TheThe LeodLeod VoiceVoice Clan MacLeod Societies National Council Newsletter # 54 Spring, 2011

Ardvreck Castle Ruins on Loch

Spring, 2011 Page 1 President’s Report never wanted to do them even with attempts at reverse psychology. With the work behind us, the ex- citement of the summer is here. The trip to San Francisco to attend the Clan MacLeod Society USA annual general meeting, starts this week and it is our first highlight of the summer. We relish the thought of a By Dr. Donald McLeod MacLeod Vineyard, a silent auc- tion, piping, catching up with clan Another glorious spring day members from everywhere and and a busy time on the farms. To being part of the swirl of each of us, this time of year means and . You never know who will a different set of chores. Christine be attending the gatherings until and I have finished planting our you actually arrive and survey the 400 Chardonnay plants to replace crowd. It will be superb and should some winter kill in the vineyard. be on your list of summer fun. The pear tree prunings have been We are planning to drive across gathered, the lawns mowed and the Canada for the last week of July sprinklers have been set out. Some and want to stop in each city and of our range has been flooded by discuss clan business and new ideas high lake levels but the for the future. cattle have been turned out to range We have been invited to attend and roads have been ploughed and the Glengarry the hayfields have been somewhat at Maxville, Ontario and the 75th replanted. Anniversary of the Clan MacLeod All of you farmers out there Society of Glengarry event. We are will identify with this progression excited about the Highland Tartan of events and shudder at the work Ball and look to the clan booth involved. We say we love the out- and music for reverie. With all door work because it keeps us close that driving, we will make another to nature. But we are well past ly- effort of perfecting our limited ing to ourselves and we recognize knowledge of Gaelic. (Just a re- these chores as exactly that and minder that Gaelic was the most not necessarily fun. They can’t be widely spoken language in Canada that much fun because the children at the time of confederation in CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 2 1867.) We have decided that with our own vehicle, we can take all the Book Review tartan paraphernalia with us to fit by Rowan Gladish the part of “want to be” highland- —a young reader from CMS ers. There should be no excuse for Central Ontario. us not to be decked out head to Mystery at Black Rock Island toe in tartan and the envy of any by Robert bland European onlooker. What a Sutherland’s novel is an action- wonderful heritage we have. If we mystery about a young man from could just get the new generation Ontario (David McCrimmon) who to appreciate our pride and history. gets himself into a lot of trouble It does take an extra effort to trick when, on vacation in the , the non-believers into Scottish he promises to fulfill a dying man’s events but once experienced, the last wish.Together with his new neophytes usually thirst for more. Scottish friend, Sandy MacLeod, Our job as members and hosts is they embark on an adventure that to provide an experience for those includes smugglers, spies and sub- unfortunate souls that have been marines to uncover the mystery of denied the spine shivering tingle Black Rock Island. of well tuned pipes around the This is an amazing read for bonfire with a Haggis and whisky youth ages eight and older. With in hand (a man’s point of view?) several plot twists and a surprising or denied eating fresh scones with ending, the story kept me reading tea while watching young highland way past my bedtime! This book dancers in fabulous outfits on stage is particulary appealing because in the sunshine (a woman’s point of its Scottish content. As my aunt of view?). I am sure everyone has (a Macleod) married a McCrim- their ideal setting for a Scottish mon, this was a neat find for me epiphany and at Highland Games personally. or MacLeod Clan gatherings, the Published in 1983, Mystery at chance for yours will never be Black Rock Island was the first of a greater. three book series following the ad- We hope to see you soon and ventures of David McCrimmon and wish each of you a safe summer Sandy MacLeod. The books are a (talking as an emergency physi- little hard to find, (you may need cian) and the best of health until to search the web a bit), but it’s we meet again. well worth the effort and should be Hold Fast from Dr. Donald included in your personal library. McLeod (president Clan MacLeod On a scale of 1 to 10 I’d rank this Societies of Canada). ∆ book at a 9. ∆ Spring, 2011 Page 3 Our Trip to Assynt by Leslie and Don McCrimmon One of the greatest pleasures of the in Assynt. for clan members travelling to Towards the end of the 15th Cen- Parliament is taking advantage of tury, Angus Mor, the 3rd MacLeod the opportunity to learn more about of Assynt, had a simple stone tower MacLeod history on the pre-parlia- built. This survives today as the ment trip. Four years ago it was a core of which sits trip to the outer islands of Lewis on a peninsula and Harris. This year we toured extending from the almost magical land of Assynt. the north shore of Most of us have heard stories about and the MacLeod history in the lands of close to Kirkton Skye, , however, where his father, what a lot of us did not known was old Angus, built the history of Macleods in the land the first par- of Assynt, in the north west corner ish church. The of the mainland of . structure was Assynt was originally the hunt- amazing and way ahead of its ing lands of the Thane of Suther- time. The main block was of three land. During one of the many raids or four storeys, with a vaulted by the Scandinavian Kings his basement pierced by gunloops and beautiful forest was burned and the round stair tower, is corbelled his cattle stolen. MacNicol of Coi- out to support a square two-storey gach recovered the cattle and was caphouse. awarded the lands of Assynt. Donald Ban MacLeod 9th be- In the 14th century Murdoch came Chief in 1585 but had to MacLeod of Lewis abducted Mar- survive many years of bloody battle garet, the only child of MacNicol, and married her. As she was MacNicol’s heiress, Margaret brought with her the lands of As- synt. In 1343 David II of Scotland granted Assynt to Murdoch and Margaret’s son, Torquil MacLeod of Lewis, thus starting the long and turbulent history CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 4 with other members of his fam- ily. The feuding and murdering led to a siege of Ardvreck Castle which was ended by the diplo- matic intervention of Alexander, Earl of Sutherland. Surviving to a ripe old age, Donald Ban died about 1647. The MacLeod burial vault which stands in isolation in the churchyard at Kirkton is said to be his final resting place. John, the younger son of the Earl of Seaforth, became MacKenzie of Assynt. He died in 1705 and his son Kenneth became the second and final MacKenzie of Assynt. Attention Ladies: Kenneth’s wife did not like living in a drafty castle and persuaded her husband to build her a new house. Keep this in mind! Calda House was the Unfortunately the MacLeod first modern house to be built in the history in Assynt came to an end northwest highlands. MacKenzie as a result of the horrid MacKenzie eventually lost his control of As- Clan who aligned themselves with synt due to his indebtedness to the the newly restored Monarchy in Earl of Sutherland in 1736. 1660. Neil MacLeod was arrested While the clan history is fasci- and charged with betrayal. He was nating there is much more to this imprisoned in then re- amazing land. From a geological leased in 1666 when no evidence perspective, Assynt is an absolute could be found against him. By gold mine. The Lewisian this time Neil was deeply in debt. rock is considered the oldest found The Earl of Seaforth, who was the anywhere on earth (3,000 million MacKenzie Chief, attempted to re- years old) and is easily found as deem Neil’s debts by laying claim it is actually on top of the ground to the lands of Assynt. Neil resisted due to what is called the Glencoe but was eventually defeated at Ar- Thrust. The Thrust occurred when dvreck Castle, a battle that lasted the new rock was driven under the 14 days. old rock forcing it to the surface. The MacKenzie control of This Lewisian gneiss rock is also Assynt lasted just over 60 years. found across Europe and in parts of Spring, 2011 Page 5 (with a fall of 600 feet), the tall- est waterfall in Britain. While we were piloted by Gordon MacLeod from Nova Scotia, we saw many sunbathing sea lions.

