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SB-4306-December 2019

Scottishthethethethe www.scottishbanner.com Banner 37 Years StrongScottishScottishScottish - 1976-2013 Banner A’BannerBanner Bhratach Albannach 43 Volume 36 Number 11 The world’s largest international Scottish newspaper May 2013 Years Strong - 1976-2019 www.scottishbanner.com A’ Bhratach Albannach Volume 36 Number 11 The world’s largest international Scottish newspaper May 2013 VolumeVolumeVolume 43 36 36Number Number Number 6 11 The 11 The world’sThe world’s world’s largest largest largest international international international Scottish Scottish Scottish newspaper newspaper newspaper December May May 2013 2013 2019 Be together at ’s 2019 » Pg 14

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7 25286 844598 0 9 Cairngorm Reindeer At home in the Highlands 7 25286 844598 0 3 » Pg 16 A Day in Paisley » Pg 19 7 25286 844598 1 1

10 reasons why is wonderful in winter ...... » Pg 8 A victim of Scotland’s How an Edinburgh grave inspired a Christmas Carol...... » Pg 10 witch hunt announces Chief 7 25286 844598 1 2 after 210 years...... » Pg 25 » Pg 31 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Volume 43 - Number 6 Scottishthe Banner The Banner Says…

Volume 36 Number 11 The world’s largest international Scottish newspaper May 2013 Publisher Offices of publication A call to protect Scotland’s heritage Valerie Cairney Australasian Office: PO Box 6202 Also depending on what decade They surely must have one of the Editor Marrickville South, you were born, you may or not, be world’s most important transport Sean Cairney NSW, 2204 surprised to read some older Scots jobs this month and we are lucky Tel:(02) 9559-6348 EDITORIAL STAFF do not use mobile phones and rely the team at Cairngorm Reindeer Jim Stoddart [email protected] on telephones. This is a further Herd took the time to speak to us The National Piping Centre hit for rural Scottish communities about these majestic creatures North American Office: David McVey as some have also lost a variety of who live in one of the most [email protected] Lady Fiona MacGregor essential services such as post offices, stunning areas of Scotland. Eric Bryan David C. Weinczok banks and the Scottish invention of I was surprised to learn that the Judy Vickers ATM’s. BT however has said it will classic A Christmas Carol, written Nick Drainey not remove any payphones on the by Charles Dickens in the 1843 was by Sean Cairney Scottish islands or in areas where inspired from a visit he made to an there was no mobile coverage. Edinburgh grave. The main character of the classic book is the mean- Follow us on social media he call has literally been Adopt a Kiosk spirited man Ebenezer Scrooge made recently across Understanding that the red who famously gets a visit from the mainly rural parts of telephone box plays a significant ghosts of Christmas present, past and Scotland to save the iconic part in Britain’s national heritage future. Ebenezer Lennox Scroggie Tred call box. In fact, across Britain and in many cases forms a focal was a wealthy vintner and meal Distributed monthly in Australia, Canada, telephone bosses and community point for communities across the man (a corn merchant), and as was New Zealand and the USA. ISSN 2209-8364 groups are looking at ways to country, BT is offering communities customary in Scotland at the time, when he died his trade was etched Australia Post Print Approved PP:100004806 save one of most recognisable the opportunity to keep these on his gravestone for all to see. Published monthly by Scottish Banner Publications cultural symbols of the country. kiosks. Since the Adopt a Kiosk In 1841 Charles Dickens was visiting PO Box 6220, Marrickville South, NSW, 2204, Australia The first red phone boxes programme was launched, more Edinburgh on a lecture tour and he were installed in 1921, but the than 2,300 communities across the strolled around Canongate Kirkyard. The publisher reserves the right to reject, discontinue or omit any advertisement or to red telephone box we have come UK have seized the opportunity cancel any advertising contract for reasons satisfactory to the publisher, without notice, There he noticed an unusual inscription to know (the Jubilee kiosks, to do something wonderful and without penalty to either party. All advertising and reading matter is subject to on a gravestone which said, “Here Publisher’s approval. Right reserved to revise or reject advertising and reading material commemorating the Silver Jubilee of with local phone boxes that had in accordance with standards acceptable to the Scottish Banner, without notice. The lies Ebenezer Lennox Scroggie, the coronation of King George V) was little or no usage. For just £1 advertiser agrees that the publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of errors A Meal Man”. However, what Dickens in advertising beyond the amount of space paid for, whether such errors are due to designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, communities can give their local read was “A Mean Man”, with negligence, copy right or otherwise. The publisher does not endorse the historical following a competition in 1924. red phone box a new lease of life as accuracy of the editorial stance of materials submitted for publication. The publisher that Scroggie eventually became reserves the right edit all submitted material prior to publication. However, as technology has something completely different. immortalised as Scrooge to millions The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author(s)and leaped forward, with most of the Adopted kiosks have been of people in A Christmas Carol. do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Scottish public having mobile adapted to include a book exchange, For hundreds of years in Trouble getting the Scottish Banner each month? Use the subscription form below to phones, the need for call boxes has art gallery, grocery shop, a bakery, subscribe, or you may contact our distributors for your nearest sales outlet. Scotland during the 16 and 1700’s seen a massive reduction creating a a wildlife information centre, a thousands of women were branded AUSTRALIA: Integrated Publication Solutions 1 800 606 407 st NEW ZEALAND: Gordon & Gotch 09 979 3018 unique 21 century problem. coffee shop and even lifesaving as witches and often burned at Calls made from public telephones defibrillators in some local boxes. The Scottish Banner the stake, strangled or drowned. have fallen by around 90% in the past BT will continue to provide electricity The suspected ‘witches’ were defined Uniting Scots Around the World for 43 Years! decade and the costs to maintain (if already in place) to power the light as witches by their neighbours, them continues to increase. With BT for adopted kiosks, free of charge through a process of gossip and THE SCOTTISH BANNER (British Telecom) now closing call to communities. In Scotland over quarrelling. Witches were believed boxes across the country (650 have 700 call boxes are available under to be malicious and vengeful and Subscribe to the worlds largest international been removed this year so far), with the Adopt a Kiosk programme. have devil like powers. If someone Scottish culture newspaper online or use below: the Highlands and suffered a misfortune after a quarrel, Australia: Print: 1 Year / $50.00 AUD most impacted. There are today just In this issue they might conclude that the other Digital: 1 Year / $25.00 AUD over 31,000 BT payphones still in Festive fun is certainly a thread in person had bewitched them in Canada: Digital: $19.95 CDN place across the UK, but in Scotland this issue as we look at how the revenge. Unlike most criminal trials, one in five call boxes will be closed, Scottish capital will be celebrating witch trials permitted the torture of New Zealand: Print: 1 Year / $65.00 AUD suspected women until a confession Digital: 1 Year / $25.00 AUD leaving just 3,300 active phones. both Christmas and Hogmanay. I have spent these holidays in was extracted. In this issue we learn U.S.A.: Digital: 1 Year / $19.95 USD A significant part in Scotland before and have great of Lilias Adie, who was Scotland’s Overseas: Print: 1 Year Air Mail: AU $ 110.00 Britain’s national heritage memories of being at Edinburgh’s only ‘witch’ to have a grave and how Australia/New Zealand: T (+61) 02 9559-6348 It is the Scottish communities Hogmanay or going for a cool but history is remembering her today. www.scottishbanner.com/subscribe in rural areas that have the most lovely Christmas walk around concern, to lose what could for some University with my family. Happy Christmas Subscription are non-refundable. be a lifeline. Not all communities Of course, Scotland really puts a show As we all prepare for the festive Cheques, money orders, Visa and MasterCard accepted. have reliable mobile reception on for Hogmanay like nowhere else. season ahead, all of us that work Scottish Banner Australia/New Zealand: and rely on the trusted call boxes Clearly Christmas would not on the Scottish Banner wish all our PO Box 6202, Marrickville South, NSW, 2204 as a communication back up. be complete without reindeer. readers, advertisers and friends Digital subscriptions must be requested via our website only. the very best for the holidays. And whilst many will spend too much, and possibly eat even more, Name:...... try and remember the simple joys of the season, spending time with Address:...... friends and family and perhaps looking out for those who are ...... alone or in need. What ever you ...... Post Code:...... do, and where ever you spend it, I hope you find some of the magic Tel/Email:...... of the holiday’s surrounds you. Happy Christmas & Hogmanay! 1 Year New Subscription Renewal

Gift Subsc. From...... Gracing our front cover: Edinburgh’s annual Visa/MC...... Christmas celebration. Photo: Snaps By Shirin/ ...... Expiry...... Edinburgh Christmas.

Page 2 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

49th Annual Scottish Ten things you might not Christmas Walk know about Hogmanay Weekend & Parade Find out why a visit from a dark-haired man on New Year’s Day is good luck, along with some other fascinating facts about Scotland’s Hogmanay.

3 Historically, Christmas was not observed At the beginning of the last verse, everyone as a festival in Scotland and Hogmanay crosses their arms across their breast, was the more traditional celebration. so that the right hand reaches out to the Nowadays, Christmas is widely neighbour on the left and vice versa. celebrated, with Hogmanay signalling When the tune ends, everyone rushes to Scotland.org that the festive period is coming to an the middle, while still holding hands. end and a new year is beginning. 8 An important element of Hogmanay celebrations is to welcome friends and 4 ‘The Bells’ is the phrase used to strangers, with warm hospitality and of et into the holiday spirit this describe the midnight hour when New course a kiss to wish everyone a ‘Guid month with a Scottish twist! The Year’s Eve becomes New Year’s Day. New Year’. The underlying belief is to GCampagna Center presents the th It stems from the noise the church bells clear out the vestiges of the old year, 49 Annual Scottish Christmas Walk make as the clock strikes midnight have a clean break and welcome in a Weekend & Parade. Thousands will join signalling the beginning of a new day young, New Year on a happy note. us for a full line-up of festivities that will

Text and image courtesy of Text and a new year. 9 ‘First Footing’ – the ‘first foot’ in the celebrate the rich Scottish heritage of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations. 5 Famous Scottish poet ’ house after midnight is still very Old Town Alexandria, Virginia on Friday, Auld Lang Syne is sung to celebrate the December 6, and Saturday, December 7. 1 Hogmanay is the Scots word for the last common is Scotland. To ensure good start of the New Year at the stroke of luck, a first footer should be a dark- Proceeds from all events of the Scottish day of the year and is synonymous with haired male. Fair-haired first footers Christmas Walk the celebrating the year in true Scottish midnight, not just in Scotland but in were not particularly welcome after Weekend benefit style. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party many countries around the world. the Viking invasions of ancient times. The Campagna is famous around the world, with visitors 6 The Guinness Book of World Records Traditional gifts include a lump of Center’s core lists Auld Lang Syne as one of the most travelling from around Scotland and coal to lovingly place on the host’s fire, programs that frequently sung songs in English. beyond to soak up the Scottish celebrations. along with shortbread, a black bun and help children The song is sung or played in many 2 Nobody knows for sure where the to toast to a Happy New Year. and families movies, from festive blockbuster It’s word ‘Hogmanay’ came from. It may 10 To first foot a household empty-handed from cradle a Wonderful Life to romantic comedy have originated from Gaelic or from is considered grossly discourteous, to career. When Harry Met Sally. Norman-French. What we do know, is never mind unlucky! You must not For further that in Scotland, it means a good time 7 To sing Auld Lang Syne a circle is only bring yourself, but a gift of some details see: surrounded by friends, ceilidh dancing created and hands are joined with the description for the kind host. Consider www.campagnacenter.org/scottishwalkweekend and laughter. person on each side of you. yourself sufficiently warned!

Edinburgh Castle becomes ‘Castle of Light’ istory is set to come to life at lighting adventure, this is sure to be a this winter, magical experience for all the family and as the iconic landmark is we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy it.” illuminated with tales from Andy McGregor, Creative Director of HScotland’s past. The mesmerising Castle of Light, said: “This is an amazing 90-minute journey of light, sound and opportunity to create a major lighting wonder, entitled Castle of Light, will projection event for the truly iconic site that treat guests to an evening of dazzling is Edinburgh Castle – a place recognised animations, never seen before at the throughout the world and one which castle in its 900 year history. embodies so much Scottish history. I grew Running throughout the festive season up by the Meadows in the shadow of this to Sunday 22nd December, the castle will rock but I’m now seeing the Castle with fresh be transformed using state-of-the-art eyes. As a team, we will be drawing on the projections and enchanting storytelling. history, geology, mythology and the sheer The event which will be the biggest light drama of the site to conjure a spectacle that experience to hit the city centre, bringing we hope will excite, entertain and enlighten together a consortium of the finest digital audiences of all ages and backgrounds. and visual talent in Scotland to create a To a certain extent, it is like being given a set truly immersive experience which will of (very big) keys to a (a very big) toy shop captivate locals and visitors alike every – but with rather more responsibility! - and Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. we are thrilled to be involved in such an exciting project for this national treasure.” History, geology, mythology For more information and to get your and the sheer drama tickets, visit www.castleoflight.scot Gillian Macdonald, Head of Business Development at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which operates Edinburgh Castle, said: “Castle of Light invites visitors to watch the history of this iconic landmark come to life as it illuminates the very walls that saw it Inspired, designed and made in Scotland. unfold. Guests will have the chance to follow in the footsteps of Scotland’s heroes Merry Christmas as they’re welcomed by stunning visuals and impressive lighting installations to all our customers around the world. within the Castle’s walls. A projection on to St Margaret’s Using state-of-the-art projections to Chapel at Edinburgh Castle. dunmorescotland.com + 44 (0)1968 660 078 create a truly wonderful, immersive

The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 3 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Send us your inquiries on life’s little question marks. Ever wanted to know what happened to your old pal from home, how to make SCOT POURRI your favourite Scottish meal, or wondered about a certain bit of Scottish history? Kiwi’s at Killara Auckland, New Zealand where they play for the Auckland branch of the RSCDS. Robert Findley Gosford Class Royal Scottish Society For Anne, David, Kim and James Gray. Gosford, NSW Here the centuries run like seconds, skies of cloud Australia and countless suns scud in time-lapse overhead. My favourite paper Long swathes of time etch their histories Please find enclosed my annual subscription renewal for my favourite paper the Scottish on the hillsides, the stones of the river bed… Banner. Whilst it is not due until next month, This valley gouged by ice felt one day The members of the Royal Country Dance I want to ensure you have it well before, as the thaw begin, grew gradually green, inhabited – Society at Killara had a wonderful fun day I would hate to miss out on a single issue. th and echoes now this summer of dance at the Killara Hall on October 12 The Banner is always full of such this year were fiddlers from New Zealand interesting articles and I look forward with the bleating of black-faced sheep. who are also guests at the Royal Military to each copy monthly. It’s a grand read When did the last ice melt away and the glacier Tattoo in October in Sydney. All the dances from cover to cover-taking me back to my leave its footprint here, this small deep loch were introduced by Jan McCubben from the Scottish roots, of which I am so proud. holding in silence its complement of brown trout Hunter Valley Branch (Gosford Class) and Keep up your guid work! what a day we had. Some to the dancers In appreciation, and the elusive char? Such questions disappear in the wind came from Newcastle, Epping (Sydney) the Mrs Margaret Benney whispering at night through Henry’s wood, or dissolve southern highlands and the south coast. Craigieburn, Victoria in the brown water rounding old stones, The wonderful dance orchestra were from Australia the river’s slow revenge on glacial imprisonment. Here the summer dark is brief and light, FROM OUR SOCIAL MEDIA laughter and stories dance together in the Lodge … Send your photos or letters via social media but in Winter, if the mood is right, the ice will reassert itself and whip The stag Glencoe the length of glen to gale, from the blind face of Strone to Garrogie’s spruce towers. Each winter brings this inkling back of what once was, a cold hackling in the early dark of how things were for time beyond remembering. © Graham Wood

This poem was written for good friends and the fact that on some days in winter, of mine whose family have a lodge in it is impossible to escape the memory the small glen near Loch Killin in the of the ice. In Summer, the lodge is a Monadhliath mountains. It is at the very friendly place with extended family southern end of Loch Ness and is not visiting from all over the world. And in to be confused with the other Killin, any season, the glen and the loch display a village near . The poem the stark beauty characteristic of the celebrates the glacial origins of the glen .

Ed note: Thanks Graham for sharing such an atmospheric piece with us. Lovely stag at Glen Etive he was just The ever atmospheric Glencoe before amazing. the unforecasted rain... GN Photography A View From My Camera Looking to correspond with Family of Bruce International Scotland Scotland many like-minded people Schiltrom formation Scottish fiddle competition Greetings from Adelaide, Australia. I have recently subscribed to this wonderful newspaper and am thoroughly enjoying each paper received monthly. I have also purchased a few CD’s/clothing from this site also and am extremely pleased not just with the product selection and the prompt and safe delivery, but also the prompt replies to my enquiries. I will be travelling over to beautiful Scotland again in four weeks (this being my 4th trip) and this time heading to the , as well as Skye, Islay Family of Bruce International, Inc. had their and the Orkneys. Looking forward to staying AGM at Stone Mountain Games on th in the Bowmore Cottages again and tasting October 20 , 2019. Attending the AGM and those peaty whisky’s from Islay. visiting the Bruce tent site, were members Would love to correspond with many from the following states: Kentucky, Georgia, like-minded people across the miles. I love Minnesota, New York, Indiana, Maryland, music whisky, haggis, travelling, animals Pennsylvania and Virginia. and photography. Favourite music: Red Hot Polly Bruce Tilford Schiltrom formation on the High Warming up for the Scottish Chilli Pipers, Runrig, Royal Scots Dragoon National Secretary, Family of Bruce Street. From this year’s battle of Falkirk 1298 fiddle competition at the Richmond Guards and Capercaille. International event with Britannia XIV Re-enactment. . Rachel Hopkins USA The Society of John De Graeme Clan Currie Adelaide, South Australia Ed note: Great to see so many Falkirk, Scotland USA E-mail: [email protected] Bruce’s come together.

Pose your questions on Scottish related topics to our knowledgeable readership who just may be able to help. Please keep letters under 300 words and we reserve the right to edit content and length. Letters can be emailed to [email protected] or online at www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us, alternatively you may post your letters to us (items posted to the Scottish Banner cannot be returned). Please ensure you include your full contact details should you require a reply. This page belongs to our readers so please feel free to take part!

Page 4 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Absence makes the art grow fonder in berdeen Art Gallery has reopened We need to create world-class experiences, following a once-in a lifetime multi- events and attractions to keep up with the million pound investment to create ever-changing visitor demands. Visitors of all a major cultural attraction in the ages and backgrounds will be able to enjoy the Aheart of the Granite City. This world-class enhanced programme of exhibitions at the arts complex, which aims to be a must- new Gallery. Tourism is more than a holiday visit attraction for both local residents and experience – it is the heartbeat of the Aberdeen tourists alike. The historic Grade-A listed and economy, touching every buildings have been re-imagined as an community, generating income, jobs and exciting visitor destination which blends social change. Scotland’s reputation as a quality the historic with the contemporary. destination relies on continued investment Visitor access, orientation and facilities have to ensure that current provision meets future been dramatically improved, including the demand. The refurbishment of Aberdeen Art addition of a stunning new rooftop café. Gallery will be a game-changer for the city’s The new Gallery will see dramatically tourism offering, attracting new visitors and increased display space for its nationally- drawing past visitors back to Aberdeen.” recognised collection, with the number The Gallery is expected to attract of galleries increasing from 11 to 19 and upwards of 250,000 visits per year making a further three galleries presenting a it one of the North-East’s most popular programme of regularly-changing special unpaid visitor attractions with the potential exhibitions. The number of items from to generate an additional £1.1m spend in the permanent collection on display has the wider local economy. increased from 370 in 2015 to 1,080 in 2019. For further information about , visit: www.aagm.co.uk Aberdeen’s cultural renaissance Jo Robinson, VisitScotland Regional Director, said: “The reopening of the gallery is a hugely exciting time for Aberdeen. It is the culmination of years of planning, designing and reimagining a showstopper attraction that will underpin Aberdeen’s cultural renaissance. The opening offers a real opportunity for civic pride at a time when the Granite City – renowned the world over as Europe’s oil capital – is moving in a new direction, becoming a credible Aberdeen Art Aberdeen Art Gallery has reopened player on Scotland’s leisure tourism stage. to the public following a major transformation. Did you know?

Hogmanay traditions

• First footing - The ‘first foot’ in the • Bonfires and Fire Festivals- Scotland’s house after midnight is still very fire festivals at Hogmanay and later common in Scotland. To ensure good in January may have pagan or Viking luck, a first footer should be a dark- origins. The use of fire to purify and drive haired man. Fair-haired first footers away evil spirits is an ancient idea. Fire is were not particularly welcome after at the centre of Hogmanay celebrations the Viking invasions of ancient times. in Stonehaven, Comrie and Biggar and Traditional gifts include a lump of has recently become an element in coal to lovingly place on the host’s fire, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebration. along with shortbread, a black bun and • The singing of Auld Lang Syne all over the whisky to toast to a Happy New Year. world- People sing Robert Burns’ version These days shortbread and whisky will of this traditional Scottish air. How it suffice. Showing up empty handed is became the New Year’s song is something not only very rude but also bad luck! of a mystery. At Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, • Redding the house – Rather than a Spring people join hands for what is reputed to clean, the Scots have a New Year’s clean be the world’s biggest Auld Lang Syne. to welcome in the New Year. Starting the • The of the House- This is a very old New Year with a dirty house is bad luck. rural tradition that involved blessing the When open fires were common, people house and livestock with holy water from a would clear the ashes and lay a new fire local stream. Although it had nearly died out, for the New Year. Cleaning one’s house in recent years it has experienced a revival. also extends to clearing one’s debts. After the blessing with water, the woman of An old Scottish superstition states that the house was supposed to go from room to you should try to clear all your debts room with a smouldering juniper branch, before the stroke of midnight. filling the house with purifying smoke.

