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To see what we've added to the Electric Scotland site view our What's New page at:
http://www.electricscotland.com/whatsnew.htm
To see what we've added to the Electric Canadian site view our What's New page at:
http://www.electriccanadian.com/whatsnew.htm
For the latest news from Scotland see our ScotNews feed at:
http://www.electricscotland.com/
Electric Scotland News
My topic this week is about the tourism industry. First I read that almost every country in the world has seen an increase in foreign arrivals except Canada which has seen a steady decline over the past 11 years. Canada was 2nd in the world for foreign arrivals but is now down to 18th.
Then I read that Scotland has actually seen a 4% decline in visitor numbers to June of this year and considering they hosted the Commonwealth Games that's troubling.
However when you talk to the tourism people they spin things their way. That means that talking to every Province in Canada and the Canadian Tourism Commission they all claim that they are seeing rises in foreign arrivals. To be frank that is just a lie and is symptomatic in the travel industry as they try to spin positives out of negatives.
Looking at VisitScotland their spin is that they saw a rise in North American visitors but domestic tourism was down 7% which is 83% of their total market and hence the 4% drop.
Canada in particular has a problem as they are obviously not on the radar of most people when they decide where to take their holiday. I now have 2 years worth of stats on the Electric Canadian site and some 78% of visitors to that site come from Canada, 17% from the USA and only 3% are from the UK leaving only 2% from the rest of the world. I think that says it all really. Electric Scotland currently gets 48% of its visitors from the USA, 22% from the UK and 9% from Canada leaving 21% from the rest of the world.
Yet Tourism is usually responsible for a high percentage of GDP in all countries and employs large numbers of people. So why isn't it innovating and trying other forms of marketing? That to me is the big question... why are we not trying new and innovative ways of marketing? I can think of several things they could do but I doubt very much if any will try them as they are too conservative. It's like me taking to Nova Scotia's Cultural, Heritage and History department and the head of that service one Jessica Kerrin, had absolutely no interest is discussing whether Electric Scotland could in any way help her department. Of course I am biased but considering the huge historic connections between Scotland and Nova Scotia (New Scotland) I can't help but feel she is the wrong person to be in that job. Trouble is that seems to be the norm for the tourist industry employing people that really shouldn't be working for them.
-----
I got approached this week to see if I could help in any way to have the Glasgow Boys Choir come to Canada and especially Toronto in 2017. I've asked for some background information and once I have that will post up an article about this. I might add that Nova Scotia heard about this and expressed interest but it was myself that had to tell them that WestJet would be doing direct flights from Glasgow to Halifax and so that made it more likely to happen.
-----
Got in an email this week...
Alastair, I have been following your site for many years, history Scottish, not really part of my personal experience. So I give a peek of history from my mothers side of the family. Pretty much the topic of many romantic Scottish Movies?
Even stranger, My McDermott side includes Charles McDermott, the first US patent of a flying machine. His design was used by the Wright Brothers, they powered it with an engine....
Your work is so important. When family history is lost within just a few generations, without work and sharing of that work, so many of us would not have a resource from which we can discover our histories and cultures lost. Nor the ability to share said information with others.
Michael McDermott→
Jessie M Macrae
your mother
→
Bessie Buchanan
her mother
→
George Buchanan
her father
→
John Harvey Buchanan
his father
→
Andrew Buchanan
his father
→
John Buchanan
his father
→
Elizabeth Livingston
his mother
→
Agnes Douglas of Morton
her mother
→
John Douglas, 2nd Earl of Morton
her father
→
Joan Stewart of Scotland, Countess of Morton
his mother
→
Joan Beaufort, Queen consort of Scots
her mother
→
John Earl of Somerset Beaufort, 1st Earl of Somerset
her father
→
John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster
his father
→
Edward III of England
his father
→
Edward II of England
his father
→
Edward I "Longshanks", King of England
his father
I can not discern the Irish-Scottish routes into Scotland or from Scotland. I am a line of the British Isles and if I can trust the information and history we go back to France, Russia, Egypt, China, Spain, Portugal etc... I fear if I look long enough I will come full circle at the beginning, the world being round and all.
My Scottish Grandfather was proud to be a Scot. He would exclude us as being American. My Irish considered themselves builders of America and this was more true than they could know because we were the Signers and Writers of the new Nation. Fact is America led not by independent People but Family members, cousins all to some degree. My line came to America, members in the earliest Ships both English and French. I remember all too well how easily Freedom can be lost, a wee boy of 8 years placed in State hands behind bars, property of the State my connection to family and history totally lost. The Colleges and Universities founded by my family never offering a helping hand.
The lesson learned brings us back to your work, History and crumbs which children of all ages may find on your pages of Electric Scotland. Its a great work for us all.
Regards,
Michael
As to the Irish-Scottish roots I might add that the Scots-Irish or Ulster-Scots were mostly Scots from the Scottish Borders who emigrated to Ulster. A couple of centuries later many moved to America and thus became the Scots-Irish. You can learn more about the Scots-Irish at
http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...tsirishndx.htm
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Sandy Lyle Wins World Hickory Open 2014
After two days of highly competitive hickory golf on the famous Panmure golf course, top Scottish golfer Sandy Lyle added 2014 World Hickory Champion to his list of titles.
“I am very honoured to have won the World Hickory Open 2014,” said Sandy, who was the first British winner of The Masters. “I came into the tournament quite late when I decided that, as I was in this corner of Scotland for the Dunhill, staying on for the World Hickory Open would be a great opportunity to test my hickory skills, while also helping to advance hickory golf in Scotland.
“It’s been a very good experience which certainly got my ticker going, especially over the last two or three holes of the last round, which were very nerve wracking.”
At the presentation, WHO chairman Lionel Freedman cheekily announced that Sandy had won another Major!
Sandy has been playing hickory golf for almost three years. “I have a great love for hickory golf, which is about playing hickory on courses like Panmure,” continued Sandy. “I’ll hopefully be back to defend my title when the World Hickory Open is played at Carnoustie Championship next year.”
Golf professional Andrew Marshall, from Norfok tied for second with defending champion Paolo Quirici, a Swiss golf professional who specialises in hickory golf.
