowship and entertainment. They ment or North American Gathering, were responsible for ensuring the the other was close at hand. organization of “who was who” in In 1990, the National Council the days when our ceilidhs drew 70 of the Canadian Clan MacLeod to 100 people. Societies initiated a “Clansperson Margaret’s contribution to the of the Year” award and it was very Clan MacLeod Society cannot be appropriate the this first award was overstated. Because of Margaret’s presented to not one, but two of our excellent photography skills, our Central Ontario Society members, Society has pictures of many of Margaret and Marjorie. our members and of important They joined the Society shortly events over the years and we dearly after its inception in 1955 and cherish them. Her documentation worked together in a variety of and photos form a legacy of their ways for the benefit of the Society. participation over the years in the They were always at the forefront life of the Clan and now are the of any activity, whether it was car- basis of our archival records for the rying our banner down University future as we remember and study Ave. for the Kirkin of the Tartan our history. ceremony at St Andrews Pres- Although we jealously shared byterian Church, washing dishes Margaret and Marjorie with their after a pot luck supper, delivering MacDougall clansfolk, we will a half-ton of newsletter pages all miss the “mothers” of our clan who over town, manning the MacLeod were a fountain of knowledge on booth at Highland Games or greet- anything MacLeod and who had so ing and hosting MacLeods from many contacts around the world. distant locations around the world. Margaret and Marjorie were an Both Margaret and Marjorie were inspiration to three generations of also active members of The Clans my family and I am sorry that my and Scottish Societies of Canada own infant son will not be able to (CASSOC). meet the most sincere and caring Margaret was secretary of our proud McLeod sisters in Ontario. Society for many years and ensured Their demonstration of devotion to that we all paid our membership the Clan MacLeod family has been dues in a timely manner. Marga- passed down to all of us who con- ret and/or Marjorie were the first tinue to pursue our interests in our people to greet us at the ceilidh front common Scottish heritage. Thank table for those special nights during you Margaret and Marjorie. ∆ Spring, 2009 Page 23 The Editor’s Page

I hope that you have noticed that this is a very slim issue; not 36 pages as usual but only 24! We are wasting postage, my Scottish friends, 36 pages would cost the same as 24 and your article would have fitted in nicely. Something I’d like each of you to think about — since the last issue, did you have a fleeting thought about something that might add interest to the Leod Voice? Did you say to yourself, “I’d like to know more about (origin of piping, how my ancestors managed to make contacts in the ‘new land’...)? What are some of the sayings you used to hear around your parents’ and grandparents’ table and what did you learn that they meant (or are still wondering what they meant)? I was tempted to leave a blank space in this issue for the article that you didn’t get around to submitting, but I believe that editors really do abhor a vacuum. Have you ever thought about what was in the minds of your ances- tors when they packed up their meager belongings and boarded a ship to leave their beloved homeland, likely never to see it again? Jot down the conversations they could have had about their problems and possible solutions. There now — you need only to send your jottings to me, with my thanks; I’ve enclosed an address label to put on the envelope. On the other topic of concern, that of membership: have you tried to recruit one new member or given a membership gift in the past six months? I bet you thought that I’d forget about my challenge! A reminder of the deadlines as in the side box; you have lots of time to get those jottings send to Newsletter me but I hope that you get at it soon! Timelines: Enjoy your summer and I hope to hear from Spring—May 1 many of you soon. Hold Fast and Shine Brightly Fall—October 1 Membership and My address: Judy Tipple, Executive Changes: P.O. Box 111 March 1 Saturna Island, BC Canada V0N 2Y0 and September 1 Phone: 250-539-5475 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] CMSC Newsletter # 50, Page 24