North America which proves that we were all joined together at one point in time. While the history and geol- ogy were fascinating it was the fellowship with other clansflok from around the world that made the trip most memorable. There were families from Canada, USA, , , , and Scotland. We stayed TO THE MEMORY OF THE in the beautiful Inn. REVEREND NORMAN MACLEOD It is set at the end of Loch Assynt BORN HERE ON 29 SEPTEMBER and is surrounded by fields full of 1780 long-horned . Apparently the DIED AT WAIPU NEW ZEALAND Moms were up in the mountains ON 14 MARCH 1866 tending to the newborns. T’was LEADER, MINISTER AND TEACHER HE LED HIS PEOPLE ever thus. OVER 14,000 MILES OF OCEAN TO We took a trip from the postcard NOVA SCOTIA, AUSTRALIA AND village of to the beautiful NEW ZEALAND beaches of Clachtoll where we saw “LEAN IAD E GU IOMALL NA the Norman MacLeod monument. TALMHAINN” At the age of 70, Reverend Norman THEY FOLLOWED HIM TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH took his flock from Scotland to Nova Scotia. They remained there for seven years before moving on to Australia and finally to New Zealand. Our next stop was Kylesku, where we took a leisurely cruise up Loch Glencoul. In the distance we could see Eas-Coul-Aulin waterfall

CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 6 A Reconnection by Eileen Crosby This past July, 2010, I had my initial introduction to the MacLeod Parliament in . I first heard about the Parliament when my fourth cousin, Rona Cooper of New Zealand, visited with us in Cape Breton back in 2006. Both she and her hus- band, Jeremy, were on their way to the Parliament when they stopped in Cape Breton to reconnect with her Cape Breton roots. Rona’s great grandmother, Hannah Ma- cleod, was a three year old on the Ellen Lewis which set sail Eileen Crosby and Rona Cooper from St. Ann’s Bay in 1859 arriving in in 1860. At the end of Raasay and was the great-grand- their four day visit with us, it was father of the now well known agreed that we should all attend the Malcolm or Calum MacLeod, who 2010 Parliament together with the single handedly built “Calum’s expressed aim of walking Calum’s Road”. Road on Raasay regardless of the As luck would have it, this program of activities yet to be set year’s program included a full for the next Parliament. day’s outing to the Isle of Raasay. You see, our great-great-grand- With a rental car and our good fathers were brothers from Raasay natured spouses in tow, we set out who were uprooted due to the early on July 28 for Raasay head- harsh living conditions. Rona’s ing immediately for Brochel Castle g-g-grandfather, Murdoch Mor ruins and the start of Calum’s Road. MacLeod emigrated to Auckland, As time was very limited we did New Zealand in 1865 while my not walk the entire mile and three- g-g-grandfather, Iain Mor or John quarters opting instead for a “con- MacLeod, emigrated to Prince densed hike” and then continued Edward Island in 1858. Another by car right to the end of the road brother, Donald, remained on at Arnish. Spring, 2011 Page 7 the opening of the Emigrants’ Walk(Ceum nan Eilthi- reach) which was con- structed by the Raasay Heri- tage Trust. Just before the ceremony got underway, three fourth cousins had a Eileen, Jeremy Cooper, Rona and Tim Rossiter (Rona’s son) few moments to reconnect - Later that morning we returned Rona Cooper, a great- great-grand- to the new Raasay Village Hall daughter of Murdoch MacLeod; (Talla Ratharsir) where a number of Eileen Crosby, a great-great-grand- local organizations had set up ge- daughter of John MacLeod and nealogy displays and hosted a lun- Alexander (Sandy) MacLeod, a cheon for all parliamentarians. Just great-great-grandson of Donald prior to the luncheon, we attended MacLeod; all brothers born and

Rona Cooper, Rebecca Mackay, Tim Rossiter, Eileen Crosby and Alexander (Sandy) MacLeod CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 8 bred on Raasay in the early 1800s. Luceo non uro (I shine not Rebecca MacKay who is a very burn) of the Clan MacLeod involved member of the Raasay of Raasay. ∆ Heritage Trust and who still lives on Raasay is also a cousin. Her g-g-g-grandmother, Margaret Mac- Kay, was the mother of these three brothers.

