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 Historic
Gathering In Glencoe
By Forrest Macdonald
A historic gathering has taken place in Glencoe with the
first meeting of the High Council of the Clan Donald in
almost 500 years. Five Clan Donald chiefs and more than
70 MacDonald clansmen and women gathered at the site of
the Glencoe Monument for a short ceremony commemorating
the infamous massacre before meeting to discuss the future
growth and development of the clan movement.
The High Council is made up of clan chiefs Lord Macdonald
of Macdonald, MacDonald of Clanranald, MacDonell of Glengarry,
MacDonald of Sleat and MacDonnell of Antrim and it is hoped
the gathering will begin the restoration of the historic
tradition. Clan chiefs were joined by clansmen and women
from across the globe with representatives from many countries
including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA, Scotland,
England, Northern Ireland, Holland and France. Welcoming
the historic gathering, Visit Scotland chief executive Peter
McKinley said, "Glencoe and the surrounding area is
of great historical importance to the MacDonald clan and
an ideal location for this High Council gathering. We are
confident that those traveling to Scotland for this event
will have a fantastic time and are assured of a warm Scottish
welcome."
Rob McDonald Parker, Advisor to the High Council, said,
"In the 15th century, when the Clan Donald was at its
zenith, the High Council met regularly with other Clansmen
to discuss important business. It is hoped that this tradition
will be re-established, with a series of bi-annual meetings
already planned for locations throughout Scotland and Northern
Ireland."
A host of other events are planned for the five-day gathering
program, including an opportunity to sail in the Highland
Galley "Aileach" and excursions to Castle Tioram,
Glenfinnan, Invergarry and Iona.
(Courtesy "Cuimhnich", Clan Donald Newsletter
- The Highlander Nov/Dec 2001)
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