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The Millennium Newsletter
The Clan Cameron Online Newsletter
(Clan Cameron Association, Electronic Branch)
November/December 1999

AONAIBH RI CHÉILE

"Let Us Unite" - These ancient words, which proudly serve as Clan Cameron's motto, also accurately represent the effort behind this publication.  For the first time in the Clan Cameron Association's one hundred and eight year history the branches of the Worldwide Association have "united," bringing their members greetings on this, the eve of the new Millennium.  Led by none other than our Hereditary Chief, Colonel Sir Donald Hamish Cameron of Lochiel, K.T., and his eldest son and heir, Donald Angus Cameron, Younger of Lochiel, Camerons from throughout the world are sharing their thoughts, greetings and culture on this most special occasion.

In the modern era newsletters and Internet e-mail serve to foster the "kinship" which our forefathers in Lochaber verbally shared amongst one another.  Since Camerons have spread throughout the globe we must now rely on these modern conveniences to share our common heritage.  Just as our ancestors were able to venture from glen to glen, and spread word via a flaming cross sent from the chief, we too choose the most efficient means of communications.

How different will this intercommunication become in this upcoming Millennium?  As improbable as the Internet or global satellite service might have seemed to Camerons of the Jacobite era, so too will future "electronic" efforts in spreading the Cameron heritage.   This publication is not only being sent to Camerons from throughout the world on this occasion via postal mail service, but also over the Internet.   As an open message of good will to Camerons, regardless of their involvement in the Clan Cameron Association, we are making this publication readily available for download on the Clan Cameron Online website.

And now, please turn off that television, log off the "Net," disconnect the telephone, and clear the rest of your day for some wonderful words.  For it is just that, the written word, that has managed to preserve our Cameron heritage throughout the last few hundred years, and will continue to do so throughout the new Millennium.

 

WHERE WE HAVE BEEN
by Colonel Sir Donald Hamish Cameron of Lochiel, K.T.
XXVI Chief of Clan Cameron

The fateful battle of Culloden, which was fought in April, 1746, resulted in the defeat of the Jacobite army and was followed by devastation and death throughout much of the Highlands.  The repercussions altered the Highlands beyond recognition and shaped the future pattern of Highland history into a way of life quite different from the traditional clan system that had existed before this battle.   It can be said that this system was already changing and would have gone on changing if the battle of Culloden had never taken place, but it was an event which certainly hastened these changes.

After the battle, the Clan Cameron chief was exiled to France, where he died two years later, and the clansmen were scattered far and wide.  The Lochiel Estate was forfeited and not returned to the family until 1787 on payment of a large fine.  The chief who had succeeded was but a boy brought up in France and London, quite unaccustomed to the Highlands, and he returned not as a father to his clansmen but as a landlord.  Trustees ruled the estate, with the management devolved on factors and, in common with many other Highland estates, evictions undoubtedly took place, though many left on their own accord.

The clan therefore lay dormant until the end of the 19th century when the idea of clan associations worldwide began to develop.   A Clan Cameron Association was formed in Scotland in 1891, largely owing to the exertions of Mary MacKellar, a devoted Cameron, poet and historian.  A social gathering was held in Glasgow that year, with Lochiel in the chair, who addressed the gathering on the history of the clan.   The objects of the association were much the same as prevail today, i.e. "the reviving, conserving and promoting the interests, sentiment and associations of the clan, the cultivation of social intercourse among members, the collection and preservation of records and traditions relating to the history of the clan."

One of the most successful presidents of the Clan Association was Thomas Cameron, CBE, Secretary of the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, who held the office of president from 1935 to 1953, and he was followed by an equally enthusiastic clansman, Alexander Cameron, CBE, of Largs.  During their time, there were four Clan Gatherings at Achnacarry - in 1938, 1956, 1962 and 1967, and this practice of having Clan Gatherings at the home of the chief about every five years has continued, and proved very popular.