The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 5 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Scotspeak is a selection of quotes which made headlines in SCOTSPEAK Scotland last month on a variety of current Scottish affairs. “Brexit will disrupt existing environmental 1712 so it would be a shame to have to category at this year’s Rics Awards grand The firm said Irn-Bru 1901 - to hit protections in Scotland, including the shut it down. I’ve enjoyed every moment of final. Judges hailed the crossing - the shelves in December - was made from independent oversight of the European running it. The last five years has been a world’s longest three-towered, cable- a handwritten recipe which had been Commission. The National Trust for Scotland remarkable journey and I’ve enjoyed it, it’s stayed bridge at 2633 metres - as a “stored deep in the company archives for therefore welcomes the ’s a nice area and nice people and we have “worthy winner”. over 100 years”. commitment to examine how our protections visitors from all over the world.” “We have felt a few in recent years “I’m delighted that another example can be sustained post-Brexit. Our own Sanquhar postmaster Nazra Alam said as but this was the worst so far, so I was of Scotland’s remarkable heritage of public polling found that the Scottish the world’s oldest post office went up for surprised it was only 1.9 on the scale. bridge construction has become a listed public favoured the creation of a new body, sale. The branch in Sanquhar, My husband and I were sat on the structure. One of the many innovations independent of government, and able to hold and , has been in continuous sofa chatting, the noise was like an of the Drochaid Ceasaig (Kessock government to account, and this should be service since 1712. The post office pre-dates articulated lorry coming through the Bridge) was its ability to withstand part of the government’s discussions.” the second oldest, in Stockholm, Sweden, wall or a train. A few minutes later there extreme weather and earthquakes The National Trust for Scotland’s Head of by eight years while the third oldest in was a second shorter one.” resulting from the geological Santiago, Chile, opened in 1772. The post fault. It also contributed significantly Public Policy, Diarmid Hearns said as the Glencoe resident Annie Harpur said office is listed at £275,000, and comes with to driving economic growth in the conservation charity the National Trust for as two small earthquakes were felt in a three-bedroom cottage, a courtyard and area, making travel between Scotland has responded to news from the Glencoe. The first had a magnitude of 1.9, outbuildings. It started out as a staging and the far northeast significantly Scottish Government that in the event of a and second with a rating of 1.7 ML. easier. We have such a strong heritage ‘no deal’ Brexit an environmental standards post for mail carriages, with the old stables of bridge building in Scotland and advisory panel will be established. A poll of thought to have once provided a resting the Drochaid Ceasaig (Kessock 1,000 Scots commissioned by the charity last place for horses drawing the mail carriages. Bridge) is an important part of that month found that 81 per cent of respondents distinguished tradition.” said they would support or strongly support the creation of an environmental protection Elizabeth McCrone, Head of Designations body to ensure that Scotland upholds at Historic Environment Scotland similar levels of environmental protections (HES), said as The Drochaid Ceasaig as currently. Sixty-seven percent of those (Kessock Bridge) near Inverness has polled thought that this body should be been awarded category B status by HES independent of government. after it was recognised as being of special architectural interest. A major piece of 20th century engineering, it was the first “The 1901 recipe has aged beautifully multi-cable-stayed bridge to be built in “In addition to this impressive feat, the over the last 118 years. For a limited time, the , and at the time of out-turn cost improved from the original we’ll be producing a premium ‘old and its completion in 1982 was the largest budget of £3.2bn to a final cost of only unimproved’ Irn-Bru 1901 just as it was of its type in Europe. The Drochaid £1.35bn. This new bridge is a worthy enjoyed by our first fans. This is Irn-Bru as Ceasaig (Kessock Bridge) was also among winner in this category and a tribute to you’ve never tasted it. It’s a chance to enjoy the first to apply special ‘quake-proof’ collaborative teamwork.” a unique and authentic piece of Scottish technology, designed to allow for seismic history - but don’t hang about, we don’t Rics judge David Brooks Wilson said and geological movement from the Great think it will be around for long.” The Queensferry Crossing has been Glen Fault.This is the third bridge in “I hope someone will come along and buy it named as the best infrastructure project Robin Barr, of Scottish drinks maker AG Scotland to be listed by HES in the last and keep it going because this is Scotland’s in the UK. The £1.35bn bridge over Barr, said as the Irn-Bru maker will launch 12 months, following The heritage and more particularly Sanquhar’s. the Forth - which opened to traffic in a limited-edition new version it claimed and Drochaid a’ Chaolais Chumhaing The post office has been in operation since August 2017 - won the infrastructure was based on an original recipe from 1901. (Kylesku Bridge). SCOTWORD

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Here is a fun crossword for you to try with a few of the answers to be found in Scotland! If you are in doubt, you may need a wee peek at a Scots dictionary or a map. Or, if you are 8 really stuck, the answers can be found on page 24! Good Luck! 9

10 11 12 CLUES ACROSS: CLUES DOWN: I) Low temperatures in Scotland (5). I) Tossed at 16 Down (5). 5) Sir Jimmy (5). 2) Scottish lakes (5). 13 14 15 16 8) Peninsula near Inverness (5,1). 3) Island off Seil (7). 9) Endure in Scots (5). 4) Rush forward recklessly (7). 10) A bird’s resting place! (5). 5) Sudden rise of water (5). q7 18 19 12) Miss Laurie (5). 6) Instrument of 5 Across (9). 13) North-east stone (7). 7) Scots stone boundary lines (5). 15) The auld enemy (7). 11) Lanark, old soccer team (5). 20 21 22 23 24 17) Wallace’s battle cry (7). 14) Village near (9). 19) Old schoolmaster (7). 16) Sporting get-togethers (5). 25 21) Front of (5). 18) Water nymph (7). 26 22) Ask a Scot (5). 19) Cathedral city on the River Tay (7). 25) Old warhorse (5). 20) Kirk hymn (5). 26) Village south-west of Callander (9). 21) It’ll put the bite on you! (5). 27 28 27) An English provost (5). 23) Scots pimple (5). 28) Curling captains (5 ). 24) Scots dances (5).

Page 6 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Snow Better Place to Be... However, the rest of Scotland is also Visit the UK’s only wild reindeer herd in the embracing this time to party like Glenmore Forest Park with an experienced nowhere else: head north and party at the herder and pet and befriend the cute and Red-Hot in Inverness. cuddly reindeer- this unique experience will This free family-friendly event attracts get any scrooge feeling festive in no time. over 10,000 spectators and brings the very best Scottish music acts to the Burns, baby, Burns Highland Capital to help bring in the It’s not just Christmas and New Year we celebrate New Year. The exciting and traditional in Scotland. On 30th November, Scotland Stonehaven Fireballs Festival lights up celebrates its patron saint, St Andrew, with a the small town on the east coast with a wide variety of events and celebrations all over procession of approximately 40 men and the country from parties in the town named women swinging fireballs above their after the saint himself to rural ceilidhs on the heads when the clock strikes midnight Isle of Skye. Fun lovers are never far away on New Year’s Eve. Also, don’t forget the from a party at this time of year. Another thing ‘First-foot’ custom, which arguably began Scotland is celebrated for is its creativity so, on 25th January each year there is Burns Night in Scotland: it’s said that the first-footer where haggis, whisky and famous prose are must be out of the house before the clock Edinburgh’s Hogmanay. combined to celebrate the life and work of strikes midnight, then cross the threshold our national bard, Robert Burns. The first ever to welcome in the new year, bearing gifts. was held in July 1801 when ith so much to do, only in taking place in January). These unique Traditional items for the first-footer to nine of Burns’ close friends gathered to mark Scotland is there a reason to experiences guarantee to keep participants carry include pieces of coal, a coin, salt, the fifth anniversary of the poet’s death. stay longer. From befriending and spectators alike warm on a cold night. bread, and a ‘wee dram’ of whisky. The evening took place at Burns Cottage reindeer in the UK’s only wild Scotland is known for its wide range of in Alloway and included a meal of Haggis, Wreindeer herd, to toasting the national bard outdoor activities and that doesn’t stop in Making new friends performances of his work and a speech to with a dram; to partying through a three- winter, in fact- it enhances it. Dust off the Winter in Scotland is a great time to honour him. After the success of the first night, day Hogmanay celebration, to basking in cobwebs on 1st January with the famous spot wildlife and make a furry friend or it was decided that the friends would hold a the glow of a traditional Celtic fire festival - Loony Dook in by two. The Cairngorm Sled dog Centre in similar evening on his birthday (25th January), adventurers, comfort-seekers and revellers joining the brave participants in throwing Aviemore is the UK’s only designated thus beginning the tradition that we still will never be short of unique and exciting themselves into the freezing of Forth sled dog centre which offer visitors celebrate today. There are lots of Burns Suppers experiences in Scotland this winter. waters. Why not try curling in the country the ultimate sled dog experience, this and events held all over the country on this date Scotland is a beautiful and exciting it was invented in or ski and snowboard involves helping the kennel with their such as Burns & Beyond in Edinburgh, The Big place to visit all year round, but there is across the Cairngorm mountains? Scotland daily routine and a 50-minute training Burns Supper in Dumfries and Burns Night at something special about driving through a is home to five world-class ski resorts. session with the huskies through remote Glamis Castle. mist-covered glen or catching a sunset over forest trails- a one of kind way to see the For more information on trips to Scotland, the snow dusted mountains. As the days Getting festive cairngorm mountains. please go to www.visitscotland.com get shorter and the temperature drops, Scotland loves a festival, and they’re not just Scotland doesn’t go into hibernation… the for the summer months. Celtic Connections party is just getting started. brings the very best of Celtic, folk and roots Here is just a pick of the one-of-a-kind music from all over the world to Glasgow. and unforgettable events and experiences The 18 day-long festival event draws over happening from this month, into the New Year: 2,000 musicians and uses over 33 of the UNESCO City of Music’s iconic venues Feel the heat (of a fire festival) during the month of January. The Winter in Scotland might sound like a Winter festival is a 10-day long event that is chilly time, but there is a lot to experience jammed pack full of markets, parades, live off-season. From October onwards, there music, exhibitions and much more. is a huge variety of unique and traditional Oban is compact and easy to get around, fire festivals held all over the country. so this festival is a great opportunity to Scottish Christmas in Catch the Samhuinn Fire Festival which get in the festive spirit and discover all the celebrates the Celtic New Year on top brilliant attractions that Oban has to offer. North America of Edinburgh’s iconic with ‘Hogmanay’, or New Year’s Eve, is a dramatic mix of dance, immersive a uniquely Scottish experience, and theatre and fire play. Head north to Up Edinburgh is known all over the world Helly Aa Viking Festival in the small town for throwing legendary Hogmanay of Lerwick in the Isles and see celebrations along its cobbled streets and the burning of the long ship on the last its residents and visitors dancing into the Tuesday in January (one of 12 fire festivals early hours of the morning.

www.scottishcreations.com The Cairngorm reindeer.

The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 7 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

It may be cold outside, but there is something undeniably magical 10 reasons why Scotland about Scotland in winter. Here are some top reasons for visiting is wonderful in winter Scotland at this time of year.

6- From indoor ice-climbing at the Scottish Climbing Centre in Kinlochleven to hitting the slopes at ski resorts including Glencoe and Nevis Range Scotland.org by Fort William, or Glenshee and The Lecht in the , Scotland as plenty of options when it comes to making the most of the snowy conditions. Even if you aren’t a skier or a snowboard, the view from the top of the mountains is something to savour.

Viking fun at Up Helly Aa. 9-Winter wildlife Text and images courtesy of Text Christmas markets. But perhaps out of all of Scotland’s winter festivals, the most unique is Up Helly Aa, an annual fire festival held every winter 1-See Scotland at its most affordable winter sun illuminates the Highlands and across the Shetland Isles which harks back rugged coastline in an amber glow which to the islands’ distinct Viking heritage. is a joy to photograph. What’s more, this The largest and most popular Up Helly Aa highly Instagram-able ‘golden hour’ is festival takes places in Shetland’s capital extended at this time of year. You will also of Lerwick on the last Tuesday on January find that the dark-heavy clouds, moody every year. Watch as thousands of ‘guizers’ light-effects, and even the rain renders dressed up as Norsemen and all other mysterious locations like Loch Ness even kinds of fancy form a torch-lit procession more beautiful. Add a light dusting of frost down to the harbour. Here a beautiful Edinburgh sparkles during and Scotland’s landscapes positively sparkle. the festive season. purpose-built wooden long-ship is berthed Monarch of the Glen. 4-Spectacular sunrises and sunsets before being torched by the revellers. As with Hogmanay, the party continues Visiting Scotland outside of the peak The trees might be bare, but not all of long into the night as everyone hops from season most definitely has its perks. Scotland’s wildlife is deep in hibernation. bar to dancehall, to bar, then back again. Nightly rates for hotels, B&Bs and other The barren winter landscapes makes accommodation providers can be 7-Burns Night this one of the easiest times of year prohibitively expensive, particularly during to catch of glimpse of rarely-seen the summer months. Planning on renting creatures in Scotland’s forests and a car for a week or booking an activity? wilderness areas including many Soaring prices and limited availability can species of deer, mountain hares, red really stretch your budget or even cause The winter glow of the Highlands. squirrels and ptarmigans. Winter is you to miss out entirely. Save yourself some also the season when vast numbers money by planning a visit this winter. Scotland’s northerly location produces of geese travel to Scotland from their breeding grounds further up north - a 2-Escape the crowds some phenomenal sunrises and sunsets. To witness these during the summer prime sighting for keen birdwatchers. months, you have to rise as early as 10-Winter warmers 4am and stay up well into the evening to catch them. Not so in winter. Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns. Sleep in as late as 9am and you can watch the sky turn dramatic hues or orange, pink Finally, to mark the end of the winter and red before watching the spectacle festivals is Burn’s Night on 25 January, repeat itself when the sun goes down by the birthday of Scotland’s national bard, 4pm. Juxtaposed again snow-blanketed Robert Burns, which celebrates his life On top of Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh. mountains, frozen lochs and empty and poems. The highlight of every Burn’s stretches of beach, dawn and dusk in Night event is his poem Address to a If you have always dreamt or wandering Scotland at this time of year is truly special. Haggis which is usually performed as down the in Edinburgh, the night’s main course – haggis, neeps witnessing the legendary Fairy Pools on 5-Winter festivals and tatties – is served for dinner. Skye, or capturing the evocative ruins Scots know how to keep themselves of Doune Castle. Do yourself a favour entertained at this cold time of year. 8-Snowsports adventures Scottish culinary delights. and considering scheduling your visit It’s no accident that many or our most to Scotland’s most popular attractions celebrated events and traditions fall over during the winter months. You will have to the winter period. The season kicks off Scotland’s cuisine is delicious year- deal with the shorter days and the greater with St Andrew’s Day on November 30 round. But this is the perfect time of likelihood of rain and inclement weather, – our national day which honours our year to enjoy certain dishes. Creamy but the chance to savour the country’s most patron saint and unique cultural identity. porridge, mouth-watering stews special places without jostling for space or Events and get-togethers are held across concocted from harvested vegetables having the experience marred by congested the whole country and may even extend and local game; nourishing soups roads and endless queues is worth it. into December. There are also a plethora like cullen skink and cock-a-leekie; Scotland a skiers delight. of Christmas and festive markets to delectable shortbread, cranachan and 3-Go walking in a enjoy across all of Scotland’s seven cities, clootie dumpling; all washed down winter wonderland and many of our towns and villages, Whether you are a seasoned mountaineer with a dram of the finest malt. It goes It’s no secret that Scotland’s iconic throughout the advent season. Then, of or a complete newcomer to the world of without saying that Scotland’s foodie landscapes can be especially spectacular course, there’s Hogmanay – a unique snowsports, the Scottish Highlands are a great staples are best enjoyed during the during the winter months. The low-hanging Celtic tradition that marks the New Year. place to be of all kinds of outdoor adventures. winter season in front of a roaring fire.

Page 8 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

World record set as whisky Isle be loving Scotland sells for £1.5 million desert island near Trinidad, encountering cannibals, captives, and mutineers, before ultimately being rescued.

The popularity of Scotland’s islands It is widely considered to be inspired by the life of real-life castaway Alexander Selkirk who lived for four years on a Pacific island called “Más a Tierra”, now part of Chile, rare bottle of Macallan 1926 which was renamed Robinson Crusoe Island 60-year-old has in 1966. Selkirk was from Lower Largo in set a new world record after and the town has a bronze statue and plaque fetching £1.5 million at auction. in memory of him as well as a sign pointing AThe 60-year-old Macallan, described to Robinson Crusoe Island. as the “holy grail” of whisky, from The timing of the poll is particularly cask #263 was the headline sale of the apt as Scotland prepares to celebrate the Ultimate Whisky Collection auction, Year of Coasts and Waters 2020, a year- which was held by Sotheby’s in . A view of the Quiraing on the Isle of Skye at sunrise. long programme of events and activities More than 460 bottles have gone on which will shine a spotlight on these vital sale during the auction, including isitScotland has run a poll to Organised through ScotPulse, the first elements of our landscape. 178 bottlings from The Macallan Fine find out which Scottish islands online research panel just for Scotland, Chris Taylor, VisitScotland Regional & Rare series. The Macallan Fine & people would most like to visit. the poll informed respondents about Leadership Director, said: “As a country we Rare 60 Year Old 1926 bottle (42.6% th The poll, run by the national the 300 anniversary of Robinson are blessed with a vast number of fantastic ABV) was offered for auction by a Vtourism organisation to celebrate the Crusoe and its Scottish connections islands, each with their own unique offering. private American collector and had th 300 anniversary of the novel Robinson before asking them which of Scotland’s The Shetland and Islands, Skye been estimated to sell for £350,000- Crusoe, thought to be based on the life of islands they would most like to visit. and the Outer Hebrides have all received £450,000 – less than a third of the final Scottish castaway Alexander Selkirk, asked Fieldwork took place in September and coveted accolades this year, suggesting auction price. The 60-year-old bottle 1227 respondents from across the country respondents were evenly distributed in our islands are becoming an increasingly is the first to appear from the Fine and to select the island or islands they wanted age, gender and location. attractive proposition for visitors. Rare series in more than a decade. to visit most. The top three islands were Robinson Crusoe was written by This latest poll further highlights the popularity It breaks the previous world record the Isles of Skye, Arran and Harris, closely Daniel Defoe and published in 1719. of Scotland’s islands and I’m delighted to for the most expensive whisky set by followed by the Orkney and Shetland Often credited as marking the beginning see such a range of islands from across the the only bottle of the 1926 Macallan Islands, as well as the Isle of Lewis. of realistic fiction as a literary genre, it country voted for. At VisitScotland we have featuring a hand-painted design by The Isles of Mull and Islay were also very is a contender for the first English novel a marketing focus on sharing the tourism Irish artist Michael Dillon. The bottle popular and Bute, Barra, Iona and Tiree and is presented as an autobiography windfall in lesser known parts of the country went under the hammer at Christie’s in and Colonsay also made the top Scottish of the title character - a castaway who outwith peak times to ensure that every part of London and sold for £1.2m at auction. islands to visit. spends 28 years on a remote tropical the country enjoys the benefits it brings.” of the Month

Weddings at The National Piping Centre Celebrate your "aye-do" in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland

Highland Celebration Tartan

The Scottish Banner is pleased to be offering nspired by the clan , this the Tartan of the Month series highlighting tartan (SRT ref: 12553) celebrates a variety of different, unique and colourful the Highlands and the colours tartans from around the world which are found there. The design is registered with the Scottish Register of Tartans Iinspired in part by the landscape in Edinburgh. The Scottish Register of Tartans of the Highlands and in part by was established by an act of the Scottish the history, with elements of some Parliament in November 2008 and promotes traditional clan tartans and a nod to and preserves information about historic and the events of the Jacobite uprising. www.thepipingcentre.co.uk/weddings contemporary tartans from Scotland and This tartan was designed by Ruth The National Piping Centre, 30-34 McPhater Street, Glasgow, G4 0HW throughout the world. Text and image use is Black who is based in the Highlands Registered in Scotland no. 139271, Charity no. 020391 courtesy of the Scottish Register of Tartans (SRT). and was registered in July, 2019.

