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MacFarlane’s Lantern

Newsletter of the Clan MacFarlane Society, Australia, Inc.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ No. 119 September 2011 Website: http://www.clanmacfarlane.org.au

The Scots in Wartime (A wee look at Scottish regiments)

The 93rd Sutherland Highlanders (‘The Thin Red Line’ ) at Balaklava Original in Stirling Castle

Until the end of World War 2, a private soldier in the British Army was paid little more

than a shilling per day plus keep, for which he was expected under oath to serve his king

and country to the extent of laying down his very life. Successive British governments

greedily exploited the loyalty of thousands of ordinary men (and more recently women)

who volunteered their lives to join the ranks – and when actual volunteers were seen as

insufficient for the needs of Whitehall, thousands more were ‘legally’ pressed into service

to defend and uphold British vested interests at home and overseas.

Since the Union of the Crowns, 1603, Scotland also provided -- possibly more than -- its

fair share of what came to be described as ‘human cannon fodder’, all in the greater

interest of an ever-expanding British Empire which came to dominate vast areas of the

globe and which were often depicted coloured pink on most world maps!

In this issue we are proud to present a brief look at how Scottish soldiers have been

depicted through the ages, giving some insight into the more than worthy contribution the

Scottish nation has given to the steady development of what we call modern human society

across the world. Even in these so-called enlightened times, many Scots and their

descendants still rally to the Colours and battalions in countries worldwide. (Next Page).

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The Scots in Wartime

(A wee look at Scottish regiments)

* * * *Part One* * * * As a nation, the Scots have a long military history; often described as a warrior race or, more quaintly ‘Bonny Fechters’! Our history shows that several Scottish regiments have in the past served many of the crown heads in Europe, and it has even been suggested that Scottish archers fought in the Crusades. As early as 1417 we find Scots acting as bodyguards to French kings, and frequently in the front line of their armies. Indeed, Henry V of England, during his long campaigning in France often remarked: ‘I cannot go anywhere without being bearded by Scotsmen!’ He even ordered that no Scottish prisoners were to be taken and that all lives should be spared ‘except out of Wales and Scotland.’ Scots were regarded as citizens in France and were exempt from paying taxes; a situation which greatly annoyed French troops, who resented the special treatment enjoyed by the Jocks – whom they described as ‘wine bags and mutton eaters!’ During the Thirty Years’ War in Europe, King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden also welcomed Scottish soldiers into his army who then formed the Green Brigade. One of Sweden’s great generals was Sir John Hepburn of Athelstaneford, East Lothian, who commanded all the Scottish corps in that army, which also included Mackay’s Highlanders and Lumsden’s Musketeers. First of Foot Sir John was a professional soldier, who earned his knighthood from the grateful Swedish king. He also received a warrant from Britain’s Charles I to raise a regiment in Scotland for service in France against Austria and Spain. Most of the Scottish recruits came from the veterans already serving in Europe, and in 1633 his regiment became established as the first foot regiment in the then British Army, better known as The Royal Scots – but originally styled by the French as ‘Le Regiment d’ Hebron’ (Hepburn’s Regiment). There followed an argument on the question of seniority, and the elite Le Regiment de Picardie claimed descent from the Roman legion present during the Crucifixion. Not to be outdone, the Scots – always renowned for having the last word in any debate – may have countered with: ‘Aye! But we were Pontius Pilate’s bodyguard that day!’ Whatever the real truth of this claim, The Royal Scots always retained and revered the nickname ‘Pontius Pilate’s Bodyguard’!

Conscript warriors It has often been argued that soldiers have forever been ill-used by politicians and public alike. But it was Oliver Cromwell who taught the British parliament the benefits of maintaining a well-trained, disciplined regular army. Before his time the Crown relied on a haphazard system of recruitment based on the ancient feudal ideals. Apart from the king’s personal bodyguards, it was up to the landed gentry to raise armed forces from among their vassals and tenants. The resulting army was more often than not little more than a disorganised mob of mostly very reluctant warriors. The Royal Scots regiment was conceived and raised during the reign of Charles I (1625-1649) as, indeed, arose another famous corps, later to become the present-day Scots Guards (1642) but the idea of creating a standing army did not materialise until the time of Charles II (1660-1686). It was from this period onwards that we see the arrival of most of the regiments of the British Army. But our concern here is with Scottish soldiers. Cameronians By 1700, what have since been described ostensibly as Lowland Scottish regiments, were mustered as follows. 1633 – 1st or Ye Royal Regiment of Foot (Royal Scots) 1642 – 3rd Regiment of Foot (Scots Guards) 1678 – 21st Regiment of Foot (Royal Scots Fusiliers) 1687 – Royal Regiment of Scots Dragoons (2nd Dragoons: Scots Greys) 1689 – Leven’s or the Edinburgh Regiment (King’s Own Scottish Borderers) 1689 – Cameronians or 25th Regiment of Foot (1st Battalion Cameronians: Scottish Rifles) The above-named units, along with many equally famous English, Irish and Welsh regiments, have served with distinction in every major conflict in which Britain seemed forever to become involved. We do not here have the scope nor need to list all the hard won honours of Scottish regiments over the years, and to highlight one would be to insult others. Every regiment had its own unusual story to tell; like the strange case of Christian Davieson, alias ‘Mother Ross’, who served for four years as a trooper in the Scots Greys without her true sex being discovered: she actually received a pension from Queen Anne! We also hear of the military band of the Scots Guards, which at one time paraded with two black bandsmen dressed in Eastern-style clothes, including turbans with feather plumes. (Next Page).

