News Release
19-11-2012
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Howling Events Releases Programme Details for The Year of Homecoming 2014
Howling Events, a west Lochaber coalition of heritage organisations has announced its programme of events for the
forthcoming Year of Homecoming in 2014.
The events are an impressive mixture of genealogy and heritage resources, mixed with exciting, and truly unique events based
around clan and place.
Howling Events' Project Co-ordinator, Chas Mac Donald said, "We are delighted to have been able to put together such a
stunning array of things for visitors to see and do when the Scottish diaspora comes 'home' to Scotland in 2014. The
organisations involved in HOWL are going to be involved in a lot of brilliant events to provide a welcome to people who are
seeking their ancestral roots in west Lochaber.
Mr. Mac Donald outlined Howling Events' strategy, which comes in two parts. The first is a family history database, 'An
Diasporran', which aims to bring as much local family record together as possible in one archive, so that roots seekers can
have a single source to go to in the local area. This is to avoid situations where visitors simply turn up looking for information,
not sure if it even exists.
"It is clearly a real waste of money if people travel from Australia or north America only to find there is nothing to be found,
or nobody to supply it. And that is not at all unheard of," Mac Donald says.
"Indeed, it is one reason people do not come so readily, because the information is locked in someone's head, or a drawer,
but nobody knows.
"If we can confidently tell people that there is a certain amount of information here, and somebody who can help them with
it, and help them to find places and people, then they are far more likely to make their long and expensive trips.
The second part of the project is 'An Tilleadh 2014' (The Return), which is events based. The first in an impressive line-up is a
steam train trip from Fort William to Mallaig, a ferry trip to Skye, followed by a ceremonial march to Armadale Castle and the
Clan Donald Centre and Museum of the Isles, for a lawn party with Highland Dancing, Piping, food and craft fairs, and museum
tours.
Mr. Mac Donald believes "this opening is worth the trip to Scotland in itself." The West Highland Line rail trip is a multi award
winner having been top rail journey in the world three years running. The Clan Donald Centre on Skye also has may awards,
including for the Museum of the Isles, which holds an excellent exhibition of artefacts, as well as a large amount of genealogy
data.
Fifteen days of events will end on July 30th when the Clan Ranald Gathering at Arisaig Highland Games hosts a Clan Donald
Gathering.
Arisaig Games has been holding a Clan Ranald Gathering since 2004, so the full Clan Donald gathering will be a tenth
anniversary event in itself. Arisaig Games is actually growing which is unusual on the Scottish Games calendar, and is noted as
a great day out.
However, Mr. Mac Donald stressed these were not just bookend events. "There is much more in between," he said. "We have
a piece of new musical theatre in planning; some historical tours looking at the history of warfare in west Lochaber; human
and archaeological heritage exploration resources on the Rhu peninsula in Arisaig; a bardic festival, and there are a number of
books mooted.
"But most important are the Roots Days we are going to be holding. These will allow people to visit an area and meet people
who know it well, know where settlements were, who lived there, what the history is. The Roots Days are an extremely
important part of the whole project. Ancestry is all about people and places, and we must facilitate that for seekers."
There have been several press reports regarding the Year of Homecoming and the grand Gathering event that was planned
for Stirling in mid July, but was dramatically pulled by Stirling Council some weeks ago.
Mr. Mac Donald acknowledged that it had not helped the efforts of the groups he works for.
"We are launching our programme so far ahead in a much more finished form because the debacle caused by Stirling Council
and EventScotland was creating a great degree of anxiety and uncertainty in diaspora communities. One clan group of 200
visitors who had already booked travel and accommodation tried to cancel, but couldn't. Some others were more fortunate
and were able to cancel. Reaction abroad has been extremely negative at times, with potential visitors suggesting they would
just go elsewhere.
"We felt it was important to try to get the message across to Albaphiles across the globe that there is a great deal planned in
west Lochaber, and perhaps the more regional events are a better thing to be considering as part of their trips.
"A big march up a street in Edinburgh or Stirling might be spectacular, but it's not quite the same as getting out to the wee
places where a great welcome awaits. At any rate, it's clearly not that important to Stirling. But it is very important to the
people I work with."
The Howling Events programme will run at various points throughout 2014, with the An Diasporran database launch planned
for April, and An Tilleadh events in July and the autumn.
In the meantime Howling Events has linked up with a Canadian travel operator of Scottish birth in an effort to make the trip
more accessible for travellers. Charter flights are planned where feasible, with the aim being to cut costs, and to avoid having
to travel through Amsterdam and Heathrow en route to Glasgow.
More information can be found at www.arisaighighlandgames.co.uk, or by emailing
antilleadh2014@arisaighighlandgames.co.uk.