Handicap winner Jim Rohr from Pinehurst, North Carolina also won the Veterans’ category. “It feels pretty good to be going home with two trophies the first time I’ve played in the World Hickory Open,” said Jim, who only took up hickory golf a year ago. “I really enjoy the challenge of hickory golf and the great people I meet.”
Local golfers cleaned up in the ladies golf categories, with Claire Penman from Montrose winning the Ladies Scratch Competition, Sheila Brunton from Carnoustie winning the Ladies Handicap and Claire, Sheila and Carnoustie’s Pat Sawers clinching the Ladies Team Competition.
Over 100 competitors from all over the world participated in the World Hickory Open. In the Team Competition, a team from South African consisting of Paul Adams, Jason Mulroy and Tony Watson were named the winners, while the top place in the Amateur Scratch Competition went to Rymer Smith from The Buckinghamshire.
“The World Hickory Open is great news for Carnoustie Country, which covers 34 golf courses within a 40-minute drive of Carnoustie Championship,” said Councillor Mairi Evans, Angus Council Tourism Spokesperson. “It encourages golfers who are passionate about celebrating the traditional aspects of the game to visit our part of Scotland and discover for themselves just how good our golf courses, golf facilities and accommodation are.
“We look forward to welcoming the World Hickory Open back to Carnoustie Country in 2015, when the tournament will be celebrating its 10th anniversary in style at Carnoustie Championship.”
Electric Canadian
Having now run this site for the past couple of years I am probably going to cease development of it. I will add the many books I've been gathering for the site but once that is done I'll probably keep it going but won't be actively developing it. I really set out to explore the history of Canada and Canadians and thought this was the best way to share the knowledge I acquired and I think it was the best way. It's also enabled me to get a better handle on what Canada is all about but having pretty much achieved that level of knowledge of a country with quite fantastic Scottish input I'm not sure there is much more I can add.
Elliot Lake
I spent a wee bit of time re-reading my own report on my visit to Elliot Lake and enjoyed being reminded of my time up there. I took the opportunity of adding a few videos which I think demonstrates what a great place it is for year round outside pursuits.
You can view the videos and follow my travels there at http://www.electriccanadian.com/canada/elliotndx.htm
The Canadian Tourism Industry
Examining the tourism industry of Canada. Troubling reading for sure and you can read two reports I found about it at http://www.electriccanadian.com/transport/tourism.htm
A History of the County of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia
By Rev. J. R. Campbell (1876)
This more systematic effort to preserve the floating traditions and to collect the scattered records of the past, by which, when connected with our present condition, the progress which has been made, may be appreciated, was the result of an invitation issued by the Governors of Kings College, Windsor, for Essays on County Histories, under the thoughtful and liberal intelligence of the Akins Foundation. I sent them an Essay on the history of this County in 1872; and, from the expressions of satisfaction with which they were pleased to accompany the reception of my paper,—together with the then general interest in the undertaking, and the subsequent continued solicitations of those whose opinions I respect, I have thought it my duty to publish the work.
I'll be adding a chapter per day at http://www.electriccanadian.com/hist...outh/index.htm
Canadian Confederation and its Leaders
By M. O. Hammond
THE Dominion of Canada is no longer an experiment. The union now so prosperous and solidified was adopted in the face of much opposition, and without directly consulting the people except in New Brunswick. For many years the lack of progress under the new constitution was accompanied by doubt and resentment. Conditions have changed and the party strife of that era has passed with the death of the last of the Fathers of Confederation. It seems timely, therefore, to examine the part played by the leaders of that day in the various provinces in bringing about the union. In this volume an attempt is made to present this service in proper perspective. Most of the men described were favorable to union, others were opposed and fought it until the final decision. An arbitrary selection for such a series may be open to criticism, but it will be found that each of those sketched in the following pages was an important factor and leader of opinion.
The writer is under obligation to the contents of many existing volumes of history and biography, to official reports and documents, to surviving contemporaries of the Confederation leaders, and to a host of friends who have aided with counsel and material at their disposal. Among the latter special gratitude is due to Hon. W. S. Fielding, Mr. Duncan Campbell Scott, Senator L. G. Power, Mr. E. J. Hathaway, Mr. William Houston, Mr. John Lewis, Mr. John Boyd, Mr. C. W. Young, Mr. Reuben Macdonald, Mr. A. F. Macdonald, Mr. C. W. Jefferys, Miss Katherine Hughes, Hon. Andrew Broder, and to the staff of the Toronto Reference Library. '
M. O. H.
Toronto, May, 1917.
You can read this book at http://www.electriccanadian.com/make...tion/index.htm
Energy Review from US Energy Information Administration
I've said it before but worth repeating. I have no idea why such great reports have to come from outside Canada rather than being made available by our own Government.
This is an updated 2014 report in pdf format which you can read at
http://www.electriccanadian.com/tran...ada_energy.pdf
The Flag in the Wind
This weeks issue was compiled by Fraser Hudghton where he is giving his take on the current political scene.
You can read this issue at http://www.scotsindependent.org and no Synopsis this week.
Electric Scotland
Enigma Machine
Added puzzle 82.
An alternative to your crossword puzzle and created by a Scots Canadian, Doug Ross.
You can join with others in our community trying to complete these at:
http://www.electricscotland.org/foru...le-amp-Whistle
You can get to the puzzles at http://www.electriccanadian.com/lifestyle/enigma/
Glimpses of Church and Social Life in the Highlands in Olden Times
By Alexander MacPherson, FSA Scot. (1893).
More chapters up this week down to completing the section about...