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Then there was the tradition among the Bible-carrying Cameronians, as the only regiment allowed to carry arms to a church parade and to post a sentry at each corner outside the church. This dates back to when their Covenanting forebears were persecuted and had to post sentries at their clandestine conventicles among the hills. The aforementioned Scottish regiments formed the main part of what came to be known as the Lowland Brigade (or Division) until after World War II. However, in 1959, the Royal Scots Fusiliers merged with the Highland Light Infantry (of which later) to become The Royal Highland Fusiliers. Similarly, in 1971,the Royal Scots Greys merged with the 3rd Carabineers (Prince of Wales Dragoon Guards) to become The Royals Scots Dragoon Guards – whose pipers and military bandsmen were one-time chart busters on the pop music scene with their version of ‘Amazing Grace’. Sadly, however, the brave wee Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) – being one of the few regiments to stand its ground when confronted by a fierce Highland charge at Killiecrankie – was disbanded. Highland Regiments The raising of the Scottish Highland regiments tells some very different stories, which until more recent times were seldom highlighted in Britain’s official history books. As described earlier, the Lowland regiments came into being during the period between the Union of the Crowns (1603) and the Act of Union (1707). In contrast, Highland regiments were raised after this period and were therefore the product of successive United Kingdom governments in London – and for the most part relate to the Hanoverian regime. However, as far back as 1667, several armed Independent Companies of Gaelic clansmen had been employed to maintain peace among the warlike clans. These were generally raised out of clans which were known to be loyal to the ruling establishment. Nevertheless, they were soon proved incapable of imposing the rule of law and were finally disbanded in 1717, to be replaced by four garrisons of Lowland or English foot regiments. Then, in 1725, with the introduction of the first Disarming Act (in the wake of Jacobite activity), and on the advice of General George Wade, six new Highland companies were raised at government expense – again commanded by ‘selected’ Highland chiefs. These companies came to known among the Gaels as Am Freiceadan Dubh (The Black Watch), not so much due to the dark government tartan they wore, but more likely due to their specific duty of keeping a watch on blackmailers (black mealers?), of which the notorious Clan Gregor under the equally

notorious Rob Roy MacGregor may be cited as a prime example. In 1739 the companies were merged to form the 43rd (Highland) Regiment (later changed to 42nd) thus becoming a regiment of the Line in the British Army. But it appears that little was done to fully acquaint the men as to their new role, and they remained under the impression that they were to serve only in Scotland, as had the earlier companies. The Crown however had other ideas and expected the regiment to be treated like any other Regular unit – which included serving anywhere the king desired. From the beginning of its existence, the Black Watch soldiers found ample reason to complain. It began over discrepancies in promised clothing allowance, including the poor quality and diminishing size of the plaids they were issued with. The second Colonel, Lord Semphill was accused of manipulating the clothing issue to his own personal profit: a common practice, we are told. Further unrest led to actual mutiny among the ranks, when it became apparent that the regiment was to be posted out of Scotland. At a subsequent court-martial in London, three Highlanders were executed by firing squad and 104 others were banished to various colonies: 31 of which were commandeered to serve in Brigadier-General James Oglethorpe’s regiment in Georgia, America. However, despite the few setbacks the Black Watch flourished. To taste its first real action at Fontenoy (1745). ‘North Britain’ (Scotland) Following the disgraceful aftermath of Culloden a second Disarming Act came into force in 1747, the guts of which not only prohibited the carrying of weapons, but also banned the wearing of Highland dress and the use of bagpipes. This Act above all else shows just how paranoid the Westminster government had become over Gaelic culture. Some historians would have us believe that, being denied so much of what was symbolic of their native culture, the young Gaels would eagerly spring forward to volunteer for the new Highland corps that were due to be raised – they alone being able to wear Highland garb and carry arms. The sad truth is that more young men were eventually coerced or pressed into service than actually volunteered. As we shall see, early recruitment in the Highlands was seldom a happy experience. Successive London governments have continually misunderstood the true nature of Scottish Gaeldom, and there appears to have been an underlying compulsion towards universal Anglicization. Indeed, during the early 18th century the very name ‘Scotland’ seemed vulnerable, when everything north of Hadrian’s Wall began to be styled ‘North Britain’! (Next Page).