The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 9 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

He was presented with the freedom of Crawford Logan as Scrooge in By: Judy Vickers the city and given a scroll, which he kept An Edinburgh Christmas Carol. in his study for the rest of his life. Crowds Photo: Laurence Winram. gathered wherever he went – he wrote the day after arriving at the city: “The hotel is perfectly besieged, and I have been forced to take refuge in a sequestered apartment at the end of a long passage.” When he and Catherine took a trip to the Adelphi Theatre, the orchestra burst into a chorus of Charlie is My Darling. He gave a speech to the crowds which were gathering wherever he went, saying: “I believe I shall never hear the name of the capital of Scotland without a thrill of gratitude and pleasure. I shall love, while I have life, her people, her hills, and her houses, even the very stones of her streets.” How an Edinburgh grave Iconic tales But the fact that he also made time for dinner with Dr William Alison, a medical professor at Edinburgh University and inspired a Christmas Carol social reformer, which may give a clue to why Dickens was strolling in in the first place. Alison was As the holiday season approaches one of the worlds most famous holiday productions, a campaigner for the relief of poverty, believing that overcrowding and insanitary A Christmas Carol, will be played across the world on stages and televisions. Some may conditions were leading to the spread be surprised to learn the inspiration for the Charles Dickens classic character Ebenezer of disease. Poverty – and the plight of the poor – was a passion of Dickens, a Scrooge came from a Scot who was buried in Edinburgh, as Judy Vickers explains. reflection of his own deprived childhood and reflected in the themes and characters is visit to Edinburgh in 1841 was a tombstone engraved “Ebenezer Lennox with the Ebenezer Scrooge we know,” says of his books. The Royal Mile at the time a whirl of activity; the young Scroggie - a meal man” and misread it as Tony Cownie, the writer and director of of his 1841 visit was in a sorry state; with Charles Dickens, not yet 30 but “mean man”, an epitaph that haunted him. An Edinburgh Christmas Carol, this year’s the building of the New Town, between already the acclaimed author He wrote in his notebook: “I thought it was festive production at the Royal Lyceum the 1760s and 1830s, its wealthier citizens Hof soon-to-be classics such as Oliver a grievous message for Eternity. The Scots Theatre in the Scottish capital, which sets had decamped to the stylish streets across Twist and Nicholas Nickleby, was feted at are famous for frugality but mean man was the story back in the city which inspired it. the valley from the drained . parties, given the freedom of the city and an advertisement of a shrivelled soul… this Scroggie, a cousin of the economist The High Street, and more latterly the applauded for a literary lecture. was the emblem of a life surely wasted.” , was born in in Canongate, had gone into a decline and But somewhere in between meeting 1792 – the name comes from a village in were rapidly becoming slums. Edinburgh’s glitterati and being mobbed A Christmas Carol . A merchant dealing in wine, Dickens describes a trip to the Old by an adoring public during his 12-day But it was the shrivelled soul of the slightly whisky and corn, Scroggie secured the first Town in which he saw “more poverty and stay, the author managed to fit in a stroll renamed Scrooge which captured the contract to supply whisky to the Royal Navy sickness in an hour than people would through Canongate Kirkyard. And here public’s imagination when A Christmas offices at Leith, and even became the chief believe in, in a life” and talks of seeing he came across something which proved Carol was published two years later. beverages supplier for King George IV’s visit in a slum tenement “a little, feeble, wan rather more valuable than any of the The story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his to the Capital in 1822, providing bottles sick child. With his little wasted face, and dinners given in his honour by lords and miserly ways, and his visits one Christmas of “Scroggie’s Highland Brandie”. He lived his bright attentive eyes, I can see him ladies – it was the inspiration for one of his Eve from four ghosts – that of his former in the Grassmarket and was well-known now, as I have seen him for several years, most famous characters. He came across business partner and of the Ghosts of for throwing parties – legend has it that looking steadily at us.” One of his most Christmas Past, Present and Yet To Come – he goosed the Countess of Mansfield at a impassioned speeches, fundraising for who teach him to change his ways is famous General Assembly of the The Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick around the globe. And it is in a graveyard, and that he got a maidservant pregnant. Children in London, specifically recalls the confronted with the neglected tomb bearing He died in 1836 and was buried in the miserable sights he saw in Edinburgh. his own name, that Scrooge repents his past Kirkyard’s cemetery - metres away from his Dickens and his wife left Edinburgh on and promises he is not the man he was. famous cousin Adam Smith and just five July 4, heading to Callander via , But Dickens’ misreading of meal man years before Dickens’ stroll. The grave itself walking by Loch Katrine in the evenings, – meaning corn merchant – for mean was lost in 1932 in redevelopment work. then on to Lochearnhead, where Dickens man has had the consequence that the continued to work on his next novel real Ebenezer Scroggie has now gone Moved by this trip to Edinburgh Barnaby Rudge, before taking in Glencoe down in history as the inspiration for As for Dickens, he was greatly moved by this which he described as “perfectly horrific”. the world’s most miserly man. “By all trip to Edinburgh and his subsequent journey Then it was back to London. And while accounts, Scroggie was a really jovial, to the Highlands. He was travelling with his this wasn’t his last trip to Scotland - he Young Dickens. happy generous sort of guy, someone who wife Catherine, whose father George Hogarth was back in Edinburgh in 1847, when doesn’t really deserve to be associated was born and brought up in the city. Hogarth, he said he was “sorry to report the Scott who had trained as a lawyer in Edinburgh Monument a failure” – it was his month- with clients including Sir , gave long summer stay in 1841 which has given Dickens his first break, inviting him to Christmas one of its most iconic tales. contribute more of his “street sketches” to the publication he edited, the Evening Chronicle in London. The series would eventually be collected as his first work,Sketches By Boz, in 1836. Hogarth’s wife, Georgina, was the daughter of George Thomson, the publisher and friend of Burns. No doubt his father- in-law’s Edinburgh illustrious connections, as well as Dickens’ own reputation, helped to make his Edinburgh trip such a whirl of social engagements; his itinerary includes dinners with the judge and literary critic Lord Canongate Kirkyard, Edinburgh. Francis Jeffrey, the painter William Allen and , Edinburgh. publishers Alexander and Robert Blackwood.

Page 10 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Australian Jim Stoddart was born in a Glasgow Tenement and raised in a Glasgow Housing Scheme 1943-1965. Jim will be KINGS CASTLES AND taking readers on a trip down memory lane, of a time and place that will never be the same again, and hopes even if only a “DURTY” WEE RASCALS few people in the Scot’s Diaspora have a dormant folk memory awakened, then he shall be more than delighted.

I had already been the beneficiary of the a pillar and even watch most of the picture the pictures by the people of Govan, the castanets, bull horns, pennants, flags and and talk to her, occasionally guiding place of my birth. It was customary for all other souvenir items from Majorca, Spain, a patron or two to their seats with my performances at cinemas and theatres to Portugal and Yugoslavia over the years torch. At the busy times it could get quite end with the playing of the British National from these more exotic Fair Fortnight boisterous at the Lorne. There were the Anthem and everyone, including me, excursions of my aunt and cousin. Saturday afternoon matinees and lost kids dutifully stood to attention until the end of to attend to and on Friday and Saturday God Save the Queen, before moving off to The Lorne nights the local hooligans to cope with. the exits and our homes. I was now in uniform, chocolate brown The gaffer, Alec, required John, the I was working my shift as usual on what with brass buttons, gold piping and nice big other usher and me to constantly monitor was the evening of Day, the epaulettes. The other staff consisted of the whether people were putting their feet up 30th November 1960. However, when the manager, an alcoholic who we rarely saw, onto the backs of the seats, although that anthem started up that evening, a small The Lorne Cinema the projectionist who we never saw, and the was about the least of our worries. This often group of patrons burst out into singing Born in a tenement in Gorbals Cross, head usher or gaffer, Alec, who did all the caused a bit of an altercation with rowdy Scots wa hae Wi’ Wallace bled, which Of a’ the teddy boys, he wis the boss, locking up but who otherwise kept well out of and un-co-operative patrons, but then together with Scotland the Brave had He had a razor six feet wide, the way. There was a young woman usherette Alec, ‘the heid yin’ would be nowhere to be over time become our country’s unofficial Killed a’ the folk and threw them in the Clyde. up in the balcony among the nice people seen. He was always out of sight, busying anthems. Quite spontaneously everyone who had paid extra. We never saw much himself somewhere else at the first sign of else in the cinema joined in and ‘gave it y Aunt Peggy worked in the of her either. John was the other usher and trouble. John was a good person to have laldy’. As the scratchy recording and refrain ticket office at the Lorne he and I were on together at the weekends, around, a pleasant bloke but a bit of a of God Save the Queen died away Scots Cinema and my cousin, June, on busy nights and we both worked some Glasgow hard man. He worked at a brewery Wa Hae continued with vigour. I walked was the girl who sold the ice nights the rest of the time on our own in the during the day and had ready access to some to my bus that night with a new spring in Mcreams and drinks. They had got me a stalls. We were the people who led people strange alcoholic concoctions. He often had a my step, inspired by this simple, peaceful job there as an usher or ‘chucker oot’ as to their seats with our torches and politely half bottle of near enough 100+ proof spirit act of protest against an anthem that often the locals would have said. My aunt and asked youths to take their feet off the backs secreted in the inside pocket of his usher’s had little emotional affect upon Scottish my cousin worked at the Lorne Cinema of the seats and tone things down when they uniform and was not always fighting fit by citizens. That would have been especially in Kinning Park, part-time, and over and were getting boisterous. the end of the evening. pertinent if they had known the other above their day-time jobs. It gave them the They got me the job at the Lorne when I verses of the song as first performed on extra income to go on continental holidays was seventeen and still at school. I worked Scots wa hae Wi’ Wallace bled 28th September 1745, in the theatre in each year at a time when most Glaswegians a shift of four nights a week at the cinema I dreaded some of the so-called popular Dury Lane in London which included; were still heading off to Saltcoats and other and had to juggle this with my homework films for they would run for six or seven Clyde Coast resorts for their summertime and study commitments, as well as being nights instead of the usual three or four. “Lord grant that Marshal Wade, respites. The Fair Fortnight stemming back able to spend time with my girlfriend, Jean. I saw April Love and heard Pat Boone may by thy mighty aid, to medieval times was Glasgow’s traditional She often came over to the cinema by bus sing the title song enough times to last Victory bring. holiday time when most of its heavy and met me at closing time and then I saw me a lifetime. That made me finally move May he sedition hush, and like a torrent rush, industry closed down completely and the her back home to Pollok on the bus. On the on to other things, but not before I had Rebellious Scots to crush. city took a deep breath of fresh seaside air. quiet nights I could park myself in front of witnessed a touching end to a night at God save the King.”

The must-have reference volume for anyone interested in the Scottish diaspora.

Incorporates updated research by leading academics in Scottish history.

Completely revised, updated, and expanded, to reflect the many changes that have occurred over the twenty years since the publication of the last edition.

Histories and badges for 346 clans and families with nearly 200 additional Crest designs and hundreds of new images.

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The Scottish Banner AD .indd 1 15/11/2019 09:39 The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 11 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Edinburgh’s popular annual Christmas celebration returns for 2019

Princes Street alive with festive fun.

Castle Street once again becomes Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, Frank Ross, Santa’s Edinburgh base this Christmas with said: “There is simply no better place his Grotto welcoming naughty and nice to celebrate Christmas than Scotland’s children every day until Christmas Eve. Capital. This winter will see Edinburgh’s 24 Doors of Advent returns to offer a peek Christmas cheer spread even further across behind the scenes of some of Edinburgh’s the city. The Festival is a chance for us to key institutions and venues, including the celebrate our local talent and creativity and home to Scottish rugby, BT Murrayfield I’m looking forward to the launch of our Stadium, The Sir city’s Christmas with Light Night providing Centre, a centre for spiritual and mental a stage for so many local performers. The Star Flyer. wellness named in honour of the famous Alongside this, budding young artists will writer who spent many years studying have the chance to showcase their work Community Centre in Craigmillar, spiritualism and the iconic Robin Chapel with Winter Windows, the Christmas Drumbrae Library and Community with its stunning stained-glass windows. markets will be awash with Scottish Hub, Corstorphine Community Centre, The Nativity Scene moves this year to produce, and this year we will have sensory Gilmerton Community Centre, Pentland the Mound beneath the Christmas Tree backpacks available free of charge to make Community Centre – Oxgangs, Westside donated by the Hordaland County Council the visit to the festival more accessible for Plaza – Wester Hailes, Granton Primary in Norway. The Nativity Carol Concert, people with autism or who have difficulty School, Inch Community Education organised in conjunction with Edinburgh processing sensory information.” Centre, The Crags Centre by Holyrood Churches Together, takes place at 3pm on Edinburgh’s Christmas takes place Park, Craigentinny Community Centre and 1 December on Mound Place. until 4 January 2020. For details see: Broomhouse Community Hub. www.edinburghschristmas.co.uk One of the best Christmas Christmas markets celebrations in Europe Also new to Edinburgh’s Christmas this Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam, producers year and returning after its sell out success of Edinburgh’s Christmas said: “We’re at the Edinburgh International Festival delighted to be returning with our seventh 2019, Canadian artists Janet Cardiff and season of Edinburgh’s Christmas. George Bures Miller present Night Walk for The nearly 300,000 unique visitors from Edinburgh, an intimate, one-on-one video Edinburgh and the Lothians in 2018 show

All images courtesy of Edinburgh Christmas. All experience taking audiences on a specially what a popular local event it is but it’s also curated tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town at the time of year when the city welcomes dinburgh’s Christmas 2019, the twilight. This unique opportunity allows in hundreds of thousands of visitors and, hugely popular, world-renowned participants to discover a new Edinburgh once again, we’re able to provide them with celebrations which last year where history and memory collide and one of the best Christmas celebrations in welcomed almost 1 million where our perceptions of what is real are Europe. We’re particularly excited to be Eunique visitors is again ready to welcome challenged. Featuring a three-dimensional able to introduce Community Christmas to to the world to the Scottish capital this soundscape, Night Walk engages all senses twelve different locations across Edinburgh, month. This year’s offer promises another as audiences are led through the capital by bringing communities together locally to spectacular festive season for people of all Janet Cardiff’s voice, discovering the city celebrate Christmas and also to officially ages to enjoy. past and present. start the celebrations on the Royal Mile with Brand new this season is Community Once again East Princes Street Gardens Light Night and a very special appearance Christmas, a wonderful, free, fun hosts one of the UK’s most stunning from Santa Claus. Merry Christmas!” celebration which brings local Edinburgh Christmas Markets, offering a range of craft communities together to spread festive and food and drink stalls as well as rides cheer across the whole city. Community and attractions, all against the backdrop of Christmas sees 12 locally significant the iconic Edinburgh Castle. The Market’s buildings, across all four of Edinburgh’s rides include, among others, the famous localities, come alive with festive 60m high Star Flyer with spectacular 360° projections over 12 consecutive nights, a views of the city centre, equally not-for- new building every night. Each event also the-faint-hearted Forth 1 Big Wheel, the features a different local choir performing most Instagrammable Christmas spot some of the best-loved festive tunes in Edinburgh the Christmas Tree Maze, alongside the projection. The locations fairground staple – Helter Skelter and, for Community Christmas. are: Abbeyhill Primary School, Sandy’s the keen little travellers, Santa Train.

Page 12 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

By: Lady Fiona Lady MacGregor’s Scotland MacGregor Lady MacGregor of MacGregor – otherwise known as British writer and broadcaster Fiona Armstrong - works for ITV news and current affairs. Fiona’s husband is the Chief of , Sir Malcolm MacGregor of MacGregor. She is an active member of , so their lives are interwoven with all things tartan. The couple live in the Scottish Borderlands, although filming and writing takes Fiona all over Scotland.

Books are big business in Scotland. Indeed, the most unlikely people could be of collecting for the charity, the pupils hold In fact, the country has more than fifty found click-clacking with their needles. a concert. These Scottish youngsters recite literary festivals and I am just back from Among them, members of the racy, literary poetry and sing songs from far-off lands. one of my favourites. ‘Bookmark’ at London Bloomsbury set. And they have reason to celebrate. Over the Blairgowrie in Perthshire is a fairly new It is good to know that the old skills are years they have raised a staggering forty event but it is going from strength to still alive. Pastimes that might once have thousand pounds to help children in other strength. Attracting famous authors and been seen as square and now considered parts of the world. It is some achievement. thousands of keen readers. stress busters. For my part, I am not averse to This time I am not just there to sit in the a bit of tapestry work. In fact, I can confess to Tartan hall of fame audience and hear a talk. This time, I am creating a fair few cushions in my time. Back at home, meanwhile, we are Tapestry work by Lady Fiona. singing for my supper. I am interviewing having an interesting time because the two women, one who’s produced a book MacGregor chief is being captured on reetings from a frosty Scotland on wool, the other on cotton and silk. And now, as 24th Chief of Clan canvas. His ancestors were all painted, and where the chief and I have been their likenesses hang in the hall. And now, hibernating; wrapping up warm Tapestry Gregor, my husband’s image as 24th Chief of Clan Gregor, my husband’s and hugging the fire. With no On the face of it, knitting and sewing might must join the tartan hall of fame. image must join the tartan hall of fame. Grush to brave the great outdoors, we are not sound that exciting. But what fascinating This masterpiece is being created in head down in books. stories these ladies have unearthed! the dining room. The table pushed back, And why not?! Scotland is a nation of Clare Hunter comes from Glasgow and I have stitched flowers, birds and animals. and dust sheets spread on surfaces. For it readers. This is the land of Robert Burns and her work, Threads of Life, is a history of This work has been carried out on trains and is possible that the artist may flick the odd Walter Scott. It is the birthplace of Arthur the world through the eye of a needle. in cafes. It has been done in kitchens and spot of oil paint as he works. Conan Doyle who gave us . It tells how folk have used the language of doctor’s waiting rooms. That stubby needle We are lucky to get him. For he is a And J.M Barry who invented Peter Pan. sewing to make their voices heard over the laboriously going in and out. sought-after Scottish portrait painter. Ewan Our house is full of books and where centuries. From ancient tapestries clothes, Now, ‘look after the pennies and the McLure hails from Aberdeen. Look him up we live, we are not that far from Scotland’s to embroidered banners on the battlefield, pounds will look after themselves’ is the on the internet and you will see his work. national book town. Wigtown is about to silken cushions in our sitting rooms. saying. And that is certainly true for a little Being painted is not a job for the faint- an hour and a half away. It sits on the Esther Rutter, meanwhile, is the wool school I visit this month. For six decades hearted. The sitter must stay still for hours Galloway coast – and this year this literary lady. She comes from Fife and her book is a youngsters at Lochmaben Primary in south- whilst the artist creates. It can take four centre has come of age. gold mine of facts. This Golden Fleece tells west Scotland have been putting money into days to complete. So, stamina is a must. 21 years ago, Wigtown was a run-down how knitting has not just been for grannies. a charity box. The scheme was started in 1959 Every now and then, the chief is allowed place. Over the years the tourists and There were the gnarled fishermen that sat by the then headmaster and each week every to leave the room to grab a coffee and the curious came to this scholarly part on the quayside, fashioning their gansies. pupil and member of staff has put in a penny. stretch his limbs. It is my turn next. So, watch of Scotland and the place has now been There were the prisoners of war who The money raised was given to the ‘Save this space. When both paintings are finished, invigorated by reading and writing. knitted to keep up spirits. the Children’. And now to mark sixty years you may get a sneak preview…

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The Scottish Banner AD .indd 2 15/11/2019 12:46 The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 13 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Be together at Edinburgh’s Edinburgh’s Hogmanay programme announced with warm invitation to friends old and new to come together to celebrate in Hogmanay 2019 the home of Hogmanay.

Torchlight Procession. All images courtesy of All Edinburgh Hogmanay.

e together-that is the invitation As New Year’s Day dawns, and Scotland’s unique collaborations with composers, It brings new entertainment and attractions issued to residents and visitors, to celebratory Year of Coasts and Waters visual artists and artists working to realise but also continues to honour our long- friends old and new by Edinburgh’s 2020 begins, what better way to clear any the letters in live animation which will held traditions. So, whether you join the Hogmanay organisers as they foggy heads from the night before than then be projected across the city. Torchlight Procession, spend your midnight Bannounce a raft of top artists, musicians, with a swift dip in the ?! The moment as part of the biggest and best authors, puppeteers, street performers, much loved, long held traditional Loony Street Party in the world or if you begin the drummers and superstar DJs from Dook returns to the beautiful shores of Edinburgh is the world’s next decade with a brave Loony Dook. Make Scotland and across the world as part South Queensferry which sees thousands sure to be here, be part of it and be together.” of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay. Be Together of brave souls decked out in the finest festival city with internationally Edinburgh is the world’s festival city with is more than an invitation, it’s the core fancy dress take the plunge into the renowned festivals year-round internationally renowned festivals year- thematic that runs throughout the 2019 icy waters to welcome in the New Year, round and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay kicks programme which explores Scotland and raising thousands of pounds for a range of and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay them off at the beginning of every year. Edinburgh’s relationship with itself and charities in the process. kicks them off at the beginning For more details see: the rest of the world as the international www.edinburghshogmanay.com spotlight shines on Scotland’s capital. The biggest and best of every year. Street Party in the world The home of Hogmanay As dusk falls on January 1st Message from Marking the 27th edition of the world’s the Skies returns to illuminate Edinburgh’s Councillor Donald Wilson, Culture best New Year Party, the three-day buildings, streets and monuments until and Communities Convener for the City festival combines much loved Scottish Burns Night on the 25thJanuary 2020, this of Edinburgh Council, said: “Edinburgh’s traditions with the very best contemporary year taking inspiration from Scotland’s Hogmanay truly remains the place to artists and acts from across the world coasts and waters and looking at the be to ring in the new year and this year’s in Edinburgh, the home of Hogmanay. central role they’ve had and continue exciting programme is no exception. Celebrations are officially ignited on to have in moulding Scottish identity. An internationally-acclaimed event, the 30th December with the iconic Marking the beginning of Scotland’s Year of Hogmanay draws crowds from across the Torchlight Procession in partnership Coasts and Waters, Message from the Skies world but also remains uniquely ours. with VisitScotland, the family friendly 2020 sees five Scottish authors; Charlotte event which sees a cast of thousands Runcie, Irvine Welsh, Kathleen Jamie, joined by pipers, drummers and fire Kayus Bankole and Robin Robertson pen performers to forge a river of light through a love letter to Scotland, exploring how we Edinburgh’s historic heart, culminating in regard ourselves as a coastal nation while . Following recent tradition, considering how the world sees us. The torchbearers will collectively gather in letter will be a living letter, animated and formation in Holyrood Park to create the brought to life through a set of new and outline of a hugely symbolic image of two people joining hands, captured from the air and beamed across the world. There is also a platform for local bands to entertain the crowds in Holyrood Park, culminating in a stunning fireworks display. Edinburgh’s world-famous Street Party features a non-stop six-hour party as Princes Street is transformed and animated by a host of international, UK and Scottish artists. Collaboration and artistic exchange remain at the heart of the festival as Scottish companies work alongside European acts Loony Dook. Midnight fireworks. to create bold new performances.

