TheThe LeodLeod VoiceVoice Clan MacLeod Societies Canada National Council Newsletter # 51 FALL, 2009

This photo reminds me of the world-wide nature of our heritage

Fall, 2009 Page 1 President’s Report by Don M. McLeod recombined and diluted (definitely a good thing for other reasons) and the longevity gene is not always expressed as well as we want. This is why “Nutrigenomics” will play a big role in helping us all with our future health. Many MacLeods will inherit problems with lipids (cholesterol) and glu- cose (sugar). Remember the Viking The Immortal MacLeods diet that shaped our past. It was any of us have been exposed fish. We need to keep up with our to “the Highlander” stereo- Omega-3 wild fish oils and we need Mtyping of MacLeods. We do not to limit our other saturate fats from admit to being immortal and clan greasy meats and dairy products. policy is to continue denying im- Our best source of protein could mortality. still be from eggs (not Gannett) At gatherings, we collectively and from fish, lean meats, nuts and grieve the losses of our “Flow- grains and our best source of sugars ers of the Forest” because we would be the low glycemic index value the experience and wit of our vegetables (they only slowly raise elders. The seniors of our family are our sugar levels). always respected and remembered Don’t cook any of your food with fondness as they propagate at extreme heat to prevent toxic the lineage with all the traditions cancer-causing changes to our that they tell us are genuine. Who food. Also avoid overdoing the al- are we to disturb any of these tra- cohol on a daily basis. The research ditions as we pass them on to the continues to show daily two ounces next generation. One attribute that of wine intake is the only safe al- we do not question is the longev- coholic beverage to not increase ity of our clan folk. All of us have the risk of liver disease, cancer and relatives that have lived to ripe old diabetes. This is unfortunate for our ages, many with expression of the “water of life” tradition. MacLeod longevity gene. There The missing piece to the puzzle was no mistake when Connor for our expression of longevity MacLeod was chosen as the hero is to continue the daily intake of of the immortals. Obviously many antioxidants to counter all the of our genes are being shared, toxins from our environment and CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 2 to counter all the leftover toxic abundance. chemicals from metabolism within Keep on learning, take another our cells. Our internal production stab at Gaelic, bagpipe playing of antioxidants drops as we age and Scottish dancing or even golf. and when we get into our 40s, Your brain will form new Scottish we need supplemental help and connections that will give you one a much better diet. Eat the best more step down the road of longev- antioxidant foods. Berries, garlic, ity. Immortality is for the Clan but curry powders, colored vegetables we are the link to the future. and non-contaminated foods are Hold Fast to your health and all important but adequate doses of vitamin C and alpha lipoic acid and any other combination supplements are a necessity as we age. My entire career as a doctor has been involved with lifestyle management and slowing the aging process of the body and the brain. Research is slowly proving all the theories to be correct. I marvel at the intellect and wonderful brains of the active senior MacLeods. Haggis and Scotch were given to us to talk about and to taste on very “Captain” Don addresses the CMS USA special occasions. We all know gathering in St. Louis that we always want the treats then poses with Don Mac & Katherine that usually are not good for us in (Texas) and his wife Chris

Fall, 2009 Page 3 CMS BC Van Island mountain highway) for the first time in years and on their return home had terrible car problems and had to be towed. Randy Stewart (and children Holly and Lachlan), who heads up the Stewart Clan on the Island By Malcolm & Karen joined us since he has MacLeod Maceod roots from Gesto. He brought with n the September 26, we had him some of his museum which a very nice Clan MacLeod he takes to the Victoria Highland gatheringO on Vancouver Island at Games, it was very impressive as MacLeod’s place on Islay Street he always takes first prize for his in Duncan. (where else?) The day Clan tent display. started with the arrival of Neil R. The fare was burgers and hot and June and Judy Tipple. Dr. Don dogs expertly cooked by Shaun and his daughter Skye arrived later Lahay, accompanied by salads, dips on with their pipes. and complimented by some beauti- This turned out to be a beauti- ful smoked salmon brought by Rick ful day and although we had many and Bev MacLeod from Bamfield. displays inside the house, the clans- Karen and I recently discovered men chose to stay outside on our that fresh haggis can be procured patio and then moved out into the from one of our local butcher shops sun around the fire pit. Neil R. had and is very good. some Clan MacLeod paraphernalia Dr Don piped while I proudly to offer for sale which was well carried the Haggis in and then received and people watched our Roderick Beaton did an abso- photos of Clan MacLeod activities lutely wonderful job of the Ad- scrolling on the TV. dress to the Haggis. There were Amongst some of our new some here who had not tasted the members there was keen interest in puddin’ afore and were suitably genealogy and Catherine MacLeod impressed. Now it was time for Chapman had a wonderful family the cake which was donated by tree that harkens back to Storno- my dad Neil, decorated with the way. Sisters, Janet and Dorothy Harris and dispatched by Dr. MacLeod from Victoria who we Don’s scalpel. At this point it was have met at the games for years, planned to have our friend Laurel ventured over the Malahat (a steep Lahay (nee Beaton) do a power CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 4 point presentation on genealogy few minutes later joined the gather- but the pipes took precedent since ing properly attired in his Wallace some had to leave to catch ferries. tartan vest. Many a picture was We had Dr. Don and his daughter taken during the day, especially of Skye, Heather, the daughter of Rick the haggis, the cake and the piping and Bev from Bamfield and our son and a good time was had by all. Callum giving us a wee concert in After most had fled we were our driveway. Skye, Heather and treated to Laurel’s presentation of Callum are all close in age and her paternal genealogical studies. competed against each other sev- The search took her to eral years ago at different games. twice where she knocked on strang- Also in attendance were John ers’ doors many times until the McLeod (a long time member) mystery slowly unfolded through our daughter Kirstie, Frances (my old pictures and conversations. mom), Roderick’s wife Marny, There were many, many hours Bobby Mawdsley, (Bob Tanner’s spent on the computer as well. daughter) and Gerard (Catherine’s Laurel did find her dad’s birthplace friend). A neighbor, Alvin Wallace and is very ecstatic about the results was attracted by the pipes. Dorothy of her efforts and encourages any and Janet had noticed him riding who would like to do as she did. by, shirtless on his bicycle and a Go for it!