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(Continued from Page 3) Thus, we hear of the Royal North British Fusiliers (Royal Scots Fusiliers), the Royal North British Dragoons (Scots Greys). Moreover all troops in Scotland came under the jurisdiction Commander-in-Chief of North Britain! In contrast, their appeared to be no corresponding ‘South Britain’. It really seemed there would always be an England! Yet, however much the British government seemed to misunderstand Scottish Highlanders, it could always be put down to sheer indifference or pure ignorance. But the same cannot be said of the many clan chiefs who, anxious to adopt the lifestyle of English landowners, appeared ever ready to ‘sell’ their clansmen to the recruiters, who were soon to be as numerous among the hills and glens as the flocks of Cheviot sheep. Much has been written about the intrigue, injustices and common treachery surrounding the mustering of Highland regiments. However, in spite of all, they were raised in times of need, even if few Gaels could comprehend any connection between fighting in foreign lands and their own miserable existence at home. A common tactic was to inform the young recruit that his aged parents’ tenancy depended on his compliance and subsequent good behaviour in the ranks. Subtle, but effective, although there would be many instances where a young veteran returned to his glen only to find his cottage roofless and his family scattered. The Seven Years’ War (1756-63) with France was fought in many sectors of Europe, America and India. Eight new Highland regiments were raised, namely: 77th – Montgomery’s Highlanders 78th – Fraser’s Highlanders 87th – Keith’s Highlanders 88th -- Campbell’s Highlanders 89th -- Duke of Gordon’s Highlanders 100th – Campbell of Kilberrie’s Highlanders 101st – Johnstone’s Highlanders 105th – Queen’s Highlanders All of the above were disbanded in 1763 and many of the Highlanders who fought in North America elected (or were encouraged?) to remain there – some of which later enlisted in colonial regiments. Indeed, many Gaels served in George Washington’s army, and should be fully credited with assisting in the formation of that great country, USA. However, those who chose to remain loyal to the Crown were soon to find themselves disenfranchised, which caused many Scots to move north into British Canada. (To be continued). Malcolm Lobban

EDITORIAL During my life in the Auld Country. I never ceased to be amazed at how Gaelic-speaking Highlanders seemed forever

able to identify with not only their own family’s history, but also the genealogy of so many of their neighbours. It seemed that those who had moved into the Lowlands for work, never lost sight of their roots, and whenever two Gaels met in a pub or elsewhere down south, they immediately appeared to find common ground – even if they came from different areas up north. For some strange reason they could establish a family link to some remote relative. Indeed, for a while I believed that all Highlanders were related to one another. In their beautiful native tongue, they could spend hours in deep conversation, totally oblivious to those around them – a trait which many Lowland Scots mistakenly saw as bad manners in public. Traces of this same attitude are present here in Australia, even among second and third generation Scottish Aussies. Of course a similar instinct may be present among descendants of other migrant ethnic groups – the desire to find a link with forbears is very strong in many people. This very neatly brings me to the real point of this editorial. We regularly appeal to our members to let us share their family stories and connections with Scotland. Such data, if published in ‘Lantern’ would surely be of great interest to other members, and since copies of every edition of our newsletter are sent to the National Library of Australia, Canberra and to the State Library, Victoria – they become an essential part of the national archives of this great country and for the benefit of future generations. Similarly, we know that some members are actively involved with researching their own family’s history, and often with spectacular results. And I hasten to add here that members with surnames related to Clan MacFarlane (Septs) are included, these are the Millers, Allans, Robbs and others. The best way to create and maintain proper Clan cohesion in the traditional style of the old Highland culture is to share with one another and form a close relationship. This can be done easily via our ‘Lantern’ and our website. But first we must have your permission in writing. So, those members who have already submitted lineage data for our own records, and those who have yet to do so, PLEASE drop us a line and let’s talk about it. LET’S REALLY GET CLANNISH! Ed.

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Bonnie Wingham Report by our NSW Councillor Roy Nash, who attended this year’s Bonnie Wingham Scottish Festival in New South Wales. Thursday 2nd

to Sunday 5th June. Although it has been running now for seven years, it can be seen as a relatively new-comer to the festival scene in NSW – but a really fantastic event! It has most of the features seen at the bigger events across the country; including Caber Toss, Medieval Warrior display; Scottish Dancers and, of course, Pipe Bands. This year the weather was kind to us, although it had been raining a few days before the weekend which made the ground a bit boggy, but the sun was warm. My wife Barbara and I met up with NSW members of our Society, Don & Alison Macfarlane from Narrabri, and Phil & Elvie Strancarich from Taree. It was really great to finally meet them, as we had been trying to get together for the past two or three festivals, but things had not always been in our favour. Finally it came off and we enjoyed each other’s company.