THE OLD CASTLES OF RUTHVEN AND THE LORDS OF BADENOCH
We then look to the peaceful seats of our modern landowners, the smiling fields, the well-filled stackyard, and the fearless flock, and cannot but feel grateful for the change, and rejoice that it is no longer necessary to renew our castles or keep them in repair. We may therefore turn from these remains of massive walls without regret, while the breezes that sigh among their ruins
History does not record by whom or at what time a castle was originally built here. Tradition has it that the first castle bearing the name of Ruthven was erected by one of the Comyns, but what was its form, for what period it stood, or when or by whom it was destroyed, is involved in obscurity. In the latter half of the fourteenth century the castle of that time was the principal stronghold of Alexander Stewart, the notorious Wolf of Badenoch, on whom his father, King Robert II., in 1371 bestowed the lordship of Badenoch. On the failure of the Wolfs descendants the lordship reverted to the Crown. In 1451 the castle was seized and demolished by John, Earl of Ross, who had broken out in open rebellion when King James II. was exerting himself to weaken the power of the Douglases, with some of whose adherents the young Earl was connected by marriage. From the sixth or seventh decade of the fifteenth century downwards the castle was possessed, except for short intervals, by the powerful house of Gordon, which for a period extending to nearly four centuries—first under the title of the Earls of Huntly, and afterwards under that of the Dukes of Gordon—exercised as the feudal superiors and Lords of Badenoch such potent sway in the district, and figured so prominently in Scottish history. Indeed, since the middle of the sixteenth century so intimately were the successive castles associated with the Gordon family that the subsequent history of the one is to a great extent embraced in that of the other. The power of which the Earls of Huntly were possessed was almost uniformly exerted in support of the royal authority, and the many baronies which they received from their sovereign were conferred in reward of their loyalty and valour. About the year 1451 the king, in reward for signal services, granted the lordship of Badenoch to Sir Alexander Gordon, who in 1449 had been created Earl of Huntly. In a confirmation of this Earl’s lands by the king in 1457, the onerous cause is said to have been “ for keeping the crown on our head.” George, the second Earl, who succeeded to the title on the death of his father in 1479, founded, it is related, Gordon Castle and the Priory of Kingussie. So important were his services considered in the way of extending the royal authority in the north and west Highlands, that in 1508-9 he was appointed to the heritable sheriffship of Inverness. His jurisdiction under that sheriffship embraced not only that county, but also the counties of Ross and Caithness, and he was empowered to appoint deputies for certain divisions of his sheriffdom. These deputies were to hold their courts respectively at Kingussie for the district of Badenoch, at Inverlochy for that of Lochaber, at Tain or Dingwall for Ross, and at Wick for Caithness. Alexander, the third Earl, was made Hereditary Sheriff of the County and Constable of the Castle of Inverness; and obtained a charter of the Castle of Inverlochy in Lochaber, and the adjacent lands.
You can read this book at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...pses/index.htm
Songs of Scotland
Added pages 205 to 251 to the 4th Volume which you can read at:
http://www.electricscotland.com/music/cunningham/
Henry Dryerre
Added two more Worthies, Bailie Low and Alan Reid which you can read at:
http://www.electricscotland.com/poetry/dryerre/
Highland Rambles
And Long Legends to Shorten the Way by Thomas Dick Lauder (1837).
Have now posted up two more articles from this book "Morning Scene" and "The Legend of John MacPherson of Invereshie". The article on "Morning Scene" shows how fast the weather can change in Scotland and of course tells of the great fishing to be had.
You can read these articles at: http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...uder/index.htm
John's Songs and Poems
As you likely know by now John produces many songs in the Dorric language of the North East of Scotland and this week he's sent us in another song...
The Highland Shepherdess
This can be read at http://www.electricscotland.com/poetry/doggerel551.htm
The Life of John Wilson
For Fifty Year Philanthropist and Scholar in the East by George Smith (1879).
As it happens we get around 4% of our visitors from India so this should be an interesting read for them.
In chapter VIII the topics covered include...
Civilians and Officers raise a special Fund for the College—First and Sixth Public Examination of the College — Domestic Slavery in India — Negro Boys captured from the East African Slavers—An Abyssinian General and his Sons—Joseph Wollf again—Dr. Wilson on the Government College— Two Princes from Joanna—What Converts should be supported by the Mission—First Proposal of a Scottish Mission at Madras—Projected Missions to Kunjeet Singh and Independent Sikhs—To Kathiawar by Irish Presbyterian Church—Sir Robert Grant’s Death—Dr. Wilson’s Report on his Educational System for Lord Elphinstone when Governor of Madras, and for Ceylon—Proposal to send Missionary to the Jews of Arabia and India—First Meeting with Mr. David Sassoon—Female Education and the Misses Bayne—Major Jameson establishes the Ladies’ Association in Edinburgh—The Afghan Policy of the Government of India—Intercourse with the Heir-Apparent of Dost Muhammad Khan — Dr. Murray Mitchell arrives—Dr. Duffs Visit—Encouraging Pastoral from the General Assembly —Dr. Wilson’s Work as a Translator—Dr. Pfander.
So in this book you are learning a great deal about India and its people.
You can read this book as we get it up at: http://www.electricscotland.com/history/johnwilson/
Margo Fallis
Some of you might remember that some time ago Margo worked with us to build a great collection of Children's stories and poems. It's been some 5 years since we heard from her but this week contact was made again. She had suffered from some serious health issues, Cancer, and while she defeated one episode she is currently battling yet another one. I'd like to wish her every good wish I can that she conquers this one as well.
Margo said she has continued to write children's poems and kindly sent in three to add to the site and as long as she's able she's promised to send in some others for us as she can.
Here is one she sent in...
Some people say I’m cute
And others say I’m sweet.
Some like the ribbons that I have
Wrapped around my feet.
There is one thing I do not like
And is one of my greatest fears.
When they come up behind me and tug,
Making fun of my beautiful ears.
Yes, they are bigger than normal,
And poke out from my light brown hair;
But I hear better than most folks
With my lovely ears, a pair.
I don’t think they’re that big.
I think they fit me quite well.
They match my glasses and string of beads,
With the tiny ringing bell.
My skirt is like a hula girls;
My bracelet has stones shaped like tears.
But nothing sets me quite apart
Than my beautiful pair of ears.I've added the three poems to the foot of her Children's Poems page at:
http://www.electricscotland.com/kids/poems/index.htm
Glasgow Men and Women
Found this very interesting book which is "A selection from the Sketches of Twym" by A.S. Boyd. Added a link to it towards the foot of our Glasgow page at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/glasgow/
Angus
I was working today on adding some pdf books about the Angus council area of Scotland. Some really excellent information and also directories which might be of interest to genealogists.