Christine, President Dr. Don, Neil, Francis, Karen and Malcolm (MacLeods all) at Victoria Fall, 2009 Page 5 CMS SOUTHERN ALBERTA By Alma MacLeod ways have a raffle at our meetings, e meet every two months on and try to stick with the Scottish or Wdates that we arrange every MacLeod theme. It gives us a bit of November, so that everyone can money for extra expenses, and cre- make their plans accordingly. We ates a bit of fun too. We also try to meet in the Kensington Legion, have a book exchange, also mainly early Sunday morning and enjoy in Scottish themes. Get some great a scrumptious brunch, then we reading that way. settle down with our coffees for The Barracks Project in Fort our business meeting, followed by Macleod that Randy and I are so in- a social time. All in all, about three volved with is going through major enjoyable hours. Unfortunately, problems, so we don’t see much of both our President Randy MacLeod it these days. But there is one point and Vice President Mike MacLeod of interest that readers would be work out of town, so we don’t see interested in. The records on Fort much of then. Randy is working out Macleod showed that Jerry Potts’ of Fort McMurray and Mike is very residence was still standing, and busy setting up business offices in about to be demolished. Jerry was Beijing, China of all places. So I Col. MacLeod’s friend, guide and seem to be the leader, so to speak. mentor. Well, Randy and I agreed Both Randy and Mike keep in that this was of historical value and touch via their computers, which is should be preserved, so we both very helpful. I have submitted my contributed financially, and for resignation twice in this past year, Randy, also manually, to help move not because I don’t like the job, but the building to the Barracks site. It because I think new blood would be was proven without a doubt that a good thing. I have always enjoyed it was his home, just a little shack being Secretary. I think I am more now, and very dilapidated. Now it Scottish than Icelandic/English stands in the Barracks site, looking which is my own heritage. very forlorn and neglected, waiting You will laugh when I tell you to be revived. Rod, my son, says that Linda, my daughter, and I both we are slumlords. The Barracks got tattoos this past summer, the Project committee has agreed to Clan MacLeod crest with the bull, put a plaque on the building to say done in traditional colors. Have had that it is partly the project of the lots of fun with it, and I am sure Clan MacLeod. Rest assured, if have shocked many people. that ever transpires, pictures will Well, on to my report. We al- be forthcoming. Hopefully this CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 6 will be in my time. But it gives me I, personally am doing okay, great pleasure to be involved in getting older and creakier and something truly historical and dear walking with a cane. My eyes are to my heart for many reasons. good and I read a lot. Enjoyed Dr. I have to admit our group is Jim Hunter’s book Skye, the Island, not as active as it used to be. There while relaxing in front of her wood are usually 7 to 15 members at our fireplace at Judy’s on Saturna re- meetings, and we are by no means cently. What a great book. ready to give up. We will stick I must add at this time that together even if it is only for the Randy, while in Fort McMurray is social aspect because we all have working with the Historical Soci- grown very close. Judy Tipple and ety there. He has discovered that Ian C. (CMSC Past President), and a lot of MacLeod men went there of course, Prairie VP Robert are to work for the Hudson’s Bay Co. a great help and only a computer Who knows, maybe he will orga- message away. So we feel our ties nize a new society up there. are still strong. CMS Manitoba

By Prairie Dog Bob Our 21st olklorama was again a huge annual Din- overall success. The Scottish ner and En- PavilionF was moved this year to a tertainment different venue. The main stage and was held on everything else (bar, novelties etc) Saturday, were good, but the Clan displays, October 3 at spinning wheel and what have you, the Victoria were in a separate room and did not Inn, close to receive the traffic as in the past. the new airport. Approx 45 at- Our David McLeod played tended and a good time was had the guitar, whistle, pipes and sang by all. every evening. He also was MC Coming up on Nov 22, at John whenever required. All of this for and Carole’s place, they will be seven nights. Wow! Thanks to the hosting a Pot Luck supper fol- other room volunteers as well. lowing a Clan Meeting. All are Some I know were there for the full welcome. week, I don’t want to name names except for Roy and Margaret, con- stant supporters. Fall, 2009 Page 7 CMS Central Ontario By Lesley MacCrimmon Orillia Highland Games her family. Finally the parade got On July 18, Clan MacLeod (and underway and we marched our McCrimmon) members flocked to way down the main street to the Orillia to attend the 32nd Annual Couchiching Beach Park where the Orillia Scottish Festival. You see, festival was taking place. A feeling we were the featured clan this year. of MacLeod pride and belonging As we all gathered at the far end of envelopes you as you try to keep town, along with the numerous pipe time with the pipe band behind you, bands, local groups and dignitaries, wave to the spectators, make sure there was a sense of excitement in you haven’t lost a young MacLeod the air. We had our MacLeod ban- who may have wandered into the ner and even a crowd, while taking in the local mascot, Mag- sights. It was a beautiful, sunny gie, a West day. The festival was held by the Highland ter- water where we were able to watch rier appropri- all the boats, have a picnic and en- ately attired joy each others’ company. in MacLeod My favourite part of the pro- tartan, thanks gram is watching all the massed to Margaret pipes and drums parade onto the Goode and field, causing your toes to tap, your

CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 8 ing from and who were all these people in strange outfits walking past him. The Highland Games are in- deed for everyone, young and old. There is Scottish dancing competi- tions and kiosks that sell “all things Scottish.” Each one also has its own distinct flavour. If you have never attended a highland games, I strongly suggest that you do so. hands to clap and even some hum- ming might occur if you know the tune. The music (non-Scots may say “the noise” but I certainly dis- agree) seems to reach deep inside you. This was one of our grandson 50th Wedding Anniversary congratulations Colin’s first Highland Games. The go to Joan & Bryan McEwan CMS fun was watching him trying to fig- Glengarry. Joan is first cousin to Bruce ure out where the music was com- MacLeod (Winnipeg) CMS-Halifax by Betty MacLean display at the Halifax Highland n January 24 CMS-H mem- Games on July 11. bers attended the annual Rob- Halifax Highland Games, held bieO Burns dinner and program at St. again at the Dartmouth Common John’s United Church in Fall River. site, were well attended. Mother As usual, the evening was very Nature actually blessed us with a entertaining. Our Spring Potluck lovely, warm day. Clan MacLeod Lunch and meeting was held on shared a tent with Clans Sinclair May 23. John MacLeod displayed and Graham. Pat and I staffed our and explained the historical mate- table, assisted at noon by Carole Ha- rial (notes, snapshots of summer zelden. John and Karen MacLeod, events, luncheons, etc.) gathered Jim MacLeod and Carole took over from the beginning of the local early afternoon, closing down at Clan MacLeod Society. It was 5 pm. Carole proved to be a great agreed that this interesting histori- photographer at the event. cal material would be part of our Our Fall Potluck Lunch and Fall, 2009 Page 9 meeting will be held October 17, at relatives and friends to come to which time we will review the out- Nova Scotia in 2011 to participate come of Halifax Highland Games in activities being held across the 2009 and plans will be made for province. the Christmas get-together, the At this time, on behalf of mem- Robbie Burns dinner at Fall River. bers and executive of CMS-H, we An item for the agenda will be the extend our best wishes to every- 2011 International Gathering of the one for a Very Merry Christmas Clans, which is scheduled for Nova and may your New Year be filled Scotia. It is not too early to discuss with Joy, Peace, Love, and Good our participation in the IGC. Also, Health. clanspersons are urged to invite CMS Cape Breton By LeeAnne MacLeod-Archer he Clan MacLeod Society of did not come to fruition. Cape Breton held its fall meet- In all, it was a busy year for ingT on October 3, 2009 in Baddeck. CMSCB and 2010 should prove to Guest speaker was Patricia Suther- be even more so. Hold Fast! land of the Society of Nova Scotia, who spoke on that group’s efforts to include the youth and make gatherings fun. CMSCB members Corrina and Bill also made a power-point presentation on the new CMSCB website, which was well received. Check it out on the Internet. Plans will soon be underway Donald (Halifax) sent me some wonderful for a Christmas Luncheon, as well aerial photos of Cape Breton which appeared on Facebook. These two of Middlehead and as the 5th annual CMSCB Robbie St. Ann’s Bay are from that set. In colour, Burns dinner in January. A sum- they are spectacular. mer picnic will be planned at the Highland Village, and an Ecumeni- cal Service will be organized for October, 2010 to coincide with the Celtic Colours International Music Festival. The 2008 service was very well received, though plans to orga- nize a 2009 service in Broad Cove CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 10 Across the Editor’s desk etty McLean, Halifax, sent me Sunday’s light rain would have been a note about the Ship Hector a welcome chance for the original FestivalB and the report in the Hali- passengers to get washed. fax Chronicle Herald. The Festival “It’s sprinkling a bit,” he said. organizers aimed to answer the “Compare it to three months on the question “How did 200 people ever North Atlantic in summer.” fit on this boat for three months at Some of the comments of sea?” They advertised for any de- those who participated in the re- scendants of original passengers on enactment were “it would have the Hector (and others) to be part been terrible.” of the Festival and come aboard “No privacy for anything, the the ship. people all jammed in there, the Gail Speirs decided at the last food and water running