MacFarlane’s Lantern
Newsletter of the Clan MacFarlane Society, Australia, Inc.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
No.122 June 2012
Website: http://www.clanmacfarlane.org.au
Carefree Days around Loch Lomond
The River Leven at Balloch, Dunbartonshire, 1993.
Photo: M. Lobban
The above picture shows a stretch of the River Leven, looking southward, near where the river leaves Loch
Lomond at Balloch, to meander through the five-mile long Vale of Leven, until it merges with the River Clyde at
Dumbarton Castle. We are in the heartland of the ancient earldom of Levenach (Lennox). Indeed, only a hundred
yards or so upstream lies the site of the original Balloch Castle, reputed as being an early seat of the once powerful
Celtic House of Lennox, and from which our own Clan MacFarlane sprang circa 1225.
As an active eight-year-old boy, the above scene was part of ‘my own’ happy playground where, with torn
breeks and ‘skint’ knees, my erstwhile delinquent peers and I frequently roamed, swam and fished without a single
thought of historic legends – nor even the then world conflict which began that same year, 1939.
Although born in Stirling, I was raised in the Vale of Leven, which was then a busy textile area; this being an
industry attracted there by the abundance of clear Loch water for bleaching and dyeing cloth. But the surrounding
heather-clad hills, burns and broad woodlands held other fascinations for the lads from the Vale. There we guddled
trout, collected birds eggs and feasted on wild summer raspberries and autumn brambles. We also knew the
whereabouts of scribe trees (crab apples), and there were ‘secret’ meadows in which to dig for tasty pignuts! All
of which contrasted innocently to those other, noisier, town pursuits among the back lanes and closes of the red
sandstone tenements and factories. Aye, the Vale and its surrounds provided adventure enough for any happy,
snot-nosed chiel.
Of course it was many years later before I became aware of the real history of Dunbartonshire, and that among
my own forebears there ran bloodlines of MacFarlane ladies from no less than three different branches of our Clan!
But then, at that time there were still a many of the name spread across the county and neighbouring parishes
around Loch Lomond, and southwards into Glasgow and the industrial Lowlands. (Continued next page)
1
(Carefree Days: continued from Page 1)
Other famous clans had their roots in the old
earldom of Lennox. There were the Colquhouns,
Galbraiths, Buchanans, MacAuleys, MacKinlays,
Napiers, Lindsays, Grahams and others, all names
commonly found in local school muster rolls during
my childhood. But there were other Highland clan
names from further north which, along with Lowland
and Irish names, appeared in the district with the rise
of textile mills in the Vale and shipbuilding at
Dumbarton. Many poor families arrived in the mid19th century to escape widespread famine and
extreme poverty – at a time when Great Britain was
the richest nation in the world! My own father’s
kindred were from Morayshire and Easter Rossshire; whilst my mother’s Rafferty kin hailed from
West Meath in the emerald isle!
However, Loch Lomond and its environs were all I
cared about, a logic which stood firm as I entered
adulthood. I married my school classmate, May
Paton, whose Covenanting family roots run deep in
Ayrshire and with other, Menzies, kindred from
Perthshire. May’s father, James ‘Pawton’ (as he was
often styled locally) was a noted angler and game
poacher from around the Lomond banks and braes.
He trolled the Loch for salmon, and hunted the
bunnies with long net during the cold wintry nights.
– and I never ever saw one being hurled at Highland
games; nor do I think tartan was ever ‘kirked’
anywhere in Dunbartonshire! I can only here assume
that some of our worthy overseas kindred have fertile
imaginations –bless them!
I earned my crust by way of various occupations,
beginning as a fourteen-year-old in a giant steel
foundry in Manchester, England – a city to which I
was reluctantly brought when my Prisoner of War
father returned home from Germany in 1945. There
followed other unhealthy job pursuits amid the
treeless suburbs of that proud city, until returning
home to Scotland in 1952 – having also completed
my two-year compulsory army stint with a famous
Highland regiment in an overseas ‘trouble spot’, of
the type which seemed forever to plague British
politicians!
Back home on the hills above Loch Lomond
The author with his father-in-law James Paton, trolling
for salmon on Loch Lomond, circa early 1950s.
We were working-class folk; I worked for a while
as a locomotive fireman, and later as a platelayer
with British Railways. And when not being a mother
to our four ‘weans’, May also worked as a shop
assistant. Our life, although Spartan by modern
trends, was happy and food was always there – the
workers’ staple diet then was tatties and mince! But
my favourite was always a freshly caught Loch Fyne
herring, dressed in oatmeal, fried and served with
early Ayrshire tatties and butter – a feast to behold!
For the benefit of my newfound Australian
neighbours and friends, I might also mention here
that I could count on one hand the number of times I
have eaten haggis during my early life in Scotland. I
seem to recall it was eaten mainly at Burns’ Suppers
During the 1960s I worked 12-hour shifts in the
dye house of a noted Balloch textile company, and a
few years later I became a police officer with the
Ministry of Defence, at Faslane submarine base on
the Gareloch. My job as a detective took me to many
sites across the Highlands, including the local MoD
bases at Arrochar, Glen Mallon, Glen Douglas,
Coulport, Glenfruin, all areas well known to Clan
Farlane in days lang syne!
As for recreation, I could never engender the
slightest enthusiasm for competitive sport of any
kind – and the mere thought of grown men endlessly
chasing a ball, either by foot, bat or club, is to me the
epitome of classic time wasting! To this end there
will no doubt be many who see me as the classic
bore! But I sleep well at night!