The oldest Raasay member, Jessie Nicolson and one of the youngest, Kristy Mackay, share Aug 12 birthday and unveil the plaque for the Raasay Heritage Trust Long Distance Relationships by Eileen Crosby Sometimes old photographs have much more significance for us than when we first look at them. Such is the case with this photo taken in 1934 at St. Ann’s Bay in Cape Breton. In the background one can just make out a cairn. This cairn commemorates the departure of six vessels full of Scottish set- tlers who subsequently landed in Auckland, NZ, many of whom later settled in Waipu. These settlers, who were under the leadership of Rev. Norman MacLeod, had tried Spring, 2011 Page 9 to establish a farming community MacLeod of New Zealand (pictured at St. Ann’s but after several years above) had a brother Malcolm who of failed crops they decided to head married Hannah MacLeod, who for fairer weather and better soil. was a child of 3 when her parents Pictured above are John decided leave Cape Breton for New MacLeod and his wife Kate who, Zealand. Hannah’s family came to in 1934, traveled from New Zea- New Zealand on the Ellen Lewis in land to meet with relatives in Nova 1863 and settled in Waipu. Scotia and Prince Edward Island. In December of 2010, I was Standing between them is John’s given a copy of the above pho- first cousin once removed, Mal- tograph by Malcolm MacLeod’s colm (Mack) MacLeod of Sydney, daughter, Norma, who still lives NS. Although Malcolm has written in Sydney, NS. (Norma and my the terms “Uncle and Auntie” on mother, Marjorie, were first cous- the back of the photo, it may have ins). In November of 2009, when been that he used these as terms of traveling in New Zealand, I met endearment. John’s father, Mur- my fourth cousin, Brett MacLeod doch, came from the Isle of Raasay. Robinson of Hamilton, New Zea- He and his five sons immigrated to land. Recently, I sent Brett a copy New Zealand in 1865. This same of the above photo and Brett, who Murdoch had an older brother, John is a keen genealogist, sent me a (Iain Mor) MacLeod, who migrated copy of the letter which follows and to Prince Edward Island in 1858. which was written some 77 years Malcolm is the grandson of John ago. Brett is the great-grandson of MacLeod of Prince Edward Island. John MacLeod. It is interesting to note that the John

Relationship: Generation 1 Murdoch MacLeod (NZ), John MacLeod (PEI) (brothers born on Raasay) Generation 2 John MacLeod (NZ), Donald B. MacLeod (PEI) (1st cousins) Generation 3 Neil MacLeod (NZ), Malcolm MacLeod (NS), Newton MacLeod (NS) (2nd cousins) Generation 4 Margaret Elaine MacL. Robinson, Norma MacLeod (NS), Marjorie MacLeod (NS) (3rd cousins) Generation 5 Brett McL. Robinson (NZ), Eileen Crosby (NS) (4th cousins)

CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 10 Note: John and Kate MacLeod of NZ made two trips to North America, one in 1929 when they only visited USA, and again in 1934 when they came to Canada. This letter was written by Malcolm MacLeod in February of 1934 to his “Uncle” John anticipating their forthcoming trip to this part of the world. Malcolm’s three children who were very young when the letter was written have just seen this letter for the first time.