out. Ter- minute to visit Pictou on Sunday rible.” afternoon to see what all the fuss “The privations of the 1773 set- was about. The New Glasgow tlers are unimaginable,” Ms. Speirs woman hadn’t paid much attention said. “It really happened,” she said, 40 years earlier when her grandfa- “I have new respect for my ances- ther had told her that an ancestor, tor. He must have been as tough as Capt. John Speirs, had captained whalebone.” the ship Hector to Pictou from It was a tight squeeze, then and Scotland in 1773. But she was now, for the 200 people and crew. attracted by calls for descendants The return trip to Scotland in of the 200 passengers and crew to the fall of 1773 was the final one come aboard a replica of the ship for the first Hector. during the annual celebration of the ship’s arrival. She told “a little fellow in a ” about her fam- ily connection and was immediately treated like roy- alty. Master of cer- emonies Rick An- derson reminded the re-enactors that Fall, 2009 Page 11 The Clan MacLeod Network By Betty MacLean, President, CMS-H t is amazing how much smaller to East, and West Petpeswick and my world has become because enjoyed the outing, even in the rain. Iof Clan MacLeod Society connec- On August 30 (date of writing) Sue tions, and because of the computer moved on to meetings in various age. In May, I received an e-mail communities across the province, from Sue Shaw, of England. At starting at Acadia University in first, not recognizing the sender’s Wolfville. I wish Sue well in her name, I almost deleted the e-mail, travels and research, and hope that having recently receiving unso- I have helped a little toward her licited advertising; however, I did achieving her goals. I look forward open it. And, I am so glad I did. to learning the outcome of her en- Sue had been awarded a Win- deavours. Thanks to Janet Macleod ston Churchill travel fellowship to Trotter and the Clan MacLeod So- do research on asset-based com- ciety, I now have a new friend and munity development and positive hope we will get to meet again. models of rural aging for seniors living in rural areas. She was com- ing to Halifax to start her research Genealogy and, as she did not know anyone in by Lesley McCrimmon Halifax, Sue asked her friend, Janet CMSC Geaneologist Macleod Trotter, if she knew some- one who might be able put her in Where Did You Come From? touch with local persons involved recently came across an obituary in seniors’ volunteer community in a local paper about a bubbly programs to aid her in her research. Ilooking, elderly woman that read: Janet gave her my name and e-mail “born October 2, 1907 in the little address, and e-mails began flying northern village of Kirkwall in the back and forth. I accompanied Sue Orkney Islands. The family was to her first meetings on August 24, engaged in farming the harsh but took her for a brief orientation tour supportive land until her father’s of Halifax, and the rest of the week death. Her family’s clan, valiantly she was on her own. supporting the Stuart claim to suc- Sue came to my home on Satur- cession, had been virtually wiped day morning to stay overnight. We out at the infamous Battle of went out along the Eastern Shore Culloden Moor in 1745 and those to Musquodoboit Harbour, and remaining clan members had es- CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 12 caped to and the Orkney Along the same line Islands, and it is from this resolute [In the issue of the Leod Voice fol- stock that she came from”. lowing Parliament 2006, you might Having been fortunate enough recall an article by Malcolm and to travel to Scotland and to see how Karen (CMS BC Van Is) about their rugged the highlands are, I have trip to Scotland and a visit to relatives often wondered how our ances- in Berneray. They gifted cousin Fred tors survived. We have been able with a membership in their CMS. I to trace Don’s family to the Isle contacted him after seeing Malcolm of Skye. It has been an exciting and Karen’s photos of their trip and adventure that I’m sure will never suggested he write the story of his end. “lost” cousin. Here it is:] Do you know where your A Charaid 15 August 2009 ancestors have come from? Our first heard of Malcolm and Karen database of MacLeods and their from Gloria Mackillop when she is slowly growing. With your Ireceived an e-mail from them re- familys’ information, perhaps we garding their ancestry. She passed can connect more clan members to- their e-mail address to me as she gether. Please e-mail me lmccrim- felt they were related so I got in [email protected] or write Lesley touch with my “lost” cousin. McCrimmon, 16619 Innis Lake I have to say that I had met a Road, Caledon, ON L7C 3A4 and cousin in Vancouver in the spring of I will send you genealogy forms to 1967 who was Malcolm’s father’s fill in. Who knows, you may also first cousin. This was a surprise to embark on an exciting journey that me as, although I had heard of my will bring you unexpected twists Grandmother’s brothers emigrating and turns but will inevitably give to the west coast of BC, I had never you more insight that will help you been in touch with anyone on that to answer the question “where did side of the family. When my ship you come from?” arrived in Vancouver at six-thirty Evidently there is a Boularderie in the morning, the telephone engi- Island Historical Society and with neer, who had hooked up the phone, web site www.bhis.ca through informed me that someone (cousin which Donald (Halifax) was able to Archie) wanted to speak to me. To find his paternal great-grandmother say that I was surprised would be an Annabella (McKenzie McLeod understatement. How he heard that (then widowed) and her six chil- I was on that ship is another story. dren’s names from old census Archie and Delia showed me the records. Others may like to check utmost kindness, took me around out this web site. and introduced me to relatives and Fall, 2009 Page 13 friends. They also told me there prepared a BBQ for our return. I were other cousins on Vancouver enjoyed pointing out the old family Island but unfortunately my time home where Malcolm’s grandfa- was limited with the ship sailing ther Domhnall Challuim (Donald the next day. son of Calum) was born and which Back to Malcolm and Karen. still stands on Ben Leva. We visited We corresponded and they told of the island school built in1877 and plans for their trip to Scotland to the old cemetery where our great- take part in the MacLeod Parlia- grandfather’s white marble head- ment and their intention of coming stone stands. When Malcolm found to the Hebrides to see again where out that the Scottish side of the Malcolm’s grandfather had come family were planning to refurbish from. Their son Callum was travel- the stone he and his father Neil very ling with them and they were plan- kindly contributed. We also called ning to meet with daughter Kirstie in to see Farquhar and toasted the at the Parliament in Skye. In July family re-union with uisge beatha 2006 the weather here took a turn as is the custom. for the better and we enjoyed being While enjoying our meal we able to meet with our cousins and were entertained to a few tunes on to show the Island of Berneray at the pipes by Callum and afterwards it’s best. pored over family photos which On a beautiful sunny day on the were of interest to Malcolm, Karen 21st July 2006 a motor home ar- and Callum. We all trooped down rived in our driveway on Berneray to the local community hall that with Malcolm, Karen and Callum evening for a ceilidh dance and had on board. This was the start of a Callum up on the stage with the wonderful experience for both musicians to give everybody a tune families with stories, news and a on the pipes. After an enjoyable few drams!!! evening of dancing and singing The first thing that struck me we made our way home for a cup when I met Malcolm was how of tea/coffee to clear our heads and he resembled other cousins in finish the evening off. Berneray. Farquhar Macleod bears The next morning, after break- a strong resemblance to Malcolm as fast, we waved them off, their stay does his brother Kenny who lives in Berneray over all too soon. We in Quebec. Not unusual as their sincerely hope to see them again in respective grandfathers were broth- the not too distant future. ers. While we wandered around the Le durachdan, Hold Fast island my wife Cathie Anne and Fred M G Macleoid, her daughters Sarah and Sharon Isle of Berneray. CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 14 Across the Editor’s Desk I received an interesting news- ones, though they all helped one letter recently and it made me wish another out. Many of the old farms that I had sufficient spare time are regenerating back to spruce to join their email list and read etc. They don’t bring good enough each issue. It was from the Waipu incomes for modern day expecta- Museum (NZ’s Best Small Mu- tions. But those that are still cleared seum) and following the Editor’s are very attractive. Many of the old Greetings had such categories as: homes are gone, but one that still Anniversaries, Birthday Greetings, stands and is well lived in – is that Genealogy Queries, mysteries and of Angus CAMPBELL who arrived observations, Obituaries (every on the Hector and lived to be 108. third name was MacLeod), Books Of the homes that have survived, Wanted, Caledonian Society News, quite a lot are being rescued and Websites of Interest, Dancing News renovated. and Items from the Shop. Peggy organised a get-together If you have kin that settled in of all the McKAY and CAMPBELL the Waipu area of New Zealand relatives which she could contact, you might want to look up the in the local hall. It was lovely and Waipu Museum Newsletter on the rather overwhelming – there were internet. about 60 people there.” Here is an item that interested me. Another newsletter that I’ve Digging up the Past somehow become a subscriber Relna MOORE has recently to, is produced weekly by a Nova returned from a tour to Scotland Scotia group and is called Nova and Nova Scotia. In a letter to Bet- Scotia Alba Nuadh Canada – Me- ty, she writes “On to Cape Breton dia Monitoring Report. It contains and such a very warm welcome many interesting items in both from Peggy and Sandy McLEOD Gaelic and English with photos and at Middle River. They were so very interesting web sites. kind to us. Their daughter and part- Anyone wishing to expand ner were away, so we were able to their knowledge of Gaelic, has a stay in her little cottage next door background from Nova Scotia or to them. Humming birds fed