(Continued Page 5)
2
Royal Scots War Hero
Member, Isabella Mary Cooper (nee Miller). Blakeview, SA, joined us in
February this year after she and husband, Bronte, visited our MacFarlane tent at Mt.
Barker Games. She has since given us some details of her family background and
her late father’s WWII army service.
James McHarg Miller (photo left) was born in 1915 at 262 Garngad Road,
Glasgow; his parents were James Miller and Janet Holmes (died 1918). However,
at some point in his young life, he and his older brother Andrew Donald Miller
(1912-1989) were placed in an orphanage. Our member Isabella (sometimes called
Issy) has more written detailed research data, which she can share with other clan
members who think they might be related.
She tells us that, in later life, her father remained very quiet about his own family
background, and in particular with matters concerning his active army service. The
facts are that Private James McHarg Miller, 2nd Battalion, Royal Scots, was a
regular soldier serving in Hong Kong in 1941, when the colony was captured by the
Japanese Imperial Army. He was among some 2000 British and Allied servicemen
made Prisoners of War and who were later shipped to Japan on the ill-fated ‘Lisbon
Maru’. En route to Japan, the troopship was torpedoed by a US Navy submarine, and with P.O.Ws locked up in
the holds and deserted by Japanese guards, the ship sank taking with it hundreds of lives – but there were also
survivors who later suffered in POW camps in Japan – Private Miller was one of them. The entire harrowing story
is well documented on internet. Simply type in either the ship’s name, or ‘James McHarg Miller’, and all will be
revealed. Meanwhile, our role as a Clan newsletter is to concentrate more on family history issues.
Glasgow Connection Garngad Road, Glasgow, is no longer identified as such. In 1942 the district was renamed
and became Royston Road, Royston Hill. This area of Glasgow had a good mix of Protestant Scots and Roman
Catholic Irish families. The Irish element was largely the result of the numerous Irish navvies who were brought in
for the construction of the nearby Monkland Canal and other building projects in the city.
Although James’s background is shown as Protestant, his middle name ‘McHarg’ can
have both Scottish and Irish origins. In 15th century Scotland, the name was common in
the Carrick and Galloway areas of the south-west. In Ireland it is a variant of MacElhargy,
MacIlhargy, sometimes Maharg common to the counties, Antrim and Derry.
Our worthy Member, Isabella (photo right) is keen to learn all she can about her
Scottish ancestry. Her father, James, survived the war and the hardships of Japanese prison
camp, and on the 13th December, 1945, he married Edinburgh lass Joan Morrison, who
also had family connections in Shetland and Aberdeen. Their first child, Isabella (our
Issy) was born in Edinburgh a year later (Dec, 1946), followed by Patricia (1948) and
Christine (1952). However, in 1956, the family decided to migrate to Australia, as she
describes as follows.
“I can remember leaving Edinburgh at the age of 9 years. We were on a train and the band was playing ‘Will
Ye No’ Come Back Again?’ I was absolutely heart-broken to leave my grandparents and aunts and uncles
behind, they had to prise my fingers off my uncle Bill, but I guess it was for the best in the long run.
Anyway, we set sail on the S.S. New Australia (from England I guess) and arrived in Melbourne, Australia in
1956 and then came to Adelaide by train where we were put into the Smithfield Hostel. Dad was supposed to
have a job waiting for him in Melbourne, but apparently when we arrived there was no job and so we were sent
to Adelaide. Dad took any work he could to support his family. Later from Smithfield we were given a brand
new home in Elizabeth South, at 15 Hogarth Road. Dad was then working at the WRE (Weapons Research
Establishment) at this time. I am not sure when, but he then worked in Woomera for Hawker Sidley I think on
the British Rocket tests as a Storeman. When he came down from Woomera he then worked in Holdens (Car
Manufacturers) in Elizabeth where he was until retiring.”
James and Joan Miller’s other two daughters, Janet and Fiona, were born in the Lyell McEwin Hospital, Elizabeth
Vale, South Australia in 1960 and 1964 respectively. As Isabell remarked: “Poor Dad, five girls!” James passed
away in October 2010 (aged 92), and Joan died the following year in March 2011. Issy tells us: “I found her on
the kitchen floor. I don’t think the memory will ever leave me, although I hope one day it will get easier.”
We give a big Welcome to Isabella and Bronte and hope that they enjoy being members of our Society – Ed.
3
Ringwood Games 2012
Report by Glenda Dickson
Heritage Council) on a visit from New South Wales,
and many familiar local faces such as Rob Willis
(Scottish Gaelic Society) and Bev Tait (Robert Burns
Society) to name just a few. We also had visitors of
the four legged variety, having a rest from the Flyball
Dog Competition at the other end of the grounds and
they were warmly received. Constable T Bear
dressed as a member of the Victoria Police Pipe
Band also dropped by and received his fair share of
hugs too.
Chris and Glenda raise the Clan Banner at Ringwood
A cool start for those arriving early, but the sun
soon warmed the crowd which gathered for the
Annual Highland Games at Ringwood, Victoria.
Once again, the Clan tents were set up in a large
circle to create a village atmosphere with occasional
entertainers making a visit.
Vice-President Christine Culling had a busy
schedule attending the AGM of the Scottish Clans
and Associations Council in the morning, and in the
afternoon holding the banner up high in the March of
the Clans onto the oval and also helping me to man
the tent for the rest of the day.