Spring, 2011 Page 11 Putting together the story by Don MacLeod (Halifax) Ed Note: Don has received useful ancestral information from the House of Memories in Waipu, NZ. Obituaries and gravestone records have helped with his research. Don can be contacted at 239 Chandler Dr., Lower Sackville, NS B4C 1Y4. Phone 902-864- 6603, [email protected] I have been researching my George were among the former great-uncle Captain George McLeod Nova Scotians who accompanied Sr., his wife Ann (McGregor) and him. George and Ann settled at only child George Jr. who went Whangarei Heads at what is now with the Rev. Norman McLeod known as McLeod Bay. George onboard the Margaret first to Aus- Sr. operated ship(s) in the New tralia, then to New Zealand. Rev. Zealand coastal marine trade. He McLeod sold the Margaret in Aus- probably also sailed to and from tralia. Approximately two years eastern Australia. George Jr. was later, Rev. McLeod purchased also a marine captain but I have another ship and sailed to Waipu, yet to learn much about his career New Zealand. George, Ann and in the maritime industry. CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 12 I recently found out that George in Man O’ War Point Cemetery on Jr., his wife and children did not re- Boularderie Island. It says he was main in Whangarei Heads. This is 2 years of age. Angus was the the only information I have found last child born at Point, As- to date. As my inquiries from synt. One child, Norman “King” the New Zealand Archives have was born in Cape Breton and lived shown, George Sr., Ann and George at Baddeck Bay. The last time I Jr. are buried in Whangarei Heads checked, there was still at least one Cemetery. I am still attempting to of Norman McLeod’s descendant determine if any of George Jr.’s living there. The only other thing I descendants remain in New Zea- discovered is there were a number land. Following George’ and Ann’s of Norman “King” McLeods. deaths, their home was occupied by My great-grandfather lived at a relative. The house later burned Boularderie Centre and operated down. George Sr. donated the land a sailing ship in the Nova Scotia- for the the first Presbyterian Church Newfoundland trade. He died and the building is still there. onboard his ship in St. John’s New- My great-great paternal grand- foundland and his remains were parents, Murdock and Effie (McNi- taken home in a barrel of salt/brine. , aka Nicholson) were married My grandfather, John “Cricket” at Achnacarnin, Scotland in 1801 (I have always wondered what and emigrated to Nova Scotia in that nickname meant) McLeod 1820. According to research by was born on Boularderie Island. Bonnie (McLeod) Thornhill of He married Isobella McKenzie of Baddeck, NS, they lived on a 50 Black Brook, Boularderie. Grand- acre lot in Englishtown, Cape Bret- father kept the light on St. Paul’s on. It is thought, in later years they Island in the late 1800s and again in lived with son Murdock “King” the early 1900s. My father, Captain McLeod at Baddeck Bay (not to John Angus, was a pre-teen at that be confused with Norman “Gold” time, so the second time was circa McLeod, also of Baddeck.) There 1910. Later he served as a county is also some information which councilor for two years and at the indicates that they also had land, time of his death in 1924, operated near that owned by Rev. Norman a general store in North Sydney. McLeod at or near St. Ann’s in Grandmother remained in North Cape Breton. Sydney until her death in 1937. The date of Murdock, Effie and A year or so ago, my wife El- family’s arrival in Cape Breton was eanor and I visited Cape Breton and found on my great-grandfather’s with the kind assistance of Alexan- (Capt. Angus McLeod) grave stone der (Sandy) McLeod, a brother of Spring, 2011 Page 13 genealogy author Bonnie Thornhill, our search. we scoured many of the cemeteries The reason we are called in the Baddeck area. We were at- “King” McLeods is because Mur- tempting to determine where Mur- dock managed to own quite a bit dock, Effie and their son Norman of land. “King” are buried. That search was I thought that the Voice without success. We did however, might be read by other relatives learn there have been a number of who might wish to exchange in- Norman “King” McLeods. Eleanor formation. and I plan another trip to Cape Yours in Clanship, Breton later this summer to renew Don MacLeod MACLEODS OF ASSYNT by J. Ron MacLeod I refer to the report in the Fall version) “The Desperate Battle of issue of the Leod Voice of the visit the Birds” to an incident in Assynt. to the ruins of Ardvreck Castle by Rod’s story goes like this: a group of MacLeods who were in “In those early days Assynt was Scotland to attend Parliament 2010. well populated with inhabitants It brought to mind a story told who had flocks and herds, and the by the late Pipe Major Roderick MacLeods were often able to give MacLeod. Rod came to Vancouver a good demonstration of Highland from Scotland and left us with a hospitality. heritage – the BC Pipers Associa- “At the time of the tale as told tion. Rod was a founding member me, the old lady of the castle was and the first President. living the life of the nobility, and Rod told a story passed on was much given to wining, dining, to him by his Aunt, a resident of and dancing, and would keep the Lewis. The Lewis-Assynt connec- dancing going as long as possible. tion goes back to the time when “In those days of candles, crui- MacLeod Barons of Lewis held sies, lanterns but no alarm-clocks, Assynt as well as Raasay, , people snug in their beds depended and other lands in Skye. on the crowing of the cock to tell They eventually lost their patri- them when it was daybreak. mony because of their unstinting “On this occasion the mistress support of MacDonald, Lord of of Ardvreck Castle ordered the the Isles, in MacDonald’s recurring piper, shepherd, smith, and one of conflicts with the Scottish Crown. the maids to fasten the beaks of Rod’s story linked the piobai- all the roosters, so that the dancers reachd ( in the English would not be able to tell the time CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 14 by the crowing of the cock. In this Rod MacLeod’s story is one of way she could realize her wish to three possible sources of the tune continue the dancing well beyond we know today as “The Desperate daybreak. Battle of the Birds”. One story goes “The servants went in the eve- back to a time when King Robert ning to the henhouse where flocks III in the late 1300s arranged a clan of fowl were perched high up on duel that left all but a handful of roosts and, as my aunt said : “there participants dead. After the battle, was a terrific battle, with cocks flocks of birds swooped down to and hens” before they succeeded feast on the corpses of dead Clan in getting the bills of all the males Chattan and MacKay warriors. A securely fastened. The piper, like third version, based on a popular those of his kind - always foremost Gaelic poem of the time, is an Ar- in battle - got the worst of it. gyll story from the late 1700s about The piper’s hair collected dust, a flock of birds that killed the wife His clothes held more than mud, of their keeper. His head was clawed, his face Many piobaireachd are based was scratched, on oral history carried down His precious hands dripped the generations in the chants of blood, Bards. At some point in time a He blessed the birds in Canntai- piper would compose a piobai- reachd, reachd based on the theme of a Those Breabach Beats that go, Bard’s creation. Rod MacLeod’s Ho-drin-in-ti, Ha-drin-in-te, Ardvreck tale falls into this Ha-drin-in-ti, Ho-dro. category. ∆ “Rejoicing that the battle is over, and happy because madam is pleased with the work achieved, Gaelic at EU Meeting the piper, now with the pipes on Education Secretary Mike his shoulder, defiantly sends a Russell made history on Tuesday “MacLeod” tune echoing through June 7, 2011 by becoming the the halls as he leads the “’Grand first person to address a European March” into the ballroom. There is Council meeting in Gaelic. He dancing of Flings and Reels during spoke on youth issues at the Edu- the long weary hours of the night. cation, Youth and Culture Council Tapestry-covered windows let in in Brussels. no light and muzzled roosters are Gaelic was given co-official unable to announce the daybreak, status as a language of the Euro- so the dancing went on till noon pean Union in October 2009. ∆ next day.” Spring, 2011 Page 15 Jeff Macleod Weds Jenna Witter by Sheila Macleod Macleod of , . Neil and Sheila Macleod of Kenneth and Toni were active Stratford, Ontario, are pleased to members of Clan Macleod, were welcome their daughter-in-law organizers of the early Clan Parlia- as a new member of Clan Macleod. ments, and offered hospitality to Jenna Witter, daughter of Mike and many. Kenneth was well known Kathy Witter, of Tavistock, mar- as the Corresponding Secretary ried Jeffrey Macleod in , for the ACMS, and they met many Ontario, on June 19, 2010. Macleod Societies in their own Jeff is the grandson of Ken- countries, on a “world trip” in neth “Coinneach Mor” and Toni 1972. ∆