One notable event for the Clan Association in Glasgow took place soon after I had succeeded as chief.  The Provost and City dignitaries invited my wife and me and leaders of the Association to a Civic Luncheon and afterwards, Chief Constable MacCulloch, who came from Lochaber (he was the brother of the writer Donald MacCulloch), arranged for us to drive with a police escort, ignoring all traffic lights, to the Tolbooth where the bells rang out "The March of the Cameron Men."  It is a tradition that whenever Lochiel pays an official visit to Glasgow, the bells of the Tolbooth are rung to commemorate the action of The Gentle Lochiel in preventing the city being sacked by Prince Charles Edward's troops in 1746.

The idea of clan associations soon spread to other parts of the world. In 1935, Captain Ewan Cameron, who commanded the Orient Liner "Orama" held a meeting on board with influential Camerons from New Zealand, and this was the start of the New Zealand Association.  This flourished until the 1939-1945 war, and was reorganized after the war by Ian D. Cameron, a most enthusiastic Cameron who was one of the original founders.  There are now 8 branches in New Zealand, and more are being formed almost yearly.  In Australia, there are branches in four states (Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland) under the energetic leadership of Dr. Ian Cameron from Melbourne, Victoria.   Closer to home there is also a successful branch now in England, having represented Clan Cameron for nearly twenty years with distinction.

The Clan Association branches in North America are now numerous and there are, in addition, several chapters (or embryo branches).  There has been a branch in Canada, centered on Toronto, since 1977 and under their guidance, a branch was later started in Nova Scotia where a lot of Camerons live.   In the United States there is also much enthusiasm, and we have twelve branches there at the present time.  Dr. Harold Cameron, from London, Ontario, was the prime mover who got the Association going in the United States.  It all began at the Grandfather Mountain Games in 1967 but quickly spread to other states.  The Constitution was agreed upon at a meeting in Atlanta in 1980, attended by the chief and other interested parties.  There are now five different regions, each including several branches within their jurisdiction and each branch has its own leaders and its own newsletter but is under the general guidance of my excellent Commissioner Donald Cameron, Charlotte, North Carolina.

As chief, I have appointed Commissioners in North America, Australia and New Zealand, who act on my behalf, keep me in touch with the activities of the clan, help to organize events such as Gatherings of the clan in North America at the Loch Norman Games (in 1997), and generally supervise the activities of Clan Cameron in their countries.  I find this of great help as although my wife and I have visited all these countries on several occasions - and such visits are very stimulating, helpful and enjoyable - it is impossible for us to be present at many activities overseas or to provide fresh ideas for the benefit of the clan worldwide.

I am often asked how many Camerons there are and, of course, it is an impossible question to answer.  I reckon that in my last visit to these countries, there were about 2000 members of the Association in New Zealand, about the same number in Australia and perhaps 3000 in North America, in addition to countless others bearing the name of Cameron who are not members of the Association.

All Camerons, and those connected by birth or marriage, and those bearing names of the many septs of the clan are eligible and welcome to become members of the Clan Cameron Association, which is the modern equivalent of the old clan, bearing the same allegiance to the chief and honouring the same traditions as in the days of old.

UNITE is our motto and united we are as a clan wherever we may live. "Aonaibh Ri Chéile."

 

WHERE WE ARE GOING
by Donald Angus Cameron, Younger of Lochiel

During the last fifty years there have been wholesale changes to our Clan - not only in the way in which it operates but also in the way it is perceived by its members.   I think it is now more democratic and more akin to a family - which, of course, is the meaning of "clan."   I hope that initiatives such as the creation of the museum, clan gatherings, overseas trips by family members and our website have led not only to a better understanding of the Clan but also to a greater sense of "belonging."  I am sure that you won't mind my saying at this point that we have been very fortunate in having as our XXVI Chief a man of great good sense, enthusiasm, foresight and charm - a hard act to follow!

So where do we go now? I think, first, that we need to restate the purpose of a clan.  It is so that its members can appreciate being a part of history, can communicate with each other, meet together, learn from and help each other, search for their identity and, from time to time, gather together to celebrate being part of a wider family - one with a proud and dramatic history.  This is an honourable and satisfactory reason to continue as we do now.