As usual we conducted a raffle, the prize being a
gift box with Cairngorm brooch, book “Macbeth – A
True Story” by Fiona Watson, and a commemorative
Sir William Wallace tin of shortbreads. The lucky
prize winner was Ross from Leopold, Victoria.
Young Reece Vickers, whose Gran is a McFarlane
Amongst the many people who came by our tent,
were several MacFarlanes. Although none arrived in
time to participate in the March of the Clans, they
were pleased to talk with us about their ancestry.
Pictured here is Reece Vickers, grandson of Tallaluh
McFarlane Vickers, proudly posing in front of the
MacFarlane tartan banner.
It was also a great opportunity to catch up with
members of other Clans and organisations as well,
including Frank Davidson (Scottish Australian
Ye aye meet some strange folk at Ringwood!
Christine and I could hear the pipe bands playing
on the oval, and caught glimpses of the Highland
dancers but were otherwise pre-occupied at the tent
so it is difficult to report on other activities. Some
more helpers wouldn’t go astray!
As usual the longest line again was to the stall by
Rob the Butcher who served up haggis, black
pudding, Cornish pasties and other delights. A
favourite of mine is the Scottish Treasures stall,
which is exactly as it is named. The lady there sells
second-hand items of interest to Scots – everything
from lapel badges and postcards to books, clothes,
jewellery and ornaments, all at a price guaranteed to
sell on the day. I was surprised to find a Fletcher
Jones kilt in the MacFarlane hunting tartan (although
the lady had no idea what tartan it was) and it was
my size! I found out later there was also a
MacFarlane kilt pin on display separately but I
missed that one.
Owing to a mix up with numbering of Scout tents,
Clan MacNeil (all the way from SA) were taken
under the wing of another Society and shared their
tent, only later to find their own Scout tent sitting
empty at the other end of the Clan village!
(Continued Page 5)
4
(Carefree Days: continued from Page 2)
(Ringwood from Page 4)
Much of my leisure time was spent hill-walking
and generally exploring Scotland. With maternal
family roots also in the Aberfoyle area beside Loch
Ard, my tracks often led there to relive early
boyhood memories; in particular the one-classroom
school at Kinlochard where my formal education
began – and where I often sat awestruck listening to
the many tales of Rob Roy, who once flourished just
up the road a bit! My maternal Granny’s folk were
Miller-MacFarlanes who were one-time farmers at
nearby Drumlean. The district reeks of pure history
and, like a sponge, I soaked it all up!
Our own tent was an improvement on the one we
were allocated last year but still left much to be
desired.
We could help by improving signage, or even
better, by purchasing our own new tent. However,
that would require someone to volunteer their
services to erect the tent the day before the Games
(as required by the organisers) and then to dismantle
it and store it until next time. If some member is
willing to do this, please let us know. In the
meantime, a big thank you to Brian Culling who
helped us to make the most of what we had.
There is ample room in the inner circle of the Clan
village for people to set up chairs and take a break
from the activities on the oval (weather permitting)
and one group seemed to be taking full advantage of
that. Their members sat back and had a relaxed chat
amongst themselves.
The author on duty, Glen Mallon, above Loch Long.
Thankfully my job with MoD Police took me to
many other Highland haunts, including Ross-shire
and even to the Rocket Range at Benbecula in the
Outer Hebrides. I never got tired of traipsing across
Scotland and meeting new folk with great stories to
tell – as well as some outright lies – all part of the
job!
Frequent duty calls were also made to Applecross,
Wester Ross, where the British Underwater Test &
Evaluation Centre (BUTEC) was sited -- a title
which only a government department could conjure
up -- but in plain language, it was where the Royal
Navy tested torpedoes in the deep waters of the
Raasay Inner Sound. This area is also steeped in the
legends of the clans MacKenzie, MacLeod and
MacLennan.
But wherever I roamed – on or off duty – my
happiest hours were always those spent among
familiar scenes, and equally familiar folk. Just to
walk ‘Doon the Vale’ on a Saturday morning and
find myself recognising and saying “How’s it
gawn?” to nearly everyone I met had a special
meaning for me. Saturdays were usually the only
available time to get a haircut, followed by a pint of
MacEwans Export ale in the local pub; and a blether
with guys of my own kind. Aye, those were the days!
Malcolm Lobban.
Nimble-footed young dancers at Ringwood Games
It is my sincere wish that next year, particularly as
it will be in the lead up to our 30th anniversary
celebration, that our members, past-members and
friends, might gather together at Ringwood, join in
the March of the Clans on the oval and thereafter just
enjoy a relaxed day out.
__________________________________________
Granny Mac: Household Tips
When I was a wee lassie and
often stayed overnight with my
Granny, she made me hot milk
with cocoa and a pinch of
nutmeg, to get me off to sleep.
Recently, sixty years later, I was watching Dr.
Oz on TV and he suggested hot milk with cocoa
and a pinch of nutmeg to help us sleep.
My dear old Granny was certainly a very
canny Granny!
Granny Mac.
5
Christina Paterson McFarlane
* * * * 1841—1879 * * * *
Continuing with our series of articles on the
descendants of Scottish migrant Colin Dawson
McFarlane, we now highlight his eldest child,
Christina Paterson McFarlane, born in Adelaide
1841. The above photo was taken about the time
of her wedding in 1865. (Black gowns were
popular in this era).
As expected with female members of a family they
seldom carry the father’s family name when they get
married; thus Christina’s branch of the McFarlane
clan includes many other family surnames. A fact
which sometimes makes it easy to lose track of the
main lineage; for this reason I shall follow only the
direct path which leads to our own loyal Member,
Ann Wickham, in South Australia.