The books we have available are...
Angus or Forfarshire, The Land and People, Descriptive and Historical, By Alex. J. Warden FSA Scot. in 5 Volumes (1880).
Arbroath and its Abbey
The Declation of Arbroath 1320
Leaves from Logiedale
The History of Brechin to 1864
By David D Black, Town Clerk (1867)
History of Montrose
Containing important particulars in relation to its Trade, Manufactures, Commerce, Shipping, Antiquities, Eminent Men, Town Houses of the Neighbouring Country Gentry in Former Years. &c. by David Mitchell (1866)
An Angus Parish in the Eighteenth Century
By W. Mason Inglis, Minister of Auchterhouse (1904) (pdf)
Arbroath Year Book 1891 (pdf)
Arbroath Year Book 1926 (pdf)
Angus and Mearns Directory and Almanac for 1847 (pdf)
Angus Heritage’s new booklet
‘Tracing Your Family History – Angus & Dundee’
You can read these books at http://www.electricscotland.com/council/angus.htm
Clan Leslie Down Under
Got in a copy of their newsletter for October, November, December 2014 which you can download from
http://www.electricscotland.com/fami...slie/index.htm
And Finally...
Some more stories from The Book of Scottish Anecdote...
NATIONAL ECONOMY
Two officers, observing a pretty girl in a milliner's shop, the one, an Irishman, proposed to go in and buy a watch-ribbon, in order to get a nearer view of her. "Hoot, man," says his northern friend, "there's nae need to waste the siller that way; gang in and speer if she can give you twa saxpences for a shilling."
PATRIOTISM OF THE CLERGY
It is creditable to the Scottish clergy, that in defiance of England and Rome combined together, they stood true to the interests of their native land. The sentence of excommunIcation, which humbled to the ground King Henry and King John of England, was powerless when hurled against King Robert Bruce, whom his clergy supported in defiance of every threat. The official records of the losses they sustained in their property, for their uniform resistance to the attempts of Edward, are indelible monuments of their honour. Nor were they satisfied with declaiming against the foreign invader: they put on the helmet and the cuirass, and with sword and spear led on their people to battle. Tradition, which has preserved such endearing recollection of the memory of Sir William Wallace, has not forgotten his chaplain, who attended him in all his expeditions, celebrated divine service with him, and went with him into the battle. He was such a character as the Archdeacon of Aberdeen, who attended the brave Earl of Douglas, and single and alone, defended him from injury, after he fell at the battle of Otterburn in 1388, until his friends came up. The tradition of the burning of the English troops in the "Barns of Ayr" by Wallace, ascribes the contrivance to a friar, and states that Wallace was accustomed to call it "the friar of Ayr's blessirg."
PAUL JONES AND LORD SELKIRK
Paul Jones was a native of Kirkcullbright. Having been prosecuted for some offence, he fled from home, and being an active seaman, obtained the command of a privateer in the American service. As he knew well about the parts of his native town, he executed one of his first enterprises at this place. Early one morning he stood in the bay, with colours flying like a British frigate, and sent his boat on shore near Lord Selkirk's house, well manned, with an officer, who had orders to behave as if he commanded a pressgang. The scheme took effect. All the men about the house and grounds immediately disappeared. When all was clear, the officer with his party surrounded the house and inquired for Lord Selkirk. He was not at home; Lady Selkirk was then inquired for, and made her appearance. The officer behaved very civilly, but told plainly that his errand was to carry off the family service of plate. She assured him that he had been misinformed, and that Lord Selkirk had no service of plate. With great presence of mind, she then called for the butler's inventory, and convinced him on the spot of his mistake. At the same time she ordered wine. The officer drank her health politely; and laying his hands on what plate he met with, went off without committing any wanton mischief. Soon after the ships left the bay, Jones informed Lord Selkirk by a letter that avowed indeed the intention of carrying his lordship off, but with a design merely to get a cartel established through the means of such a prisoner, As to taking the plate, he said he totally disapproved of it: his crew forced him to it, being determined to have a little plunder for the risk they had run, both in Kirkcudbright bay and in attempting the night before to burn the shipping at Whitehaven. To this apology Jones added a promise to restore the plate, which, on the peace seven years after the depredation, was punctually performed. It was put into the hands of Lord Selkirk's banker in London; and not the least article was missing. This restitution has the appearance of generosity; but it is probable that Jones might feel for his professional character, which he found would suffer under the infamy of such a pilfering transaction.
BURNS' CREED
"My creed," said Burns, in his Commonplace Book, "is pretty nearly expressed in the last clause of Jamie Dean's grace, an honest weaver in Ayrshire: 'Lord grant that we may lead a gude life! for a gude life makes a gude end - at least it helps weell'"
That's it for this week and hope you all enjoy your weekend.
Alastair
http://www.electricscotland.com/whatsnew.htm
To see what we've added to the Electric Canadian site view our What's New page at:
http://www.electriccanadian.com/whatsnew.htm
For the latest news from Scotland see our ScotNews feed at:
http://www.electricscotland.com/
Electric Scotland News
My topic this week is about the tourism industry. First I read that almost every country in the world has seen an increase in foreign arrivals except Canada which has seen a steady decline over the past 11 years. Canada was 2nd in the world for foreign arrivals but is now down to 18th.
Then I read that Scotland has actually seen a 4% decline in visitor numbers to June of this year and considering they hosted the Commonwealth Games that's troubling.
However when you talk to the tourism people they spin things their way. That means that talking to every Province in Canada and the Canadian Tourism Commission they all claim that they are seeing rises in foreign arrivals. To be frank that is just a lie and is symptomatic in the travel industry as they try to spin positives out of negatives.
Looking at VisitScotland their spin is that they saw a rise in North American visitors but domestic tourism was down 7% which is 83% of their total market and hence the 4% drop.
Canada in particular has a problem as they are obviously not on the radar of most people when they decide where to take their holiday. I now have 2 years worth of stats on the Electric Canadian site and some 78% of visitors to that site come from Canada, 17% from the USA and only 3% are from the UK leaving only 2% from the rest of the world. I think that says it all really. Electric Scotland currently gets 48% of its visitors from the USA, 22% from the UK and 9% from Canada leaving 21% from the rest of the world.