Diana Macleod, Amy Macleod, Jenna (Witter) Macleod, Jeffrey Macleod, Sheila Macleod, Steven Macleod, (in front) Neil Macleod. Central Ontario News by Karen Macleod McCrimmon, President Central Ontario clansfolk met mation about MacLeod history. October 16, 2010 for their Fall On this particular occasion Ceilidh. we asked the Chairman of CAS- From time to time we have SOC, Clans and Scottish Societies speakers or our own members of Canada, to speak to us on the provide us with information that subject Scottish Symbols and their relates to our common Scottish origin and significance.Ian Angus background or specializes in infor- Munro had prepared a PowerPoint CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 16 presentation which included not our knowledge, but gave us some only a brief description of the his- insight into the many tales and tory of CASSOC and the reasons sagas from which these items that for its existence, but also enlight- permeate our history originally ened us concerning the use of the emanated. Thistle, as a symbol of Scotland, Our evening also included a the Scottish Saltire (the official flag delicious dinner of lasagna, salads of Scotland that bears the Cross of and desserts, followed by some St Andrew), the Lion Rampant, wonderful piping by David Pug- including who has the official right liese, a presentation by Don and to fly this flag. Although you prob- Lesley McCrimmon on their expe- ably see this flag flying at many riences on the pre-Parliament trip Highland Games and such, offi- to Assynt (wish we all could have cially the flag may only be flown been there!) and the impressions of by the monarch. Did you know that one of our more recent members, you can tell if the Lion Rampant is Lyn Bennett, who attended her first Scottish if the tongue and claws of Clan Parliament at Dunvegan and the lion are blue. These amongst was already enthusing about a pos- other symbols not only enhanced sible return visit in 2014. ∆

CMS (Central Ontario) having fun together. Allen & Mary, Don McCrimmon, Diane, Karen and Lesley McCrimmon, Kathy White, Christina Gladish and Beth Macleod. CASSOC Tartan Day cake.

Spring, 2011 Page 17 TARTAN DAY 2011 by Lesley McCrimmon October 21, 2010 – The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Cana- dian Heritage and Official Languages, announced today that the Govern- ment of Canada will now officially recognize April 6 as Tartan Day. “A tartan represents a clan, a family, and a community, and is an enduring symbol of Scotland that is cherished by Canadians of Scottish ancestry,” said Minister Moore. “Many Canadian provinces and other countries already celebrate Tartan Day. As well, through Tartan Day, Ca- nadians will have an opportunity to learn more about the various cultures that comprise Canadian society.” Tartan Day originated in the late 1980s in Nova Scotia where it was declared an official day by the provincial government. It then spread across the country, with many provinces joining in. This marks the first time the Day has been recognized by the federal government. “By officially recognizing this Day, we encourage Canadians all across the country to celebrate the contributions that over four million Canadians of Scottish heritage continue to make to the foundation of our country,” said Senator John Wallace, who recently introduced a bill in the Senate in support of nationally declaring Tartan Day. In Canada, Tartan Day is celebrated on April 6, the anniversary of the Declaration of , the Scottish declaration of independence. Tartan Day celebrations typically include parades of pipe bands, Highland dancing and sports, and other Scottish-themed events. Each province and territory has their own tartan. Next April 6, put on your own tartan and take a walk. Who knows, you may end up meeting a relative. ∆ Arbroath Abbey, Scotland 6 April 1320 For so long as a hundred of us shall remain alive, we will never, on any condition, be subjected to the Lordship of the English. For we fight not for glory, nor riches, nor honours, but for freedom alone, which no man gives up, except with his life. These inspirational lines were included in the Scottish Declaration of Independence sent to Pope John XXII by and “The whole community of the realm of Scotland”, enunciating a constitutional monarchy.

CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 18 Red River Bicentenary Celebrations