from simply is interested in the most feeders attached to windows. Scottish area of our nation, might Peggy took us round to the sites enjoy a look at it. Contact me at jm- of our ancestors homes. It must [email protected] and I’ll forward have been so lonely for the old you a copy. Fall, 2009 Page 15 Firefighters By Douglas MacLeod of MacLeod Forest Services Ltd, Cawston BC, Canada was recently supervising suppression activities on Ia forest fire near Revelstoke BC. At the morning brief- ing we realized we had five MacLeods on the team. The attached photo is of Jason MacLeod, Armstrong BC; Braden MacLeod, Kelow- na BC; Connor MacLeod, C l e a r w a t e r B C ; D o u g MacLeod, Cawston BC; and Emily MacLeod of Halifax NS. National President. This was his fifth season as a forest firefighter in Ontario. The crew he led, along with many oth- ers, was sent out to BC. He spent most of his time in Northern BC, based in Houston, BC. The photo shows him at one of the fires they successfully fought just south-west of there. He’s just finished for the summer and heading back to Con- cordia University. Past CMSC President Ian C. remembers: “I fought fires for two Here is another MacLeod fire- summers (1967 and 1968), in Hope, fighter, Ben Macleod Rogers, the BC and up to Lytton, in the Fraser son of Brian, our National Legal Canyon, usually the hottest spot in Counsel; grandson of Norman, our Canada, often in the high 30s or former National Legal Counsel and low 40s C (over 100°F). In fact, President of our Foundation; and my first fire was on July 1, 1967, great-grandson of Arthur, our first Canada’s Centenary. It was my first CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 16 day on the job, only 5 days out of had to wear work boots and a hard high school and I was still only heat - beyond that it was anything 17. We had had absolutely zero we wanted - mostly blue jeans and training when that fire call came logger’s plaid shirts or denim jack- in. I think that we worked over 40 ets (even in the heat, it was better to hours in the next two days. In those sweat than burn). Again, thankfully days, if you were still alive after things have changed. two weeks, you were experienced. Given the heat and conditions, Thankfully, things have changed on and my personal experiences, I the training and safety front. Like- truly feel for these guys. They are wise, it is interesting to look at the all doing a tough and magnificent uniforms that the firefighters wear job, it hot and dangerous circum- today. When I was fighting fires, we stances. We thank them all.” A Stone on Their Cairn By Kevin S. MacLeod oth by way of introduction and background, I am a resi- Bdent of Ottawa although born and raised in Nova Scotia. Over the past several years, I have been en- gaged in the writing of a work of fiction that focuses on the turn of the nineteenth to twentieth century in Cape Breton entitled A Stone on Their Cairn / Clach air An Càrn. I am a native of Cape Breton who I felt compelled to write this grew up on a farm in the late 1950s novel as a testament to a unique and early 1960s. Even during those wedge of Canadian history. Using formative years, I was somewhat stories from my youth blended with aware of the idiosyncratic ways of historical fact, I have attempted to the Highland Scots who originally relay a larger story of a specific settled those shores in the early to people, in a specific time, in a spe- mid years of the nineteenth century. cific place. Obviously, all three are I vividly recall observing and lis- intrinsic to the greater story line. It tening to my grandparents with the is not a romanticized account, but realization that theirs was a passing rather a realistic view of a society generation. Sadly, the intervening with its many strengths and weak- years have witnessed a passing of nesses there for all the world to see. even greater proportions. Beyond any sense of an historical Fall, 2009 Page 17 account, I have endeavoured to the chapters, one experiences the give a very personal face to a cul- blending together, not only of plot ture that, for the most part, is only but also of lives, making a more “understood” by the larger popula- complete and, hopefully, compel- tion through the music of a host of ling portrait. contemporary Celtic artists. My In this regard, I cite a few ex- goal was to get close to the roots of amples: these origins and to demonstrate, in • The language: While the ways subtle and not so — what the manuscript is written in English, people are about and what makes the majority of dialogue is in Scots them tick — in an engaging and Gaelic with English translation. entertaining manner. Through chapter headings and the If music and language are the actual story line, one can glean mainstays of cultural retention, a transformation in progress that then they are also its most visible has continued on to the present face to the world. Still, they are day. My grandparents themselves only that — a face. To truly under- came from a generation when stand the Highland Scots and their children were punished by teach- legacy to the Canadian mosaic as ers for speaking in “that” tongue. well as their mind set, one must There is an abiding beauty to the explore on a deeper level. syntax of the language that often- The book focuses on the people times conveys a poignant message of Loch Dubh, a fictitious highland that is not always given justice by settlement on the North Shore of the translation. This too speaks to Cape Breton. The story line runs cultural differences in numerous, from spring 1896 to summer 1914 interesting ways that are alluded with each chapter a calendar year to in the text. I do not believe that and containing 4 - 5 vignettes that the presence of Gaelic will pose weave the larger story together difficulties for the average reader as the reader progresses through given that it is offered in edible pages and time. I liken it to the bites. On the contrary, its presence reader undertaking an experience is absolutely essential in subtly of witnesssing the pieces of a quilt portraying the decline of language being sewn together one by one to and all the cultural richness that develop the larger whole. emanates therefrom. In some respects, it is as much a • The sense of place: The re- sociological/psychological study as lationship of the Highland Scots it is an interesting account of their to land — mountains, sea and sky lives, both individually and col- — permeates the culture. It too is lectively. As one advances through reflected in the story line. A very CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 18 unique facet of the Celtic mind set, done, most have commented on based on the ancient belief of the the visual pictures and emotions Druids, is perhaps best exempli- that are conjured up. If a chord has fied by the detailed relationship been struck then that in itself is of women to their flower gardens incredibly honouring. A Stone on and how this speaks of their own Their Cairn / Clach air An Càrn particular lives as well as the larger is not a sad story nor is it a joyful collective view of life. one. Rather, it is a story of a people • The concept of family: There whose beauty is found both in the is an aspect of the Highland Scots’ complexity and simplicity of their approach to family that goes far lives and their intrinsic concept of beyond any concept of clan. One life, all at the same time. can see it in the coming together at As a general point of reference, church, at céilidhs or at drink over the Gaelic editing was undertaken the kitchen table. It is simple and by the late Reverend Murdo Mac- yet complex, pious and irreverent, Kay (Presbyterian minister in honest and hypocritical, joyous and Millerton, New Brunswick) and profoundly melancholy. In part, it subsequently by Professor Catriona explains a great deal of so much Parsons (St. Francis Xavier Univer- of our musical culture gladsome sity, Antigonish). Both are natives and yet so lamentable, based on a of Lewis, Scotland. desire for something that has been Slainte. taken away, something never to be recaptured except in music and [Editor’s Note: Kevin hosted dreams. If one looks carefully, all a seminar at NAG Ottawa and these and more can be found in the entranced his audience. He also pages. authored A Crown of Maples/La To say this work has been a Couronne canadienne, —an over- labour of love would not be an view of the Canadian Crown and overstatement. It has also been a constitutional monarchy in Canada, voyage of self-exploration in that published by the Department of I have come to a greater apprecia- Canadian Heritage. tion of myself through the process Kevin is a member of CMS of committing pen to paper. I have Ottawa and a Senior Federal Civil been most gratified when readers Servant as Usher of the Black Rod of the book, be they young or old, and Canadian Secretary to The have “recognized” a grandparent, Queen. You can get more info at an uncle/aunt or another family www.kevinmacleod.ca and also member or simply an acquaintance. view his personal Coat of Arms.] However, when all is said and Fall, 2009 Page 19 More Interesting Reading