Page 14 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 Live Music & Sword Fighting!

A Winter Indoor Celtic Festival Saturday, February 15, 2020 WNC Agriculture Center Fletcher, NC Tickets Available! ashevillecelticfest.com ASHEVILLE

CELTIC FEST

The

01_ACF_ScotBnr_11-12-19.indd 1 11/12/19 10:29 AM THE SCOTTISH BANNER The Cairngorm Reindeer

At home in the Highlands All images courtesy of the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd. images courtesy Reindeer of the Cairngorm All

This month see’s the eyes of the world looking out for reindeer to deliver the magic of the holiday’s for millions of children. For nearly 70 years the beautiful Cairngorms have been home to Britain’s only free ranging herd of reindeer. The team who mange the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd took the time to answer some questions about how the herd found their home in the Highlands, have thrived there and how they help bring Christmas joy to people across the UK.

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd is The Cairngorm National Park Training for the reindeer to There is also plenty of tasty food Britain’s only free-ranging herd of is in one of the most beautiful pull a sleigh can start from involved as bribery! The calves are reindeer found in the Cairngorm parts of Scotland. It is also UK’s when they are five months trained to walk on a headcollar at mountains in Scotland. And largest National Park and a old, takes three years and five months old, join the big boys at Christmas events, and then are whilst it is believed the Vikings thriving habitat for reindeer. involves them being castrated. introduced to wearing a simple hunted reindeer how did they get Can you tell us why the park is Can you tell us more? harness. By the time they first pull reintroduced to Scotland? so perfect for the reindeer? Just like socialising a puppy, it is a sleigh, alongside an experienced Our herd were reintroduced in 1952 by a Sami The Cairngorms offer the only sub-arctic essential that reindeer are exposed reindeer, at three years old, they rarely reindeer herder, Mikel Utsi, and his wife Ethel eco-system left in the UK. This habitat to different sights and sounds from bat an eyelid and tend to act as if Lindgren. From the original eight reindeer, offers a cooler climate and ideal food plants a young age, so they don’t become they’ve done it all their life. We castrate with a few more imports over the years to keep for the reindeer, including ample lichen worried by any situation. As a herd most of our male reindeer when they the bloodlines varied, the herd has grown which is essential for them in winter. animal, they learn best from other are fully grown at three years old as to around 150. We maintain the number at There is also a vast area of wild mountainous reindeer, so all our handling is done this helps prevent inbreeding and this by managing the breeding - none of our land for the reindeer to roam free on in their alongside older animals, who lead training them to harness gives them reindeer are sold or used for meat. natural habitat - meeting all of their needs. by example. an ongoing purpose in life!

The Christmas team. Reindeer in summer.

Page 16 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

This month is no doubt a very Therefore, in order to grow a bigger, busy one for the herd with better set the next year, the reindeer Christmas fast approaching. must cast them and start afresh. The How does the herd help people other reason is that carrying the extra weight of antlers (up to 12kg for the bulls) across the UK celebrate the through the heavy winter snows seriously festive season? compromises their chances of survival. Our docile mature male castrated reindeer The bulls only need them for dominance are trained to pull the sleigh and head during the autumn rut, then cast them out in teams of six on short trips to meet immediately after, usually before the public across the UK. They are well- Christmas (which says something about socialised from a young age and as a Rudolph!). The females hold their (much domesticated animal take it all in their smaller) antlers longer which means they Reindeer of course are very much stride. There is a common misconception are in charge in winter, when they are a part of Highland culture and that reindeer are ‘wild’ but in fact they pregnant and most in need of the food. are more than just for Christmas. have been domesticated for thousands of The herd has grown quite a bit How can visitors to Aviemore years, like dogs and horses, so are used to interact with the herd when in working alongside people. since the 1950s to over 150 today. What, either positive or negative, Scotland throughout the year? Many kids will leave a carrot impacts to the local environment We have the Reindeer Centre open in or cookie out for Santa and his do you need to keep an eye on? Glenmore from February to Hogmanay, reindeer on Christmas. with daily guided trips to see the herd Whilst reindeer are a native species here in Can you tell us what reindeer on the hillside. This is the perfect way for the Highlands and are comparatively light on people to meet and learn about reindeer most enjoy feeding on? the ground, we are still careful to ensure our in their natural habitat and experience the The favourite food of the reindeer is numbers don’t grow to a point where they conditions that they are so well adapted actually lichen, which grows high on impact the grazing. We have held the number to firsthand. The reindeer are incredibly the mountains on the ground among at around 150 for the last twenty or so years, friendly and delighted to come and eat out of the heather. It’s not the most nutritious which keeps grazing pressure low whilst visitors’ hands. We also have a small group of of feed but contains enough goodness giving us enough genetic diversity to prevent reindeer in the Paddocks at the Centre from The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd to help the reindeer through the winter inbreeding. We also limit the numbers as Easter to Hogmanay, which allows those are in Aviemore in the Highlands when other food is scarce. They also every reindeer has a name and there is a limit unable to make the walk onto the hillside to of Scotland. For details see: enjoy a special cereal mix that we to how many we can remember! still see some of our beautiful animals. www.cairngormreindeer.co.uk give them as a supplementary feed, a bit like your porridge. The only time reindeer are allowed carrots is on Christmas eve, as they help them to see when flying in the dark! Some may be surprised to learn that reindeer are the only species of deer in which both the males and the females grow antlers. Why do antlers fall off the reindeer each year? There are a couple of reasons. Antlers are made of solid bone, so once they have hardened at the end of the summer, they cannot grow any more.

A Christmas parade.

The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 17 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

IN SCOTLAND TODAY

was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in July 2015. Holders of the new £20 polymer note will recognise a new image of the Forth Bridges, with the Queensferry Crossing visible in the background. In celebration of the longest three-tower, cable stayed bridge in the world, the Queensferry Crossing will be celebrated in its own right by featuring on a limited number of commemorative £20 notes. Sir Walter Scott will remain on the front of the note. Tara Foley, Managing Director , said: “Bank of Scotland has issued bank notes for more than 320 years, showcasing the country’s proud history. The Queensferry Crossing is the perfect example of Scottish ingenuity and innovation, and that’s why we have decided to commemorate the landmark site on a collection of our £20 Polymer notes.” Like the £10 Polymer note, the £20 note will also introduce the tactile emboss feature to aid the visually impaired. All existing paper Bank Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. of Scotland £20 notes will be gradually withdrawn following the issue of the new note, but any currently in circulation will Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Inverness ranked continue to be accepted at shops, banks and cash payment machines. among top 10 cities to live and work in UK Skye flag competition in launched

Inverness, Edinburgh and Aberdeen revealed to the world for the first time The Art Gallery was built in 1885 on the are ranked top in Scotland, and among in at least 600 years thanks to amazing site of the former Blackfriars Dominican the top 10 locations overall in league facial reconstruction technology. Friary, believed to have been founded tables of the best cities to live and work The man, known only as Skeleton 125 between AD1222–1249. The friary and its in the UK. The latest Demos-PwC Good (SK125) was among 60 entire skeletons church, dedicated to St John the Baptist, Growth for Cities Index shows Aberdeen and 4272 human bone fragments from were destroyed by reformers in AD1560. leapfrogging Edinburgh(7th position) at least 381 individuals discovered on Excavations outside the Gallery into sixth spot in the UK. A separate the site of the Art Gallery shortly after uncovered a red brick charnel house index covering just Scotland, Wales and the redevelopment work began in 2015. containing three Victorian coffins, Northern puts Inverness in pole The discovery resulted in construction holding a mass of disarticulated human position, ahead of other Scottish and work being suspended to allow for remains. Inside the Gallery excavations UK cities, including Aberdeen, thanks archaeological investigations. revealed in situ burials including the to its quality of life. PwC says the two Following extensive post-excavation 60 skeletons and the remainder of the indices have been calculated differently research, AOC Archaeology Group have human bones. SK125 was recovered so it is not possible to directly compare reconstructed SK125 and concluded that from the lowest level of the burials, with them. The UK-wide index covers 42 he was a mature adult male over 46 years other skeletons dated to the period 1050 cities and is based on 11 indicators of old. At between 159 and 166cm tall (5’2”- to 1410. Of the 60 skeletons, 56 were The search has begun for a flag socio-economic growth. These include 5’5”), he was shorter than the average male adults (18+ years), one an adolescent design to represent the Isle of Skye. employment, health, income and skills, for the later medieval period. He suffered (13 years) and three were children of six, The competition is open to people of all while housing affordability, commuting from extensive dental disease, including eight and 11 years of age. Of the adult ages from anywhere on the planet. times, environmental factors and tooth loss, periodontal disease, cavities skeletons, 26 were male and six were The competition is being guided by the income inequality are also included, as and a chronic abscess. female, and they ranged in age from - the ancient body is the number of new business start- Dr Paula Milburn of AOC 18 to 25 through to 46 years and older. responsible for the registration of all ups. Oxford retained its place as the top Archaeology Group explained: “SK 125 The remains provided evidence of a flags and Coats of Arms. The Honorary ranked city in the UK this year, followed has provided us with a first fascinating strenuous, physically active lifestyle with Vexillologist to the Court of the Lord by Reading and Southampton. Bristol glimpse of one of the people buried on high rates of dental disease. Lyon, Philip Tibbetts has been on Skye and round off the top five. the site of Aberdeen Art Gallery over 600 visiting schools to encourage the pupils years ago. The on-going post-excavation Bank of Scotland unveils two to enter the competition. The final flag Archaeologists put face to 600 work is examining the remains in new £20 polymer note designs design will be unveiled in March, after year-old medieval man detail and will provide us with amazing which it will become a freely useable information on the kind of people symbol for all to display and associate buried here, including their ages, with the Isle of Skye. Phillip Tibbets said gender, health and lifestyles.” the key to a successful flag design usually Dr Milburn added that the man lies in its simplicity and symbolism. displayed the effects of age, with He advises entrants to use no more than degenerative joint disease observed in three basic colours in coming up with a the middle and lower back. flag that should be bold, distinctive and Research also indicated that, while many meaningful. “The flag should be simple individuals buried at the site display enough to draw it from memory, and ‘local’ values – consistent with growing The Bank of Scotland has unveiled the it shouldn’t include writing and other up on soils local to Aberdeen – he was design of its new Polymer £20 note intricate detail which is difficult to see not local to Aberdeen but perhaps spent which will enter circulation early in at a distance,” he said. “But given Skye’s his childhood in an area such as the the new-year. The front of the note will iconic status, the potential for both the north-west Highlands or Outer Hebrides. continue to feature the portrait of the design and subsequent usage of a flag for Fascinatingly, sulphur isotope data – Scottish novelist and poet, Sir Walter the island is incredible. It’s fantastic to The face of a medieval man whose which can reveal residence later in life – Scott, alongside the image of The Mound see Skye become the latest community remains were found during Aberdeen indicates that he may have spent the last in Edinburgh. The distinctive red Forth to start the journey of developing its own Art Gallery’s redevelopment has been years of his life in or around Aberdeen.” Bridge remains on the reverse which flag to fly proudly alongside the Saltire.”

Page 18 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

By: David McVey Across the river, Dunn Square is laid out in Italianate style to match the Town Hall and features several statues, including a stern Queen Victoria, who looks nothing like Jenna Coleman. The square commemorates Sir William Dunn, who was Paisley’s MP in the 1890s. A Day in Paisley St Mirren FC used to play at a fine old stadium in Love Street, just north of Gilmour Street Station. On your way there from the town centre, you would pass the entrance to Fountain Gardens, a small formal park gifted to the town in 1868 by the Coats family (again). The centrepiece was the Grand Fountain, which was cast by the Glasgow’s Sun Foundry. We think of the Victorians as staid and humourless, a bit like the Queen Victoria statue in Dunn Square. But they created the Grand Fountain which is exuberant, colourful, exotic, funny and plain off-the- wall, with its gilded herons and cherubs squirting jets of water from alligators they hold like machine-guns. And then there are the four life-size walruses cheerfully Paisley Abbey. squirting water from their nostrils. The Grand Fountain had been showing Situated 10 minutes from Glasgow, Paisley is Scotland’s largest town with a rich history its age but is now beautifully restored to its original condition having been especially in textiles. Surrounded by rolling countryside, Paisley is home to a host of relaunched in the summer of 2014. I’d dare to call it one of Scotland’s great man-made architectural treasures, hidden gems and a vibrant history as David McVey explains. wonders and it really should be better known. You’ll like it and it’ll make you n the Middle Ages a monk crossed I’ve been to many places of Christian a proud reputation for attracting students laugh. Not many fountains manage that. to Scotland from Ireland and built worship - for example, St Giles’ in from disadvantaged backgrounds - and a church near the White Cart Water Edinburgh, Notre Dame in Paris, St Vitus Vanish stain remover was developed there! Buddies in modern Renfrewshire. He was in Prague - where the sheer volume of Paisley folk are known as ‘Buddies’, Ilater remembered as St Mirin or Mirren visitors, all merrily snapping selfies, Textile town though no one is really sure why. and the town that grew up around his detracts from the experience. Paisley Paisley was a textile town, a weaving town, Buddies who have achieved fame include church became Paisley. Abbey is a happier place to visit; still a thread town. It became a world centre of Doctor Who and Sherlock writer Steven a parish church, it’s rarely overrun by the trade in the 18th and 19th centuries and Moffat, Scotland cricketer Majid Haq, Scotland’s largest town tourists and you get a greater sense of specialised in intricately patterned shawls Scotland footballers Davie Hay and Archie Paisley is now Scotland’s largest town what it’s for. Inside you’ll find the tomb of modelled on those formerly imported from Gemmill, artists John Byrne and Sandy (anything that’s bigger is a city) and is Robert III, a memorial window to William Kashmir. They cornered the market so well Stoddart and actors Tom Conti, Gerard dominated by Paisley Abbey. The abbey Wallace, the historic Barochan Cross, and a that these are now widely-known as paisley Butler, David Tennant and Phyllis Logan. dates from 1163, and was dedicated memorial tablet to John Witherspoon. shawls displaying the paisley pattern. The town really punches above its weight to no less than four saints, only one of Witherspoon was a signatory to the The profits from Paisley’s thread in music; think of Kenneth McKellar, Carol whom had a connection with Paisley; American Declaration of Independence. and textiles wealth were ploughed into Laula, Gerry Rafferty and Paulo Nutini. St Mirin. The town’s Roman Catholic A minister from East Lothian, he served in many of the town’s impressive buildings. The town is particularly proud of Rafferty, cathedral also carries his name and so, Paisley’s Laigh Kirk; the building survives a singer-songwriter who had a real purple of course, does the town’s football club; as the Paisley Arts Centre. He then moved patch in the late 1970s and early 1980s if you take the train to watch St Mirren to the USA where he became president and whose Baker Street is one of the most FC play, you alight at Paisley St James of Princeton University. Witherspoon is Paisley was a textile recognisable tracks in music. Sadly, he died Station. Paisley is full of saints. well-remembered in Paisley. There’s a street in 2011 but his home town is very proud By 1830, much of Paisley Abbey was named after him and a statue, by Paisley town, a weaving town, of him. There’s now a street named Gerry in ruins, but it has undergone several sculptor Sandy Stoddart, stands outside Rafferty Drive and in Browns Lane, near the programmes of since then. the town’s university. a thread town. town centre, there’s an impressive mural of The oldest parts date from the 12th The former Paisley College became the Rafferty, based on the cover of his City to century, while the adjoining Place (i.e. University of Paisley in 1992. I worked there City album. The original cover was painted ‘palace’) of Paisley is a monastic range for 14 happy years but, like many others, was The Thomas Coats Memorial Baptist by Paisley artist John Byrne while Danny of the 15th century. It was also restored saddened when it changed its name to the Church soars impressively across from McDermott produced the mural. during the 20th century and the Abbey vague ‘University of the West of Scotland’. the university; the Coats family were There are several music-related pieces of café and shop are based there. It has a fine record of education and research, a renowned Paisley thread dynasty. street art around Brown’s Lane (I’m not sure Thomas Coats was a devout Baptist, what links Jimi Hendrix and John Lennon but the building never sat well with a have to Paisley…) but others address football; denomination that often favours modest perhaps the most impressive celebrates St simplicity. The congregation moved out Mirren FC’s Scottish Cup win in 1987. in 2015 and the building is now being Paisley has applied in the past to be granted refurbished as an events venue. city status, but I think it should instead Paisley Museum claims to be Scotland’s make the most of being our largest town. Its first municipal museum; it was built history, its heritage and its people - Buddies - between 1871 and 1884 to a design by are hard to match in any city or town. John Honeyman and funded by another member of the Coats family. It houses a fine collection of paisley shawls and much else, though at the time of writing it was closed for a major refurbishment. Near the abbey is the Clark Town Hall, dating from 1882. It was built with a bequest from George A Clark, another textile magnate. It’s an imposing building and a popular Queen Victoria statue and Clark Town Hall. wedding venue. The Grand Fountain.

The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 19 Welcome to our “Clansified”listing of ScottishTHE Clans, SCOTTISH Societies and Clubs. BANNER If you would like to add your Clan please contact our office for full details. Our address and phone Calling the Clans numbers are located on page 2. If you are contacting your Clan be sure to tell them you saw them in the Scottish Banner and please support these great community organisations.

CLAN DONNACHAIDH SOCIETY Clan Baird Society Worldwide Membership invited to all who share the names: Society Membership is open to those descended Duncan, Robertson, Reid, etc. Society in from Baird, Barde, Bard, Beard, Beaird, Brd, UK: London & Southern Counties * & Highlands of Australia Bayard, Bardt, Barth and Biard or varied Australia Inc. Canada: Ontario * Western Canada spellings of the name of Scottish origin. Australia: New South Wales * Victoria * Queensland * Western Australia Invites all Frasers CHEIF: Grant Davidson of Davidston cordially invites to New Zealand: New Zealand and Fraser In addition to the Society newsletter and the opportunity membership all who bear one of the Clan Names, and all who can Europe: Spain to join our clan society. to associate with fellow clansman members may trace their descent from an ancestor bearing one of these Names: Africa: South Africa query the Society geneologist. For information write: Davidson; Davison; Dawson; Davis; Davie; Davey; Davy; Day; USA: Arizona * Carolinas * Florida * Gulf Coast * Mid-Atlantic * New All members receive a copy of our quarterly Dye;Dyson; Dawson; Dea; Dean; Deane; Deas; Deason; Dees; Mexico * Mid-West * Northeast * Northern California * Pacific Northwest * newsletter “Strawberry Leaves” Dr. Debra J. Baird, President Rocky Mountains * South * Southern California * Texas * Upper Mid-West 3491 County Road 3459, Haleyville, AL 35565 Dee; Dey; Daw; Dow; Dhai; Kay; Keay; Key; Keys; MacDade; Membership enquiries to Don Chitts Email: [email protected] MacDaid; MacDavid; MacDavett; MacDagnie; MacDagny; Visit our website to learn more about , our Ph: (03) 9754 5120 [email protected] MacDhai; McKeddie. In addition we welcome into membership all History & Traditions, the Clan Museum in Scotland, the DNA Regional Directors for Australia who have a family association with the Clan Davidson. Project, the new Struan Kirk Appeal, & locate a Branch near you. Website: http://clanfraseraustralia.org David and Patricia Benfell Applications may be made online: www.clandavidson.org.au http://www.donnachaidh.com/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: The Clan Donnachaidh Society website: www.clanbairdsociety.com or contact the Hon. Secretary Mr Dennis Hill, J.P, P.O. Box 519 Email: [email protected] Pages/Clan-Fraser-Society-of-Australia/ Baulkham Hills NSW 1755 [email protected] 0431 527 662 482236358590288

Clan Bell of Australia The House of North America “under the patronage of the High Association Cordially invites membership inquiries from persons Council of the Chiefs of Clan Donald” Gospatric the Earl Named Bell (all spellings), their descendants and High Commissioner Mr Lachlan Macdonald Eligible blood or marriage, all descendants of Includes name variations such as friends. Computerized Genealogical data base available State Commissioners The Gospatric: Dunbar, Clugston, Corbett, Dundas, Galbreath, Catbreath, Gilbraith etc. to help members in their research. Quarterly Edgar, Grey, Heryng, Home, Knox, Nisbett, Peddie, newsletter published. Tents hosted at major Scottish NSW Mr Lachlan Macdonald games from coast to coast. Qld Mr A. Neil Macdonald Strickland, Washington, Wedderburn and all DNA testing project, members only SA Ms Therese McCutcheon spelling variations of each name. Also all other Your Bell ancestry is important! Vic Mr Norman A Macdonald families who were associated with The Gospatric. databases, Biennial gatherings, Visit our web site: www.clanbell.org WA Ms Pamela McDonald blog, Quarterly journal. Contact our Membership Chairperson: Pauline Bell Chieftain David C. Dunbar 1513 Anterra Drive, Wake Forest, NC 27587 [email protected] 16419 Carlton Vale Ct. Email: [email protected] www.clangalbraith.org CLAN DONALD QUEENSLANDThere is no joy without Clan Donald Tomball, TX 77377-8488