Yet Tourism is usually responsible for a high percentage of GDP in all countries and employs large numbers of people. So why isn't it innovating and trying other forms of marketing? That to me is the big question... why are we not trying new and innovative ways of marketing? I can think of several things they could do but I doubt very much if any will try them as they are too conservative. It's like me taking to Nova Scotia's Cultural, Heritage and History department and the head of that service one Jessica Kerrin, had absolutely no interest is discussing whether Electric Scotland could in any way help her department. Of course I am biased but considering the huge historic connections between Scotland and Nova Scotia (New Scotland) I can't help but feel she is the wrong person to be in that job. Trouble is that seems to be the norm for the tourist industry employing people that really shouldn't be working for them.
-----
I got approached this week to see if I could help in any way to have the Glasgow Boys Choir come to Canada and especially Toronto in 2017. I've asked for some background information and once I have that will post up an article about this. I might add that Nova Scotia heard about this and expressed interest but it was myself that had to tell them that WestJet would be doing direct flights from Glasgow to Halifax and so that made it more likely to happen.
-----
Got in an email this week...
Alastair, I have been following your site for many years, history Scottish, not really part of my personal experience. So I give a peek of history from my mothers side of the family. Pretty much the topic of many romantic Scottish Movies?
Even stranger, My McDermott side includes Charles McDermott, the first US patent of a flying machine. His design was used by the Wright Brothers, they powered it with an engine....
Your work is so important. When family history is lost within just a few generations, without work and sharing of that work, so many of us would not have a resource from which we can discover our histories and cultures lost. Nor the ability to share said information with others.
Michael McDermott→
Jessie M Macrae
your mother
→
Bessie Buchanan
her mother
→
George Buchanan
her father
→
John Harvey Buchanan
his father
→
Andrew Buchanan
his father
→
John Buchanan
his father
→
Elizabeth Livingston
his mother
→
Agnes Douglas of Morton
her mother
→
John Douglas, 2nd Earl of Morton
her father
→
Joan Stewart of Scotland, Countess of Morton
his mother
→
Joan Beaufort, Queen consort of Scots
her mother
→
John Earl of Somerset Beaufort, 1st Earl of Somerset
her father
→
John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster
his father
→
Edward III of England
his father
→
Edward II of England
his father
→
Edward I "Longshanks", King of England
his father
I can not discern the Irish-Scottish routes into Scotland or from Scotland. I am a line of the British Isles and if I can trust the information and history we go back to France, Russia, Egypt, China, Spain, Portugal etc... I fear if I look long enough I will come full circle at the beginning, the world being round and all.
My Scottish Grandfather was proud to be a Scot. He would exclude us as being American. My Irish considered themselves builders of America and this was more true than they could know because we were the Signers and Writers of the new Nation. Fact is America led not by independent People but Family members, cousins all to some degree. My line came to America, members in the earliest Ships both English and French. I remember all too well how easily Freedom can be lost, a wee boy of 8 years placed in State hands behind bars, property of the State my connection to family and history totally lost. The Colleges and Universities founded by my family never offering a helping hand.
The lesson learned brings us back to your work, History and crumbs which children of all ages may find on your pages of Electric Scotland. Its a great work for us all.
Regards,
Michael
As to the Irish-Scottish roots I might add that the Scots-Irish or Ulster-Scots were mostly Scots from the Scottish Borders who emigrated to Ulster. A couple of centuries later many moved to America and thus became the Scots-Irish. You can learn more about the Scots-Irish at
http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...tsirishndx.htm
-----
Sandy Lyle Wins World Hickory Open 2014
After two days of highly competitive hickory golf on the famous Panmure golf course, top Scottish golfer Sandy Lyle added 2014 World Hickory Champion to his list of titles.
“I am very honoured to have won the World Hickory Open 2014,” said Sandy, who was the first British winner of The Masters. “I came into the tournament quite late when I decided that, as I was in this corner of Scotland for the Dunhill, staying on for the World Hickory Open would be a great opportunity to test my hickory skills, while also helping to advance hickory golf in Scotland.
“It’s been a very good experience which certainly got my ticker going, especially over the last two or three holes of the last round, which were very nerve wracking.”
At the presentation, WHO chairman Lionel Freedman cheekily announced that Sandy had won another Major!
Sandy has been playing hickory golf for almost three years. “I have a great love for hickory golf, which is about playing hickory on courses like Panmure,” continued Sandy. “I’ll hopefully be back to defend my title when the World Hickory Open is played at Carnoustie Championship next year.”
Golf professional Andrew Marshall, from Norfok tied for second with defending champion Paolo Quirici, a Swiss golf professional who specialises in hickory golf.
Handicap winner Jim Rohr from Pinehurst, North Carolina also won the Veterans’ category. “It feels pretty good to be going home with two trophies the first time I’ve played in the World Hickory Open,” said Jim, who only took up hickory golf a year ago. “I really enjoy the challenge of hickory golf and the great people I meet.”
Local golfers cleaned up in the ladies golf categories, with Claire Penman from Montrose winning the Ladies Scratch Competition, Sheila Brunton from Carnoustie winning the Ladies Handicap and Claire, Sheila and Carnoustie’s Pat Sawers clinching the Ladies Team Competition.
Over 100 competitors from all over the world participated in the World Hickory Open. In the Team Competition, a team from South African consisting of Paul Adams, Jason Mulroy and Tony Watson were named the winners, while the top place in the Amateur Scratch Competition went to Rymer Smith from The Buckinghamshire.
“The World Hickory Open is great news for Carnoustie Country, which covers 34 golf courses within a 40-minute drive of Carnoustie Championship,” said Councillor Mairi Evans, Angus Council Tourism Spokesperson. “It encourages golfers who are passionate about celebrating the traditional aspects of the game to visit our part of Scotland and discover for themselves just how good our golf courses, golf facilities and accommodation are.
“We look forward to welcoming the World Hickory Open back to Carnoustie Country in 2015, when the tournament will be celebrating its 10th anniversary in style at Carnoustie Championship.”