Don and Alison (pictured above) attend this event each year, and Don often carries the MacFarlane Banner. Elvie found a stall which carried a selection of Clan memorabilia, and bought a book entitled “Your Clan Heritage” by Alan McNie, which featured Clan MacFarlane; she also purchased a MacFarlane tartan tie. There were of course other clan tents which had many goodies on sale. I must apologise for not having better quality photographs of the massed pipe bands, but as I am a bit long-in-the-tooth, I found it hard to get out of bed and didn’t arrive until after the bands had made the grand entrance! I did manage to get a couple of shots of the Tamworth Pipes & Drums as they were warming up; including the one seen here with two

bandsmen (pictured above) who appear to be shouldering a giant caber, which, incidentally, was NOT used in the heavy events! The Chieftain for the weekend this year was Mave Richardson from Clan MacMillan, who has the honour of being the first lady chieftain of a Bonnie Wingham Scottish Festival, and also the first local

person to be awarded the privilege. It was really great finally meeting up with Phil and Elvie (pictured left above, with Barbara Nash) it was an event to remember. Barbara and I hope that the good folk of the Clan find this brief account interesting enough to perhaps mark their calendars for future Wingham gatherings. Certainly, we would advise our NSW members to make the effort and to show some support to regulars like Don and Alison MacFarlane, in raising the Clan Banner. Certainly, Barbara and I will do our very best to return next year.

* * * * * Thank you, Roy. You did your best and that is all we expect. The Bonnie Wingham event appears to be well run, and has, over the past seven years, become a major Scottish attraction in that part of NSW. We would like to hear from other NSW clansfolk who are regular supporters of Bonnie Wingham! Ed.

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Arrochybeg to Australia The story of MacFarlane pioneers – Part Two

In the June issue of ‘Lantern’ we told the story of James MacFarlane (b.1796) who migrated from Arrochybeg Farm, Loch Lomond-side, 1824 and set up the first cattle station at Omeo, Gippsland, Victoria. We now tell of his brother Duncan MacFarlane (b.1798) who became one of the very first settlers in South Australia. However, as we began to research the story, we immediately ran up against conflicting data which suggested there were two persons named Duncan McFarlane who both flourished in SA around the same period, the details of each becoming interlinked and therefore confused! Undaunted, we struggled on and, at the risk of adding to the enigma, it is hoped to correctly identify the Arrochybeg Duncan. Considering his social standing in the early period of SA, we have been unable to find his photograph among the few recorded references, yet his partners Dutton and Finiss managed to find a photographer. The confusion over identity possibly arose from the fact that another Duncan MacFarlane arrived in Adelaide in the ship ‘India’ on 23rd February 1840, and who later is said to have married a fellow passenger, Elizabeth Norris, and thereafter settled in SA.

The Duncan MacFarlane we seek must have arrived in Australia much earlier – possibly on the ship ‘Triton’ with his brother James – arriving in Australia 1824 (more on this later). He is on record arriving at Port Adelaide on 26th December 1838 on the vessel ‘Parland’ (Capt. Tait) with a cargo of sheep and horses from NSW. Also on this ship was William Hampden Dutton who, along with Capt. John Finnis and Duncan MacFarlane formed a partnership which was successful in purchasing the very first special survey of land in SA (11thJanuary 1839).

The partners paid £4,000 for 15,000 acres in the Mount Barker area, each partner had the first choice of 4,000 acres and the rest was sold to the public at £1 an acre. Duncan set up his sheep station near the present town of Mt. Barker. Later still, the three partners were instrumental in assisting German immigrants who arrived on the ship ‘Zebra’ (Dec.1838, Captain Dirk Hahn), by allotting some land and farming gear for the establishment of the town of Hahndorf. This was largely organised by the partner Dutton, born in Hanover where his father had held a British dip-lomatic post – moreover he could speak fluent German. To further clarify some of the confusion surrounding our clansman Duncan, although some reports give his date of birth (1793) and that he may have had a marriage (1818) in Scotland, we can find no evidence of him being married. Our research via the International Genealogical Index (IGI) reveals only one Duncan MacFarlane, born 1793, in Buchanan parish, who married a Margaret McFarlane in March 1818, and whom we think is not of the Arrochybeg family. Some reports do state that Duncan and James MacFarlane both arrived on the ‘Triton’ in 1824, a fact which seems to be supported by the following notes on the outward voyage. The ‘Triton’ (Capt. James Crerar) was bought by the then newly-formed Australian Company in 1823 and sailed from Leith on 7th September that year for Van Damien’s Land (Tasmania). On board were 23 cabin passengers and 33 steerage plus crew. En route, she stopped at Cape Town, 5th December where an article in the Cape Town Gazette & African Recorder (dated 13th Dec..1823) names some of the cabin passengers part of which reads: (Sic) “. . .Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm, and two Messrs. M’Farlane, Settlers, in the Cabin;- and 30 Men, 2 Women. And a child, ditto in Steerage” We believe the two “M’Farlanes” were James and Duncan from Arrochybeg. Although the ‘Triton’ eventually arrived at Hobart Town, 18th January 1824, it may have later sailed to NSW, where the brothers began their respective careers. Both are frequently described as seamen, and since neither really appeared prominently in Australian records for nearly a decade, they may have become actively engaged in the then lucrative whaling and sealing industry in the southern waters; we know that Duncan’s later partner Capt. John Finnis was actively involved in this (Next Page)