Commissioner: Neil Macdonald Ph: 0412 090990 Email: [email protected] FamilyWeb: of www.clandonaldqld.orgBruce Clan Donald Edmonstone ELIGIBILITY: Those with the name of International,MacDonald Macdonald McDonald Inc. McDonell, Donald, OR of one of the Septs of Clan Family of Bruce International,Donald, Inc., ORthe with only a connection such organization through family lineage. Queensland Clan Society recognized by the heredity chief of the Name of Bruce, The Rt. Hon. Earl of Elgin and Kincardine, is a non-profitThere is no joy without Clan Donald Commissioner: Neil Macdonald Invites membership to anyone of the surname organization established to create kinship amongst its family Ph: 0412 090990 or variations:- Edmiston/e, Edmondston, members and promote interest in the Family of Bruce and Email: [email protected] Edmanson, Edmeston, Edmonson, its history. Membership is open to persons who qualify Edmundson, etc. Chieftain Sir Archibald Web: www.clandonaldqld.org by surname, by decent, or by recognized septs: Carlisle, Edmonstone Bt of Duntreath Carruthers, Crosby, Randolph and Stenhouse. ELIGIBILITY: Those with the name of MacDonald Contact: Mal Edmiston www.clangregor.com Membership inquiries should be directed to: Macdonald McDonald McDonell, Donald, 3 Laguna Ave For membership contact Keith MacGregor Donald E. Bruce Polly A. (Bruce) Tilford, Secretary OR of one of the Septs of Clan Donald, P.O Box 56, Redding Ridge, CT 06876 President 5561 Earl Young Road Kirwan, Qld, 4817 [email protected]. 1051 Eagle Ridge Trail Bloomington, IN 47408 OR with a connection through family lineage. 61 (0)7 4755 4370 Peter Lawrie, Secretary Stillwater, Minnesota 55082 www.familyofbruce.org There is no joy without Clan Donald [email protected] Clan6 The Esplanade,Gregor Broughty Society Ferry, Australasia DD5 2EL Scotland All MacGregors and Septs of our Clan are Clan Donald, U.S.A., Inc. invited to join one of the oldest Clan Societies Membership is open only to persons of in Scotland Est 1822. If you live in Australia or the blood of Macdonald, however spelled New Zealand, please contact our clan or of the blood of a recognized associate representativeClan in GregorAustralia; family or is related by marriage or legal Clanadoption to either ofDonald these write for more Frank McGregor info and a complete Sept list. Diane Carey-Schmitz ClanSociety Gregor Society U.S.A.1685 Casitas AvenueInc. PO Box 14 Pasadena, CA 91103, NORTH HOBART TAS 7002 Membership is open [email protected] to persons oft the blood Elliot Clan Society, U.S.A. Email:Australasia [email protected] All MacGregors andWeb. Septs www.clangregor.com of our Clan are invited to join NSW Inc. of Macdonald, however spelled or of the blood Judith M. Elliott-Clan President one of the oldest Clan Societies in Scotland Est 1822. If President: Alistair Cameron of a recognized associate family or is related welcomes membership of all who are you live in Australia“Royal or New is Zealand,my Race please” contact our clan representative in Australia; [email protected] by marriage or legal adoption to either of these connected with this great border family. write for more info and a complete Sept list. Frank McGregor - Clan Gregor Society Secretary: Terry Cameron Direct inquires to: Membership-Treasurer PO Box 14 [email protected] William H. McDaniel Patricia Tennyson Bell North Hobart TAS 7002 Email: [email protected] High Commissioner, CDUSA 2288 Casa Grande South Web. www.clangregor.com www.clan-cameron.org.au [email protected] Pasadena, CA 91104 “Royal is my Race”

CLAN DONALD American Clan The Clan in VICTORIA Campbell Society Proudly affiliated with Clan Donald Australia, Victorian Scottish Union and Association Australia Gregor Society Scots of Victoria Coordinating Group. Represented at all major Highland gatherings in Victoria. Clan Chief: Captain A.A.C. Farquharson, Of Australia Membership inquiries CLAN DONALD VICTORIA MC of Invercauld Est 1909 welcomed from MacGregors The Society exists for the benefit of all its President: Mr Norman A. Macdonald Membership inquiries are invited from descendants of all spellings and Septs Contact: [email protected] members. All Campbells or descendants of of Farquharson and descendants of Sept family Gregor Grier MacAdams MacNish Magruder Campbells and members of Clan Septs are Formed in 1934, with membership from many MacDonald, McDonald and names. Please contact the association by mail to: Macdonald families living in Victoria. Membership available, with dance classes McGehee Gregory King Peter Fletcher Gregg Lecky Black and many others most welcome to join the Society. for most Friday evenings in Gardenvale. The Secretary: Clan Farquharson For information on State Branches contact the CLAN MACDONALD YARRAVILLE Association Australia Contacting our registrar, Jeanne P. Lehr 11 Ballas Crt. National Secretary, Margaret Vallance Hon Chief: Mrs Christina Milne Wilson PO Box 585 Springwood, NSW 2777 St. Louis, MO 63131-3038 Email: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] or by Email to: [email protected] www.clan-campbell.org.au A hereditary clan society formed by the children of Norman Hume Macdonald Phone: 314-432-2842, [email protected] and Johan McKenzie Macdonald (nee Munro) who departed Scotland in 1854. website: www.acgsus.org

Clan Donnachaidh Clan Cumming Society Clan Donnachaidh Society of New South Wales Inc., of the Society of New South Australia United States WalesDunc anInc., Rob erAustraliatson Reid Society DuncanPeople who Robertson bear any of the aboveReid names or names of any of the Hamiltons and those of Hamilton descent www.clancumming.us PeopleSepts of whothe Clan bear (see advertiany ofsement the fromabove CA namesUSA) are invite d are cordially invited to join the society. [email protected] to join with us in our activities to promote Clan Donnachaidh, or“The other Children Sept of Duncan”names by of participating Clan Donnachaidh in the various activitie s Inquiries to be sent to: “Theconducted Children by Scottish of Duncan”Societies. are invited to For information & membership application, contact Sheri Lambert, Treasurer joinGordon in our Robertso activitiesn by participating in the c/o G. Allen Cummings Scottish58/157 MarconiGatherings Rd. Bonnellsheld in NSW. Bay NSW 2264 P.O. Box 5399 Vernon Hills, IL 60061 PO Box 6888 For information and membership application, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469-6888 contact Gordon Robertson visit our website: 58/157 Marconi Rd. Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 www.clanhamilton.org

Page 20 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Clan Hay Clan MacLellan John B. McClellan, Jr. April Rich The OFFICIAL Clan MacFarlane Society 28 Oxbow Drive Founded 1911 - Glasgow & London Treasurer Willimantic, CT 06226 Re-established- 1973 Grandfather Mountain, NC 6409 Knollwood Drive [email protected] Loch Sloy! We welcome all descendants of McKinney, TX Clan MacNicol Clan MacFarlane from around the world! The American Branch of the First Family of Scotland welcomes Chief: John MacNeacail Michael R. MacFarlane. FSA Scot - President 75070-6032 inquires from descendants of: Hay(s); Haye(s); Hayne(s); Hey(s); Brian J.W. MacFarlane - Vice President Email: [email protected] of MacNeacail and Scorrybreac Alderston; Armll;Ayer(s); Constable; Con(n); De La Haye; Delgatie; Richard G. Kilby, FSA Scot - Treasurer Delgatie; D’ Ay(e); Dellah’aY; Errol(l); Garrad; Garrow; Gifford; John K. Manchester - Secretary Invites all MacLellans and their descendants regardless Contact Ross Nicolson Hawson; Haygood; Hayter; Hayward; Haywood; Haynie; Hayden; lnternatlonal Clan MacFarlane Society, lnc. of surname spelling to join in preserving our heritage. PO Box 398 Glenora, CA 91740 USA 10/377 North Rocks Rd., Hayfield; Hayne( s); Leask( e); Leith; Lester; MacGaradh; ; [email protected] Various family names are MacLellan(d), McClellan(d), Peeples; Peoples; Turriff; ; Yester McLellan(d) and Gilliland. Carlingford NSW 2118 Visit our website: www.clanmaclellan.net www.clanmacnicol.org www.clanhay.com MACFARLANE.ORG The MacEanruigs, the proud sons of Henry, invite you to join the Clan MacInnes Society ClanInternational MacInnes Association of Clan Clan MacLeod MacInnes (Aonghais) Societies of Australia Purposes Culture: foster Scottish culture and activities International Association of Membership is open to MacLeods Association and Games: promote Scottish festivals and games All spelling variants of MacInnes are welcome Clan Macpherson welcomes enquiries from Macphersons and members of our Associated families. Goals Genealogy: assist in genealogical research worldwide: (Mc)Angus, (Mc)Kinnis, (Mc)Innis, and Septs (of any variant spelling), and For information about local activities visit our web site www.clan-macpherson.org/branches, of the Fellowship: foster fellowship and friendship among kith and kin Clan MacInnes (Aonghais) or see our ‘Official Clan Macpherson Association’ Facebook page. Society History: maintain and promote the history of the clan and Scotland (Mc)Ginnis, (Mc)Ninch, (Mc)Neish, (Mc)Canse, their descendants. Recognised Septs: Awards: promote charitable and educational activities via a scholarship fund (Mc)Masters, (Mc)Innes, (Mac)Masters Africa. Derek Macpherson Australia. John L Macpherson Gather the Clan: as directed by our Chief, Alistair of Fordell All spelling variants of MacInnes are welcome Askey MacAndie MacCorkill [email protected] [email protected] www.clanmacinnes.org phone +265 999 512 620 phone +61 409 122 141 Some other surnames of the proud sons of Henry: Beaton MacAskill MacCrimmon worldwide:Eric Perry, Di (Mc)Angus,rector-Membe (Mc)Kinnis,r Services 14 (Mc)Innis, Jakes Lane, Canada. Ed Smith & Wales. William Macpherson D'Handresson, Eanrig, Eanruig, Enderson, Endherson, Endirsone, Bethune MacAulay MacGillechallum [email protected] [email protected] Henders, Hendersone, Hendersonne, Hendersoun, Hendersoune, Dexter, ME 04930; [email protected] Hendery, Hendirsone, Hendirsoune, Hendrie, Hendrisoune, Hendry, (Mc)Ginnis, (Mc)Ninch, (Mc)Neish, (Mc)Canse, Caskie MacCabe MacRaild Norie phone +1 519 802 8821 phone +44 7877 363 507 Henersoun, Hennersoune, Hennryson, Henresoun, Henreysoun, Harold MacCaig MacWilliam Tolmie Europe. Will Tulling New Zealand. Tony McPherson Henriesoun, Henrison, Henrisone, Henrisoun, Henrisoune, Henry, (Mc)Masters, (Mc)Innes, (Mac)Masters [email protected] [email protected] Henryesson, Henryson, Henrysoun, Kendrick, Kenrick, MacCanrig, Lewis MacClure Norman Williamson phone +31 655 774 425 phone +64 274 587 813 MacCanrik, MacEanruig, MacEnrick, MacHendric, MacHendrie, MacHendry, MacHenrie, MacHenrik, MacHenry, MacKanrig, MacKendric, NSW, ACT & Qld - Peter Macleod 02 4397 3161 Scotland & Northern Ireland. Rory Macpherson USA. Xerxes Herrington MacKendrich, MacKendrick, MacKendrie, MacKendrig, MacKendry, www.clanmacinnes.org [email protected] [email protected] MacKenrick, Makanry, Makhenry, McHenry, McKendree, McKendrick, Victoria & Tas - David Dickie 03 9337 4384 phone +44 7525 763 765 phone +1 703 341 9588 McKendry Eric Perry, Director-Member Services 14 Jakes Lane, South Australia - Nicole Walters 0415 654 836 The Clan Macpherson Museum is located in Newtonmore, Inverness Shire PH20 1DE, www.clanhendersonsociety.org Dexter, ME 04930; [email protected] Western Australia - Ruth MacLeod 08 9364 6334 at the junction of the A86 and B9150, and is open from 1st April to 31st October. Email: [email protected] Ph + 44 1540 673 332. See http://www.clan-macpherson.org/museum/ for more details.

Clan Hope of Craighall Society For all of the name and lineage of Hope Society The INTERNATIONAL & USA President: THE Richard Rex Hope in Australia Inc. Society of Australia [email protected] Membership Chair: Membership enquiries and New Zealand

Janet Hope Higton MACLEODS

[email protected] welcomed from Mackenzies If your surname is MacRae, www.clanhope.org of all spellings and Septs RICH IN HIGHLAND AUSTRALIA or you are descended from a person having the Commissioner: TRADITIONS Stephen Hope Contact: N Dennis, 61 Alma Street, surname MacRae (any spelling) or that of a Sept of [email protected] FOR INFORMATION: www.clanhopeaustralia.org East Malvern 3145 Ph 03 9569 5716 the Clan then you are eligible to join our Society. WWW.CLANMACLEODUSA.ORG CANADA Visit our website Australian Contact: Commissioner: A.L. MacLeod Scott Hale Check out your Tartan and Sept Roslyn MacRae 0412 291 054 email: [email protected] [email protected] 3923 Rockwood Way #B www.clanhope.ca www.clanmackenzie.org.au West Valley City, UT NZ Contact: Sue Tregoweth email: [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/groups/ClanHopeofCraighall 84120-6880       

  Clan Macnachtan Clan MacRae Society       Association Worldwide of North America   Sir Malcolm F. Macnaghten of   ůĂŶDĂĐ<ĞŶnjŝĞ^ŽĐŝĞƚLJŽĨĂŶĂĚĂ Macnaghten, Bart - Chief of Clan Granted Arms in 2008  Chairman - Peter McNaughton - 360-686-8451 tĞŝŶǀŝƚĞLJŽƵ–ǁŚĞƚŚĞƌLJŽƵĂƌĞĂĐůĂŶƐƉĞƌƐŽŶ We invite MacRaes of all Clan Irwin Association We welcome membership from all Scots named MacNaughton ĂŵĞŵďĞƌŽĨŽŶĞŽĨŽƵƌƐĞƉƚƐ͕ĂŚŝŐŚůĂŶĚĞƌ͕ spelling variations and their Chief and Patron or any of the Septs on our Website: Contact the Membership Ă^ĐŽƚ͕ŽƌũƵƐƚĂŶŚŝƐƚŽƌLJĞŶƚŚƵƐŝĂƐƚ–ƚŽũŽŝŶ descendants to join our Clan David Irvine, Baron of Drum, Chief of the name.  Secretary, Vice-Chairman or Regional Commissioners in: ƚŚĞ^ŽĐŝĞƚLJĂŶĚƉĂƌƚŝĐŝƉĂƚĞŝŶŵĂŶLJĂĐƚŝǀŝƚŝĞƐ MacRae Society. Learn your Contact: Barbara Edelman, Chairman Australia - Regional Commissioner - Bruce McNaught +61 7 3266 2047 [email protected] Scottish MacRae history and family lineage! 65 Colonial Drive W. Canada - Regional Commissioner - Miles MacNaughton Telford, PA 18969 250-999-9636 [email protected] www.macrae.org tĞďƐŝƚĞ͗ǁǁǁ͘ĐůĂŶŵĂĐŬĞŶnjŝĞĐĂŶĂĚĂ͘ĐĂ 215-721-3955 [email protected] New Zealand - Regional Commissioner - John Macnaughtan Need more info? Contact: IRWIN • RVIN • IRVINE • IRVING • ERWIN • ERVIN +64 9 441 4984 [email protected] President Over 270 ways the name has been spelled since 325 A.D. USA - Membership Secretary - Mary Nivison Burton Bruce McRae, 541-401-2613 [email protected] 303-670-9611 www.clanirwin.org WWW.CLANMACNAUGHTON.NET [email protected] Clan MacNeil Association OF AUSTRALIA For all enquiries about the clan and Clan Mackenzie membership contact. John McNeil Society in the 21 Laurel Avenue, Linden Park, Society SA 5065 United States Email [email protected] Chief: Ian Maitland, The Earl of Lauderdale! Clan MacNeil Association We are all related! Contact your local society Clan MacAlpine All Mackenzies and septs, their North America: Rosemary Maitland Thorn descendants and friends are invited to join of Australia [email protected] www.clanmaitlandna.org this charitable membership association. Australia: Carole Maitland [email protected] Society For all enquiries about the clan and 4230 Colac- Lavers Hill RoadWeeaproinah. VIC. 3237 102 Rainbow Drive #48 Barbara MacKenzie, Treasurer membership contact: John McNeil New Zealand: Judette Maitland [email protected] Livingston, TX 77399-10020 USA PO Box 20454 Cheyenne, WY 82003-7011 21 Laurel Avenue, 33 Disley Street, High bury, Wellington 6012. NZ Earl Dale McAlpine - President Phone: 307-214-4817 Email: [email protected] Linden Park, SA 5065 We welcome all with Maitland, Lauderdale, Maitlen and similar Website: www.clanmackenzie.com name spelling. See the entire list and your family history at: Email: [email protected] Email [email protected] www.clanmaitland.org.uk

Clan MacDougall Society of

ClanNorth MacDougall America, Society Inc. of North America, Inc. Valerie McDougall Valerie McDougall VP Membership MacDougall VP Membership MacDowall MacDougall 505-470 Scenic Drive, London, ON MacDowall N5Z 3B2 N5Z 3B2 Association, U.S.A Email: [email protected] Home page: www.macdougall.org Email: [email protected]: www.facebook.com/clanmacdougall Home page: www.macdougall.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/clanmacdougall Clan MacLaren Clan MacNeil We are the only national organization of Names Associated with Clan MacDougall of and Clan MacDowall of Galloway Names Associated with Clan MacDougall of Argyll MacLaren MacLaurin Lawrence Lawson Low[e] Munro in the U.S .A. affiliated with the Coul MacCoul Macoual Association of America Conacherand ClanMacConacher MacDowall of Galloway Coyle MacCoyle Low[e]ry Law[e] Patterson MacPatrick MacRory Invites all MacNeils, regardless of Clan Munro (Association) of Scotland. CoulDole MacCoulMacDole MacoualMacDill Doual MacDoual McDougal surname spelling, some of which are listed: DougalConacher MacDougalMacConacherl MacDougald Mark A. McLaren, President CoyleDougle MacCoyleMcdougle McDougald COME JOIN US! Dugal MacDugal MacDugle McNeill MacNeil MacNeal MacNiel, McNeely, Neal, Dole MacDole MacDill Dowall MacDowal MacDowall 611 Indian Home Rd. Web site: www.Clanmunrousa.org DoualMacDowell MacDoualMacdowell McDougalMcDowell Neilson and O’neill to join us in preserving our heritage. DougalLullich MacDougalMcLullich l MacDougaldMacCullich MacCulloch McCulloch MacCullagh Danville, CA 94526 Write: Heather Munro Daniel MacClintockDougle MacLintockMcdougle McLintockMcDougald Contact: Rhonwyn Darby DugalMacHale MacDugalMcHoul MacDugleMactheul (925) 838-8175 4600 Lloydrownn Road MacHowell MacCowan McCown McNeill VP, Membership, PO. Box 230093, Montgomery MacKichanDowall M’GowallMacDowal MacNamellMacDowall MacDowellMacLucas MacdowellMacLugash McDowellMacLuke [email protected] AL 36123-0693. (334) 834-0612 Email [email protected] Mebane, NC 27302 LullichSpelling VariationsMcLullich May Vary or OmitMacCullich the Mac, Mc MacCulloch McCulloch MacCullagh MacClintock MacLintock McLintock MacHale McHoul Mactheul MacHowell MacCowan McCown MacKichan M’Gowall MacNamell MacLucas MacLugash MacLuke The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 21 Spelling Variations May Vary or Omit the Mac, Mc THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Clan Shaw Society Invites membership or inquires from all: Murray Clan Society Shaw, Ayson, Adamson, Esson, MacAy, MacHay, Shiach, Sheach, Sheath, Seith, The Robert Burns Club Seth, Skaith, Scaith and Shay. of North America Mike Shaw Secretary of Melbourne Inc. Applications for membership are invited from Murray’s 2403 West Cranford Denison, TX 75020 > Promotes interest in the works, life and and the following allied families: Balneaves, Dinsmore, Clan Shaw Society Dunsmore, Fleming, , Murrie, Neaves, Piper, Pyper, Clan Wardlaw Association milieu of the Scottish Poet Robert Burns Smail, Smale, Small, Smeal, and Spalding. Invites membership or inquires from all: Founded 2004 > Celebrates Scottish Culture Shaw, Ayson, Adamson, Esson, MacAy, In Canada contact: William J.M. Murray Worldwide organization for all Wardlaws or related > Conducts Annual Burn Supper, Poetry 1001 Cordero Crescent MacHay, Shiach, Sheach, Sheath, Seith, families. We invite you to join us. Afternoon & Pleasant Sunday Afternoon Seth, Skaith, Scaith and Shay. Campbell River, BC V9H OC3 Email: [email protected] For Membership Information contact: In the U.S. contact: Robert W. Murray Secretary: Mike Shaw ‘Wardlaw ivermair!’ Secretary: Noel Wright (03) 8333 0973 2000 Cambridge Ave #329 2403 West Cranford www.clanwardlaw.com Email: [email protected] Wyomissing, PA 19610-2738 Denison, TX 75020 Wardlaw Tartan and Ancestry Books Australian Scottish Communtiy (Qld) Inc. Scottish Associations and SocietiesPromoter of International Tartan Day, Brisbane, Queensland Among the most ancient families of Scotland. If you are a descendant of Pollock, Pollok, Pook, PO Box 3188, South Brisbane 410Scottish1 Heritage Polk, Polke, Paulk, Poalke, Poulk, Poolke, Pogue Bi-Monthly Newsletter, All things - you are cordially invited to contact: Scottish A. D. Pollock, Jr. USA, Inc. PO Box 404 All persons of Scottish Descent Greenville, KY 42345 welcome. www.aussie-scots.org.au,Email: P.O. Box 457 e-mail: [email protected] [email protected], Scottish Ph 07 3359 8195 Australia Pinehurst, NC 28370 Clan Pollock Communtiy (Qld) Inc. Welcomes membership of anyone interested Among the most ancient families of Scotland. If you are a Membership and inquiries from all Sinclairs, Promoter of International Tartan Day, descendant of Pollock, Pollok, Pook, Polk, Polke, Paulk, Poalke, Sinclair Septs and Sinclair descendants. in the exchange of people and ideas between Poulk, Poolke, Pogue - you are cordially invited to contact: Brisbane, Queensland Scotland and the United States. For further info contact PO Box 3188, South Brisbane 4101 A. D. Pollock, Jr. President: WayneSinclair 0417 146 174 Write or phone for our free brochure. Bi-Monthly Newsletter, All things Scottish www.scottishheritageusa.org PO Box 404 Secretary : Liane Sinclair 0410 045 263 All persons of Scottish Descent welcome. email: [email protected] Greenville, KY 42345 E: [email protected] www.aussie-scots.org.au Ph 07 3359 8195 (910) 295-4448 e-mail: [email protected] www.clansinclairaustralia.com Email: [email protected],