But is it enough? Will the number of active members grow or decline? Will young clansmen and women - the lifeblood of the Clan - be satisfied with what is on offer?  It is tempting to try and map out a wider purpose for the Clan but as I try and think of possible initiatives, I am aware that it would be wrong to suppose that we could make a meaningful difference to the way of the world.  As a clan, we are neither large nor rich but we are as well organised and as enthusiastic as any. Furthermore, if a Scotsman/woman could choose a clan then I am sure there would only be one conclusion - the clan with a glorious past, a vibrant present and one whose name is an anagram of Romance!

However, there are opportunities for us.   For instance, The First Light Exchange has been established in New Zealand to foster links between that country and Lochaber - an admirable idea, which I hope, will lead to youth exchanges and closer cultural ties.  Also, we have embraced new technology with enthusiasm and I am sure that we can build on this and use modern means of communication to cement further the relationships we have established with one another across the world.

A clan is only as good as its clansfolk and as a result, I would be very interested to hear the views and suggestions of clan members as to what, if any, changes you would like to see (so long as proposals are practical and do not include suggestions that I should climb Ben Nevis each New Year's Day or should give up "the water of life" i.e. whisky).  For my part, I think matters are pretty much as they should be but I recognise that we should not be complacent and neither should we stand still.

My family and I wish you all the very, very best as we approach the new millennium.

 

LOCHABER IN THE NEW MILLENNIUM
by Delia Holland; Area Manager, Fort William and Lochaber
- The Highlands of Scotland Tourist Board -

Welcome to Lochaber in the Western Highlands of Scotland!

An area of over seventeen hundred square miles.

An indigenous population of under twenty thousand.

Where there are more acres than sheep - and more sheep than people!

Which contains the highest mountain in the United Kingdom

And the deepest loch

The finest salmon fishing and the most beautiful steam train journey...and the only mountain cable car in Britain.

Not everyone has heard of Lochaber - but everyone has heard of Ben Nevis, of Glencoe, of the Road to the Isles.

And everyone appreciates the combination of ancient myth and romantic tradition and the brutal reality and heroic endeavour.  The remarkable history that has captured the imagination of many generations and one that continues to enthrall our visitors.

From the southwest came the early Celts, from the north came the Highland Picts and from the sea came the Vikings.   One way or another, centuries ago, they all left their own mark on the land of Lochaber.

It was in Lochaber also, at Glenfinnan, that the young Bonnie Prince Charlie raised the Jacobite standard to begin his doomed campaign to restore a Stuart king.

Tourism is the single most important industry in the Highlands.  It generates approximately £373 million in holiday trips and £200 million in days trips each year for the Highland economy.

In Lochaber, tourism accounts for 30% of the Gross Domestic Product, one in three people are employed in the industry and the whole area is affected by tourism in one way or another.  With the changes that are taking place in the traditional sectors such as Crofting and Agriculture, tourism is recognised as a vital ingredient to the long-term prosperity of the area.

To maximise on resources, avoid duplication and increase efficiency, multi-agency and community groups are addressing the way forward.

European structural funding is vital to the re-generation of remote rural communities.  Aimed at fostering economic competitiveness across the whole of Europe by helping those regions which are less developed, European funding has already assisted Lochaber's rural communities and a new £210 million aid package announced earlier this year will enable the economic development momentum built up during the past five years to continue over the first six years of the new millennium.

Whilst the visitor enjoys the peace, tranquility and remoteness of the sparsely populated mountainous area - the indigenous population needs to address issues such as the transport infrastructure, maximising on modern technology to improve communication and training, broadening the employment base and tackling land reform.

A particularly exciting development has been the establishment of Lochaber College in Fort William. A hi-tech facility offering top quality training facilities such as video-conferencing - opportunities now exist for skills development, lifelong learning - and in particular the area's first ever degree course - a BA in Tourism.  It will also enable access by the rural communities in Kinlochleven, Mallaig and Kilchoan to increased learning opportunities through rural learning centres.