News Release ENDS
Programme of Events
June 2014
28sa Air Falbh 's Air Adhart, Stirling
July 2014
15tu
Air Falbh 's Air Adhart, Fort William
16we Cruinneadhadh 's a Cheò, Fort William, Mallaig, Armadale
17th
Roots Day 1 Drumsallie, Arisaig / Morar, Acharacle, Strontian
18fr
Facal Nam Bàrd, Fort William
Roots Day 2 Kilmallie & Achnacarry, Mallaig & Knoydart, Glenfinnan, Loch Ailort & Roshven
19sa
Facal Nam Bàrd, Fort William
Ness and Culloden, Loch Ness, Inverness, and Culloden
Air Falbh 's Air Adhart, Inverness
Inverness Highland Games (not a HOWL event)
20su
Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service for the Emigrants, Arisaig
An Taghadh 1 Fort William
21mo Diaspora Tapestry, Fort William (continues till 25th)
22tu
Air Falbh 's Air Adhart, Fort William
23we Roots Day 3 Kinlochmoidart & Dalilea, Ardnish, Loch Morar & Tarbet
24th
Loch Shiel trip, Glenfinnan, Glenalladale, Eilean Fhionnain, Acharacle
Roots Day 4 Eige, Ardnamurchan, Glenalladale, Arkaig
An Taghadh 2 Fort William
25fr
Ceòl a' Chaisteil, Tioram
Air Falbh 's Air Adhart, Tioram
26sa
Diaspora Tapestry, Arisaig
Turas nan Saighdear 1 Loch Morar – Spean
Sealladh on Bhraighe 1 Fort William
Taigh an Strì, Achnacarry
28mo Roots Day 5 Strontian, Acharacle, Muc and Canna
Turas nan Saighdear 2
Sealladh on Bhraighe 2
29tu
Clan Donald Event, Arisaig
Arisaig Games Barbeque, Arisaig
30we Arisaig Games Village Parade
Arisaig Highland Games Arisaig
Clan Donald Gathering Arisaig Games
Note
Dates subject to change, but expected to remain fairly stable
Programme of Events ENDS
Events Information
Laithean nan Friamh : Roots Days : Location visits to find ancestral roots
The whole summer season of An Tilleadh 2014 lasts 16 days. An integral element of the whole exercise is to bring people from
home and away together and forge relationships which are meaning to themselves, rather than mediated into being. The five
Roots Days feature twenty five locations, but have no organised activities. Rather, we will co-ordinate meeting and
information points in the various communities to facilitate the efforts of visitors to find out about their own specific heritage.
The aim is to create local, personal connections to empower grass roots level heritage exchange, rather than being event
driven.
Roots Day 1: Arisaig / Morar; Acharacle; Strontian; Drumsallie
Roots Day 2: Mallaig & Knoydart; Loch Ailort & Roshven; Glenfinnan; Kilmallie & Achnacarry
Roots Day 3: Ardnish; Kinlochmoidart & Dalilea; Loch Morar & Tarbet
Roots Day 4: Glenalladale; Eige; Arkaig; Ardnamurchan
Roots Day 5: Acharacle; Strontian; Muc and Canna
Meet The People :: See The Places :: Settle The Heart
Turas nan Saighdear : The Soldiers' Tour : A trip around west Lochaber's martial history.
West Lochaber has a long history in local and global conflict. From being an important provider of fighting forces to the
Lordship of the Isles to a modern day jet playground, the difficult, testing terrain of Na Garbh Criochain (The Rough Bounds) is
perfect for tough, tactical, guerrilla style warfare. This guided trip begins on Loch Morar where David Stirling (SAS) lived;
where there were many discrete, secret WW2 training facilities for special forces and SAS; to Arisaig House, SOE base;
Borrodale and Loch nan Uamh, which saw the comings and goings of Prince Charles Edward Stewart; Lochailort's commandos;
Glenfinnan where the Jacobite standard was raised; Fort William's large garrison, and; finally, the Camerons' Achnacarry seat,
where the Commandos were first formed and trained. There are few areas in the UK where such an astonishing and
important military legacy can be found.
Tapaisteal nan Eilthirich : Diaspora Tapestry : A monumental new tapestry
An exhibition of the innovative tapestry being designed and created in collaboration with Scottish diaspora communities
around the world by the Prestonpans group which produced the Prestonpans Tapestry in 2010. Hopefully this will include
contributions from groups working with Howling Events.
Bàirean Gàidhealach Àrasaig : Arisaig Games : A great day out at Lochaber's top Highland games
Arisaig Games is the endpoint feature event of the An Tilleadh 2014 summer celebrations, and other of the major events on
the 2014 calendar. Arisaig is the premier games in the area and will provide the venue for the Clan Donald Gathering through
its association with Clan Ranald. In addition to the traditional parts of a Highland games (heavies, dancing, piping, track and
field) Arisaig has also developed a cultural strand which is growing in strength and depth, including traditional music tuition
for young people, an arts prize for young people, and a clan and general history and genealogy exhibitions.