Clan Ross The Scottish Australian Ross Clan in Australia Heritage Council The clan is active again in Australia for information contact in Australia Commander Des Ross(By appointment David Ross Bt Chief of and Balnagowan) Chicago Scots for information contact Commander Des Ross The Stewart Society Established in 1845, the Chicago Scots (aka Illinois Saint We would be pleased to hear from anyone with Ross Clan (By appointment David Ross Bt Chief of Clan Ross and Balnagowan) Welcomes Stewarts, however spelt, by name, Andrew Society) is the oldest 501c3 in Illinois, The Chicago heritage and interest. Founded at a meeting held in Sydney 18 June 1981 birth, or descent, from all over the world. Annual Scots organise programs and events to educate, entertain and We wouldcontact Commander Des Ross at be pleased to hear from anyone Welcomes membership from all Australians of Scottish descent. [email protected] with Ross Clan heritage and interest. Gathering in historic, Stewart-related properties in nourish Scottish identity. The Chicago Scots operate Caledonia Scotland. Newsletter. Annual magazine. Senior Living, a unique retirement community located in the Applications for membership can be obtained from: Contact: Commander Des Ross at forest preserve a few miles west of downtown Chicago. The Hon Secretary, SAHC Please inquire: The Secretary Susan Cooke tel: 02 6355 4158 [email protected] M 0403 830 853 53 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2HT, Tel: 708-447-5092 Email: [email protected] Ken Duthie JP Director of Publicity M 0409 322 374 Tel/Fax 0131 220 4512 www.stewartsociety.org W: www.chicagoscots.org www.scottishaustralianheritagecouncil.com.au

Clan Ross America  ^ĐŽƚƚŝƐŚ'ĂĞůŝĐ^ŽĐŝĞƚLJŽĨsŝĐƚŽƌŝĂ Representing the great Highland Clan of Ross since 1976. ǁǁǁ͘ƐĐŽƚƚŝƐŚŐĂĞůŝĐƐŽĐŝĞƚLJǀŝĐ͘ŽƌŐ  &ŽƵŶĚĞĚŝŶϭϵϬϱ ^ĐŽƚƚŝƐŚ'ĂĞůŝĐŚŽŝƌ͗ Society in Comunn Gàidhlig tĞĚŶĞƐĚĂLJƐϭϬ͗ϯϬĂŵƚŽ   Australia Incorporated ϭϮ͗ϯϬƉŵĚƵƌŝŶŐƐĐŚŽŽůƚĞƌŵƐ Astràilia ĂƚdŚĞ<ŝůĚĂƌĂĞŶƚƌĞ͕ƌĞĂƌŽĨ Contact: M Hodgkinson (The Association of Australia) is a  ϯϵ^ƚĂŶŚŽƉĞ^ƚƌĞĞƚ͕DĂůǀĞƌŶ͘ Paul D Ross, President 212 MacKenzie Street nonprofit organisation which supports the language >ĂŶŐƵĂŐĞůĂƐƐ͗tĞĚŶĞƐĚĂLJƐϳ͗ϬϬƚŽϴ͗ϯϬƉŵ Virg Bumann, VP Membership Toowoomba 4350 (07 4632 8559) and culture of Scottish Gaels. Ruaraidh MacAonghais, N each Cathrach (Convenor)  ĚƵƌŝŶŐƐĐŚŽŽůƚĞƌŵƐĂƚƚŚĞĞůƚŝĐůƵď͕ϰϮϬͲϰϮϰ 1015 Archer St, San Diego, CA, 92109 [email protected] [email protected] Phone: 04 0482 2314 E-mail: [email protected] tŝůůŝĂŵ^ƚƌĞĞƚ͕tĞƐƚDĞůďŽƵƌŶĞ͘ [email protected] http://goldenvale.wixsite.com/clansutherlandaus Web: www.ozgaelic.org  ŽŶƚĂĐƚDĂƵƌŝĐĞ&ŽǁůĞƌϬϰϬϴϮϮϯϮϳϳ www.clanross.org Facebook: Clan Sutherland Society in Australia Mail: PO Box A2259, SYDNEY SOUTH 1235 ŵĂŝů͗ƐĐŽƚƚŝƐŚŐĂĞůŝĐƐŽĐŝĞƚLJǀŝĐΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ   SHOULDER TO SHOULDER Clan Ross of Clan Sutherland   Society of North The United States  America Inc. David Ross of Ross, Baron Balnagowan, Caledonian Society  Chief of the Clan invites all Ross’, septs and their The Society cordially invites membership of all Sutherlands descendants toto join in preserving our heritage. (however the name is spelled) and of the associated families: of WA Inc. The Society of St. Andrew Cheyne, Duffus, Gray, Frederith, Mowat and Oliphant. Promotes Scottish Culture and Traditions of Scotland  www.clan-ross.org in Perth, Western Australia (Queensland) Limited Richard Langford ABN 30 093 578 860 [email protected] For further details contact John: 0427 990 754 Invites membership of all people of  1106 Horshoe Lane Email: [email protected] Contact L. Q. Ross Blacksburg, VA 24060 Scottish descent or association www.caledoniansocietyofwainc.com The Secretary, P.O. Box 3233, South Brisbane, BC, 105 S. Graham Ave, Orlando, Fl 32803 e-mail: [email protected]  www.standrewsociety.com  AUSTRALIA Victorian Scottish Union Inc Established 1905  Umbrella group representing the interest For those affiliated with of Scottish Clans and Societies in Victoria. the Young surname Affiliated Clans & Societies  Ballarat Highland Dancing Geelong Scottish Dance Ian J Young Balmoral Highland Dancing Society Glenbrae Celtic Dancers Hunter Valley Begonia City Highland Dancing Society Kilmore Celtic Festival Australia Group Convenor Brunswick Scottish Society Maryborough Highland Society Clan Chief: The Duke of Buccleuch KT, K.B.E  Clan Donald Victoria Mornington Peninsula Caledonian Society Membership inquiries: Scots Club Inc Scottish Country Dance Victoria Society Commissioner: Heather de Sylva Clan Macdonald Yarraville Inc The Robert Burns Club of Melbourne Clan Young Australia Promotes and supports all forms of Scottish culture Clan Mackenzie of Australia Robert Burns Club of Camperdown in Newcastle, Hunter Valley and surrounding areas.  Australia Warrnambool & District Caledonian Society Membership welcome from Scotts and Septs: 10 Cedric Street Clan Sinclair Association Warrnambool Caledonian Highland Dancing Society Balwearie, Harden, Laidlaw, Geddes & Langlands. Parkdale VIC 3195 Members and interested people are welcome to Clan Sutherland Australia [email protected] attend activities such as Burns Night, Caledonian Night, Chief: Ms Ceilidh McKinna Robertson Info: Secretary, PO Box 320, Maclean, NSW, 2463 President: Mr Douglas Pearce St Andrew’s Day, and other social functions. Secretary: Mrs Jan Macdonald Find us on Facebook: E: [email protected] Web: hvscots.org Email: [email protected] T: 03 9360 9829 M: 0438 584 930 W: clanscottaustraliagroup.moonfruit.com www.facebook.com/groups/youngsofaustralia/ E: [email protected] P.O. Box 34, Kotara NSW 2289 www.victorianscottishunion.com

Page 22 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Over 120,000 people attend The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Sydney The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo was inspired by a simple show called Something About a Soldier performed in 1949 at the Ross Bandstand below Edinburgh Castle. 70 years on, the Tattoo has become a worldwide phenomenon, with a remarkable live audience of 220,000 at Edinburgh Castle each August and a global TV audience of 100 million that continues to captivate the hearts and minds across the globe. The word tattoo is derived from including the UK, Switzerland, France, a Dutch word for the signal played on a Tonga, Fiji, Cook Islands, New Zealand and drum or bugle to summon soldiers back to Australia as well as, for the first time ever, their barracks at night. The term evolved in acts from Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, the 18thcentury to mean a form of evening Solomon Islands, Samoa and Vanuatu. performances given by military bands.

A worldwide phenomenon and I couldn’t be prouder of the stellar This production boasted all the hallmark

All photos courtesy of Cristina Moir/Michael Cassel Group. Cassel photos courtesy of Cristina Moir/Michael All team that joined us to deliver these elements of the world-famous Scottish shows – representing a who’s who of the military and cultural event including world’s best major event and ceremonies traditional crowd favourite songs Auld Lang production teams. The performances, Syne and Scotland The Brave in addition to from our cast of 1521, were thrilling and contemporary favourites, including a special the audience enjoyment palpable. I’m performance by John Paul Young singing his most grateful to our Producer and CEO much-loved classic, Love Is In The Air, joined of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, by the entire cast of the Sydney 2019 Tattoo. he Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Brigadier David Allfrey MBE, for his ended its 4-show run at Sydney’s ANZ creativity, trust and collaboration. It truly Stadium with over 120,000 people was an experience we will never forget”. attending the historic production. Audiences were treated to a culturally TThe major event featured a record-breaking diverse production with 33 musical, 1521 cast making it the largest ever folkloric and military groups including 297 production in the Tattoo’s 69-year history. of the very best Pipers and Drummers, 630 Military performers, 42 Shetland Fiddlers, Culturally diverse production 102 Tattoo Dancers, 4 Indigenous Song Australian Producer, Michael Cassel Men and 195 Cultural Performers from said “The four stadium shows are the Australia and abroad. The Sydney 2019 culmination of three year’s planning, production had 14 nations represented Glasgow named in world’s top five cities for sustainable tourism

lasgow has been recognised as meetings venues, hotels, restaurants and one of the world’s top five cities transport operators). To date, Glasgow remains for its commitment to sustainable the only UK city to feature in the Index, which business tourism. The Global also includes Sydney, Barcelona and Kyoto. GDestination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index) Councillor David McDonald, Chair of published its 2019 ranking, with Scotland’s Glasgow Life and Depute Leader of Glasgow largest city climbing three places from City Council, said: “Glasgow’s ambition is joint-seventh to fourth. It’s a huge boost to be at the forefront on climate action and for Glasgow as the city prepares to host the we are determined to become the UK’s first United Nations’ 26th Conference of the carbon neutral city by 2030 and a world- Parties Climate Change Conference (COP26) leading centre for sustainable policy and in 2020. Governments and destinations innovation. Being named as one of the world’s around the world are responding to the global top five sustainable conference and business climate emergency and Glasgow’s ambitions events destinations by the Global Destination include a pledge to become the UK’s first Sustainability Index shows the great strides carbon neutral city by 2030. The Scottish that we are making in that respect. Glasgow Government has set a net zero emissions is home to some of the world’s biggest target for Scotland by 2045. The GDS energy companies and we’re internationally Index was launched in 2016 and promotes recognised as having one of the healthiest responsible business tourism best practice. and most diverse energy industries globally; Compiled by global sustainability particularly in terms of low carbon industries, academics and policymakers, it ranks which has had a hugely positive impact nearly 60 cities around the world based on on the volume of conferences that we’re four key criteria – environmental strategy attracting in these sectors.” and infrastructure; social sustainability Glasgow hosted 25 energy, sustainability performance; the strategy of the host city’s and carbon reduction related conferences Convention Bureau; and industry supply chain in the 2018/19 financial year, boosting the support (from the likes of convention centres, city’s economy by nearly £8m.

The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 23 THE SCOTTISH BANNER SCOTTISH BANNER EVENTS Having a Clan event? Know of a Highland Games? Know where the pipes will be playing? Let Scottish Banner readers know of Scottish events both near and far with the Scottish Banner events page. Send us your community event, concert, meeting or anything with a Scottish twist! Please submit events either online at www.scottishbanner.com/events or email [email protected]. Please ensure you submit your event in the exact format we use below, events not submitted in this way cannot be guaranteed to be printed. Events will run both in print and online and is a free service.

25 – Toronto, ON - East York Kiwanis 17 - New York, NY - Scottish Christmas Celebration 13 - Lanark - Lanark Christmas Ceilidh CANADA Robbie Burns Supper 2020 Carols and holiday cheer with the American Festive ceilidh dance led by the Clyde Valley Join the East York Kiwanis for roast beef, haggis, neaps and Scottish Foundation and the Burns Society of Ceilidh Band. Lanark Memorial Hall welcomes the DECEMBER tatties. Door prizes, Silent Auction, Scottish Dancers, Cash New York at the Union Club. Info: Info: www. Clyde Valley Ceilidh Band for an evening of foot Bar at The Birches Catering (Latvian Canadian Centre), 4 americanscottishfoundation.com stomping tunes and Christmas ceilidhing. Info: 08 - Victoria, BC - The Victoria Highland Credit Union Dr. Info: 416 451 6777 or www.eventbrite.ca 21 - 22 - Atlanta, GA - Celtic Christmas [email protected] Games Christmas Fling th Highland dance competition at the Esquimalt 25 – Brampton, ON – 76 Annual Lorne Scots A cast of international and regionally renowned artists 13 - 15 - Glamis - Glamis Castle Christmas Markets weaves a spellbinding performance of Irish, Scottish, Recreation Centre. This event includes a visit from Pipes & Drums Robbie Burns Supper Celebrate the festive season at Glamis Castle, Dine and Dance the night away with the Lorne Scots Welsh and Appalachian music, dance and humor in an Santa, cake walk and free lunch for each dancer and with winter walks, holiday stalls, tours and Pipes & Drums in honour of Sir Robert Burns’ birthday evocative, inspiring show that will warm the soul with one parent. Info: www.victoriahighlandgames.com more. Info: www.glamis-castle.co.uk at the Pearson Convention Center, 2638 Steeles Ave the music and dance of the ages. Info: https://events. 15 - Montreal, QC - St Andrews Society of E. Info: [email protected] rialtocenter.gsu.edu/online/article/celticchristmas 25 - Nationwide - Happy Christmas Wishing all our readers and friends a very Montreal Children’s Christmas Party 25 - Nationwide - USA - Happy Christmas 25 - Ottawa, ON - Gala Burns Supper & Ceilidh Happy Christmas and festive season! Don’t miss our annual Children’s Christmas Party! There will Celebrate the life and poetry of Robert Burns with pipes Wishing all our readers and friends a very be food, games, presents and Santa Claus at and drums, haggis, whisky, and dancing with the Scottish Happy Christmas and festive season! 30 – January 01 - Edinburgh - Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Armoury, 2067 Rue de Bleury. Info: www.standrews.qc.ca Society of Ottawa. Info: www.ottscot.ca/burns-supper-ottawa 31 - Nationwide - USA - Happy Hogmany Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is one of the world’s greatest New Year celebrations, including street party, torchlight 25 - Nationwide - Canada - Happy Christmas 25 - Ottawa, ON - Sons of Scotland The Scottish Banner wishes all our readers procession, ceilidh and more. Join for three days of Wishing all our readers and friends a very Burns Night Ceilidh and friends a very Happy Hogmanay and best spectacular events, as Edinburgh shows the world Happy Christmas and festive season! The 129th annual Burns Ceilidh hosted by the Sons of wishes for a happy and healthy 2020! Scotland Pipe Band of Ottawa. Our evening will have how to party! Info:www.edinburghshogmanay.com 31 - Nationwide - Canada - Happy Hogmanay JANUARY The Scottish Banner wishes all our readers the pipes and drums, dancing and a big catered buffet, 31 - Stonehaven - Scotland - Stonehaven Fireball Ceremony silent auction and cash bar - all in support of Robert and friends a very Happy Hogmanay and best 11 - St. Louis, MO - The Saint Louis Scottish Rite Knights The Fireball Ceremony is Stonehaven’s unique way Burns and the traditions of the dinner, the Montgomery wishes for a happy and healthy 2020! of Saint Andrew 9th Annual Robert Burns Evening to welcome in the New Year and greet friends and Legion, and the pipe band.Tickets are onsale at:www. Come join The Saint Louis Scottish Rite Knights neighbours. As the midnight chimes ring out on December 31 - Ottawa, ON - 8th Annual Hogman-eh! tickettailor.com/events/thesonsofscotlandpipeband of Saint Andrew in raising funds for restoration 31st, approximately 40 men and women parade up and A free New Year’s celebration Scottish style, 29 - February 02 Halifax, NS - Halifax Celtic Festival of the St. Louis Scottish Rite Cathedral. After all, down the High Street swinging fiercely flaming balls featuring Ceilidh and Highland Dancing, food and A celebration of Celtic culture in Halifax. everybody is a wee bit Scottish on a Burns Night, at around their heads. Info: www.stonehavenfireballs.co.uk entertainment at the largest Hogmanay celebration Info: www.facebook.com/hfxcelticfest The Cathedral. Info: [email protected] outside Scotland at the Aberdeen Pavilion, 31 - Nationwide - Happy Hogmany 16 - 19 - Kansas City, MO - Winter Storm Weekend The Scottish Banner wishes all our readers Landsdowne Park. Info: www.ottscot.ca/hogmanay The pipes and drums event in Kansas City. and friends a very Happy Hogmanay and best World-class concerts, competitions, and JANUARY USA master classes. Info: www.mhaf.org wishes for a happy and healthy 2020! 18 Vancouver, BC - RSCDS Vancouver DECEMBER 17 - New York, NY - Burns Night Celebration JANUARY Branch Burns Supper 06 - 07 - Alexandria, VA – 49th Annual Scottish The Burns Supper celebrates, in words and music, 01 - South Queensferry, - The Loony Dook A traditional Scottish meal with all the trimmings, Christmas Walk Weekend & Parade the immortal memory of Robert Burns and Scotland’s wonderful music by the Tartan Players and a dance The Campagna Center presents the 49th Annual Scottish heritage. Presented by the American Scottish The Loony Dook continues its New Year’s Day tradition at programme to suit everyone at Scottish Cultural Centre, Christmas Walk Weekend & Parade. Thousands will Foundation together with the University Club. South Queensferry. In the shadow of the Forth Bridges, the 8886 Hudson St. Info: www.rscdsvancouver.org join us for a full lineup of festivities that will celebrate Info: www.americanscottishfoundation.org dippers in fancy dress, scantily clad or even fully clothed from the night before will brave the chill to raise money 18 Ottawa, ON - The Great Canadian Kilt Skate the rich Scottish heritage of Old Town Alexandria. 18 - Bloomington, IN - Scottish Society of for charities while shaking off their Hogmanay hangover. Admission to the Kilt Skate is free, and there is free birthday Info:www.campagnacenter.org/scottishwalkweekend Greater Bloomington Burns Supper Dookers will march the length of South Queensferry High cake and hot chocolate, at Lansdowne Park Skating Court, 07 - Chicago, IL - The 174th Annual St Andrew’s Join the Scottish Society of Greater Bloomington st near the Aberdeen Pavilion. Info: www.kiltskate.com Day Gala “The Feast of the Haggis” in celebrating the 261 birthday of Robert Street as part of the Dookers’ Parade before launching The Chicago Scots enthusiastically invite everyone Burns. Info:[email protected]. themselves into the freezing Firth of Forth. Info: www. 24 - Calgary, AB - Robbie Burns Night at who is Scottish by birth, by heritage or simply by 18 - 19 - Winter Springs, FL - Central edinburghshogmanay.com/whats-on/loony-dook the Rocky Mountain Folk Club inclination to come and enjoy an evening steeped in Come and celebrate the Scottish bard with music, Florida Scottish Highland Games 16 - February 02 - Glasgow - Celtic Connections history and Scottish fun. The celebration of Scotland A weekend of Scottish culture and fun presented by song, the highland pipes and of course some haggis Celtic Connections is the largest winter music will include an exquisite dinner, live entertainment The Scottish-American Society of Central Florida, with festival of its kind and the UK’s premier celebration at Rosedale Community Association Hall. Info: www. including bagpipers, Highland Dancers, a lively ceilidh, pipes & drums, Celtic entertainment, athletics, Clans of Celtic music. Info:www.celticconnections.com rockyfolkclub.com/robbie-burns-night-2/ auction and much more. Info: www.chicagoscots.org and more at Central Winds Park. Info: www.flascot.com 19 - 21 - Glasgow - Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring 24 - Montreal, QC - St. Andrew’s Society 07 - San Francisco, CA - Saint Andrews Banquet and Ball 23 - 26 - Dunedin, FL - DunedinLive: Over 500 companies exhibit thousands of products in of Montreal Burns Night The annual Saint Andrews Society Banquet and Ball with Haggis Winter MusicFest 2020 Clothing, Textiles, Jewellery, Fashion Accessories, Clan Join the Society’s Annual event that celebrates Robbie dinner, Bagpipes, Scottish Fiddlers, and ceilidh dancing. Whisky Tasting & Burns Supper, featuring Skerryvore Burns who came to fame as a poet when he was 27 The celebration of our patron Saint Andrew and our and the works of Robert Burns at The Scottish Cultural Products, Beauty & Bath Products, Stationery, Giftware, years old, and whose lifestyle of wine, women and Scottish heritage at the annual Saint Andrews Society Center, Louden Ave. Info: www.haggiscelticconcerts.com Gift Food & Speciality Fine Food at Glasgow’s SEC-trade Banquet and Ball. The Prince Charles Pipe Band, Highland only event. Info:www.spring.scotlandstradefairs.co.uk song made him famous all over Scotland. Share a 25 - Hollywood, FL - Robert Burns Supper wee dram with friends, enjoy a traditional Scottish dancers, and the Peninsula Scottish Fiddlers will perform. Celebrate the bard! Presented by the Scottish American 21 - Edinburgh - Scots Music Group- meal (with a gourmet flair) and raise your glasses in a The evening will culminate in Ceilidh dancing with plenty Society of South Florida at Orangebrook Golf and Celebrating Robert Burns of instruction for neophytes at Marines’ Memorial Club, toast to the lads and lassies at the Mount Royal Club. Country Club, 400 Entrada Dr. Info: www.sassf.org Join friends from Scots Music Group for an afternoon 609 Sutter St. Info:www.saintandrewssocietysf.org Info: www.standrews.qc.ca/burns-supper.html 25 - Hyattsville, MD - Robert Burns Dinner session of traditional songs, music, poems and 24 - Toronto, ON - St. Andrew’s Society 08 - Los Angeles, CA - Celebrate St Andrews Day Robert Burns Supper for DMV Scots with a stories celebrating Scotland’s national bard. Held Come join the Saint Andrew’s Society of Los Angeles of Toronto Annual Burns Supper connection to Lewis/Harris or Orkney Islands at 4104 in the relaxed setting of the Storytelling Court. and help celebrate Saint Andrew’s Day at the iconic A very special evening to celebrate Scotland’s national Oglethorpe St. Info: Aaron Dorfman 202 870 2280. All welcome to listen or bring a turn and join in! Tam O’Shanter. Step back in time to the charm of a Info: www.scottishstorytellingcentre.com bard, Robert Burns, in traditional style. One of the Highland style Inn and experience great camaraderie 25 - Nationwide - Happy Burns Night best Burns events in the city for many years at the as you’re greeted by your fellow members of the Celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Scottish 23 – February 02 - Dumfries - Big Burns Supper 2020 University Club. Info: www.standrews-society.ca Saint Andrew’s Society of Los Angeles and friends. poet Robert Burns. The tradition of the Burns Dumfries, one of Scotland’s friendliest towns Night Supper was first held in 1801 by the 25 Vancouver, BC – SFU Robbie Burns’ Dinner 2020 Info: Kimberlee [email protected] flings open its doors for 114 events across 11 days poet’s friends, five years after his death. Simon Fraser University Pipe Band annual celebration 11 - Santa Barbara, CA - A Celtic Christmas of top-class music, comedy, dance and cabaret of Burns’ Night. The evening will include Piping with Eric Rigler and Dirk Freymuth 25 - Washington, DC - 2020 Scottish at the world’s biggest contemporary Burns in of the Haggis, Burns’ poetry, song, dance and Featuring a mixture of traditional Celtic music, themes Universities Burns Night & Ceilidh celebration. Info: www.bigburnssupper.com copious band performances by the SFU Pipe from Erics film & television soundtracks, and songs of The Alumni Clubs of The , The University of St Andrews, and The University 28 - Lerwick - Up Helly Aa Band and the RMM Pipe Bands at Executive Plaza the Christmas tradition from the British Isles, Ireland and of Glasgow, invite you to our annual Burns Night Taking place annually on the last Tuesday of January in the Hotel. Info: www.sfupipeband.com/events other Celtic nations, the evening will deliver a sublime Supper & Ceilidh in the Grand Ballroom at the historic town of Lerwick, the Shetland’s Viking Fire Festival, or Up musical experience at Marjorie Luke Theater, 721 E. Cota 25 Montreal, QC - Great Canadian Kilt Skate Willard Intercontinental Hotel, 1401 Pennsylvania Helly Aa as it’s known locally, is the largest event of its kind St. Info: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4418572 Kilt skate hosted by the St. Andrew’s Society of Montreal Avenue Northwest. Info: [email protected] in Europe. Thousands of visitors from across the world 14 - Minnetonka, MN - Minnesota at Patinoire Atrium, 1000 rue de la Gauchetiere. 28 - Amarillo, TX - Burns Supper travel to this northernmost corner of Scotland to join in Scottish Gaelic Conversation Class Info: www.standrews.qc.ca/kilt-skate.html 2020 at Esquire Jazz Club this Scandinavian Vikings’ style celebrations of the end of A group for anyone interested in learning Scottish Gaelic Grab your friends and cinch up your clan tartan, kilt winter and the return of the sun. Info: www.uphellyaa.org 25 Winnipeg, MB – 113th Winnipeg and in practicing Scottish Gaelic conversation. All levels and sporran for the annual Burns Supper Celebration. Robert Burns Club Burns Supper welcome at Bylerly’s Creations Cafe, Ridgedale Dr. Info: Immortal Memory proposed by Bobby Kane HLM, Past A night of all things Scottish! Hosted by Wildcat Bluff at www.meetup.com/Scottish-Gaelic-Conversation Esquire Jazz Club. Featuring Scotch tastings paired with President Robert Burns World Federation Ltd at Holiday 14 - New York, NY - The Pipes of Christmas tasty finger foods and haggis. Music of the isles by Those Scotword answers Inn Winnipeg South. Info: www.winnipegrobertburns.org 21st anniversary concert-from the bold sounds Guys, Mike Fuller, James Lee Baker, and Keralee Clay and 25 Cobourg, ON – Robert Burns Ceilidh of the bagpipes and the harmonious blending of Neil Nossaman as well as the Amarillo Fire Department from page 6 A fun evening of Scottish and Celtic Music and brass, strings and percussion, to the poetic and Bagpipers. Info: www.wildcatbluff.org or 806-352-6007. Dancing, as well as a wee taste of Scotland, with lyrical words that complement them, the Pipes Across: Down: The Cobourg Legion Pipes and Drums, and of Christmas is a festival for the soul at Madison 1-Cauld 1-Caber Madman’s Window The Cobourg Scottish Country Avenue Presbyterian Church, at 921 Madison Avenue SCOTLAND 5-Shand 2-Lochs Dancers at LiUNA Hall, 560 Dodge St. Info: www. (at 73rd Street). Tickets: www.brownpapertickets. cobourghighlandgames.ca/robert-burns-supper com or info at: www.pipesofchristmas.com DECEMBER 8-BlackIsle 3-Easdale 25 - Halifax, NS - The Burns Supper 2020 14 - Oakland, CA - Scotland and 07 - Edinburgh - Christmas Ghost Stories 9-Thole 4-Breenge A festive evening to celebrate the life and works of Scottish Northern Ireland Research Pull up a chair by the fire, relax with some Christmassy 10-Roost 5-Spate goodwill, but pull up the covers because not only does poet Robert Burns. It’s the biggest traditional Burns The population of Scotland and Northern Ireland the winter chill - but so do the tales of terror. Join a 12-Annie 6-Accordion Supper on Canada’s East Coast. This year we welcome today is less than 7 million combined. Yet, the Dr. Iain Nicolson Findlay as our chief speaker.He is a collection of story tellers for a Christmas afternoon 13-Granite 7-Dykes number of people worldwide with an ancestry from of Victorian and Edwardian Ghost stories in the Past President of the Paisley Burns Club, and the 37th those areas is estimated between 70-90 million. This 15-English 11-Third Member of the Guild of Robert Burns Speakers. It will be a atmospheric and beautiful surroundings of Lauriston presentation will provide information to assist in Scottish Castle. Info: www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk 17-Freedom 14-Abernethy night of merriment and great fellowship at Hotel Halifax, genealogy research at California Genealogical Society 11 - Glasgow - Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Ceilidh 19-Dominie 16-Games 1990 Barrington St. Info: www.halifaxburnsclub.org & Library. Info: [email protected] Join our traditional music students for their annual, 21-Apron 18-Mermaid 25 - Nationwide - Happy Burns Night 15 - Summit, NJ - The Pipes of Christmas rip-roaring, toe-tapping ceilidh in the home of Scottish Celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Scottish poet Robert 21st anniversary concert-from the bold sounds of the music, the National Piping Centre. www.rcs.ac.uk 22-Speir 19- Burns. The tradition of the Burns Night Supper was first bagpipes and the harmonious blending of brass, strings and 25-Steed 20-Psalm held in 1801 by the poet’s friends, five years after his death. 13 - Aberdeen - The Red Chilli Pipers Live percussion, to the poetic and lyrical words that complement A unique brand of ‘bag rock’ (that’s bagpipes plus rock, 26-Aberfoyle 21-Adder 25 –Rockwood, ON - Guelph Pipe Band Burns’ Supper them, the Pipes of Christmas is a festival for the soul at Central if you were wondering) with stirring tunes and energetic Entertainment by the Guelph Pipe Band, Stringymajig Presbyterian Church located, 70 Maple St with performances performances. Expect everything from ‘Flower of Scotland’ 27-Mayor 23-Plook and Scottish Country Dancing, Rockmosa Community at 2 and 7PM. Tickets: www.brownpapertickets. to Coldplay’s ‘Clocks’, via AC/DC and Deep Purple at 28-Skips 24-Reels Hall, 110 Rockmosa Dr. Info: www.guelphpipeband.com com or info at:www.pipesofchristmas.com Music Hall, Union St. Info: www.redhotchillipipers.co.uk