Restoring our local heritage and using it to enhance our visitor attractions is also high on the Lochaber agenda for the new millennium

* Developing the site of the 13th century Old Inverlochy Castle into a heritage and interpretative centre
* Bringing the past and the future together with the 'rebirth of a Highland Village' in Kinlochleven based on the story of aluminium smelting in Lochaber
* Establishing links with ex-pat West Highlanders through initiatives such as the First Light Exchange Trust with the Clan Cameron Association of New Zealand, with exchange visits planned for the year 2000
* Support and promotion of traditional Scottish music and dance events and the use of the Gaelic language
* Promoting the use of local produce

The majority of visitors to Lochaber come to experience the "great outdoors."   For facts and figures that impress, the land of Lochaber is without equal in all of Britain. Ben Nevis, the highest mountain, Loch Morar, the deepest loch, the wave and windswept rocks of the Ardnamurchan Peninsula - the most westerly point of the United Kingdom, the ancient geology of the Great Glen, small crofting villages, the beautiful unspoilt white sands of Morar, the desolate Moor of Rannoch, the hanging valleys of Glencoe and Glen Nevis.

Seals, otters and red deer.

Golden eagles, Peregrine falcon and grouse.

Natural Oakwoods and pinewoods.

Mountain Climbing

High and Low Level walking

Sailing and windsurfing

Ski-ing

As we move into the new millennium, we must ensure that our tourism product is developed in a sustainable manner which enhances and protects the environment, culture and heritage - and the communities in Lochaber. Joined-up thinking is the name of the game.

There are just so many sides to Lochaber - past, present and future.

To be appreciated, Lochaber should be treated like a matured Scotch Whisky - sipped and savoured by many wee nips - and not gulped down and swallowed in one visit.

We hope to welcome you to Lochaber - land of the Camerons - sometime soon.

 

MARKING THE NEW MILLENNIUM
Whether in celebration or exhibit, Scots celebrate Hogmanay

As the sun sets on the evening of December 31, 1999, a new light will emerge from the heart of the West Highlands.  Atop Ben Nevis a special beacon will be lit, reportedly consisting of wood provided by area residents and visitors, personally inscribed with their names.   This will mark the start of festivities some four thousand feet below in the town.  The last Hogmanay celebration of the Millennium in Fort William will feature carols in Cameron Square at 8:30 PM, followed at 9:15 by what is amounting to the "World's Largest Organized Ceilidh Dance" on High Street in Fort William.  The traditional Scottish dance chosen for this occasion is "Strip the Willow," and this event will be televised by the BBC as part of their Millennium coverage.  A spectacular fireworks display will then begin at 10:15, lighting the skies over Loch Linnhe and "Cameron Country."   Dancing to the three ceilidh bands and ice-skating will fill the time until Midnight, and as the new century approaches a "laser countdown" will herald in the New Year.  For information and tickets, please telephone: 01397 703781

To the northeast, along the coast of Scotland in Aberdeenshire, "The Millennium Project" will take place on December 31st.   This "site-specific sculpture/performance" is a collaborative work between George Beasley, Director of the Sculpture Program at Georgia State University (and member of the Clan Cameron Association's Stone Mountain Branch), and the Scottish Sculpture Workshop.  Plans involve the installation of a furnace of wood and stone from which molten iron will be created.  This iron will be delivered to the throwing arm of a medieval catapult known as a "trebuchet," from which it will be launched into the North Sea at the stroke of midnight.  In an interesting turn of events, afterwards the iron itself will remain in the sea, and the actual art "product" will be the film and video record of the event.

"Seeing Scotland in a New Light" is the title of a special interactive exhibit showcased at Walt Disney World's new "Millennium Village."  Running from October 1, 1999 through January 1, 2001 at Disney's Epcot Center in Orlando, Florida, the Millennium Village showcases "leading edge technology" and Scottish innovation.  In addition to training and employing Scots to work at the exhibit, Epcot's "Millennium Village Stage" features Scottish entertainment groups on occasion.  