Christina married carpenter John Davis (18391877); the wedding took place at her parents’ home
in Strathalbyn, SA. They first settled in Hindley St.,
Adelaide where John worked at his trade. They had
five children: Arthur Colin D. (1867-1889) who
died unmarried; Marion Muir D. (1869-1945 m.
Norman W Pethick) no family; Charles Jeffrey D.
(b. Melbourne 1871-1907 m. Sarah A Wyatt); Agnes
Jessie D. (1873-1952) spinster; and Frank Sydney
D. (1875-1925 m. Editha French Ford).
Christina’s husband, John, died of tuberculosis
aged only 38, after which she moved with her
children back to her family in Strathalbyn, but she
later died from the same ailment, also aged 38, at
Angaston, SA, where she was being nursed at her
Brother David’s home.
Christina and John’s youngest son Frank, listed
above, settled first in Cowell, SA, with his wife
Editha where they had five children: Edna Christina
Ford D. (1905-1987) m. George Wm. Nicolson, their
only child, Janet, was killed in a car accident aged
39; Dorothy May D. (1907-1935) m. Charles J.
Nettleton, she and her baby died in childbirth, her
husband’s subsequent whereabouts are not known;
Marion Jessie D. (1910-1963) m Prof. Edmund A.
Cornish with issue two sons and a daughter; Editha
Joan D.(1913-1993) m. John Corpe Welch of whom
later); and John Christopher D. (m. Florence
Lavinia McDowell with issue a son.
But by 1925 the family had moved from Cowell to
Adelaide, where Frank and Editha ended their days,
and we see that their children came to represent an
extended collateral branch of the clan, a bit too large
to include in this humble newsletter, although a fuller
version exists in Marie Pennykid’s well documented
story, which we hold on record to satisfy future
inquiries.
In this article we move on to the above-named
Editha Joan Davis and husband John C. Welch.
They had three daughters, Elizabeth Ann W.
(prefers Ann), Kathleen Mary W. and Rosemary
Florence W.
A recent photograph of our members Ann Welch and
her second husband Walter (Wally)Wickham
Ann’s first marriage was to Ian L. Marshall (died
1979) and they had a son, Nicholas Kyffin, and two
daughters, Rebecca Elizabeth and Louise Victoria.
Ann remarried in 1992 to Walter B. Wickham
(b.1930 in Dwellingup, WA) and they are both
members of our Clan MacFarlane Society here in
SA. Ann is also Chieftain of the Royal Caledonian
Society, Adelaide, a position she has held for ten
years and remains actively involved with the Scottish
Community in Australia.
Although this account is somewhat brief, we DO
have a more comprehensive file in our records, and
we are always happy to answer readers’ queries.
6
~ ~Root Lines ~ ~
(Members’ Genealogy Page)
Recent Genealogy Notes
Our intrepid member and Genealogy Advisor,
Andrew Macfarlane, New Zealand, keeps us posted
on the most recent additions to his extensive website:
www.clanmacfarlanegenealogy.info/ This year he
has added the following six new MacFarlane family
entries, with Australian connections. We advise all
our members with internet to make regular visits to
Andrew’s extensive records.
(1) Duncan McFarlan, b.c. 1792 Isle of Mull, Argyllshire, died The Mullion, Yass, NSW.
(2) John McFarlan (brother of above) b. 1801, Isle of
Mull, Argyllshire, died 1893, Grafton, NSW.
(3) Robert Macfarlane, b. 1850, Callander, Perthshire,
died 1923, Rockhampton, Queensland.
(4) Robert McFarlan, b. 1825, Luss, Dunbartonshire,
died Victoria, Australia.( Note: this is our Secretary
Glenda Dickson’s forebear).
(5) Peter Macfarlane, b. circa 1797, Lagg Grandully,
Dull, Perthshire, died 1882, at Terang, Victoria,
Australia.
(6) Duncan Macpherson, b. circa 1848, Drymen, Stirlingshire and died 1934, Aldbury, NSW. He was an
illegitimate child with MacFarlane connections.
Along with the foregoing data, Andrew has
recorded details of Australian military personnel
from the Lone Pine War Memorial, Anzac Cove,
Gallipoli. These include the following.
Private, Frank McFarlane: 3rd Bn. Australian Infantry,
killed in action 29/4/1915, aged 20.
Private, Daniel Ritchie McFarlane, 13th. Bn. Australian
Infantry, killed in action 3/5/1915, aged 20.
Private, Samuel James MacFarlane, 13th. Bn. Australian Infantry. Died of wounds at sea 20/8/1915, aged
21. See also
http://www.anzacs.net/GRAVES/Cemeteries/MEMLon
ePine_I_M.htm
*******
Arrochybeg to Australia query?
Recalling our recent story of migrant brothers
James and Duncan MacFarlane (Lantern Nos. 118119), we received the following letter from a lady in
NSW.
Dear Secretary.
I found the article on James and Duncan written by
one of your members on the internet. I am
undertaking some research on the area my family
has occupied since the 1870s - Tombong near
Delegate in N.S.W.
I have known for some time that the Macfarlanes
were some of the earliest squatters in the area.
According to documents, which are easily accessed
on the Monaro Pioneers website, the Macfarlane
brothers were the first settlers on Corrowong
Station, which at the time encompassed Tombong.
The O'Hares still own Corrowong (how it is spelt
now).