Favorite Gaelic Proverbs for One of Don Messer’s performers Modern Readers. was Johnny Forrest, the energetic aelic proverbs come primarily “wee” Scotsman in a kilt who from the Western Highlands played his accordion. andG Islands of Scotland, and they Johnny is now living in Rich- have a distinctly rural or agricultur- mond, BC and still performing. al flavor which reflects the society In fact, he regularly plays his from which they were gathered. It accordion at the CMS G Van annual is to be expected that many of them Burns Brunch. pertain to the weather, to the plant- The book is written in a conver- ing of crops, and to country life in sational and often humorous style, general. Others reflect the Gaelic and tells Johnny’s story, beginning love of company and hospitality, with his childhood in Carluke (20 fear of poverty and laziness — al- miles up the Clyde from Glasgow), ways a rural concern — and a keen Scotland. It is also an interesting awareness of the role of luck or history of the music industry in chance in man’s life. Here and there Canada. is a touch of the cynic, as in the case Johnny grew up in a very mod- of in-laws and mates long endured, est setting. At age six, he heard his and certainly there is overall an first accordion (a local busker) and awareness of the brevity of life was hooked. In order to keep him and the difficulty in making a good from following the busker like a life in the midst of ever-changing pied piper, his mom bought him his farm conditions. The proverbs first accordion. By age 11, he was here are given first in their Gaelic on the road with a small Vaudeville form, with an English translation group, touring around Scotland. for each and an explanation when After finishing school at 15 he ap- the meaning is not obvious to the prenticed as a auto body man, but modern reader. kept up his performing. Available from Unicorn Limited In 1956, at age 20, he emi- [email protected] grated to Canada, crossing on the Do You Remember When: Empress of Britain. He left home ‘Memoirs of a Musical Journey’ with £50 in his pocket. Following Reviewed by Ian C. Macleod shipboard performances “below ny of you over 50 will prob- decks”, he arrived in Canada with ably remember Don Messer’s an additional $200CDN! He was JubileeA from CBC national TV certainly both a performer and an on Saturday nights in the 1960s. entrepreneur. CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 20 He spent his first few years ment show, Sing-along-Jubilee. in Edmonton doing a variety of One of the young singers on “regular” jobs, but always perform- that show was Anne Murray, the ing. In 1963 (at about age 27), he song was Snowbird and the rest is heard that the Don Messer 1963 history. Road Show would be appearing at Johnny kept performing and, the Edmonton Pavilion. He took in 1984, also started his own busi- his accordion and approached the ness, Tartan Tours, taking groups band’s manager, with a request to of golfers and seniors to Scotland meet Don Messer during the gap (while, of course, entertaining them between shows. He was denied. all the way). So he snuck into the building and In 2002, CBC-TV did a 50 year into an empty hockey change room, anniversary celebration, and had hiding there in the dark until the Johnny on tour, representing the intermission. When he heard Don Don Messer Show. Another “nos- Messer in the hall, he came out, talgia” tour took place in 2006. introduced himself and did an on- This summer, he participated in the-spot audition. He was hired on a “Centennial Celebration of Don the spot! After three years of sum- Messer” in Harvey Station, NB. mer tours and guest appearances Over the years, Johnny has also with Don Messer he moved to produced many records. Halifax to be on the show full time. Johnny tells all those stories, In 1969, CBC cancelled the show, and more, in his book Do You but CHCH TV in Hamilton picked Remember When: ‘Memoirs of it up, for another few years. a Musical Journey’ (274 pages, Johnny tells of getting a knock soft cover, including many b/w on his apartment door in Dart- pictures). mouth, NS one day in 1969 and The book sells for $20 tax & finding two strangers at the door. shipping included. He also has 4 They were musicians from PEI CDs: Scottish Favourites, Songs who had written a song that they of Scotland, Best of Johnny Forrest had sent to the Messer show, but and Scottish Dance Music & Songs had never heard back. They were available. desperate and wanted Johnny’s Contact Johnny at: #405 - 7500 help in getting their song heard. Granville Ave, Richmond, BC, Johnny listened and liked it, and V6Y 3Y6 email: johnnyforrest@ got it immediately before Don shaw.ca Tel: 604-273-3601. Messer who liked it and brought it Enjoyed reading this touch of on to his show. That summer it was Canadian cultural history! included in the summer replace- Fall, 2009 Page 21 Uprooted Heather New Friendships by Wemyss Cavaick through Clan ike the first brigade of Selkirk MacLeod Society settlers, whose story this is, By Betty MacLean, theL author came from Sutherland, n mid-July, Past President Ian Scotland. The author’s great grand- sent out an alert to his CMS father, when a boy of ten, witnessed Ie-mail network in response to the Moor. There a request from Johnny Forrest, was nurtured in Wemyss Cavaick who also lives in Richmond, BC. a life-long interest in that part of Johnny had written a book about Scotland’s history that relates to the his life and how he came to be on travels of the dispossessed when the Don Messer show. He further Scottish independence fell. wanted to let his former viewers Uprooted Heather is the story know that he was still entertaining, of the Selkirk Settlers of Manitoba. and would be performing at Harvey This novel Station, NB in August. A tribute to is different Don Messer was scheduled as part from other of the Harvey Station Centennial books writ- Celebrations and Johnny was to ten about perform, and would have his book the Selkirk and CDs available. Settlers in Johnny and I had a very in- that it is de- teresting telephone conversation voted to the followed up by e-mail, as I was story of the not able to go to NB. I requested Sutherland his book and CDs. When the book crofters arrived, I found it to be easy to read, who were gathered up from their very interesting and quite amus- destitute position on the beaches ing. He exhibits a great sense of when lands they had tilled became humour. His CDs are a combination a deerpark. Fearfully, but with of instrumental and vocals, Scot- desperate hope, they took Lord tish, popular and sacred songs. Selkirk’s offer to colonize and so, Johnny also operates “Tartan as the first brigade of an historic Tours” out of BC for group tours to migration of settlers, they were Scotland, and other countries. pathfinders. In this colorful story Again, through Clan MacLeod those times are vividly portrayed. Society new friendships are Although out of print, Uprooted formed. Heather can still be obtained as a used book. CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 22 Piper Kevin By Bob MacLeod, the day was voted the Piper of the Northeast Regional VP CMS USA Day. I guess you can tell that I am ou’re looking at the First a proud grandfather to see them Place Pipe Band at the Cen- doing so well with the traditional tralY New York Highland Games, Scottish music. My son, Bob Jr and which was lead by my grandson, his wife Sharon deserve congratu- Kevin MacLeod, Piper, who is lations as well for all they had to standing next to me on the right. do to keep the boys motivated and Kevin convinced some members focused. of the Queens University Band of We also celebrated grandson Kingston ON and his brothers to Philip’s 16th birthday, so it was a compete this summer at the games. MacLeod weekend. So far they have had five 1st place and one 2nd place awards. They call themselves the Liverpool Pipe Band. Kevin also did indi- vidual competitions that day and won three 1st places and at the end of Research Can Be Rewarding By John MacLeod (CMS Van Is) here was an article in my local been born in Calgary on Feb 24, paper about a student, Jack 1924 and attended Western Canada Finn,T requesting information about High School there until joining the a Private John Harper MacLeod of Army on June 6, 1942. John was the Seaforth Highlanders. He had with the South Saskatchewan Regi- been listed as coming from Cobble ment. On his arrival in England, Hill or Duncan, BC but no one he was sent as a replacement to there knew of him and his name the Seaforth Highlanders and soon didn’t appear on the War Memorial after sent overseas. At the tender in Cobble Hill or Duncan. age of nineteen, he was killed in After considerable research, action at Ortona on Dec. 26, 1943 I was able to find out that this and buried in the Moro River Cem- sought-after John MacLeod had etery in Italy. Fall, 2009 Page 23 John’s brother Alexander Owen Hill, Vancouver Island, BC, his MacLeod, born in Calgary Feb. sons were listed as having the same 28, 1922 was a member of the 185 address. Squadron RCAF and was killed in Both Alexander and John are action Oct. 13, 1942. His remains listed on the Western Canada High were never found but his name is School Scroll of Remembrance on the War Memorial in Malta. where there are 192 names in total; The boys’ father, a widower three are MacLeods. Of the total, named Alexander, moved from 124 are RCAF, 44 are Army and Calgary to Cobble Hill in 1945. 24 are Navy. Of all of ranks and He signed the Final Verification services of the casualties in 1943 Form with the Commonwealth there were 13 MacLeods, and of War Graves Commission in 1947 the Seaforth Highlanders killed that and since his address was Cobble year four were MacLeods. SFU Centre for Scottish Studies imon Fraser University will be Another of SFU sponsored sponsoring a series of talks on talks will be entitled “Scottish ScottishS Music and Dance. Traditions of Dance: their Trans- Dr. Gary West, Head of the mission and Reinvention,” a pre- Department of Celtic and Scottish sentation and demonstration by Studies, University of Edinburgh, Rosemary Coupe. will deliver this year’s annual St. This event will be held in Room Andrews and Caledonian Society 7000, SFU Harbour Centre, 515 W. lecture. His talk, entitled ‘Pipers Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, at without : Survival and Revival 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm on Thursday, in the Scottish Lowland Bagpipe February 4, 2010. Tradition,’ explores a much under- Talks are free and open to studied aspect of Scottish piping. the public. Email Leith Da- The lecture will take place at vis at [email protected] or phone SFU Harbour Centre, 515 W. Hast- 778 -782-4833 to reserve a seat. ings Street, Vancouver, BC at 8:00 pm. Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009. Dr. West has an impressive All universities have web sites resume. Check out Dr. West’s re- and list coming events. Simply sume at http://www.celtscot.ed.ac. Google the one nearest you and uk/gary_west.htm or, go to Google enjoy a free or inexpensive event and type in Dr. Gary West. of interest. CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 24 UNIQUE NEW CD Dame Flora tell the Macleod Stories n 1968 during the clan parliament Dame Flora invited the “North Room Group” into the library at Dunvegan Castle where she told us clan Istories. This session was recorded on reel-to-reel tape by Bill Cowe and subsequently made into a booklet entitled “Stories told by the Chief”. We decided it would be worth trying to convert this recording to a CD. Yes, miracles do happen and we now have a wonderful digitized recording of these stories. It is wonderful hearing the “Dame” speaking to us as if it were yesterday. The CDs are now available for sale for £9 Sterling including postage and packaging. Orders should be sent to: Rose Fleming, 10 Victoria Gardens, Newtongrange, Scotland, EH224NL Cheques should be made out to the ACMS.

