Am Bratach No. 211
Mackays turn out in force for Global Gathering As this article is being written, the ground floor area of Strathnaver Museum, Bettyhill, is full to overflowing with Mackays, writes RACHAEL SKENE. The contingents of this Mackay body are, while waiting to be photographed, being entertained by the highly accomplished members of the Feis movement and enjoying baking supplied by members of the community who would apparently give Mr Kipling a run for his money. Such has been the response to the day that mid way through the afternoon the head count is 174. It is expected that the final figure will be near to 200. The day began with the museum staff and volunteers welcoming The Hon Elizabeth Fairbairn president of the Clan Mackay Society and Paptron of Strathnaver Museum. Following hot on her heels were the next Mackays, sisters from Inverness and Conan Bridge, clad in Clan garb ready to be the first Mackays to be photographed for the Mackay gallery. Thereafter the flow of people continued; some of the early visitors were Canadians, who gleefully donned kilts to pose under the cruck frames of the croft display. All ages joined in this Clan gathering; the youngest being a mere five weeks and the oldest being in their ninth decade. On at least two occasions four generations of Mackays converged to create wonderful family portraits. Many, many pictures were taken; one person even struck a pose in the pulpit. The other aspect of this event was the involvement of Mackays from around the globe. Images and information were received from Australia, Canada, The USA and England. Brian McGee Davis Rank Commissioner, Clan Mackay Society Western Australia said: “This is a very wonderful and timely project which allows Mackay descendants from all over the world to come hame and participate despite the vagaries of distance and capacity to travel”. Mr McGee’s sentiments echoed that of The Hon Elizabeth Fairbairn, expressed following meeting and greeting Mackays throughout the day. “It has been a wonderful event, the turnout has been fantastic. It has been great to see young and old from across the area come together in the museum enjoying the music, the exhibitions; being part of this gathering”. As the sound of the pipes fade; the final tally is requested. The volunteer who diligently counted throughout the day, happily exclaims that the final number is 201! The final Mackay arrived late in the day, in a vintage lorry emblazoned with the Mackay badge. Thank you to the feis; Bettyhill Pipe Band and others for the kilts and clan dress; The Clan Mackay Society; Mackay Country Project; Mike Roper and to the many other people who made the day so successful. For further information and to keep up-to-date with museum activities and news, please go to www.strathnavermuseum.org.uk. Rachael Skene chairs the Highlands and Islands Museum Forum.
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