I hope you will be agreeable to my using your
information in my work. I will, of course, reference
and give acknowledgement where appropriate, as I
want it to be a useful and historically accurate
document. The author is quite right, James is quite a
mysterious character; he didn't leave much of a
paper trail. Technically, all squatters beyond the
bounds of location were committing an illegal act,
and many didn't leave much evidence behind them,
especially for such an out of the way place as the
Southern Monaro. Much information comes from
local legend, which I am writing down along with the
documentary evidence. I seem to remember my
cousin mentioning the Macfarlanes overlanding
cattle through the Gippsland, but I need to verify that
with him. I haven't found any depasturing licenses
for James and Duncan's land on the Monaro, but
James did seem to have acquired quite a lot of land
in the county of Argyle (around Goulburn). He was
definitely acquainted with other significant early
pioneers on the Monaro, such as Robert "Merchant"
Campbell Sr., of Delegate Station (which would have
made them neighbours), and Duntroon on the
Limestone Plains (now Canberra; the old homestead
at Duntroon is the Military Academy).
I wasn't aware of his being a part of McKillop's
expedition to Gippsland, but it fits the other facts. I
also have a feeling that they spent much of their time
on their runs, unlike many of their contemporaries
(who preferred to live nearer Sydney).
I hope you find this interesting.
Best wishes
Frances Ingram.
Frances also included some of her research notes,
which we have added to the file for future reference.
We have replied to her letter positively, and look
forward to hearing the outcome of her research.
*******
Decendants of Colin Dawson MacFarlane
We still have a considerable amount of data to
include in future issues of ‘Lantern’, thanks to Marie
Pennykid’s great effort. It will take some time to
cover all of the principal family branches in
Australia. Likewise there are some other Clan
families on file which we still have to look at. But
we are always happy to receive your research work
and to answer your questions. So keep it coming --Ed.
7
Back in the Auld Country!
Clan Heritage Centre at Tarbet
Well, it looks like our International kindred
(CMSI) are finally on the road to establishing a Clan
MacFarlane Centre at Tarbet. After several failed
attempts to secure suitable property, our Clan may
soon be back in the old heartland. CMSI President,
Michael R. MacFarlane, FSA Scot., and Chairman of
Scottish Charitable Trust SC 032498, is calling for
financial support. This can be done via their ‘Order
of the Claymore’ system, which has five grades
depending on the size of the donation – ranging from
Defender of the Arms $10,000; Highland Warrior
$5,000; Archer $1,000; Standard Bearer $500; and
Sword Bearer $250. In each case the donor’s name
will be placed on a Scroll of Honour at the Centre.
Anyone can subscribe and donations can be sent to:
Make Cheque Payable to:
The Clan MacFarlane Society, Inc.
Send to: Kevin J. McFarlane, CPA
Treasurer, PO Box 351205
Westminster, CO 80035-1205, USA
[email protected]
******
Further Developments at Arrochar
In the previous issue of ‘Lantern’ (No.121) we
highlighted some redevelopment plans and a History
Project as proposed by local ladies Fiona Jackson
and Sue Furness, who recently led successful
archaeological digs around the old Clan lands.
Now, apart from the above-mentioned Clan
Heritage Centre, we learn that the site of the old RN
Torpedo Range (demolished 2007) is to become an
extensive up-market Hotel and Marina leisure centre.
This project is being organized by the Ben Arthur
Development Company, and a hotel group named
Wyndham. However, this new complex will be
located just a few hundred yards from yet another
hotel being built on the site of the old Ardgartan
Youth Hostel, due to be open in July this year.
With all this concentrated activity around the head
of Loch Long, it looks as though Arrochar will
become a major tourist area. But let us hope that it
will not become too exclusive and expensive for Ma
and Pa and the bairns to enjoy – as seems to be
happening in other beauty spots in Scotland! We
wonder also if the new Ardgarten Hotel will at times
have the native ‘clabby-doo’ on its menu? Just a
thought. (see: www.benarthurresort.com )
*******
Clan Colquhoun Heritage Centre, Luss
As we celebrate the prospect of a Clan MacFarlane
Centre at Tarbet, a few miles down the A82, at Luss,
our friends the Colquhouns have been given the go-
ahead (financially) to open their Clan Colquhoun
Heritage Centre (CCHC) at Shore Cottage, Loch
Lomond (photo below).
The following data is respectfully extracted from
the CCHC official report:
“Situated on the banks of Loch Lomond within the
conservation village of Luss, the Heritage and Visitor
Centre will offer locals and visitors alike an opportunity
to understand how clans have influenced Scottish life,
including understanding the Clan’s origins, its
relationship with Luss and how the Clan interacted with
other neighbouring clans. Displays will also include the
involvement of the Clan and clan members in local,
Scottish, British and World History. The CCHS is
working with the Luss Primary School, Pilgrimage
Centre and local community to ensure the Heritage
centre supports the educational needs of the local
community and complements other visitor attractions in
Luss. . .
. . .Commenting on the award George Kirkpatrick,
Chairman of CCHS, said “Luss is the ancestral home of
the Clan Colquhoun and we are thrilled to have received
the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Argyll and
Islands Leader programme and Luss Estates to assist us
in developing a Heritage and Visitor Centre that can be
enjoyed by all.”
Clan MacFarlane Society Australia, Inc. sends
sincere congratulations and best wishes for the future
to Clan Colquoun and the people of Luss.
*******
Balmaha Boatyard still going strong
Moving across to the eastern side of Loch
Lomond, it is good to learn that Macfarlane’s Boat
Yard still flourishes as before. The yard was
established 150 years ago by Sandy Macfarlane's
Great Grandfather, John Macfarlane. The yard is
very much a family business with traditional values.