Sealladh on Bhraighe : A View from the Braes : A stunning mountain top view of the Linnhe basin
From Aonach Mòr it is possible to see vast stretches of the Fort William, Loch Linnhe, Loch Eil, Loch Arkaig, and Loch Lochy
area. Of particular interest to the Camerons, this is nevertheless a fairly unmatchable opportunity to see this part of Scotland
in its sheer rugged topography for people of all clans and none. Spectacular is a very small word for this event. There will be
guided information sessions and other events to interpret the land, and its heritage.
Taigh an Strì : The House of Struggle : Achancarry, Cameron seat, Commando home
Achnacarry Castle is an important feature in Lochaber's heritage. As their historic seat, it holds significance for Camerons
worldwide. On the edge of the castle grounds stands the Clan Museum. an important Cameron history and heritage resource.
The castle was also where the Commandos were developed, forerunner of the world's elite forces. This will be a chance to see
the place up close. A barbecue cèilidh is likely, with Sir Donald Cameron of Locheil, Chief of the Name, hosting. This event will
have a particular focus as an end of the day event for the Turas nan Saighdear, and Sealladh on Bhraighe events earlier in the
day.
Mòd Chlainn Dhòmhnaill : Clan Donald Gathering : Hosted by Clan Ranald at Arisaig Highland Games
This, pretty much unique event, in the stunning location of Traigh, Arisaig, will be held as part of the annual Arisaig Highland
Games and Clan Ranald Gathering. The clan will gather in one of its strongholds, Arisaig, in the lee of the Small Isles of Eigg,
Rum, Muc, and Canna, and the Isle of Skye. With various of the chiefs in attendance this promises to be an absolutely
landmark event beginning with a grand march through the village. Thereafter to the Games field at Traigh for a feast of
heavies, dancers, pipers, runners, arts and crafts, and clan and historical events beneath blue skies! As Arisaig Highland
Games says in its own marketing - Welcome to Paradise.
Cruinneachadh 'sa Cheò : A Gathering in the Mist : A stunning and unique day trip of fun and culture
A Jacobite Steam Train trip, on the 'Hogwarts Express’ from the shadow of Ben Nevis; along the stunning, triple winning top
train journey in the world 'Road to the Isles' route; viewing the Jacobite monument from the Harry Potter viaduct; through
Jacobite, SAS, SOE, and Commando country, to the most westerly station on the British mainland; across the shortest river in
Europe; past the deepest loch in Europe (with it’s own monster, by the way); to Mallaig, once busiest herring port in Europe;
from there a short but spectacular sea trip past Loch Nevis and Knoydart; piped onto the Skye shore; march from the pierhead
to Armadale Castle, historic seat of the chiefs of Clan Donald, now The Clan Donald Centre who will host visitors in the
grounds with spectacular displays of piping and dancing; a local food and craft fair; access and guided tours of the award
winning Museum of the Isles; access to genealogical resources; an opportunity to explore the gardens in this spectacular part
of the Garden of Skye; an early evening music event; march back to Armadale and the ferry, and a unique late evening steam
trip back to Fort William. This is just a stunning event which also gives a fantastic opportunity to see the land of the Gàidheal
which the diaspora was forced to leave, and to pick up a whole series of cultural and heritage references, with an unparalleled
set of iconic Highland experiences.
Loch Seille, Gleann Alladale, agus Eilean Fhìonnain : Loch Sheil, Gleanaladale, and the Green Isle : A spectacular trip through
Loch Shiel's history
From Glenfinnan, in the shadow of the Jacobite monument, this trip will commence down Loch Shiel to Glenaladale. From
here left the group of settlers known as the Glenaladales, who had such an enormous impact upon the Canadian Maritimes of
Nova Scotia, Cape Breton, and especially Prince Edward Island, headed up by Captain John MacDonald of Glenaladale, and his
sister Nellie. From there we progress to Dalilea and the Green Isle, an ancient, secluded, small island burial ground. And all in
a spectacularly scenic area with masses of wildlife, and high, high mountains.
Fèis nam Bàrd : Bardic Festival : A Celebration of the Bàrdic Tradition of Lochaber
The west Highlands has a tradition of strong bards from Iain Lom of Keppoch to Mary MacKellar, to Alasdair MacMhaighstir
Alasdair, widely recognised as the first bàrd of the Gàidhlig Enlightenment, and of equal quality and importance as Burns. Not
only fine bards, they had interesting lives too. More who left for other shores, who had a similar take, but different stories to
tell, in places like Canada especially. This festival will bring together scholars, working bards, and the public to celebrate the
works, touch another time, and share thinking. Through readings, seminars, and music, a deeper appreciation will develop of
the themes at play, the manner in which they were elucidated, and the characteristics which made them so fine.