Electric Canadian
Having now run this site for the past couple of years I am probably going to cease development of it. I will add the many books I've been gathering for the site but once that is done I'll probably keep it going but won't be actively developing it. I really set out to explore the history of Canada and Canadians and thought this was the best way to share the knowledge I acquired and I think it was the best way. It's also enabled me to get a better handle on what Canada is all about but having pretty much achieved that level of knowledge of a country with quite fantastic Scottish input I'm not sure there is much more I can add.
Elliot Lake
I spent a wee bit of time re-reading my own report on my visit to Elliot Lake and enjoyed being reminded of my time up there. I took the opportunity of adding a few videos which I think demonstrates what a great place it is for year round outside pursuits.
You can view the videos and follow my travels there at http://www.electriccanadian.com/canada/elliotndx.htm
The Canadian Tourism Industry
Examining the tourism industry of Canada. Troubling reading for sure and you can read two reports I found about it at http://www.electriccanadian.com/transport/tourism.htm
A History of the County of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia
By Rev. J. R. Campbell (1876)
This more systematic effort to preserve the floating traditions and to collect the scattered records of the past, by which, when connected with our present condition, the progress which has been made, may be appreciated, was the result of an invitation issued by the Governors of Kings College, Windsor, for Essays on County Histories, under the thoughtful and liberal intelligence of the Akins Foundation. I sent them an Essay on the history of this County in 1872; and, from the expressions of satisfaction with which they were pleased to accompany the reception of my paper,—together with the then general interest in the undertaking, and the subsequent continued solicitations of those whose opinions I respect, I have thought it my duty to publish the work.
I'll be adding a chapter per day at http://www.electriccanadian.com/hist...outh/index.htm
Canadian Confederation and its Leaders
By M. O. Hammond
THE Dominion of Canada is no longer an experiment. The union now so prosperous and solidified was adopted in the face of much opposition, and without directly consulting the people except in New Brunswick. For many years the lack of progress under the new constitution was accompanied by doubt and resentment. Conditions have changed and the party strife of that era has passed with the death of the last of the Fathers of Confederation. It seems timely, therefore, to examine the part played by the leaders of that day in the various provinces in bringing about the union. In this volume an attempt is made to present this service in proper perspective. Most of the men described were favorable to union, others were opposed and fought it until the final decision. An arbitrary selection for such a series may be open to criticism, but it will be found that each of those sketched in the following pages was an important factor and leader of opinion.
The writer is under obligation to the contents of many existing volumes of history and biography, to official reports and documents, to surviving contemporaries of the Confederation leaders, and to a host of friends who have aided with counsel and material at their disposal. Among the latter special gratitude is due to Hon. W. S. Fielding, Mr. Duncan Campbell Scott, Senator L. G. Power, Mr. E. J. Hathaway, Mr. William Houston, Mr. John Lewis, Mr. John Boyd, Mr. C. W. Young, Mr. Reuben Macdonald, Mr. A. F. Macdonald, Mr. C. W. Jefferys, Miss Katherine Hughes, Hon. Andrew Broder, and to the staff of the Toronto Reference Library. '
M. O. H.
Toronto, May, 1917.
You can read this book at http://www.electriccanadian.com/make...tion/index.htm
Energy Review from US Energy Information Administration
I've said it before but worth repeating. I have no idea why such great reports have to come from outside Canada rather than being made available by our own Government.
This is an updated 2014 report in pdf format which you can read at
http://www.electriccanadian.com/tran...ada_energy.pdf
The Flag in the Wind
This weeks issue was compiled by Fraser Hudghton where he is giving his take on the current political scene.
You can read this issue at http://www.scotsindependent.org and no Synopsis this week.
Electric Scotland
Enigma Machine
Added puzzle 82.
An alternative to your crossword puzzle and created by a Scots Canadian, Doug Ross.
You can join with others in our community trying to complete these at:
http://www.electricscotland.org/foru...le-amp-Whistle
You can get to the puzzles at http://www.electriccanadian.com/lifestyle/enigma/
Glimpses of Church and Social Life in the Highlands in Olden Times
By Alexander MacPherson, FSA Scot. (1893).
More chapters up this week down to completing the section about...
THE OLD CASTLES OF RUTHVEN AND THE LORDS OF BADENOCH
We then look to the peaceful seats of our modern landowners, the smiling fields, the well-filled stackyard, and the fearless flock, and cannot but feel grateful for the change, and rejoice that it is no longer necessary to renew our castles or keep them in repair. We may therefore turn from these remains of massive walls without regret, while the breezes that sigh among their ruins
“Tell of a time when music’s flow,
In bridal bower or birthday hall,
Hath often changed from mirth to woe,
From joyous dance to vengeful call;
Tell of a time when from their steep
The mournful bier oft wound its way,
And kindred scarce had time to weep
When summoned to the bloody fray.
Enough—my heart can bear no more
But sickens as those scenes increase,
And gladly turns from fields of gore,
To praise the Lord of love and peace.
Hail, pure Religion! let our hearts
Thy spirit feel, thy virtue own;
Let Industry and peaceful arts
Our home with love and plenty crown!”
—Dr Longmuir.
"I CANNOT,” says Shaw the historian of Moray, in giving an account of the old lordship of Badenoch—“I cannot trace the possession of this country higher than to the Cummines, Lords of Badenoch, who, I doubt not, were lords of it in the twelfth or beginning of the thirteenth century.” “By an agreement in 1225 between the Bishop of Moray and Walter Cumyn of Badenoch, the bishop,” says Skene, “frees him from any claim he had for the title of the ‘ Can ’ of his lord the king from the lands of Badenoch.” In an agreement between the same parties “ between a.d. 1224 and 1233, regarding lands in Badenoch, it is provided with regard to the native-men (nativi), that the bishop shall have all the cleric and two lay native-men—viz., Gyllemaluock Macnakeeigelle and Sythad MacMallon, with all their chattels and possessions, and with their children and all their posterity, and the chattels of their children; and Walter Cumyn to have all the other lay native-men of lands in Badenoch; and when, after the War of Independence, Robert the Bruce erected the whole lands extending from the Spey to the Western Sea into an earldom of Moray in favour of his nephew, Thomas Randolph, the earldom was granted, with all its manors, burgh townships, and thanages, and all the royal demesnes, rents, and duties, and all barons and freeholders (libere tenentes) of the said earldom, who hold of the Crown in capite, and their heirs were to render their homages, fealties, attendance at courts, and all other services, to Thomas Randolph and his heirs, and to hold their baronies and tenements of him and his heirs, reserving to the barons and freeholders the rights and liberties of their own courts according to use and wont; and Thomas Randolph was to render to the king the Scottish service and aid due as heretofore for each davoch of land.” In bridal bower or birthday hall,
Hath often changed from mirth to woe,
From joyous dance to vengeful call;
Tell of a time when from their steep
The mournful bier oft wound its way,
And kindred scarce had time to weep
When summoned to the bloody fray.