Macfarlanes have been running the mail service on
the Loch since 1948. The Mailboat delivers mail to
four islands, namely Inchtavannich, Inchmurrin,
Inchcruin and Inchfad.
In the peak Summer months (July and August) the
Mailboat runs every day except Sunday. It leaves
Balmaha at 11.30 am, returning at 2.00 pm. There is
a 1-hour stop on Inchmurrin where Bar Lunches are
available at Inchmurrin Hotel. Well done, Sandy
Macfarlane and Son. Greetings from Down Under!
8
Other Clans & Families
of Scotland
THE FORTUNES OF WAR
Following the ill-fated 1715-19 Jacobite Rising,
those clan chiefs who came out in support of the
House of Stuart suffered the wrath of a vindictive
Hanoverian government, based in London. In effect
most ‘rebels’ had their lands seized by the Crown,
while many chiefs, including William 5th Earl of
Seaforth (MacKenzie chief), fled into exile in
Europe.
During the period of forfeiture the Seaforth,
Chisholm and other estates were factored on behalf
of the Crown Commissioners by William Ross of
Easterfearn (styled Commissary Clerk) and his
brother Robert, who was a leading bailie in the burgh
of Tain, Easter-Ross.
It could be said that, as factors go, the Ross
brothers were decidedly ineffective and were
frequently ignored by the tenantry, especially those
of the more remote western regions, who continued
to hand over their rents to an agent of their exiled
chief. Seaforth’s chamberlain at this time was
Colonel Donald Murchison, a hero of Sheriffmuir,
who by means of cunning and force of arms defied
attempts of the Ross factors to exact tribute from
Seaforth’s lands.
On one occasion, the Royal factors, escorted by a
platoon of Royal North British Fusiliers (forerunners
of the later Royal Scots Fusiliers), made an incursion
into the forfeited lands of Grant of Glenmoriston.
After collecting the rents there, the party marched
towards Kintail by way of Chisholm lands of
Strathglass and Glen Affric.
Word reached Colonel Murchison, who apparently
had retained a body of armed Highlanders (Macraes,
Maclennans and others) at the ready for just such an
eventuality. On October 2nd, 1721, the factors’ party
approached the upper reaches of Glen Affric, and at a
place called Athnamulloch (modern spelling), they
were confronted by Murchison and his company. A
skirmish took place, during which Easterfearn and
his son Walter were wounded. There followed some
heated dialogue, after which the factors and escorts
retraced their steps back down Glen Affric where, on
reaching Beauly, young Ross died of his wounds and
was later buried there in the old Priory. Legal
enquiry ensued, which came to no specific
conclusion.
We are told that the forfeited estates had been (Sic)
“vested in the king for the use of the public.” The
suggestion here is that the lands were to be sold and
money realised would go to the Exchequer. To this
end, a body of thirteen commissioners was set up,
otherwise known as the York Building Society (Act
1, Geo.1, c.50 refers), which was authorised to
manage the transactions on behalf of the Crown.
Each commissioner received a considerable annual
salary of £1000, which was twice as much as a High
Court judge of the period could expect. Indeed, the
leader of this august body was the notorious Patrick
Haldane, so despised by Scots (of almost every
shade) that, for a while, he was classed equally with
the nine of diamonds in cards, as “The curse of
Scotland!”
These thirteen ‘just’ men lost little time in creating
several well-paid subordinate posts which, the report
states, “were filled in the usual way.” The vagueness
of this last remark would seem to suggest a situation
which we in modern parlance might, somewhat
euphemistically, refer to as ‘jobs for the boys!’
Indeed, the whole set-up might easily be seen as an
18th century version of the present-day quango (quasi
autonomous non-governmental organisation), so
beloved by members of the British Conservative
Party, who might be considered after all as
descendants of the old Whiggish oligarchy of the
period in question. It is a system still prevalent in
modern politics, which permits governments to shirk
much of their social responsibility by passing it on to
private enterprise. So, what exactly did the ‘public
good’ gain from the activities of the Commissioners
for the Estates?
An audit carried out in 1725 revealed that the total
amount raised from the sale of forfeited lands came
to £411,082. From this was deducted £327,039,
which represented payment of legal fees and debt
claims against the estates, leaving a balance of
£84,043. From this came the fees and expenses of
the Commissioners ~ totalling £82,936 ~ which left a
net profit of £1,107 to the Exchequer. . . and the
‘public good’? As a result of their ‘management’ it
has been claimed that some fifty old and respectable
Scottish families were made bankrupt, while a few
‘needy’ Whigs “landed on their feet”, as we say.
Thus, one has to wonder just how much of this
‘public windfall’ was passed on to the common folk
and how much extra oatmeal ended up in their
bellies?
It would appear that no one wanted to purchase
the Seaforth estates, and they were subsequently
bought back by the family. The Earl of Seaforth
remained in France until pardoned in 1726, after
which he returned to Scotland and lived in peaceful
retirement until his death in 1740.
Calum Curamach
Reference source:
HIGHLAND PAPERS Vol. II (1240-1716) 2nd Series (Scottish
History Society). Papers relating to the Estates of the
Chisholms and Earl of Seaforth. Forfeited 1716. p.291.
9
Flowers o’ the Forest
It is with considerable sadness that we report on the
death of Queensland Member, Robert Noel James
Dippel, who passed away on the 27th February 2012.