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venture, from which he became quite wealthy. One has to wonder where the MacFarlane brothers, having come from a none-too-affluent Highland parish, earned enough cash to buy land and livestock with which to enter their later pastoral lifestyles. Yet another source of intrigue surrounds the sailing brig ‘Parland’, this being a name which should catch the eye of every MacFarlane – do we have here a Clan connection? It was an immigrant ship and was used to bring Irish settlers out of Londonderry; it is also on record for bringing coal miners from Fife to Australia. Duncan MacFarlane prospered in SA, and probably saw the fertile soil around Mt. Barker not only as a grazing area, but as a potential wheat growing region, to which end he and his partners may have supported the introduction of a steam powered flour mill by miller John Dunn. Noted In the website ‘Historical Background of Hahndorf’’ are brief references to Duncan and his partners some of which reads:

(Sic) “. .Scottish-born MacFarlane arrived NSW 1824 as a sailor, and then began squatting in the mountains near present-day Canberra. Duncan came to SA 1838 with his friend, William Dutton, on the brig Parland.” The present town of Mt. Barker was laid out by the partners on part of Duncan’s sheep run during 1840, and other Scottish shepherds were encouraged to settle in the district. A sales office was opened next to the homestead. Later, due to scab and increased settlement the land became less fit for sheep and Duncan moved his stock further south. He is said to have bought shares in the Glen Osmond silver-lead mine, where he set up home and where he retired in old age. It appears also that he was made a Justice of the Peace, although it seems that his name was ‘mistakenly’ omitted from the last nominal roll. Like his brother, James, there are few in-depth reports on his life in SA – and those that are accredited to him may be tainted by being mixed with the other ‘Duncan’ McFarlane, whose real fate seems even more obscure. There were other MacFarlanes who settled near Duncan, and who knew him well. Among these we note Allan McFarlane (1792-1864) from Caithness, who became MP for the Mt. Barker district. Another was Lachlan McFarlane (1806-1892) who came from Argyllshire, listed as pastoralist, publican and stockholder, Mt. Barker. He it was who built the impressive mansion, now known as the Auchendarroch Hotel in the town. It is on record that these

Scottish farming families socialised frequently, and one can only imagine the good humoured chat that must have ensued – much of it no doubt in the soft-lilting Gaelic tongue – as each patriarch recounted the many interesting stories of his early life and travels from the heather-clad hills of Alba to a new, and very different, homeland so far, far away!

Auchendarroch House (originally The Oakfield, 1861) Mt. Barker, was built by Lachlan McFarlane, Duncan’s friend. Some reports tell of Duncan being married to the aforementioned Elizabeth Norris from Leith, but we cannot at this time confirm this. Likewise, the ‘marriage’ names children, Margaret, Benjamina and Duncan Lennox, but whose births do not appear on record in SA. We are of the opinion that these details actually relate to the elusive Duncan McFarlane who arrived on the ‘India’ 1840. Perhaps in the future a more professional research will reveal the truth of the matter. Neither do we have accurate knowledge of our Duncan’s subsequent contact with his brother James, or other family members. Duncan died 27 October 1856 at his home in Glen Osmond, SA, and is believed buried somewhere in Adelaide. Whilst every effort has been taken to present and accurate historical account of the life and movement of each of the MacFarlane brothers from Arrochybeg, we fully realise that there might be areas of discrepancy, and for which we take responsibility. Nevertheless, we would like to hear from clansfolk in Australia, Scotland or elsewhere who claim descent from the proud and worthy Arrochybeg MacFarlanes. End Calum Curamach. References: Much of the research data has come from various websites, too many to list here. We acknowledge the assistance obtained from Andrew Macfarlane (NZ) and Chevalier Terrance Gach MacFarlane (USA) with grateful thanks..

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New Queensland

Councillor

“My name is Margaret Louise Piper, known as Louise, and I am the daughter of Julian

Millar, who is considered to be the founder of the Clan MacFarlane Society here in Australia. My son, Robert Millar, has recently returned to Japan with his wife Masako, which left the position of Queensland Councillor vacant. I have been invited to fill the position, and I have accepted on a trial basis to see how I go. So, here I am at 66 years of age and living in Tamborine Mountain, which is between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. My dog ‘Missy’ and I live in a 50-year-old cottage with rain forest in our front garden and a vegetable patch in the back. Although I have never been one for history, I know that my father was so proud to be a MacFarlane and toured Scotland to see where our ancestors came from. He took some wonderful photographs and also wrote our family tree which I have since put into book form, using my computer, and have given copies to my close relatives. It is amazing to see the birth and death certificates of our Scottish family from so long ago. I am not very active in going to functions where there are a lot of people and prefer the quiet country life, but I would be very interested to hear from any Queensland members who do enjoy Scottish functions so that I can pass on information on venues and dates. If any members of our Society are visiting Brisbane or the Gold Coast, or if you live in those areas or nearby, my house is always open for a visit. Just give me time to put the kettle on and pick up something naughty from the local bakery! I would appreciate a phone call first of course so we can arrange a time. My telephone number is (07)5545 2107, and my email is shown on Page 12. I look forward to having contact with other Clan members in Queensland.. Louise. Welcome aboard, Louise. We look forward to hearing from you in future ‘Lanterns’ , Ed.