Enough—my heart can bear no more
But sickens as those scenes increase,
And gladly turns from fields of gore,
To praise the Lord of love and peace.
Hail, pure Religion! let our hearts
Thy spirit feel, thy virtue own;
Let Industry and peaceful arts
Our home with love and plenty crown!”
—Dr Longmuir.
History does not record by whom or at what time a castle was originally built here. Tradition has it that the first castle bearing the name of Ruthven was erected by one of the Comyns, but what was its form, for what period it stood, or when or by whom it was destroyed, is involved in obscurity. In the latter half of the fourteenth century the castle of that time was the principal stronghold of Alexander Stewart, the notorious Wolf of Badenoch, on whom his father, King Robert II., in 1371 bestowed the lordship of Badenoch. On the failure of the Wolfs descendants the lordship reverted to the Crown. In 1451 the castle was seized and demolished by John, Earl of Ross, who had broken out in open rebellion when King James II. was exerting himself to weaken the power of the Douglases, with some of whose adherents the young Earl was connected by marriage. From the sixth or seventh decade of the fifteenth century downwards the castle was possessed, except for short intervals, by the powerful house of Gordon, which for a period extending to nearly four centuries—first under the title of the Earls of Huntly, and afterwards under that of the Dukes of Gordon—exercised as the feudal superiors and Lords of Badenoch such potent sway in the district, and figured so prominently in Scottish history. Indeed, since the middle of the sixteenth century so intimately were the successive castles associated with the Gordon family that the subsequent history of the one is to a great extent embraced in that of the other. The power of which the Earls of Huntly were possessed was almost uniformly exerted in support of the royal authority, and the many baronies which they received from their sovereign were conferred in reward of their loyalty and valour. About the year 1451 the king, in reward for signal services, granted the lordship of Badenoch to Sir Alexander Gordon, who in 1449 had been created Earl of Huntly. In a confirmation of this Earl’s lands by the king in 1457, the onerous cause is said to have been “ for keeping the crown on our head.” George, the second Earl, who succeeded to the title on the death of his father in 1479, founded, it is related, Gordon Castle and the Priory of Kingussie. So important were his services considered in the way of extending the royal authority in the north and west Highlands, that in 1508-9 he was appointed to the heritable sheriffship of Inverness. His jurisdiction under that sheriffship embraced not only that county, but also the counties of Ross and Caithness, and he was empowered to appoint deputies for certain divisions of his sheriffdom. These deputies were to hold their courts respectively at Kingussie for the district of Badenoch, at Inverlochy for that of Lochaber, at Tain or Dingwall for Ross, and at Wick for Caithness. Alexander, the third Earl, was made Hereditary Sheriff of the County and Constable of the Castle of Inverness; and obtained a charter of the Castle of Inverlochy in Lochaber, and the adjacent lands.
You can read this book at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...pses/index.htm
Songs of Scotland
Added pages 205 to 251 to the 4th Volume which you can read at:
http://www.electricscotland.com/music/cunningham/
Henry Dryerre
Added two more Worthies, Bailie Low and Alan Reid which you can read at:
http://www.electricscotland.com/poetry/dryerre/
Highland Rambles
And Long Legends to Shorten the Way by Thomas Dick Lauder (1837).
Have now posted up two more articles from this book "Morning Scene" and "The Legend of John MacPherson of Invereshie". The article on "Morning Scene" shows how fast the weather can change in Scotland and of course tells of the great fishing to be had.
You can read these articles at: http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...uder/index.htm
John's Songs and Poems
As you likely know by now John produces many songs in the Dorric language of the North East of Scotland and this week he's sent us in another song...
The Highland Shepherdess
This can be read at http://www.electricscotland.com/poetry/doggerel551.htm
The Life of John Wilson
For Fifty Year Philanthropist and Scholar in the East by George Smith (1879).
As it happens we get around 4% of our visitors from India so this should be an interesting read for them.
In chapter VIII the topics covered include...
Civilians and Officers raise a special Fund for the College—First and Sixth Public Examination of the College — Domestic Slavery in India — Negro Boys captured from the East African Slavers—An Abyssinian General and his Sons—Joseph Wollf again—Dr. Wilson on the Government College— Two Princes from Joanna—What Converts should be supported by the Mission—First Proposal of a Scottish Mission at Madras—Projected Missions to Kunjeet Singh and Independent Sikhs—To Kathiawar by Irish Presbyterian Church—Sir Robert Grant’s Death—Dr. Wilson’s Report on his Educational System for Lord Elphinstone when Governor of Madras, and for Ceylon—Proposal to send Missionary to the Jews of Arabia and India—First Meeting with Mr. David Sassoon—Female Education and the Misses Bayne—Major Jameson establishes the Ladies’ Association in Edinburgh—The Afghan Policy of the Government of India—Intercourse with the Heir-Apparent of Dost Muhammad Khan — Dr. Murray Mitchell arrives—Dr. Duffs Visit—Encouraging Pastoral from the General Assembly —Dr. Wilson’s Work as a Translator—Dr. Pfander.
So in this book you are learning a great deal about India and its people.