Robert was a loyal Member for many years and for
a while served as Councillor in Queensland. Apart
from this Robert has remained one of our several
‘silent-but-constant’ members, to which extent that
we know very little about his private life. Our
records show that he was the son of the late Margaret
Dippel (nee Macfarlane, 1895-1991), Toowoomba,
Queensland. who was the daughter of James
Macfarlane (1845-1921) from Glasgow. Robert’s
sister is also a current Member, Mrs. Miriam
Collison, Grafton, NSW. It was Miriam who, in
January 1985, signed up Robert and his wife Lyn as
members.
James’s mother, Margaret, was one of our very
early members who joined in February 1984 and was
a member until she died in September 1991.
The information on James’s death was passed on to
us by his daughter, also named Lyn, who said: “I
would like to thank you for the joy he had with the
interesting articles and information in MacFarlane’s
Lantern.”
We therefore regret the sad loss of a proud and
loyal friend and we respectfully send our sincere
condolences to the Dippel family.
Beannachd Dhé leat!
Welcome new members
Along with Isabella (Issy) and Bronte Cooper
(featured Page 3) we are also delighted to extend a
hearty welcome to the following new members who
joined our ranks early this year.
In April came Sandra (Sandy) and Kip Morgan
who live in Amarillo, deep in the heart of Texas USA
no less! Both are actively involved within our
kindred society Clan MacFarlane Worldwide, but as
a show of solidarity they wanted also to personally
link up with Aussie kinfolks! Sandy’s father was the
late Gwen Ernest McFarland (1901-1985), of
Castro County, Texas.
Also, in April came Lockhart (Lock) and Elaine
Olsen of Shalvey, NSW. Lock is currently
researching his forebear on his mother’s side,
namely, the Rev. William Millar, born in Edinburgh
1805, migrated to Australia before 1851. Lock told
us that his family has always had strong ties with the
Scottish side. He also believes that these Millars
were also linked to the Clan Lockhart, due to the
frequent use of the name within the family.
We Welcome these new members and hope we can
help them fully identify with Clann Pharlain and
meet new friends.
Editorial
Time surely flies when you are
enjoying yourself. Next year we
shall be celebrating our 30th
Anniversary. Thus, your Management Committee is
trying to think of a suitable way in which to mark the
occasion. We would like to receive a deluge of
practical suggestions from all our loyal members!
Whilst a full Clan Gathering would be the obvious
choice, distances alone would cause problems for a
good many of our people. Whilst on the subject of
‘gatherings.’ We should be mindful of the dismal
attendance by our members at the two major outdoor
events each year, Mount Barker, SA and Ringwood
Games,VIC. During the past few years MacFarlane
attendance has been -- let’s face it -- downright poor,
more so at Ringwood, where support was urgently
required to march behind our Clan Banner!
We really need something which can be enjoyed by
all members. One idea muted, was for some kind of
special souvenir Clan publication showing the
history of our Aussie Society from its inception!
Other ideas included special Luncheons held in each
state subsidised from funds. Anyhow, whatever is
decided it must be remembered that it is your funds
that will be spent! So, please have a think about it
and let your State Councillor have your ideas and
suggestions. Remember, this is YOUR society and
we, the Management Committee are your humble
servants.
Meanwhile, our next main social function this year
will be the Joint Luncheon with Clan Donald to be
held in the Enfield Hotel, Clearview, SA, on
Sunday 28 October – full details to be published
nearer the time.
On Sunday 27 May this year I attended the annual
Clan Campbell Luncheon, again held at the Feathers
Hotel, Burnside, SA. This event honours the birthday
of the Clan Chief, being the 13th Duke of Argyll
(MacCailean Mor). As usual, there was a great
turnout, mostly members of other clans and Scottish
organisations, all members of Scottish Associations
of South Australia, Inc. (SASA), the president of
which, Trevor Powell, (Clan MacLeod) acted as MC.
It was nice to see the Campbell’s SA President, Jan
Mulligan (alias ‘Mumsie’) back in her usual good
spirits. The Feathers Hotel, as a venue this year, I
think requires some careful consideration, since the
number of diners drastically reduced efficient elbow
room. Moreover the Campbell Banner was forced to
a sideways angle during the official march in!
Otherwise all went well, so long as one remained in
one’s seat without too much wandering to chat with
old friends!
Ed.
10
Clishmaclavers!
(and assorted chat)
Rule Britannia?
During a Strathclyde University conference to mark
the 150th anniversary of the Great Potato Famine of
the mid-19th century, the principal speaker was Prof.
T.M. Devine, FBA, Director of History Research.
In his lecture, he told how the years of the potato
blight actually continued longer in Scotland than in
Ireland. He said that, at the time of the famine,
Scotland and England were experiencing an
economic boom. In effect, he contends that “the
world’s richest nation witnessed the greatest famine
in history. . .”
The failure of the potato economy accelerated the
infamous land “clearances”. Poor Law seems to
have been administered in a manner in which those
souls earmarked for enforced “emigration” were
those whom the landlord believed might become the
greatest liabilities in terms of relief and support.
Scotland’s Image!
At the same conference (as above) another speaker
was Scottish journalist David Ross, who deplored the
editorial policies of national newspapers—more so in
London—for the ever ongoing trend towards myth
rather than real life in Scotland. He spoke of how
difficult it was to sell in-depth reports on the
problems facing modern Scots to City editors. But it
was easier to sell stories of the Loch Ness monster!
There is an apparent, deep-rooted trend which
persists with the “Granny’s Heilan’ Hame” view of
Scotland—and which must not be violated by vulgar
reports on homeless young Scots lying in doorways,
and others shoving poisons into their bodies!