An Taghadh : The Choice : A breakout event to discuss characters of note
An Taghadh is intended to be a relatively light hearted interaction with local heritage, while focusing some thought on the
people who made things happen, beyond the usual suspects of lords, chiefs and robbers in 1200-1700 and 1700-1900.
Participants will be invited to listen to a series of engaging, hopefully amusing advocations, after which they can vote for their
preference from the proposals offered. An important element of this event will be informal learning, making history and
heritage more inclusive and enjoyable; and to generally have some fun with it.
Air Falbh 's Air Adhart : Going Away and Getting On : A musical drama about the leaving of homeland.
A major event, this project will curate existing music, song, and social culture from the land depopulation in 17th – 18th
century west Highlands. As part of the learning and development exercise, new musical artefacts will be created, and a new
musical drama will evolve around the theme of departure - either voluntarily or by dint of clearance. Significant content will
be sought in diaspora communities so home communities may better understand the lives of those who left. The piece will
involve young people as well as adults, and have a significant Gàidhlig content. The partnership being constructed is truly
impressive with local and international artists committed, including Mòd Gold Medal winners and the cream of the young
talent emerging out of Lochaber.
Ceòl a' Chaisteil : Music of the Castle : Music and theatre in & around Castle Tioram
No trip to the Rough Bounds would be complete without a visit to the enigmatic Castle Tioram. Built on a sometimes island on
Loch Moidart, this is the Highlands' version of Mont St. Michel, except not quite as grand. The castle is now cleared for
restoration from it's current status as ruin. This event will be a celebration of music and song culture and will feature local
artists. It is hoped that a showing of Air Falbh 's Air Adhart will be made on the same evening. And who knows, there may
even be a barbecue - we'll see! The last one - Ranald, Younger of Clan Ranald's 'Wild Highland Barbecue '- was a blast.
Rhutling : Rootling : A human and archaeological exploration of Rhu
Arisaig's Rhu peninsula is marvellously wild, once holding several thousand people. When agrarian change came many were
cleared from the land. But we can still see their marks. The old settlements are important to very many diasporans who trace
their ancestry to Arisaig and Rhu. And they weren't the first. There is plentiful Bronze Age settlement evidence, apparent in
stone structures as well as in single artefacts such as Ring and Cup marked stones. This project is more local in nature, and
more of a facilitating one for visitors. The two groups involved are mapping the area's human heritage and it's archeological
evidence. The final outcomes will be guide resources so that people seeking their root places can come back and find them,
and have easy access to more comprehensive information about them.
Events Information ENDS
Document ENDS
Notes to Editors on next page
Notes to Editors
Howling Events is the organisation formed in February 2012 by a coalition of Heritage Organisations of West Lochaber
(HOWL).
Howling Events has two interrelated, but distinct strands:
An Diasporran: A rich genealogical database for west Lochaber which aims to be the single source for anybody who
wishes to trace their family history in the area. This database will be created from donated records and extant major
archives held by individuals and organisations. The database has a current promise of almost half a million entries across
seven major databases, with a nominal value of c£6.75m which are being donated free of charge.
An Tilleadh 2014: An events strand which will take place over the course of 2014, part of the Scottish Government
initiative The Year of Homecoming 2014. An Tilleadh 2014 is programmed to cease at the end of 2014.
Currently confirmed events
Boisdale Prize (Diaspora Tapestry designs) Arisaig Highland Games
Diaspora Tapestry
Fort William / Mallaig
Clan Donald Gathering
Arisaig Highland Games
31-07-2013
21-31-07-2014
30-07-2014
An Tilleadh is a cultural strand developed by Arisaig Highland Games in response to the 2009 Year of Homecoming.
Currently Howling Events is comprised of the following organisations:
Arisaig Highland Games
An Comunn Eachdraidh Àrasaig
Land Sea and Islands Centre
West Word
Mallaig Heritage Centre
West Highland College
Clan Donald Centre
Lochaber and North Argyll Family History Group
Clan Cameron Museum
Lochaber Archives
Prince Edward Island Scottish Settlers Historical Society
(Interim Project Co-ordinator) Chas Mac Donald
Elizabeth Mac Donald
June Cairns
Ann Martin
Malcolm Poole
Jane Henderson
Maggie MacDonald
Mairi Weir
Denis Muir
Alex du Toit
Mary Gallant
Further information, including press / television / radio interviews in English and (basic!) Gàidhlig can be arranged with the
Interim Project Co-ordinator:
Chas Mac Donald
antilleadh2014@arisaighighlandgames.co.uk
07810 603 573