May 27, 2011 Dear Friends: As you are probably aware, the year 2012 will mark the 200th anniver- sary of the arrival of the Selkirk Settlers at Red River. The settlers were the first individuals to establish permanent residence along the Red River in what has grown to become the City of Winnipeg. They were also the first permanent European residents on the northern Great Plains of North America. As well, Lord Selkirk’s initiative resulted in the establishment of agriculture in western Canada. In early 2010, representatives of Manitoba-based Scottish cultural and heritage organizations came together to form what is now The Scottish Heritage Council of Manitoba, Inc. The mandate of the Council is to share ideas and information within the community in Manitoba, to promote Scottish traditions, heritage and culture, and to organize certain cultural or heritage events. In preparation for the bicentenary of the founding of the Red River Settlement, the Council established the Red River Bi- centenary Committee whose goals include the coordination, sharing and dissemination of information about next year’s events among the various Scottish organizations, as well as with the general public. In order to assist with this mandate we ask you to inform the com- mittee of any activities or events that your organization will be, or is contemplating, organizing in celebration of this special anniversary. Similarly, we will undertake to keep you informed of all the information that we have in order to ensure that the Manitoba Scottish community is fully informed about what is being planned. In doing so, our goal is to ensure both the Scottish organizations and the general public become aware of the importance of this historic event. We have recently established a website at www.redriver200.ca and we encourage you to contact us at [email protected] should you wish to communicate with our committee. Thank you very much for your kind assistance. Yours sincerely, Lawrence Prout and Phyllis Fraser Co-chairs Selkirk Settlement Bicentenary Committee Spring, 2011 Page 19 How Honest are the Scottish? by Lesley McCrimmon Mary and John MacLeod took dress for her so that we can re-unite a 13 day trip to Scotland with her with her camera.” the Quigley Pipe & Drum Band Emma, in turn, e-mailed “the from Lochiel, Glengarry, Ontario, Canadian clan” asking if anyone August 9 – 21. Just before the trip, knew Mary. I e-mailed Emma Mary had misplaced her camera asking for the phone number and and found it just in time to travel. called Mary who lives in the Ot- While in Edinburgh, Mary put tawa area. She was delighted that down her camera and it was picked her camera was safe and contacted up by a friend. During their stay, the Pitlochry Police. Apparently it they took the opportunity to take would cost about $ 100.00 to have a four day trip to the Isle of Skye, the camera mailed back so just visiting and the memory card has been mailed. . On their fourth day, on the Her friend, Nina McKechnie goes way back to Edinburgh, they were back to her home in Scotland in in Pitlochry where Mary again put November and returns to Glengarry down her camera, but didn’t realize in May so will bring back Mary’s it was gone until later. well-travelled camera. Honest Scotsmen, Stewart and May also told me that her Kate MacMillan picked up the cam- husband, John, was the President era and turned it into the Pitlochry of the Clan MacLeod Society of Police. The local police contacted Glengarry in the late 70s early 80s. the Parliament co-ordinator Emma This is not just a happy ending Halford MacLeod-Forbes. but we hope to actually meet one “This may be a bit of a long another next year at the Glengarry shot but I am hoping that you can Highland Games. help. A digital camera has been Just remember, after 3 strikes, found and handed in to Pitlochry you are not out. Mary has devel- Police Station. The name Mary oped her Scottish pictures and told Macleod, with a contact number me they were great. She will get to in Ontario, Canada, is written on take pictures with her camera again the inside of the camera case. I because of honest Scotsmen. ∆ have looked through the photo- Editor’s Note: Having once been the graphs on the camera and think that recipient of a fellow travelers honesty Mary may have been at the Clan myself, I suggest that in future Mary MacLeod Parliament at the end of might tether her camera case securely July. Hoping you may have an ad- to her purse, as I now do. CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 20 This ‘n that

Alma MacLeod celebrates her 85th birthday with Joy Terrant in Calgary at the Red Lobster, Alma’s favourite eatery.

Clockwise: A group of Halifax clan members enjoy fellowship after a work bee organizing a mailing. The spring gathering of G Van members relating travel stories. Pat MacLeod (USA) preparing the firing of the cannon at Halifax Citadel. Bill (Internet master USA) soldier for a day with the 78th Highlanders at Halifax Citadel.