You can read this book as we get it up at: http://www.electricscotland.com/history/johnwilson/
Margo Fallis
Some of you might remember that some time ago Margo worked with us to build a great collection of Children's stories and poems. It's been some 5 years since we heard from her but this week contact was made again. She had suffered from some serious health issues, Cancer, and while she defeated one episode she is currently battling yet another one. I'd like to wish her every good wish I can that she conquers this one as well.
Margo said she has continued to write children's poems and kindly sent in three to add to the site and as long as she's able she's promised to send in some others for us as she can.
Here is one she sent in...
My Ears Are Not Too Big
Some people say I’m cute
And others say I’m sweet.
Some like the ribbons that I have
Wrapped around my feet.
There is one thing I do not like
And is one of my greatest fears.
When they come up behind me and tug,
Making fun of my beautiful ears.
Yes, they are bigger than normal,
And poke out from my light brown hair;
But I hear better than most folks
With my lovely ears, a pair.
I don’t think they’re that big.
I think they fit me quite well.
They match my glasses and string of beads,
With the tiny ringing bell.
My skirt is like a hula girls;
My bracelet has stones shaped like tears.
But nothing sets me quite apart
Than my beautiful pair of ears.
http://www.electricscotland.com/kids/poems/index.htm
Glasgow Men and Women
Found this very interesting book which is "A selection from the Sketches of Twym" by A.S. Boyd. Added a link to it towards the foot of our Glasgow page at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/glasgow/
Angus
I was working today on adding some pdf books about the Angus council area of Scotland. Some really excellent information and also directories which might be of interest to genealogists.
The books we have available are...
Angus or Forfarshire, The Land and People, Descriptive and Historical, By Alex. J. Warden FSA Scot. in 5 Volumes (1880).
Arbroath and its Abbey
The Declation of Arbroath 1320
Leaves from Logiedale
The History of Brechin to 1864
By David D Black, Town Clerk (1867)
History of Montrose
Containing important particulars in relation to its Trade, Manufactures, Commerce, Shipping, Antiquities, Eminent Men, Town Houses of the Neighbouring Country Gentry in Former Years. &c. by David Mitchell (1866)
An Angus Parish in the Eighteenth Century
By W. Mason Inglis, Minister of Auchterhouse (1904) (pdf)
Arbroath Year Book 1891 (pdf)
Arbroath Year Book 1926 (pdf)
Angus and Mearns Directory and Almanac for 1847 (pdf)
Angus Heritage’s new booklet
‘Tracing Your Family History – Angus & Dundee’
You can read these books at http://www.electricscotland.com/council/angus.htm
Clan Leslie Down Under
Got in a copy of their newsletter for October, November, December 2014 which you can download from
http://www.electricscotland.com/fami...slie/index.htm
And Finally...
Some more stories from The Book of Scottish Anecdote...
NATIONAL ECONOMY
Two officers, observing a pretty girl in a milliner's shop, the one, an Irishman, proposed to go in and buy a watch-ribbon, in order to get a nearer view of her. "Hoot, man," says his northern friend, "there's nae need to waste the siller that way; gang in and speer if she can give you twa saxpences for a shilling."
PATRIOTISM OF THE CLERGY
It is creditable to the Scottish clergy, that in defiance of England and Rome combined together, they stood true to the interests of their native land. The sentence of excommunIcation, which humbled to the ground King Henry and King John of England, was powerless when hurled against King Robert Bruce, whom his clergy supported in defiance of every threat. The official records of the losses they sustained in their property, for their uniform resistance to the attempts of Edward, are indelible monuments of their honour. Nor were they satisfied with declaiming against the foreign invader: they put on the helmet and the cuirass, and with sword and spear led on their people to battle. Tradition, which has preserved such endearing recollection of the memory of Sir William Wallace, has not forgotten his chaplain, who attended him in all his expeditions, celebrated divine service with him, and went with him into the battle. He was such a character as the Archdeacon of Aberdeen, who attended the brave Earl of Douglas, and single and alone, defended him from injury, after he fell at the battle of Otterburn in 1388, until his friends came up. The tradition of the burning of the English troops in the "Barns of Ayr" by Wallace, ascribes the contrivance to a friar, and states that Wallace was accustomed to call it "the friar of Ayr's blessirg."
PAUL JONES AND LORD SELKIRK
Paul Jones was a native of Kirkcullbright. Having been prosecuted for some offence, he fled from home, and being an active seaman, obtained the command of a privateer in the American service. As he knew well about the parts of his native town, he executed one of his first enterprises at this place. Early one morning he stood in the bay, with colours flying like a British frigate, and sent his boat on shore near Lord Selkirk's house, well manned, with an officer, who had orders to behave as if he commanded a pressgang. The scheme took effect. All the men about the house and grounds immediately disappeared. When all was clear, the officer with his party surrounded the house and inquired for Lord Selkirk. He was not at home; Lady Selkirk was then inquired for, and made her appearance. The officer behaved very civilly, but told plainly that his errand was to carry off the family service of plate. She assured him that he had been misinformed, and that Lord Selkirk had no service of plate. With great presence of mind, she then called for the butler's inventory, and convinced him on the spot of his mistake. At the same time she ordered wine. The officer drank her health politely; and laying his hands on what plate he met with, went off without committing any wanton mischief. Soon after the ships left the bay, Jones informed Lord Selkirk by a letter that avowed indeed the intention of carrying his lordship off, but with a design merely to get a cartel established through the means of such a prisoner, As to taking the plate, he said he totally disapproved of it: his crew forced him to it, being determined to have a little plunder for the risk they had run, both in Kirkcudbright bay and in attempting the night before to burn the shipping at Whitehaven. To this apology Jones added a promise to restore the plate, which, on the peace seven years after the depredation, was punctually performed. It was put into the hands of Lord Selkirk's banker in London; and not the least article was missing. This restitution has the appearance of generosity; but it is probable that Jones might feel for his professional character, which he found would suffer under the infamy of such a pilfering transaction.
BURNS' CREED
"My creed," said Burns, in his Commonplace Book, "is pretty nearly expressed in the last clause of Jamie Dean's grace, an honest weaver in Ayrshire: 'Lord grant that we may lead a gude life! for a gude life makes a gude end - at least it helps weell'"
That's it for this week and hope you all enjoy your weekend.
Alastair