From our Vice-President,

Christine Culling My Mum, Elsie McFarlane turned 96 on 27 July this year. She is being looked after in a nursing home in Donvale, Victoria.

In spite of being born in England, she did have a Scottish husband and Scottish grandmother in Fife. My father was David McFarlane, born in Coalburn, Lanarkshire, whose father also, David, was from a family that lived and worked in Glasgow. The original David was a sea captain who came to Australia, got married, had four children then went back to Glasgow. The above photograph is my Mum, Elsie, in 1929, when she was a young lassie, aged fourteen. Thank you, Christine, for the photo of your Mum and the wee story. I think we should all wish Elsie a somewhat belated Happy Birthday, with the sincere hope the old lady enjoys many more . . . .Ed.

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~ ~Root Lines ~ ~ (Members’ Genealogy Page)

MILLER: Seeking Australian descendants of Alex-ander Miller & Lillias McAllister, m. Glasgow, Dec. 1824, and lived in Cadder, E. Dunbartonshire. Child-ren, James (b.1825) and Archibald (b.1827, Glasgow, d. 1872 Buninyong, VIC.). Archibald m. 1872 (1) Mgt. Morrison (b.1826, Ayr,d.1860, Buninyong) m. (2) Margaret McNeil (b.1836 Barrhead, Renfrew-shire, d.1871 Buninyong, VIC.). MACFARLANES , South Knapdale, Argyllshire. SA member, Norma Lock (Mt. Gambier), whose MacFarlane mother has roots in Knapdale, Argyll-shire, tells us that she is being treated to an extensive world tour, including USA and Europe, by her sons. She hopes to take in a visit to South Knapdale to see where her MacFarlane forebears lived. Norma’s story featured in ‘Lantern’ No.116 (Dec, 2010), and it now seems highly likely that her lineage is linked to either the Glenralloch or Erins branches of the Clan. We look forward to her report when she comes back to us. 1694 HEARTH TAX: KNAPDALE: An unusual spelling of our Clan name was discovered whilst researching the archives of South Knapdale. During the period when Hearth Tax applied (1694), We noted 13 families all listed under the surname spelt ‘McFfarlan’! These included the families Andrew McFfarlan of Ormsary and Duncan McFfarlan of Auchendarroch; the latter place name is also the name of the hotel in Mt. Barker, SA, built by a Lachlan McFarlane whose roots were also in Argyllshire – the Gaelic name translates as Oakfield in English (see photograph, Page 7). However, the curious spelling is yet another example of how the Gaelic language was mutilated by Sassunach scribes. MACFARLANES, Isle of Lewis. We have a somewhat indirect query from a John McFarlane in Canada who is researching one of his forebears, Alexander McFarlane, who surfaced in Nova Scotia about 1800 and who married a Jessie McKay and from whom there are some 400 descendants. He says Jessie’s family came from near Aberdeen, Scotland, but Alexander’s roots remain a mystery – “although family lore has him coming over from the Isle of Lewis”, as yet unproven. The inquirer has asked about possible family connections in Australia. We therefore invite our members and other MacFarlane readers of ‘Lantern’ who might have Canadian family ties to please get in touch.

Remembering Robert W. Ridding

It is with great sadness that we report the death, on Sunday 10th of July, of Robert William Ridding, a Past-President of our Society (1998-2002) and later President, Scottish Australian Cultural & Information Centre, Inc. (‘Scottish House’),NSW. Robert and Elaine Ridding joined our Society in 1989. Robert served also as both NSW Branch President and as Federal Branch President, and until her untimely death in September 2007, Elaine shared her husband’s interest and activities within the Scottish Community – she also served for a period as Federal Secretary. Indeed, both will be long remembered for the valuable contributions they made to our Society. Robert, aged 73 years, was a much-loved father to sons David and Ian. His death came after a year-long struggle with a lung complaint. Our deepest condolences go out to his bereaved family in this year of sadness.

+ + + +Beannachd Dhé Leat+ + + +

Letter of Thanks from Cath! Hi Malcolm, Thanks again for a wonderful “Lantern”. I pass it around the family to read, they all take time (even if some of them are not that interested). A bit of family news for you: our daughter-in-law Sheena Withers has arrived from Dubai with our three grandchildren, Cooper (9), Finlay (7) and Geordie (4). They have been living in Dubai for the past three years. Grant, our son is an architect working over there, and he will be home for good in July. Our family will all be in the same country this Christmas – YIPPEE! Also, good to hear that my cousin Alistair and his wife Patricia have joined the Clan. Keep up the good work, we really appreciate it! Yours, Cath Withers, VIC. (Received via e-mail, 11 June 2011).