Sarah Burnell Band News By Linda Crawford, Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival, Manager and Mother at which the SBB enjoyed the beau- ttawa Clansperson Sarah Bur- tiful venues and the enthusiastic nell, and her hot folk/celtic crowds. They received a standing band,O toured the Maritimes this past ovation for their Sunday evening August. It was a busy time, 8 shows main-stage show! This fall, the in 12 days! But the Sarah Burnell SBB has shows in Montreal and Band also found time for some fun, Ottawa. Information can be found along the way: a day at the beach at www.sarahburnellband.ca Sarah (PEI), sailing on a 60’ tall ship will be continuing her studies at (Lunenburg), a tour of the Sabian McGill University, as well, and cymbal factory (New Brunswick) also teaches violin privately. The and, of course, a lobster feed (PEI)! Sarah Burnell Band hopes to per- The main focus of the trip was the form at Parliament in 2010! Fall, 2009 Page 25 Past President’s Notes By Ian C. MacLeod CMS G Van eod Voice Editor Judy ex- doubtedly there will be much more pressed some concern in that in this issue of the Leod Voice. All lastL issue that she needed more of us send condolences to her and material. So, notwithstanding that her family. I am no longer CMSC President, Second, Bob and Barb had I can nearly always come up with planned a trip west for a family something. So here goes. anniversary and an Alaskan cruise Before getting into a few items for late August. Barb decided to on “things Scotland”, “things carry on with the trip. Her daugh- MacLeod” and some odd or humor- ter, Alison, accompanied her on ous items involving Scots or Scot- the cruise. She stayed a couple of land, I have a few random items: nights with Ardie and me. On the CMSC Website: After years last night, CMS GVan hosted a of trying, unsuccessfully, to get reception for her and “all the liv- someone to build and maintain a ing Past and present Presidents” CMSC website, I have decided of CMSC. Dr. Don (2008-present), to do it myself. I have reserved a Neil (2000-2004), Barb (1994- couple of domain names – clan- 2000) and I (2004-2008) and about macleod-canada.com and .org and 20 others were all in attendance at have retained a “host”to help get it the condominium complex of Bill operational. (NAG 1992 Vancouver Co-Chair) B a r b a r a M a c L e o d for a lovely evening of socializing Armstrong: Three points involv- and reminiscing. ing Barb, Past CMSC President (1994-2000), NAG 2008 Ot- tawa Chair and Outstanding Clansperson Award recipient 2008: First, most of you would have heard of the untimely death of her husband of over 51 years, Bob, on July 5. The Clan has lost a great friend. She is fortunate to have the love and support of their 4 kids, grandkids, friends, neighbours and the Clan MacLeod. Un- CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 26 Third, Barb and I discovered, Magazine, and daughter of Ruari pursuant to the DNA Project, that Halford-MacLeod (CMS Scotland we (and of course, her brother Jim, President) and Anne (Coordina- CMSC National VP) are distant tion of Parliament 2006). A large relatives. I encourage you all to contingent of MacLeods known to join in the DNA project (more fully many of you were there, including described in nearly every issue of Ian, Ruth and Kirsteen (Austra- the Clan Magazine.) lia), Nancy MacLeod Nicol (also SFU Pipe Band: On August celebrating her 70th birthday that 15, for the 6th time in 15 years day) and J.D. Kelly. She has many (1995, 1996, 1999, 2001, 2008 pictures on her Facebook page. and 2009) and second year in a Now to the “things Scotland”, row, the Simon Fraser University “things MacLeod” and some odd or Pipe Band, from Burnaby BC, un- humorous items involving Scots. der Pipe Major Terry Lee, won A. THINGS SCOTLAND the world piping championships Why did the Scots Flourish in Glasgow. In addition, for the as they Emigrated to the New second year in a row, they won the World: Education was the Key: drum corps competition. Congratu- Many MacLeods emigrated from lations to all of them! the mid-1700s to the late 1800s, Wedding of Emma and Jamie due to: Halford-Forbes: Congratulations - political persecution (par- as well to Emma and Jamie on ticularly the British purges of their wedding, at Dunvegan, on Highlanders following Culloden July 31. You will all know Emma in 1746); as the Editor of the Clan MacLeod - economic hardship, arising Fall, 2009 Page 27 from the Clearances (forced tenant Scots were literate and Scotland’s farmers out, about 1762 through education system had been devel- 1850) and the potato famines oped well ahead of England or most (about 1846 – 1857), which were other European countries. (School also hitting Ireland; was attended six days a week for - work and land opportunities ten to twelve hours a day!) elsewhere, in the Commonwealth Stornoway: Microtwill Coat and Continental Europe; and and Landrover car Stornoway - foreign military service, is the name of a new “high-end” which, at that time, was a “profes- man’s topcoat, the “Stornoway sion”. Microtwill”. US based Orvis, who MacLeods, like many Scots, makes the coat, one of its most excelled in their new countries, expensive (£400), buys their wool for at least three reasons: they from Harris Tweed Mills. Officials had come from a poor and often from Orvis, after several visits to harsh environment (quite com- the Highlands, decided on “Stor- mon for many immigrant groups), noway” as a name for the tweed which equipped them to handle overcoat – combining both the rec- the rigours of the New World; ognition of Scotland as a premier they spoke English (as well as, in supplier of wool and a coat that can many cases, Gaelic), making them, protect against the harsh winters of at least within the British Empire the Western Isles. colonies, better able to adapt, and Likewise, car maker, Landrov- maybe most importantly, most er, is calling one of their car colours were literate, making them valu- “Stornoway Grey”. This use of the able employees. name Stornoway did cause some That education may have been upset amongst the locals, but Lan- the biggest factor in their success. drover has carried on nonetheless, Starting from 1561, led by John and claims that it is one of their best Knox (Knox Presbyterianism), selling colours. steps began towards a system of Toast to the Scottish Parliament universal education in Scotland On May 3, 2008, Ron Suther- (Knox believed that if everyone land of Vancouver was called on could read their Bibles, they could to propose a toast to the Scottish be better Christians – but of course, Parliament at the 100th anniver- they could read everything else as sary banquet of the Gaelic Society well). By 1616 education in Scot- of Vancouver. The speech was land was mandated by legislation, emailed around the next day, and backed by tax supported funding published in the May 2008 issue by 1633. By 1700, a big part of the of The Celtic Connection (http:// CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 28 www.celtic-connection.com/fea- in Scotland were noticed in Eng- tures/feat2008_05_10.html). Here land, Wales and Northern Ireland, is that toast: but not warmly endorsed by West- “When I received a call from minster. Duncan MacKenzie asking that I Last summer, an official from propose a toast to the new Scot- the Westminster Government had tish Parliament, I thought this was the temerity to write to Edinburgh, something contrary to my usual pointing out that they were the “Se- attitude towards governments. A nior Scottish Executive”, and they “roast” maybe – but a “toast”? should not consider themselves However, the Scottish government as the Government of Scotland. is also quite different and most Within weeks all the stationary and definitely worthy of a toast. documents read, “Government of Their initial moves were star- Scotland”. tling:- Recently, legislation has been 1. They increased teachers introduced in both Westminster and salaries by 20.4% which reflects Edinburgh about reducing carbon the Scottish priority on education. emissions. The European Union In the 18th century