Spring, 2011 Page 21 My Love of Scotland by Judy Tipple soaking wet — he’d fallen in My first visit to Skye was in the loch. I don’t remember if he had 1980 after several communica- caught any fish or not, I was so ab- tions with Kenneth ‘Mor’ and Toni sorbed by the site of this tall, burly, MacLeod who generously and most handsome in his soggy graciously hosted us. Neil R. and I kilt. My only experience of gentle- were relatively new Clan MacLeod men wearing the kilt had been as Society members having been formal dresswear or at highland introduced to the organization in games, not as an item of working February 1972, while living in Vic- attire. I soon became very aware toria. We received a blind mail-out that many Scotsmen throughout the invitation to the MacLeod Dinner highlands wear their kilt daily. at Holyrood in Victoria sent to ev- That visit was the first of eight ery MacLeod/McLeod in the Vic- that I have made to Dunvegan since toria phone book. At that delightful and established my deep affection event we met Douglas Morrison for Scotland, the Highlands and who was the CMS Vancouver Skye in particular. Often family president and also Arthur MacLeod and friends have been travelling Rogers (founder of Clan MacLeod companions on my Scotland trips, Societies of Canada, also Ian and especially when Rick and I have Norman’s father) who spent the ventured to the land of Rick’s winters in Victoria to escape the grandmother’s birth. cold of his home in Ontario. Attending Parliaments and On moving to the Vancouver touring around Scotland, I have met area later in 1972, we kept in touch and made friends with many, many with Douglas and Clarabelle and kindred spirits both of MacLeod attending gatherings in the area ancestry and general Scottish in- as well as returning to the annual terest. Having no known, as yet to February Victoria Clan Dinner, be- be found, blood connections with came keen Clan MacLeod Society Scotland, has in no way diminished members. my fondness for Scotland and Getting back to my first visit things Scottish. to Skye and Dunvegan, we arrived In the not too distant future, I at Kenneth’ and Toni’s lovely old intend to divest myself of many home at Harlosh and were gra- of my commitments and search ciously welcomed by Toni. While my Hunter ancestry to discover we were enjoying a cuppa’ with my personal elusive connection to Toni, Kenneth arrived home from Scotland, the land that has captured in the loch — wearing a my heart. CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 22 Kenneth Mor was the father of Self Catering Cottage Sheila’s husband Neil. The story of handy to Dunvegan Neil’s coming to Ontario is one I’d Most of you are likely unaware like to know and will endeavour to of a new self-catering holiday cot- determine for a future issue of the tage on the Isle of Skye. With beau- Leod Voice. tiful loch views, Keeper’s Cottage I had a newsy message from is located in the charming village of Sheila Macleod of Stratford, ON, Bridge, only a few miles in May during our correspondence from Dunvegan. Skeabost Bridge with regard to her and Neil’s son has a country house hotel, a golf Jeff and Jenna’s wedding. An item course and the best salmon river of special interest was that she and on Skye. We would be delighted daughter Diana had been typing to accommodate members of the up her father-in-law Kenneth’s MacLeod clan at our cottage which autobiography and in the chapter can be viewed on our website www. recently discovered, Kenneth wrote keeperscottage-skye.co.uk of the electric power coming to Kind regards, John and Wendy Skye and specifically the Dunvegan Cowpe. ∆ area in the 1930s. Kenneth related a story from the electric meter reader. Simon Fraser Many people in the area only spoke University OFFERINGS Gaelic and there being no word for SFU Centre for Scottish Stud- electricity, it was called “the new ies is sponsoring a course in Early light”. One woman had a very low Medieval Scottish History this fall. usage and reported to the meter To register, go to: http://www.sfu. reader that she only used the elec- ca/seniors/registration or phone tric light long enough to light her 1-778-782-5000. Instructor- An- lamp. Seems reasonable to me! tone Minard. I look forward to further tidbits Early Medieval Scotland from Kenneth’s autobiography via Discover the early history of Sheila and her family. ∆ Scotland, from the Roman with- drawal from Britain to the death of Margaret, Maid of Norway. Explore Scotland’s early peoples: The biggest and best the indigenous , the Dál Ríata, Celtic Festival of 45 concerts and the Norse. Along the way, in at least 31 venues on Cape we will explore important people Breton Island, NS. who shaped later Scotland, includ- Programs announced June 27, ing fictitious characters such as tickets on sale July 11. Macbeth. ∆ Spring, 2011 Page 23 flowers of the forest Central Ontario experienced the loss of two members of the Rogers family during the first few months of 2011. Many will remem- ber Arthur MacLeod Rogers, who was so instrumental in the creation of clan societies in Canada during the Dame Flora years. Joan and Ian were long-time active members who made friends and connections both nationally and internationally through Clan MacLeod events. Joan Winnifred Rogers On April 16, 2011, Joan Rog- the Trilliums and Tartan Banquet ers, wife of Norman MacLeod Rog- and Ball, of the beautiful Trillium ers, passed away at age 89 years Grandiflorum, the floral emblem of in Toronto. Joan will be missed the Province of Ontario. She gener- by all in the Clan, but we extend ously offered to have her original in particular, our condolences to watercolour auctioned off to raise her husband of 65 years, Norman, funds to assist Central Ontario and her children, Brian, Dean and with the costs associated with the Carol and their families. Over the Gathering. years, Joan was very involved in the activities of both the Clan MacLeod Societies of Canada and with the Clan Macleod Society of Central Ontario and all who met her were touched by her generosity and friendship. Joan was an extremely talented artist and was more than willing to assist the Central Ontario So- ciety with her art work to help celebrate auspicious occasions. In 2000, Central Ontario hosted the North American Gathering. Joan created a painting especially for CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 24 In 2005, Central On- tario celebrated their 50th anniversary. This special occasion was marked by a dinner and dance for our members at the Toronto Cricket, Skating and Curling Club. For this event, Joan created an original watercolour of Dunvegan Castle. Tru- ly a beautiful reminder for all of us of the MacLeod’s medical treatment outside of their “home” on the Isle of Skye. communities. Joan saw the need Throughout her life, she was and with a partner established Hope involved in volunteerism with Air in 1986. Since then, Hope Air many organizations. It is especially has provided over 66,000 flights touching and important to mention to needy Canadians. Although a that she was cofounder of an or- daunting enterprise for two indi- ganization entitled Hope Air. This viduals to embark upon, we salute organization arranges free flights her dedication and efforts in help- for low-income families who need ing others in this world. ∆ Ian MacFee Rogers Ian, in his 87th year, died on involved January 19, 2011 at Sunnybrook w i t h t h e Veterans Centre, in Toronto, On- Clan Mac- tario. After Naval service in World Fee and of- War II, Ian studies law and became ten was in a well-known lawyer in the Toronto attendance area. He authored books on munic- at the High- ipal law and served as an alderman land Games of the city of North York for eight wearing the years. Ian, brother to Norman and MacFee his wife Joan Rogers, was a mem- tartan. Ian participated in Gath- ber of the Clan MacLeod Central ering 2000 both in the choir and Ontario Society for many years and with the Planning Committee. Our participated in Clan life, both at the condolences are extended to his Society level and by his attendance family. ∆ at Parliament in Skye. He was also Spring, 2011 Page 25 Malcolm Roderick MacCrimmon Malcolm MacCrimmon was pipers. It was a connection famous in born on 21 December 1918. He Highland history. Your young piper, Mal- began his piping career early, and colm R. MacCrimmon, wrote to me to was a member of both the North ask whether he would have my approval in wearing the Macleod tartan attachd Vancouver Pipe Band and the pipe to his pipes if he were permitted by the band of the Seaforth Highlanders military authorities to do so. I should of of Canada between 1930 and 1932, course be proud if he is so authorized and when he joined the Edmonton Boys I understand (Major General) Gervase Pipe Band. In 1935, he moved to Thorpe (Colonel-in-Chief of the the CNR Pipe Band. and Sutherland Highlanders) is intending to discuss the matter with you. Although he was only a farm- Sentiment means so much to High- boy from Fort Saskatchewan, landers and very many Canadians are of Malcolm MacCrimmon knew that Highland origin I am proud to think. he bore the name of a long line of Yours truly, distinguished pipers, dating back Flora Macleod of Macleod to the latter 1700s. He also proudly Lieutenant Colonel Scott wrote bore the title of “9th Hereditary back to approve the practice: Piper to Clan Macleod.” He trav- Dear Madam, In authorizing Piper MacCrimmon elled to Calgary upon outbreak of to wear your tartan attached to his pipes, war, determined to join the pipe a further interesting episode is written in band. The Calgary Highlanders the Regimental History. I thank you for offered the only military pipe band your gracious permission... on the prairies, unless one travelled At the outbreak of WWII, a all the way to Winnipeg to join the young Malcolm Roderick Mac- Queen’s Own Cameron Highland- Crimmon of Edmonton signed up ers of Canada. with the Calgary Highlanders. His Once in the , Uncle Art had told young Malcolm MacCrimmon was quick to estab- of the great pipers who had gone lish ties to his Clan. The regimental before him. A piper since the age history by Roy Farran tells us that of eight, Malcolm was immediately in October 1940 Flora Macleod made a member of the pipe band. of Macleod, wrote to the Com- George Poulter, a student of the manding Officer of the overseas MacCrimmon history and member battalion: of the Clan MacCrimmon Society Dear Sir; of London lived in Surrey, not far I venture to write you as the Chief from Camp Aldershot. Malcolm’s of the Macleod Clan who for 300 years were proud to have a celebrated family uncle Arthur McCrimmon arranged of the MacCrimmons as their hereditary for Poulter to meet with young

CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 26 the end of the war, Malcolm took a bride (Mairi Chisholm) from on the and returned to Canada. They went into farming just north of Edmonton and Malcolm put his pipes away for a few years. Malcolm continued to play at weddings, funerals, City of Edmonton events, Robbie Burns Nights gatherings, Remembrance Day Services plus playing for Royal Canadian Mounted Police Mess Dinners for some 48 years plus. The 3 1/2 years in Britain with Malcolm. Years of painstaking the Calgary Highlanders increased genealogical research assured Mr. Malcolm’s contemplation of mak- Poulter that the young Canadian ing a life out of piping, as opposed soldier was indeed from the blood to the frustration of just “marching of Donald Ruadh. In 1942 Malcolm and playing for the Regiment up ventured north to Dunvegan Cas- and down the length of Britain.” tle...to meet Dame Flora MacLeod Malcolm MacCrimmon lived a of MacLeod and effectively rein- colourful life, passing away at the stated the line. This was a verbal age of 92 years. He is survived by agreement, which established his loving wife of 65 years, Mary Malcolm R. MacCrimmon as the “Mairi”; daughter Flora (Rick) 9th Hereditary Piper to the Chief Tourigny; two sons, Padruig “Pad- of the Clan MacLeod. As a Cal- dy”, and Iain (Charlotte); grand- gary Highlander, he studied at the children, Kelly, Jeffrey (Shannon), Army School of Piping under Pipe Katie (Liam), and Calum, great- Major Willie Ross. Malcolm was grandson Liam. Malcolm is also later transferred to the famed Scots survived by his brother Kenneth. Guards and again was entitled to The title of 10th Hereditary attend the piping school located Piper was passed to Iain by Chief in Edinburgh Castle. It was a rare John MacLeod of MacLeod at a thing for a Canadian to be given a ceremony in Calgary which was transfer to a British Regiment, the part of the post-North American story was carried in newspapers Gathering 1992. ∆ all over the UK and Canada. At

Spring, 2011 Page 27 The Editor’s Page This issue of the Leod Voice can only be termed a Spring issue because the weather out west has been so wet and cold. At the end of June we are still looking forward to summer. There is a definite theme of the MacLeod lands of Assynt in the content of this issue. As I realized that this was happening it gave greater significance to the book The Creaky Traveler which I was reading. Warren Rovetch writes the journal of his travels with his wife in the north west highlands of Scotland - A Journey for the Mobile but Not Agile, as he subtitles it. I’m deeply grateful to Bob and Sandy McLeod from Chicago who gifted it to me on their visit to Saturna last year. The reading of this very complete and useful travelogue, with its sensitive observations and insights makes me want to follow their path from to Port-Na-Con. The only compensation for having to report three dear members pass- ing is that we also learn about their most interesting lives. Malcolm’s piping activity was renowned in Alberta and abroad. Also his son Ian, 10th Hereditary Piper, is working hard now to help students develop high level skills on the pipes through his teaching in Scotland. Thoughts of Ian Rogers take me back to his father Arthur who established the CMSC as its first president. Ian continued the work of spreading the value of clanship as he served CMSC in several positions and attended many events over the years. I very much miss the annual visit to the Victoria area by Joan and Norman Rogers. Joan had an exceptional life of giving to others, work- ing tirelessly on organizing committees for gatherings and generously contributing her artwork to assist clan society finances. I am proud to own one of her paintings, from the silent auction at the NAG 92. Congratulations to Carol MacCrimmon Pugliese in taking on the CMSC Regional VP Central Canada position. The search for an understudy as editor of the Leod Voice continues. Newsletter Thanks to those who contributed articles Timelines: for this issue and I encourage others to do the Spring—May 1 same for the coming issues. Fall—October 1 My address: Judy Tipple, Membership and P.O. Box 111 Executive Changes: Saturna Island, BC Canada V0N 2Y0 March 1 Phone: 250-539-5475 and September 1 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] CMSC Newsletter # 54, Page 28