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Oot ‘n’ Aboot! MACFARLANE OF GLENMAGGIE

Following our recent story on James Macfarlane, the pioneer cattleman in Gippsland, Victoria. We received this photograph of his nephew, Malcolm, who came to Australia in 1838 on the ‘Minerva’, and was given the Heyfield cattle run by his uncle

and who later became a noted pastoralist in Victoria. We received the photo from Merryn Stevenson, who is this year organising the third Glenmaggie Scottish gathering in October which will include a static display featuring Scots pioneers in the region, and we have been asked to assist by providing details of James and Malcolm Macfarlane and Clan Farlane in general, including some tartan display (See Future Event back Page). OUR NEW MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY

We are pleased to announce that Committee member Anita Renfrey (A brave wee wummin!) has taken on the post as our Membership Secretary. She responded to our plea in ‘Lantern’ 118.

Anita, from Largs, SA is from the same McFarlane family as our SA Councillor, Janet Marsh, with deep roots in Rosneath parish, Dunbartonshire, and later as noted boat builders at Port Adelaide. Anita will handle all questions concerning membership, and will take some of the strain off our hard-working General Secretary, Glenda Dickson – please note her details on Page 12. WELCOME NEW MEMBER. We are pleased offer a warm welcome to Ray Halsey, Murray Bridge, SA, who has a special interest in the Miller sept name. Perhaps we shall see him at some of the functions in SA, especially at the Mt. Barker Games next year – better still, our Joint Clan Luncheon with Clan Donald on 30 October – see next page for details. Anyhow, Céud Milé Failte to Ray!

No, we have not opened a branch in China, but this is for those purists among us,

who get uptight over the various spellings of our clan name MacFarlane/McFarlane/Macfarlane. The above script was given by a Chinese friend. Try arguing over that version of ‘MacFarlane’! ‘A Rose by any other name would smell as sweet!’ The Bard of Avon.

Clishmaclavers! ‘PARAPROSDOKIAN’ – now, there is a word to conjure with! A paraprosdokian is a figure of speech in which the latter part of the sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected. This causes the reader or listener to reframe or reinterpret the first part, and is frequently used by comedians and satirists. Examples as follows! # Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; wisdom is not putting it in the fruit salad! # A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory! # A diplomat is a person who can tell you to go to hell in such a way that you look forward to the trip! # The last thing I want to do is hurt you, but it’s still on the list! # War does not determine who is right – only who is left! # Going to church doesn’t make you a Christian any more that standing in a garage makes you a car! SCOTTISH KNOW-HOW! “The brigade of Scots in the service of Gustavus, King of Sweden, contributed greatly to gain the decisive battle of Leipzig by using platoon firing, which had never been known before to the ‘Great amazement’ of the Imperialists...” (The Book of Scottish Anecdote). HIGHLAND DRUIDS With stories of human sacrifices and other atrocities, the Romans who occupied parts of Scotland gave bad reports on the Celtic Druid priests. However, when Saint Columba began preaching in the Highlands he discovered a very different scenario and saw that the priests were part of a very advanced religion, to such an extent that he found little difficulty in teaching Christianity. So pure was the Druid doctrine, that Columba went so far as to describe Jesus Christ as being “my Arch-Druid.” Later he and his successors of the Celtic Church often re-dedicated most of the holy places of the old faith, and continued worship there! This would never have happened if the sites had been connected with beastliness and horrors. VETERAN SERGEANT to his men! “Steady, lads, steady! A soldier is a mere machine! He must not move – he must not speak; and as for thinking...no...no...no! No man under the rank of major is allowed to think!” (Anon)

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Intimations & Future Events

CLANS MACFARLANE & MACDONALD LUNCHEON INVITATION

To be held at The Enfield Hotel

184 Hampstead Road, Clearview, SA (plenty of car parking available)

Entertainment: Piping in of Haggis Guest Speaker

Traditional Songs by accordionist Alan Nisbet Piping -- Excellent Raffle -- Lucky Seat Prize

SILVER SERVICE 3 COURSE MEAL COST: $38 pp (Make up a table of 8)

SUNDAY 30th OCTOBER 2011, 12 for 12.30pm ………………………………………………………

Please send cheque or money order payable to: ‘CLAN DONALD’ Mrs Eileen Murphy

86 Whites Road, Salisbury North, SA 5108 PH 8258 5756 or Secretary 8265 0978.

MACFARLANE/MACDONALD LUNCHEON Our high event in the coming weeks will again be our Joint Luncheon date with Clan Donald friends. (See above). Indeed, this will be our Fourth Gathering – how time flies! It is hoped that our SA members especially will make a point of supporting this event.