Scotland was has criticized Westminster for foot- considered the best educated coun- dragging on the issue, and praised try in Europe, and indeed this was the Scottish Parliament for having the reason that the Hudson’s Bay some of the most enlightened leg- Company employed Scots rather islation in Europe. than English to work in Canada. Over the past year there has I had thought this meant the been an ongoing dispute with the Scots would cherry-pick some of Police Departments throughout the finest teachers in England, but Britain, which went to arbitration. I have learned that the English Uni- The arbitration award outlined versity degree in education is not wage increases and suggested they recognized in Scotland. Interest- be retroactive, but retroactivity was ingly, our daughter’s degree from not mandatory. The Scottish Parlia- UBC was readily accepted. ment made the settlement retroac- 2. Social assistance for the tive, Westminster did not. elderly was no longer subject to a It is not just on the rugby pitch means test in Scotland. that the Scots and the English are 3. Free tuition at Universities competing. for residents of Scotland – another I might add that the support for statement about the importance of the Gaelic language has increased education in Scotland. dramatically (Incidentally, all the All these independent changes signs in the Scottish Parliament Fall, 2009 Page 29 building are in the Gaelic as well as 1578. The MacLeods had raided English) – in fact, the Gaelic Col- the MacDonald-held Isle of Eigg lege on Skye is considered propor- a couple of years previously, and tionately to be the best financially massacred hundreds of MacDon- supported university in Scotland. alds in the cave that was used as Please join me in a Toast to the place of worship. In revenge, the Scottish Parliament, and their the MacDonalds of Uist landed continued enlightened approach on Skye and barred the doors of to the issues. Trumpan Church in Waternish, [An item that he did not men- when it was full of worshippers, tion in his talk, was brought to his then set the church on fire. (Some attention later. Bus rides for seniors stories suggest that the victims, in Scotland are free – anywhere, in each case, were actually first anytime, it seems.] herded into the cave / church before it was set afire.) No one escaped – B. THINGS MacLEOD except one girl who though fatally War of One-Eyed Woman: wounded managed to sound the The history of the Isle of Skye was alarm. The MacLeod chief then set dominated by the histories of the off for Ardmore Bay and caught up MacDonalds and the MacLeods, with, and attacked, the MacDonald often in bloody conflict. raiders. Almost every MacDonald In 1480, John MacDonald and was killed in the ensuing battle. his illegitimate son, Angus Og (or The corpses were dragged into a Black Angus MacDonald) battled turf dyke, giving the battle its name for the chieftainship of Clan Don- as the Battle of the Spoiling of the ald. At the Battle of Bloody Bay, Dyke. William Dubh MacLeod was sup- Tradition has it that the Fairy porting John, but was wounded and Flag was unfurled twice, but the taken prisoner (and died shortly stories vary as to when. On at least after). Black Angus won. After one occasion, it was unfurled in the battle, the MacDonalds, under one of the ongoing battles with the Black Angus, raided northern Skye MacDonalds during this period – in revenge for MacLeod’s part in either 1490 or 1520. The MacLeods supporting John. This began about carried the day, in each case (the 120 years of particularly vicious other unfurling may have been battles and bloodshed between the during a time of famine). two great clans. Sometime in the 1590s, an Perhaps the worst of the vi- attempt was made to mend the cious bloodletting led to the “Battle rivalry when Margaret, sister of of the Spoiling of the Dyke”, in Rory Mor MacLeod (15th Chief, CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 30 Chief from 1595 to 1626) wed beginning of the Afghan War. He Donald Gorm Mor MacDonald. commented that the tribal warlords At that time, it was the custom in in the north of Afghanistan were the Highlands for a marriage to not unlike the Highland Chiefs of have a trial period of one year, a 400 or 500 years earlier. Needless tradition known as “hand-fasting”, to say, the reporter was British (but or “left-handed marriage”. If the he may have been right!). trial worked (to the satisfaction of C. ODD OR HUMOROUS the man, of course!) the marriage ITEMS INVOLVING SCOTS would become formal, and any OR SCOTLAND children legitimized. If not, the trial Glasgow Kiss: Evidently the could be terminated. Margaret bore Glaswegians are known for their no children. Sometime during the toughness and belligerence, so “trial year” she lost an eye. When much so that some on-line dic- the year was up, Donald MacDon- tionaries have defined the phrase ald sent her back, on a one-eyed “Glasgow kiss” as “a head butt: a horse, led by a one-eyed man and strike with the head to someone’s accompanied by a one-eyed dog. sensitive area (such as the nose.)” Not surprisingly, Chief Rory Mor The Urban Dictionary goes on to was outraged, and a new war began say: “Within Glasgow itself the between the clans, called the “War term ‘Gorbals kiss’ is often used, of the One-Eyed Woman”. This referring to the most dangerous culminated in 1601 in a battle in area of Glasgow. It is hypothesised Coire na Creiche (the corrie of the that within Gorbals it is known as spoils), beneath the Cuillins, when a Crown Street kiss; and on Crown both clans suffered heavy losses. Street it is called a Number 73 kiss; The MacDonalds seem to have and at Number 73 it is known as won the battle, but the MacLeods Steve’s kiss. Steve, however, calls point to the fact that Rory Mor Mac- it whatever the #&#& he wants Leod was not personally present at to.” the fight and argue that this was In Canada, a somewhat similar the reason the MacDonalds won expression came up, known as the the day. In any case, it was the last “Shawinigan Handshake”, after battle fought between the two clans. Prime Minister Jean Chretien (be- (One note has it that Margaret went ing from the town of Shawinigan) on to become a nun.) strangled a social activist during an Our ancestors were certainly a outdoor protest in 1996. wild and vicious lot! In fact, in the Undoubtedly, Zinedine Zidane, early 2000s, I recall listening to a the French football (soccer) star BBC reporter in Afghanistan at the was familiar with the concept. Who Fall, 2009 Page 31 can forget the dying minutes of now Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath extra time in the 2006 FIFA World in , just east of Edinburgh. He Cup Final when Zidane, angry lost the sight of one eye playing with Italian Marco Materazzi, gave rugby at university. Materazzi a “Glasgow kiss” (of So he is certainly Scottish, course, drawing a red card). certainly blind in one eye, and What’s Worn Under a Kilt?: certainly very well educated. Dr. David McCracken, age 82, of Jeremy Gear is a BBC pre- Charlton, Mass, was in full High- senter and columnist, and host land garb at the 2007 Highland of “Top Gear”, a BBC motoring festival in Charlton. While on show. Earlier this year, on one stage, in a moment of “enthusi- of his shows taped in Australia, asm”, he answered the question for he called Prime Minister Gordon many, when he bared his backside Brown a “one-eyed Scottish idiot”. to (mooned) the crowd. He was It’s quite amazing – in those four charged with lewd and lascivious short words, he managed to insult behaviour. all Scots, all the vision impaired Now, I swim most mornings. In and the Prime Minister himself. the change room there are usually Under some threat of loosing 25 or so naked men of pension- his job with the BBC, he apolo- able age. I can say with absolute gized to both the Scots and the certainty that I could not, even in vision impaired, but not Gordon my wildest imagination, find even Brown. one of their exposed and wrinkled This BBC/English view of backsides to be “lewd and lascivi- Scotland is not an isolated event ous” – maybe my