Page 24 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019

THE SCOTTISH BANNER

IN THE SCOTTISH KITCHEN IN THE SCOTTISH KITCHEN or your hands, smear the seasoned butter all over the turkey. Add any remaining butter to the roasting tray once the chopped wings and neck have browned. Place the turkey on top of the wing and neck pieces, then roast in the oven for 30 minutes. Remove the turkey from the oven and This month gather friends and baste all over with the cooking juices. family around and eat perhaps Reduce the oven temperature a bit more than you should, to 160C/150C fan/Gas 3. and celebrate Christmas and Pour the water into the roasting tray, Hogmanay with a great range of then return the turkey to the oven and food and drink. From our table to continue to cook for a further 1 hour, basting the bird with the cooking juices yours-Happy Holidays! every 20 minutes (do this quickly to prevent the heat escaping from the oven). At the end of the cooking time, test Beat in both the sugars till smooth, that the turkey is cooked through by then add the brandy. If you are over inserting a skewer or roasting fork generous with the brandy it will curdle into the thickest part of its thigh; if the so just beat in more sieved icing sugar juices run clear, the meat is cooked. and it will come smooth again. Glazed Christmas ham Alternatively, use a meat thermometer; Serve with the Christmas pudding if cooked, the temperature should be or even as a addition to a mince pie. Ingredients The gammon is ready when the fat 74°C or above. If the turkey is not fully For cooking the gammon on top is glossy and golden brown. cooked, return it to the oven for a further Eggnog 2-4kg/4lb 8oz.-9lb unsmoked Cover loosely with foil if the top 20 minutes or until the juices run clear. boneless gammon joint, tied begins to look too brown. Remove the Remove the turkey from the oven and 2 onions, halved gammon from the oven and set aside transfer the bird to a large, deep-sided tray, 2 carrots, unpeeled, cut into 5cm/2in pieces to rest for 15 minutes before carving. reserving the roasting tray the turkey was 2 celery stalks, cut into 5cm/2in pieces Pour any juices that have collected cooked in along with the cooking juices. 4 bay leaves in the aluminium foil into a small Set the turkey aside to rest for a minimum 12 black peppercorns pan, and warm through gently. of 30 minutes and up to 1½ hours. small handful cloves Carve the gammon, serve on a large While the turkey is resting, cook your For the glaze platter and spoon over the warmed juices. roast potatoes and vegetable dishes. 4 tbsp. runny honey When you’re almost ready to serve 4 tbsp. English mustard Christmas turkey the meal, return the roasting tray used to cook the turkey to the stove top. Bring the Method: cooking juices to the boil over a medium Place the gammon joint into a large heat, scraping up any burned bits from the lidded saucepan, cover with cold water bottom of the tray using a wooden spoon. and bring to the boil over a high heat. Collect the juices released by the Ingredients: Drain the water from the saucepan, add turkey as it was resting and add them to 6 medium free-range eggs (preferably fresh cold water, add the onions, carrots, the gravy. Season, to taste, with salt and organic and as fresh as possible), separated celery, bay leaves and peppercorns and freshly ground black pepper, if needed. 150g/5½ oz. golden caster sugar bring to the boil once more. Reduce the Reduce the heat until the 500ml/18fl oz. whole milk heat, cover with a lid and simmer the Ingredients: gravy is simmering, then stir in 400ml/14fl oz. double cream gammon and vegetables gently for 20 20ml/¾fl oz. rapeseed oil the dissolved arrowroot and cook 350ml/12fl oz. rum, bourbon or a mixture minutes per 500g/1lb 2oz. (If your pan 1 x 5kg/11lb good-quality free-range until the gravy has thickened. of the two, depending on your preference is not quite large enough to cover the turkey, preferably organically reared, Strain the gravy through a fine sieve freshly grated nutmeg, to taste joint completely, turn the gammon over wishbone removed (ask your butcher to into a warmed jug. Keep warm. Method: halfway through the cooking time.) remove the wings and neck and chop them To serve, bring the turkey to Whisk the egg yolks in a bowl with Remove the gammon from the into 2.5cm/1in pieces to use in the dish) the table and carve into slices. 100g/3½ oz. of the caster sugar until the water and set aside to cool for 40g/1½oz unsalted butter, Serve with the roast potatoes and mixture is pale yellow and thick (this is best fifteen minutes. (The cooking liquid softened to room temperature vegetables. Pour over the gravy. done with an electric handheld mixer). can be strained and reserved for 2 pinches sea salt flakes Stir in the milk, double cream, making soup for another time.) 2 pinches freshly ground white pepper Brandy butter and the rum and/or bourbon. Pre-heat the oven to 200C/400F/ 200ml/7fl oz. water You can add a little grated nutmeg as Gas 6 and line a large roasting salt and freshly ground black pepper tin with aluminium foil. 1-2 tsp ground arrowroot (depending well, if you like your nog this way. Use a small knife to remove the rind on how thick you like your gravy), Pour the mixture into two from the gammon joint, leaving as dissolved in 1 tbsp. cold water 750ml/1½ pint bottles with stoppers much of the fat intact as possible. Score roast potatoes and steamed and store in the fridge for up to two the fat in a diamond pattern, and push seasonal vegetables, to serve weeks. (The alcohol will prevent any a clove into the centre of each ‘X’. Method spoilage of the eggs or cream.) Place the egg whites in a box and Place the gammon into the foil- Remove the turkey from the fridge lined roasting tray, ensuring that the and bring to room temperature - freeze until ready to serve the egg nog. sides of the foil come half way up the this will take at least an hour. When ready to serve, defrost the egg joint to contain any roasting juices. When you are ready to cook, preheat whites into a clean metal or glass bowl. Ingredients: For the glaze, mix the honey and the oven to 230C/220C fan/Gas 8. Using a handheld electric mixer, whisk 110g/4oz. unsalted butter, softened mustard together and brush half of it Heat the rapeseed oil in a large, the egg whites until foamy and opaque. 85g/3oz. light muscovado sugar evenly over the gammon, including heavy-based roasting tray on the stove Add the remaining 50g of sugar and 85g/3oz. icing sugar, sieved one side of the joint. Roast in the centre top. Add the chopped turkey wings and whisk the egg whites until soft peaks 3 tbsp. brandy or cognac of the oven for ten minutes, then take neck and fry for 8-10 minutes, turning form when the whisk is removed. the joint out and brush the top and the pieces over every 2-3 minutes, Method: Pour the egg nog from the bottles remaining side with the rest of the glaze. or until evenly browned all over. Put the butter in a bowl. Beat well with into a large bowl and fold in the egg Return the gammon to the oven for Meanwhile, in a small bowl, soften the a wooden spoon till soft or for speed whites until well combined. a further 10-15 minutes, rotating the butter with the back of a dessert spoon, use an electric hand whisk (and if Ladle the egg nog into glass tumblers roasting tin so that the opposite side of then season with the salt and freshly you use a food processor then there and serve with a little freshly grated the gammon faces the back of the oven. ground white pepper. Using a pastry brush is no need to sieve the icing sugar). nutmeg over the top of each glass.

Page 26 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Tickets now on sale for 21st annual Pipes of Christmas The concert presents the music of The concert has been lavished with Christmas accompanied by readings taken critical acclaim. In his review for Classical from the Celtic literature of Scotland, New Jersey Magazine, Paul Somers wrote, Ireland, and Wales. Featured performers “The whole evening was constructed to include singer Maddy Kearns of Glasgow, introduce gem after gem and still have Scotland making her concert debut, James a finale which raised the roof. In short, Robinson from the filmBraveheart , New it was like a well-constructed fireworks England fiddle champion Paul Woodiel, show on the Glorious Fourth.The champion harpist Rachel Clemente, Westfield Leaderdescribed the concert and the Pipe Major Kevin Ray Blandford as “a unique sound of power and glory Memorial Pipe Band from Redlands, nowhere else to be found.” California among many more. Each year, concert highlights are webcast in hi-definition over the Christmas holiday Proceeds Support to a global audience. In cooperation with Scholarships and More HomeTowne Television, the 2018 production Proceeds from the concert support an was the recipient of two prestigious Telly extensive music scholarship program, Awards for webcast excellence. which includes the Carol Hassert The concert is still accepting Title Memorial Fine Arts Scholarship at Sponsors as well as Program Ads. Summit (NJ) High School as well as These gifts help offset production expenses Pipers from the Kevin Ray Blandford Memorial Pipe annual gifts to the National Piping Centre and add help fund our scholarships. Band are returning this December. and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Tickets may be purchased online (both located in Glasgow, Scotland) the exclusively through Brown Paper Tickets at he Pipes of Christmas will celebrate a spiritual and traditional take on the Gaelic College of Nova Scotia and Lyon www.brownpapertickets.com (be certain you its 21st season with performances season that connects concertgoers College in Batesville, Arkansas. select the event name and date in the search in New Jersey and New York in to the holiday in a fresh, meaningful Proceeds also support the Society’s engine) or by phone at (800) 838-3006. Reserved December. The holiday favorite way. The show features tunes such as, sponsorship of the US National Scottish patron seats are available at both venues. Topens on Saturday, December 14 at Madison Highland Cathedral, Joy to the World, Harp Championship, the Gaelic Avenue Presbyterian Church, located at 921 and Amazing Grace, all performed live Literature Competition at Scotland’s Madison Avenue (at 73rd Street) for a 2PM on pipes and drums, harp and fiddle, Royal National Mod and an annual performance. The concert moves across and organ and brass and more. Not only academic research prize at Sabhal Mòr the Hudson River on Sunday, December does the performance define Christmas Ostaig, Scotland’s Gaelic college on the 15 to Central Presbyterian Church located cheer, but also it inspires those of Celtic Isle of Skye. at 70 Maple Street in Summit, NJ with descent to retrace and reconnect to performances at 2 and 7PM. their ancestry. Celtic spirit The 2019 production will also mark the Since making its debut in 1999, Mystical nativity world premiere of “Mystical Nativity,” an The Pipes of Christmas has played For those weary of the ceaseless stream of original composition inspired by the 16th to standing room only audiences. secular seasonal music from department century masterpiece painted by Italian Now a cherished holiday event, the stores to TV, the Pipes of Christmas offers Renaissance master, Sandro Botticelli. concert provides audiences with a stirring and reverent celebration of the Christmas season and the Celtic spirit. Audience-goers return year after year to experience the program, many reporting that the Pipes of Christmas Sandro Botticelli’s “Mystical Nativity,” has become part of their family’s annual painted between 1500 and 1501. Christmas tradition.

The acclaimed composer and performer Rachel Clemente will debut the new composition, “Mystical Nativity.”