OTHER EVENT FORECASTS 2011 September

9 – 11 Traralgon, VIC: Victorian Scottish Union Conference, includes ceilidh, conference dinner dance, AGM, along with Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan: info – www.victorianscottishunion.com 10 – 11 Macgregor, QLD: Macgregor Highland Dancing Comp. & Championships: Info – (07) 32760266. 17 Nelson Bay, NSW: Clans On The Coast Port Stephens Celtic Festival. Pipe bands and everything Scottish, also old Battle Re-enactments. Info: 0418 495 336 or www.clansofthecoast.com 18 Manly, NSW: Manly Warringah Pipe Band Contest & Highland Gathering, at Manly Oval, Sydney Road, Info: Vicky Lindsay Tel: 9969-0418 or 0419 265 099. 18 Brisbane. Qld: Beginners Gaelic Workshop at Brisbane Square Library, 266 George Street. Designed for people with no Gaelic exposure. Info: Diane 0407 158 781 or dm.lingard@iinet.net,au

October 2011 8 Kambah, ACT: Canberra Highland Gathering, including ACT Pipe Band Championships and

Scottish Fair. Info: Max Calder (02) 6292 6920 or maxcalder@grapevine.com.au 15 Sydney, NSW: The 2011 Silver Tassie event. The Australasian young piper of the year. Info Barry Gray on 0412 602 983 or piper01@optusnet.com.au 16 Wollongong, NSW: 31st Highland Gathering. Pipe band and piping contests. Irish and Highland dancing kids’ event. Info: James Bennis on (02) 4284 3429. 22 Launceston, TAS: Tasmanian Highland Dancing Championships at Riverside High School. Info: (03) 6333 0115.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Aye, this is me again, an’ this time wearing my official headgear – so, tak’ heed and hear ma words!

Some o’ ye are no’ playin’ the game. And it’s been brocht tae ma notice that there are still yin or twa wha havnae kept up wi their membership dues – which means that we hae nae idea if ye are still wi’ us, or against us? Oor new wee Membership wifie is fair flummoxed, tryin’ tae find oot whose wha an’ whas who amang ye. So it jist means that ye’ll aa hae tae staun up an’ be coontit! Them whas paid, tae wan side – and them wha hivnae are oot the park! Okay! Ah ken fine that there are a wheen among ye wha are – like masel – weel past the sell-by date! But ye are no’ deid yet, an being auld ye should hae mair sense than the ithers! But if ye are findin’ it a wee bit hard tae scrape thegither the seventeen dollars, then gies a wee shout an’ we’ll see whit can be done tae help ye oot – noo we cannae be ony fairer than that, eh? It jist gets doon tae the fact that this is your Society, an’ we need yer support. That’s aa Ah hiv tae say! Yours aye. . .Malcolm.

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Committee of Management 2011/12 PRESIDENT/EDITOR/HISTORY RESEARCHER: Malcolm Lobban, 9 Davies Place, Pooraka, SA 5095. Tel: (08) 83590578, E-mail: president@clanmacfarlane.org.au VICE-PRESIDENT / PUBLIC OFFICER : Chris Culling, 81 Farnham Road, Bayswater, VIC 3153 E-mail: vice-president@clanmacfarlane.org.au SECRETARY/TREASURER: Glenda Dickson, 23 Blamey Drive, Melton Sth., VIC 3338 E-mail: secretary@clanmacfarlane.org.au MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY: Anita Renfrey, 579 Military Road, Largs North, SA 5016 E-mail: miltonr@adam.com.au STATE COUNCILLORS: NSW: Roy Nash, 1 Sale Street, Grenfell, NSW 2810 E-mail nsw-councillor@clanmacfarlane.org.au Tel: (02) 6343 1085. QLD: Louise Piper, 126 Curtis Road, North Tamborine, Qld. 4272 E-mail qld-councillor@clanmacfarlane.org.au Tel: SA: Janet Marsh, 648 Burbridge Road, West Beach, SA 5024, E-mail: sa-councillor@clanmacfarlane.org.au Tel: (08) 8356 7785. COMMITTEE MEMBERS : Robert Miller, 12/10 Station Street, Fairfield, VIC 3078. Leona Job, Unit 2/1 Asquith Street, Kew, VIC 3101. Glenn McFarlane, 7 Kelbourne Grove, Sunbury, VIC 3429 Robert P. Millar , rpmillar@gmail.com

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 Secretary at 23 Blamey Drive, Melton South, VIC. 3338.

Badges approximately 2cm in diameter

Clan MacFarlane Society Australia, Inc. Is proud to lend support to the Glenmaggie Scottish Folk Festival. Come and enjoy the fun with: -- The Victorian Police Pipe Band –- The Briagolong Bush Band – Highland & Scottish Country Dancing –- Sale RSL Pipe Band –- Morwell Caledonian Pipe Band –- The Stratford Singers –- Shirley Power & Colin Mockett, Geelong -- Toast to the Haggis – Open competitions: Shortbread & Tartan Outfit – Primary School competitions: Loch Glenmaggie Monster.

Contact: Merryn Stevenson, Glenmaggie Mechanics’ Institute on (02) 51480505.