imagination is - for example, see as well the ref- not as good, or my sensibilities erences above to Afghan warlords as fine tuned, as the authorities of in the part on the “war of the One- Charlton, Mass! Eyed Woman” and the comment in British Prime Minister Gor- the “Toast to the Scottish Parlia- don Brown, as a “one eyed Scot- ment” about the “Government of tish idiot”: British Prime Minister Scotland”. On any trip to Scotland Gordon Brown was born in 1951 where I have watched the BBC in Govan (Glasgow). He earned a weather reports, it seems that they First Class Honours MA in 1972, always have a black cloud hanging at only 21, and a PhD (history) in over the Highlands and the Islands 1982. He worked as a lecturer and (to be fair, that may be accurate!). a journalist until being elected as Personal: I am continuing with a Labour Member of Parliament some Clan MacLeod activities. I in 1983, for the riding of what is am President of the CM Internet CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 32 Society, am building a new web site (as above) and have just finished a “Memory Book”, covering my last 25 years of activities with the Clan MacLeod (I will get a copy off to the archives). I included several pages on the Chiefs (with some help from Chief John of Raasay), , crests and badges, which I hope to transfer into the web site. Clansperson Awards honoured Neil R., Hold Fast and Shine Brightly Barbara, Judy’s husband Rick, and Bill G. News from Kenneth [I was inquiring about Douglas their husbands were planning their MacLeod’s address following his move to trip to visit the Eastern Seaboard, Ottawa area from Toronto and that lead cousin Carole Pfeuffer in Maine, me to contact his brother Kenneth in NS. and PEI. Now I finally have Blanche’s family some- I planned to get my kids - Sarah what sorted out. Many thanks, Kenneth.] (27) and Timothy (25) to grab a few ello from West Porters Lake, days off and to come over to PEI Hjust outside Halifax. We are for the get-together. fast jumping into autumn, but that’s Rae and Nancy from Montreal okay because we didn’t ever have drove down to be there as well. much of a summer. We enjoyed Rae’s daughter Carolyn and her about four days of +30°C, but those husband Len (Lennart Sorensen) were few and mixed in with R. F. flew down from Toronto. & D. — rain, fog and drizzle. I am Grandma Blanche hosted us all sure you have seen a day or two of to lunch (17 in all, with the addition that — we had an entire summer. of a few local PEI MacRae cousins) This all started with Ruth and at the Glasgow Hills Resort and Ian (Perth, Australia) heading to Golf Club in New Glasgow where Skye for Emma Halford’s wedding the view of Rustico Harbour and in early August. Being that close, the Atlantic Ocean was stunning. Ruth continued on to Canada, vis- A few words of identification, iting Montreal, Ottawa and then a few words of genealogy. Blanche driving down to Mum’s place in was married to Roderick (Rod) Charlottetown for a three-week MacLeod and is the mother of Rae visit. (Montreal), Ruth (Perth, Australia), While this was being planned, Kenneth (me, near Halifax)) and two cousins from near Spokane and Douglas who lives in Ottawa. Fall, 2009 Page 33 Front - Kenneth, Ruth, Blanche and Rae Back - Sarah, Donna, Claudia, Carolyn, Timothy Rod’s sister Anne, married Robert (Bob) Knott who farmed near Spokane. Claudia and Donna are two of their children and their husbands are Tom Mays (Claudia) and Chuck Pierce (Donna).

Parliament 2010

he theme for Parliament 2010 is “Old and New Traditions”. The organizers want to reinforceT those traditions that have come to be a regular part of Parliament, as well as bring in some new things. The format will be familiar, including the social, heritage, and business elements that we all enjoy. But delegates are invited to bring new ideas and discuss our potential as an organization in the future. There will be a bit of “homework” beforehand, offering opportunities for each of us to share a piece of our local world with fel- low MacLeods. A source of information regarding accommodation, program and activities associated with Parliament 2010 is the ACMS web site clan- macleod.org. There is also a Facebook entry where you will find the first Parliament 2010 Newsletter from Parliament coordinator Dorna Caskie.

CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 34 Flowers of the Forest Robert Gordon Armstrong 1934-2009 by Judy Tipple lan MacLeod has lost a staunch supporter and dedicated work- Cer in the passing of Bob Armstrong on July 5. Always by Barbara’s side to help wherever needed, Bob came early and stayed late, trans- porting, leading, accompanying, rounding up whatever was needed and generously filling the ‘goffer’ role at every MacLeod event he attended. Bob’s passing was sudden, yet peaceful, with all of his fam- and also other choruses and choirs ily at his side: his best friend and in the Ottawa valley. wife Barbara MacLeod; children We extend our sincere condo- Alan (Michelle Courchesne) of lences to all of his family, especially Gatineau, Ian (Silvia Arno-Arm- Barbara our CMSC past President strong) of Thunder Bay, Alison Do- and very active and enthusiastic herty (Tim) of London and Peter of member of CMS Ottawa. Ottawa. His sisters Carolyn Walton (Ross) and Mary Adele Fraser (Ian) Audrey Emily McLeod and grandchildren Isabelle & Jer- emy Armstrong, Emily & Hannah Our condolences are extended Armstrong, Erin & Calum Doherty to Roy McLeod President of CMS are also left to mourn Bob. Manitoba, on the passing of his A dedicated employee of EB mother Audrey. Eddy/Eddy Forest Products until Janet MacLeod his retirement in 1995, Bob’s inter- est and training in forestry gave him We are saddened to learn of opportunity to enjoy many outdoor the passing of Janet MacLeod on activities throughout his life. August 13 after suffering a few Bob shared his musical talent short years from Alzheimer’s. She with church choirs in Nepean, is survived by her husband of 54 Sudbury and Parkenham as his years Donald B. past president of work moved him around Ontario Clan MacLeod USA. Fall, 2009 Page 35 The Editor’s Page

Happily I have noted that Leod Voice readers actually read this page and have responded to my plea for material. I should have known that the thrifty nature of all true Scots would respond to being able to mail out a 36 page issue for the same price as a mere 24 pages, would strike a chord. Thank you all for your efforts and if your item didn’t get into this is- sue it will surely show up in a future one. In the meantime, keep writing snippets or epistles and sending them to me. Parliament 2010 will be the highlight of the coming year and although I’d hoped to include more specific information regarding the event in this issue, there are many Internet sites where information can be sought out. Do all of the searching you can and plan to be there. I will do the same. Just after we got home from the North American Gathering in Ottawa, we received the sad news of Bob Armstrong’s untimely passing. CMSC Past President Barbara has the love and support of not only her dear family but also of her world-wide Clan MacLeod family. It was with a heavy heart that I read the email message from Noël Proven that her sister, Nancy MacLeod Nicol, had lost her valiant battle with leukemia on Nov. 1. I would very much like to receive your sto- ries, memories, tributes and photos of Nancy for the spring issue of the Leod Voice. Nancy has been such a large part of my personal MacLeod Experience over the past 37 years it is difficult to envision its future without her. The greatest tribute we can pay Nancy is to Newsletter support the world of Clan MacLeod by making it even more vibrant and active than it already is. Timelines: Till the spring issue, (containing your article?) Spring—May 1 Hold Fast and Shine Brightly. Fall—October 1 Membership and My address: Judy Tipple, Executive Changes: P.O. Box 111 March 1 Saturna Island, BC Canada V0N 2Y0 and September 1 Phone: 250-539-5475 E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] CMSC Newsletter # 51, Page 36