The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 27 THE SCOTTISH BANNER THIS MONTH IN SCOTTISH HISTORY Names & Places In The News From Today And The Past

1 - The first volume ofEncyclopaedia 9 - King Malcolm IV, King of Scotland, 18 - Many Scottish historical records were 24 - General George Wade was appointed Britannica was published in Edinburgh, died at Castle. 1165 lost when the ship Elizabeth of Burntisland Commander-in-Chief of the British army in edited by William Smellie. 1768 10 - King Edward VIII abdicated and King sank off the English coast. The records had Scotland after he had reported on the need George VI acceded to the throne. 1936 been taken to London by Oliver Cromwell and for military roads in the country. 1724 were being returned to Edinburgh. 1661 10 - The death of Duncan Forbes of Culloden, 24 - Writer and geologist Hugh - Society of Antiquaries founded. the Lord President of the Court of Session. 18 1780 Miller died. 1856 As a prominent Whig, like many Scots 18 - Death penalty for murder was 25 - Stone of Destiny removed from Forbes supported the Hanoverian cause and formally abolished in Britain. 1969 Westminster Abbey. Used as the coronation th used his influence to dissuade a number of 19 - The Scotsman newspaper moves to stone of the Scottish kings from the 10 clans from joining the Jacobites. 1747 new offices at North Bridge in Edinburgh, century, the stone was removed by four remaining there until 1999. 1904 Scottish university students whose story became a book and movie. The ringleader 1 - First lighthouse in Scotland opened (at 20 - First General Assembly of the Ian Hamilton is a former contributor Kinnaird Head, ). It was built by Church of Scotland. 1560 to the Scottish Banner. 1950 Thomas Smith and Robert Stevenson. 1787 20 - Entertainer Andy Stewart was born in - Christmas Day becomes a public holiday 1 - Hurricane-force winds caused Glasgow. Stewart is perhaps best known for 25 in Scotland. It was abolished in 1640. widespread damage. 1966 his STV show, The White Heather Club, which 1958 2 - Mary Slessor, West African missionary, began in 1960, and his songs Ye Canna Shuv 25 - The Jacobite army reached Glasgow. born in Aberdeen. Slessor was adopted by an Yer Granny Off A Bus and Donald Where’s The military campaign to return a Catholic African tribe, who called her “ma”. 1848 Yer Troosers. He died in 1993. 1933 Stewart king to the throne in place of the Hanoverian Protestant King William III. 1745 10 - 1928-Designer and architect Charles 21 - Robert Liston, who was born in Linlithgow Rennie Mackintosh died. Known for his in 1794, performed the first operation in a British 26 - Alexander III, the King of Scots, was ‘Glasgow style’ with works such as the House hospital using anaesthetic (ether). 1846 married to Margaret, the daughter of Henry for an Art Lover, the Scotland Street School, 21 - Pan Am 747 blew up and crashed at III, King of England, in York. 1251 and the Glasgow School of Art. 1928 , Dumfries, killing 243 passengers, 27 - King Charles I, imprisoned at Carisbrooke 16 crew and 11 Lockerbie residents. The 11 - David Brewster, inventor of Castle, reached an agreement with the Scots Pan American jumbo jet bound for New the kaleidoscope born. 1781 who offered military aid in exchange for York was blown out of the sky by a terrorist a promise to establish Presbyterianism in 11 - Architect and artist Charles bomb and crashes onto the Scottish town England (but only for three years). 1647 Rennie Mackintosh died. 1928 of Lockerbie killing all 259 passengers 3 - died in Samoa. The 27 - Premiere of J M Barrie’s play Peter Pan and 11 people on the ground. Edinburgh born author penned classics such as 12 - Anne of Denmark, wife of 1988 at the Duke of York Theatre, London. Barrie Treasure Island (1883), The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll King James VI, born. 1574 22 - James Edward Stuart, the Old Pretender, was born in Kirriemuir in 1860. 1904 and Mr Hyde (1886) and Kidnapped (1886). 1894 son of James II, the deposed Catholic King of 13 - William Drummond, poet, born. 28 - The disaster occurred. 75 England, arrived at Peterhead in north-east 3 - His Majesty’s Theatre in Aberdeen Drummond was one of the first notable Scots passengers were killed when the structure Scotland to lead a Jacobite rebellion. 1715 opened and soon became the city’s leading poets to write exclusively in English after collapsed under a train during a storm. 1879 centre of entertainment. 1906 the in 1603. 1585 28 - Scotland’s famous outlaw, Rob “Roy” 4 - King William I (Lion) died at Stirling and 13 - The death of Thomas Glover, an MacGregor, died. He was immortalised in was succeeded by his son Alexander II. 1214 industrial pioneer in Japan. Born in Sir Walter Scott’s novel, Rob Roy. 1734 4 - Treaty of London, releasing James I from Fraserburgh, he is considered a national 28 - James IV who liked to gamble played his 18 years captivity in England. 1423 hero in Japan. Fraser brought the first steam ‘bylis’ (similar to billiards) with a man described train to Japan, and created the shipyard 4 - Essayist and historian Thomas Carlyle, in records as “John Anderson that wantis the feit in Nagasaki which would eventually form best known for his History of the French and handies”. There’s also a note mentioning the Mitsubishi Corporation. 1911 Revolution born in Ecclefechan. 1795 that the king gave Anderson 14 shilling. 1501 14 - James V died at Falkland Palace. Mary 4 - Cartoon character Desperate Dan first 29 - Charles Macintosh, who patented Queen of Scots succeeded him. 1542 appeared in the Dandy comic. 1937 22 - Pop mega-star Madonna married waterproof fabric, born in Glasgow. 1766 movie-producer Guy Ritchie at Skibo Castle, 5 - King Francis II of France, husband of 29 - William Ewart Gladstone, UK Prime Mary Queen of Scots, died. putting Dornoch into the media spotlight. 1560 Minister on four occasions, born 1809. The couple has since divorced but helped 1809 5 - Death of Sir Robert Watson-Watt, the create a Scottish wedding boom. 2000 Brechin-born inventor of radar. 1973 - Major outbreak of cholera 6 - King Alexander II crowned at Scone. 1214 23 in Scotland. 1831 6 - Charles Edward Stewart’s entry into Derby. A reluctant Charles and his Jacobite army was forced to withdraw from Derby only two days later. 1745 6 - The Battle of Dryfe Sands took place near Lockerbie, Scottish Borders, resulting in 14 - Glasgow District Underground many casualties, it was a battle between the opened, powered by electricity. 1896 clans of and . 30 - Rangers’ first match at their Many were wounded by downward sword 14 - Will Fyfe, comedian, died. 1947 new Ibrox Stadium, with capacity of strokes known as “Lockerbie Licks”. 1593 14 - University of Stirling instituted 75,000. It was a 3-1 victory over Hearts in the Inter-City League. 1899 7 - The birth of Henry Stewart, Lord Darnley, the by Royal charter. 1967 23 - Fife born accordionist Jimmy Shand died. Anglo-Scottish aristocrat and second husband of 15 - The Zoological Society of Glasgow Shand’s recordings are famous throughout 30 -The Albion Motor Company was Mary, Queen of Scots. Mary married Henry, her first was founded on this day. 1936 the world due to his distinctive playing style established. At first the firm made motor cousin, on the 29 July 1565, to be the uncrowned cars and commercial vehicles, but from 16 - Oliver Cromwell becomes Lord on the button accordion, and later on the “King Henry”. Darnley was the second husband BBC with The White Heather Club. 2000 1913 concentrated on the latter. 1899 of Mary and father of King James VI of Scotland Protector of England, Scotland and Ireland. Cromwell was the only invader of Scotland 24 - King William I (Lion) 31 - Prince Charles Edward Stewart, and James I of England. He was assassinated in The Young Pretender, was born in Rome. February 1567 by person unknown, although to conquer the whole country. 1653 crowned at Scone. 1165 Known as “Bonnie Prince Charlie”, after Mary’s third husband James, Lord Bothwell, was 16 - Thomas Blake Glover, founding father of the Gaelic pronunciation of his name, he seriously implicated in the murder. 1545 Japan’s industrialisation (including Mitsubishi) led the 1745 Jacobite attempt to overthrow 8 - Mary, Queen of Scots, born Linlithgow and Japanese Navy, born Fraserburgh. 1838 the Hanoverian monarchy. Bonnie Prince Palace. The only surviving child of James V and 17 - Marriage contract between James IV and Charlie or the Young Pretender, was the Mary of Guise, Mary ascended to the Scottish Margaret Tudor signed by King James. 1502 son of James, the Old Pretender. 1720 throne following her father’s death when - Lord Kelvin, scientist and - 72 killed at Glen Cinema she was only six days old. t, Mary Queen of 17 31 inventor, died. Scots was beheaded at Fotheringhay Castle in 1907 Fire, Paisley. 1929 England for her complicity in a plot to murder 17 - Petrol rationing was imposed following the 24 - Edinburgh Castle surrendered 31 - The farthing coin (a quarter of an old Queen Elizabeth I at the age of 44 years. 1542 Suez crisis and the closure of the canal. 1956 to Oliver Cromwell. 1650 penny) ceased to be legal tender. 1960

Page 28 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Shetland named as one of the best cruise ship destinations in Europe Earlier this year, Shetland was named Living Lerwick project manager Emma in the Lonely Planet’s top 10 must-see Miller, who entered Da Street for the European destinations for 2019, the only award, is delighted it made the shortlist. UK location included. This latest award is She said “We all know that Commercial proof that the islands are fast becoming a Street is a beautiful area, and now we have destination of choice for tourists. a chance to confirm that it is the most “We’re thrilled that Lerwick has been beautiful in the country! It’s easy to forget recognised as one of the best places in how lucky we are to have a local high Britain and Western Europe for cruise street with such a wide variety of goods passengers to visit,” continued Lauren and services available – and it’s an added Doughton, Project Manager at Promote bonus that it’s pretty stunning to look at.” Shetland. “The fact that the awards are Da Street faces competition from high voted for by the passengers themselves, streets in Ayr, Innerleithen, Kirkwall, based on their positive experiences Linlithgow, Lanark, Milngavie and in Shetland, is testament to the warm Rothesay welcome and first-class facilities they find when they arrive here.”

Text and images: Shetland Islands Council. Lerwick street nominated for national award hetland’s tourism industry goes from “To be placed third in the category With its network of lanes and short strength to strength as it was announced is another great accolade, bringing distance from Lerwick’s historic that Lerwick has been recognised as one more international recognition waterfront, it’s little wonder that of the best destinations in Britain and that Lerwick and Shetland are Commercial Street has been SWestern Europe to visit by cruise ship. Lerwick providing what passengers and nominated as one of the most beautiful came third in the list, with Kirkwall in Orkney cruise operators want,” said Melanie streets in Scotland. Affectionately ranking number one and Cork, Amsterdam and Henderson, Lerwick Port Authority known as ‘Da Street’ by locals, it serves Bruges completing the top five. Cruise Manager. “On top of Lonely as Shetland’s main commercial centre The Cruisers’ Choice Destination Planet’s recent praise for the islands, and is home to a post office, banks Awards is based on cruise ship passenger it’s another tremendous boost for and a number of independent shops, ratings posted on the Cruise Critic website, everyone involved in attracting and selling everything from knitwear and an online cruise guide, featuring more servicing the highly-competitive gifts to camera equipment, clothing than 350,000 cruise reviews. cruise sector.” and homeware. The Asheville Celtic Festival 2020 the grounds of the Western North Carolina demonstrations, Celtic educational role play Agriculture Center in Fletcher, North groups, Scottish athletic demonstrations, Carolina across form the Asheville Airport. genealogy research, Celtic foods, a Royal Entertainment will include live Celtic Court, a Celtic village of artisans and music from bands like SYR out of craftsmen and kilts everywhere! Columbia, SC and The Muckers The Asheville Celtic Festival is the from Atlanta, Georgia. The opening focused event of the Asheville Celtic Celtic inspired music by South Carolina’s Syr. ceremony will occur at 11:00 am with Group, a Non-Profit 501 (c) 3 Corporation. the awakening sounds of The Knoxville The group was founded for the primary winter indoor Celtic Festival will Pipes and Drums Band. purpose of creating various platforms for Historical European Martial Arts be held on Saturday 15, 2020 at education on the subject of the historic School, The Warriors of Ash. the WNC Agriculture Center. The Celtic entertainment Celtic cultural influences of settlers from event will take place from 10:00 Other entertainment will include live full the Seven Nations to the specific region For more details see: Aam to 10:00 pm within the new upscale armoured sword fighting at The Castle of the Western North Carolina Mountains www.ashevillecelticfest.com or 45,000 square foot Davis Center located on by The Warriors of Ash, Border Collie dating from 1750 to 1850. www.facebook.com/ashevillecelticfest

The Knoxville Pipes and Drums.

The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 29 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

By: Nick Drainey Lilias Adie - A victim of Scotland’s witch hunt Lilias Adie, from Torryburn, Fife, died in 1704 while held in prison for her “confessed” crimes of being a witch and having sex with the devil. Her remains were buried on the beach between the low and the high tide marks under a large stone. Locals had sought to weigh down Ms Adie in her grave, perhaps to prevent her coming back to haunt them. By the 19th century, scientific curiosity outweighed zombie fears and antiquarians dug up Ms Adie, the only witch’s grave in Scotland. Now plans are underway to create an memorial not just for Lilias but for all the women who perished after being accused of being a witch as Nick Drainey explains.

from the contemporary, industry-standard handbook on identifying and dealing with witches, Daemonologie,” says Douglas. A book which a poor peasant woman would have been unfamiliar with – but not an educated minister. And conveniently her confession ticked every box required to convict a witch, should the authorities have later inquired.

Watermark grave locked up in the local church. Just the day It’s impossible to ever know. But Lillias’s after she was imprisoned, Lillias began watermark grave was known locally a series of extraordinary “confessions”; for generations, being opened up in admitting that she was a witch, that she 1852 and the bones removed. Its exact had been so since “the second burning of location had never been recorded, witches in this place” (thought to refer to though, until Douglas went looking for Grave covering slab uncovered 2014. witchcraft trials in Torryburn in 1666, 38 it in 2014. Since then, the interest in years earlier), that she had renounced her Lillias, and through her the other victims archaeologist Douglas Speirs, hasn’t been Christian baptism, had sex with Satan and of witchcraft persecutions, has grown, just important in archaeological terms joined in midnight dancing cabals with with a reconstruction of her face from but also because it has led to calls for the other witches and the Devil. And according photographs of her skull and a wreath whole cartoonish cliché of witches to be to the minutes of the kirk session, she laying ceremony at the shore on the re-evaluated. continued to make these assertions up anniversary of her death in August. “We now know, we have known for until a few hours before her death. Organisers are now working with local many years, that there were no crimes, The question is why after only a day in artists on plans for the memorial, which that these people were innocent but they custody she would make a confession that may include the Stevenson-built Beamer were persecuted, they were tortured, they we know today cannot have been true and beacon lighthouse, moved from its original were humiliated. It was a gross injustice. which Lillias would have known would location when the new Forth crossing And 85 per cent of them were women – have led to her own death – four witches was built. Potential locations include women had no voice, no defence,” says were burned at Culross, a mile down the at Torryburn itself or elsewhere on the Cllr Stewart. road, in 1675; there were five executions coastline including at Culross, a mile away, Now, that revival of interest sparked for witchcraft in Fife between 1677 and and already a focus for visitors thanks to its by Lillias is at the centre of plans for a 1701; the Paisley witch trials took place in Outlander connections. Lillias Adie’s skull from 1901. national memorial to all of Scotland’s 1697; and six witches had been accused in As for Lillias, her return has had victims of witchcraft accusations and Pittenweem in 1704. nothing of the diabolical implications the a new witches’ trail along the coast of There are several theories including one villagers of her time feared. In August, he mud is inches thick on the shore Fife. Witchcraft persecutions in Scotland which may shed light on why Lillias was at the anniversary of her death a crowd at Torryburn in Fife where the tide began in the mid-16th century under the accused in the first place; she was a very gathered at the shore near her grave to lay washes in twice a day, a fact Kate direction of the new puritanical Protestant curious-looking woman. Her bones reveal a wreath on the water. Among the crowd Stewart discovered when she took Church. Four times more cases were that she was very tall (around 6ft) with a was historian and BBC radio presenter Dr Tsome visitors out a couple of weeks ago. tried in Scotland than England, despite small head. She also had very prominent, Louise Yeoman, who has produced and The Fife councillor says: “I was way over its smaller size, with 3,300 accusations protruding front teeth – her unusual presented a series of podcasts on Scottish my ankles within minutes. I could feel it and 1,400 executions on record, although appearance might not only have led some witchcraft. She says: “It was like she was pulling me down. And that was where they actual numbers are believed to be much villagers to treat her as an outsider, but being welcomed back into the community.” buried her.” higher. By the time Lillias was accused, they may point to some form of learning For more information, visit: www. witchcraft persecutions were actually difficulty. It is also believed, due to events facebook.com/A-memorial-for-Scotlands- Women had no voice tailing off – they’d peaked in the mid- she recalls during her interrogation, that Accused-Witches-101145571295783/ Lillias Adie died on August 29, 1704. 1600s, with the last witch executed in 1727. she was quite old for the 18th century – *Dr Yeoman’s podcasts on Scottish She was, up until a month before her “Witchcraft died out in 18th century between her late 50s and 70s – so there may witchcraft can be accessed free of death, a simple and unimportant peasant Scotland not because the Church and rural even have been an element of dementia. charge internationally, visit: www.bbc. woman but a great deal of trouble was society stopped believing in witches, but The other theory is that the records co.uk/programmes/p07rn38z/episodes/ gone to dig a grave in the intertidal zone of because the town-based civil authorities were plain and simply fabricated after the downloads this part of the Firth of Forth shore and to were increasingly reluctant to sanction ageing, terrified and tormented Lillias died place a large slab of sandstone over the top the burning of old, peasant women on on August 29, a month after she was locked of her tomb. And that was because Lillias the basis of the ridiculous confessions up, leaving the local minister, Reverend had been accused of being a witch - and wrung out of them by sleep deprivation Allan Logan, with a potential legal had confessed. However, she had died in and maltreatment,” says Douglas. problem. He wasn’t allowed to put witches custody before the normal procedures in “They wouldn’t have gotten away with to death even after confession; they had to such cases could be carried out – have a this in Torryburn just a few years later.” be brought to a proper trial, where many witch beg for repentance, strangled, then were, in fact, cleared especially in this burned in a cleansing fire. Without that, Bewitching later period. And, by this time, ministers there was a danger that Lillias could rise In June 1704 a special meeting of the kirk who overstepped the mark could find from the dead and return to inflict evil on session was held to look into gossip that themselves in hot water. the village, so the stone and the location Lillias Adie and another woman, Janet The fact that an uneducated peasant – covered by water for much of the time – Whyte, were witches. The accuser was Jean woman managed such a creative were designed to stop her returning. Bisset, a villager who had been drinking for confession speaks to someone putting The recreated It’s known as a revenant burial, from several hours before she began ranting that words into her mouth at the very least. Lillias Adie’s face from a photograph the Old French meaning “to return” and Lillias was bewitching her. When another But her descriptions, though imaginative, of her skull. Photo: Dr Christopher it is the only verifiable example of such in woman then also claimed Lillias had were not random. “Everything she Rynn/University of Dundee. Scotland. Its rediscovery in 2014, by Fife made her ill using witchcraft, Lillias was confessed to is almost word for word taken

Page 30 • The Scottish Banner • December 2019 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Clan Carruthers announces Chief after 210y ears Dr Simon Peter Carruthers (64, known It may have taken 12 long years of research, as Peter) is an agricultural scientist, with hard work and waiting, but we can now take further qualifications in management and our rightful place alongside the many other theology. For many years he was on the Scottish clans with legally accepted chiefs staff of the Centre for Agricultural Strategy and be recognised in our own right as a ‘noble at the University of Reading. Subsequently incorporation. This is a great moment for he worked in environmental education Carruthers worldwide and more importantly and rural policy in the public and third for all of our family who proudly look to sectors. Currently, he is Director of a Scotland’s heritage and culture for their roots Dr. Simon Peter Carruthers of Christian charity that supports the rural and a sense of belonging. The congratulations Holmains, Chief of Clan Carruthers. The Carruthers tartan. church. He is a co-founder and former we have already received from many across Chairman of Farm Crisis Network (now the the world, both from Carruthers and members Farming Community Network) in the UK, and chiefs of other clans, have been humbling is a member of the Royal Society of Biology and heart-warming. These messages of and an Honorary Senior Fellow at the congratulations have been conveyed to our Carruthers Arms from 13th century to date. The Chiefs Arms are in the middle (of Holmains). University of Worcester. Chief, who hopes that this will help gather the Carruthers together under one banner and lan Carruthers Society International is This decision followed nearly 20 months of A unique and special family further encourage other armigerous clans to extremely pleased to announce that proceedings before the Lord Lyon, including Peter is quoted as saying; “The Carruthers are persevere in seeking to identify and confirm Carruthers, after 210 years, has again two hearings of the Lyon Court in Edinburgh. a unique and special family. There are many their Chiefs or Commanders, through the a recognised Chief. Dr. Simon Peter The last of which was held on March 2019, at more of us in Scotland, the UK and around auspices of the Lyon Court.” CCarruthers of Holmains has been recognised which Dr. S. P. Carruthers was represented by the globe than people realise! And over the The Arms of Carruthers of Holmains, as Chief of Clan Carruthers by the Lord Lyon Sir Crispin Agnew of Lochnaw, Bt, QC. centuries we have had many distinguished which only the Chief can legally bear are: King of Arms, Dr Joseph Morrow, CBE, KStJ, Dr. Carruthers succeeds his fourth great- family members, some known and some ‘Gules, two chevrons engrailed between QC, DL, LLD, the arbiter in determining grandfather, John Carruthers, 12th of Holmains unsung, who have served their countries three fleur de-lis Or. The crest is ‘a chiefships through the confirmation of the & Kirkwood (died 1809), the last recognised and contributed to human flourishing and seraphim volant Proper’ and the motto, right to bear the hereditary Chiefly Arms of head of the Carruthers family. John 12th the common good. It is therefore a great ‘Promptus et fidelis’ (ready and faithful). a or family. was a direct descendant of the first chiefs of privilege and a sober responsibility to have Carruthers, dating back to the 13th century. inherited the position of Chief of Carruthers The Clan Carruthers Society International Origins in Dumfriesshire The Carruthers are an ancient Scottish and I will do my best to lead and serve the (CCSI) was founded in January 2017 and is officially recognised by the Chief of Carruthers In a Decision issued on 19th August 2019 and family from in the Anglo-Scottish family in our future together.” as representing the worldwide Carruthers published on 9th September 2019, the Lord Borders. They were one of the Scottish Dr George Carruthers, FSA Scot, family. It is non-commercial, apolitical and Lyon found Peter; “entitled to be recognised ‘unruly clans’ named in the 1587 Act of Convenor of the Clan Carruthers Society non-partisan and is open to any member in the name, style and title of; ’Simon Peter the and the Laird of International stated: “Not only is this of the international Carruthers family and Carruthers of Holmains, Chief of the Name Holmains (Holmends) was one of the chiefs wonderful news to have Chief recognised derivatives of that name. The Society is based and Arms of Carruthers’ and maintained, listed. From their origins in Dumfriesshire, and in place, it also means that with the in the United Kingdom, but is represented by ratified and confirmed the undifferenced Carruthers have spread across the world and confirmation of our hereditary Chief, an international Executive Council. For further Arms of Carruthers of Holmains c. 1672”. are today represented in every continent. Carruthers are no longer an armigerous clan. details visit: www.clancarrutherssociety.org

The Scottish Banner • December 2019 • Page 31 JANUARY HIGHLAND GAMES18-19, 2020 CENTRAL WINDS PARK WINTER SPRINGS Saturday 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Sunday 8:45 AM - 5:00 PM

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