Success at Geelong,Victoria
Speaking at this year’s AGM of Scottish Clans &
Associations Council at Ringwood, President Doug
McLaughlin made the following report.
“ It is good to see so many of the various clan
societies represented here today. We are not doing
so well as we did a few years ago, but this is the best
response we have had for the Ringwood Gathering
for some time and certainly better than for the other
annual gatherings this ‘season’.
As we continually remark, most of us who
regularly turn up at Scottish events are noticeably
ageing and are concerned about the future of such
days for celebrating Scottish culture. It was
therefore refreshing to see a younger brigade
picking up the banner in Geelong recently and
running the Highland Gathering. They did a
remarkable job on very short notice. A special
mention should go to the Robertson family who
worked extremely hard but managed to have the
Clan Donnachaidh tent among the other Clans for
the first time. Now, where are the other
youngsters?”
Clan MacFarlane may do well to echo Doug’s
sentiments, concerning more involvement by our
young folk. At the same time, it is largely up to the
elders to give some encouragement to their children
and to educate them on matters of their Scottish
heritage.
MacFarlane lawlessness!
The following passage is from The Third Statistical
Account of Scotland (The County of Dunbarton);
The Parish of Arrochar (1959) by The Rev. Iain D.
Reid.
(Sic) “The Macfarlane clan is in the unhappy
position of being without a chief and landless; for
the barony of Arrochar was sold in 1784 to pay the
debts of the twenty-first chief, and the last chief, the
twenty-fifth died in 1866. All through the ages the
inhabitants in this part of Scotland seem to have
had a reputation for lawlessness and wild
turbulence, but, when it is remembered that until
modern times the parish was the only door to the
western and north-western Highlands from the
Lowlands and the the superior, the Earl of Lennox,
authorised his kinsman Mafarlane of Arrochar to
levy blackmail on all traffic north and south, one
does not wonder at the evil name that the men of
the district acquired.”
A Wee Dram!
A farmer’s wife, who was rather stingy with her
whisky, was giving her shepherd a drink. As she
handed him the glass, she said it was extra good
whisky, being fourteen years old.
“Weel, mistress,” said the shepherd regarding his
glass sorrowfully, “It’s awfy wee for its age!”
A Sore Mistake!
I was in a pub on Saturday night and had a few,
when I noticed two large women sitting by the bar.
They both had strong accents so I asked politely:
"Hey, are you two ladies from Scotland ?"
One of them chirped up: "It's WALES you friggin'
idiot!" So, I immediately apologized and said:
"Sorry, are you two whales from Scotland ?"
And that is the last thing I remember!
Finally!
A man takes a pair of shoes back to the shop and
complains that there is a lace missing. “No,” says the
assistant, “Look at the label – it says Taiwan!”
11
Committee of Management 2011/12
PRESIDENT/EDITOR/HISTORY RESEARCHER:
Malcolm Lobban, 9 Davies Place, Pooraka, SA 5095. Tel: (08) 83590578, E-mail: [email protected]
VICE-PRESIDENT / PUBLIC OFFICER:
Chris Culling, 81 Farnham Road, Bayswater, VIC 3153 E-mail: [email protected]
SECRETARY/TREASURER:
Glenda Dickson, 23 Blamey Drive, Melton Sth., VIC 3338 E-mail: [email protected]
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY:
Anita Renfrey, 579 Military Road, Largs North, SA 5016 E-mail: [email protected]
STATE COUNCILLORS:
NSW: Roy Nash, 1 Sale Street, Grenfell, NSW 2810 E-mail [email protected]
Tel: (02) 6343 1085.
QLD: Louise Piper, 126 Curtis Road, North Tamborine, Qld. 4272 E-mail [email protected]
Tel: (07)5545 2107
SA:
Janet Marsh, 648 Burbridge Road, West Beach, SA 5024, E-mail: [email protected]
Tel: (08) 8356 7785.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Leona Job, 21 Spruzen Avenue. Kew East, VIC 3101.
Robert P. Millar, [email protected]
Clan Merchandise for Sale
MacFarlane crest teaspoon/s (unboxed) $10.50 each
Or ~ at $8.00 each ~ the following:
MacFarlane crest lapel badge (butterfly clip)
MacFarlane crest lapel badge (brooch fitting)
MacFarlane crest tie pin
Macfarlane crest key ring
(Please note the above prices include postage and are
subject to availability of current stock).
Please make your cheque/money /order made payable to
Clan MacFarlane Society, Australia, Inc. and post to the
Membership Secy., 579 Military Road, Largs North, SA 5016
Badges are approximately 2cm in diameter.
Late Item
The Scottish Australian Heritage Council Inc. has put together a 10-day programme to celebrate SCOTTISH
WEEK commencing Friday 22 June with the Bannockburn Ball at Petersham Town Hall, followed by history
events during the following week, a Forum discussion on “Should Scotland gain its independence?” and the
Week finishes with the Kirkin’ o the Tartan at on Sunday 1 July at Hunter Baillie Memorial Presbyterian Church,
Annandale.
Save the dates in your diaries and let’s make 2012 Scottish Week a wonderful week by gathering together and
celebrating our heritage. AND if you do not have a Scottish heritage, come along and celebrate anyway.
Ball enquiries to: Elizabeth Campbell-McKenzie, phone (02) 9874 4594 or email: [email protected]
All other enquiries: Pauline Finlay, phone (02) 9982 6229 or email: [email protected]
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