 

MILLENNIUM TARTAN

Tartan designer Arthur H. Mackie, a consultant for The Strathmore Woolen Company in Forfar, created the Millennium Tartan (also known as "Scotland 2000") by mingling the colors from Scotland's two historic flags as one.   Beginning with the white and blue so familiar from the St. Andrew's cross, this tartan also includes the gold and "Scotch maroon" from the Lion Rampant, in addition to a soft moss overcheck, said to "reflect the rich tones of the Scottish countryside."

Strathmore's managing director, David Cowley, indicates that this new cloth, registered with the Scottish Tartans Authority, "is a valuable addition to the range and was designed to be worn by ane and a'.  We felt there was something to say about the Millennium and recognized also that although many folks have very strong clan ties and want to wear that tartan, there is also a need for a tartan that can be worn by anyone."

 

WORLDWIDE EVENTS

Known as the "Millennium Games," the Waipu Caledonian Society, in Northland, New Zealand will be holding a three-day event, beginning on December 31st.  Between the New Year's Eve celebration, where performing artists will entertain and welcome in the new Millennium, and the actual highland games on January 1st and 2nd, an estimated 18,000 Scots will be attending.  The games themselves will feature (among other events) the New Zealand Invitational Piobaireachd. For additional information, e-mail: brian.obrien@xtra.co.nz

Australia also has planned events marking the Millennium.  In Victoria the Maryborough Highland Gathering takes place on January 1st at Princess Park, and is presented by the Maryborough Highland Society. Sponsored by the Saint Andrews Society, Queensland will also be hosting a New Year's Day Scottish Gathering on January 1st, at Petrie Park in Nambour.

Scots on Canada's Pacific Coast will be ushering in the New Year at the "Millennium Hogmanay Celebration" in Vancouver, British Columbia.  Beginning at 6:30 PM on December 31st, at North Vancouver's Mickey McDougall Recreation Centre, "Scotland's own" John Ellis and his Highland country band will be entertaining the assembled crowd.  Additional information, e-mail: stewartc@bc.sympatico.ca, or via telephone: (604) 261-0162.

New York City's Carnegie Library, located just off Central Park, will also be hosting a hogmanay get-together beginning at 7 PM on December 31st.  Organized by the New York Caledonian Club, additional information and planned events are available via telephone at: (212) 662-1083, or at from the Caledonian Club's website: http://www.nycaledonian.org

 

SCOTLAND'S MILLENNIUM FOREST

At one time the Cameron lands in Lochaber were covered by great stands of oak forest, "natural origin" trees of the ancient Caledonian Forest.  As was common practice throughout Britain, a vast amount of these native hardwood, broadleaf trees would be utilized in the production of ships, and sold as timber.

The present day Scotland is by no means devoid of forest; 44% of the woodland area of Great Britain is contained within the Scottish borders.

The unfortunate fact is that of all these Scottish trees, just a small percentage are broadleaves - most are conifers.  These pines and firs, while also native to Scotland, have altered the landscape in Lochaber and throughout of the Highlands.

The Millennium Forest for Scotland is an initiative supported by the Millennium Commission, using funds generated by the national lottery.  Under its "umbrella scheme" up to 500 individual forestry restoration and regeneration projects throughout Scotland will be undertaken, amounting to some £500 over the life of the initiative.

Thought of as one of the most ambitious and exciting environmental initiatives ever undertaken in Scotland, the primary goal is to quite simply double the amount of "native forest" in Scotland.  There are also plans to re-institute social, cultural and economic links between communities and their local woodland.

In a project so broad-scoped, and time consuming, one is left to wonder just who will plant all of these trees.   In lieu of a virtual army of Scots roaming the countryside with shovels in hand, individuals, organizations and local community groups will both propose and implement the majority of the field work.  Children will not only feel a sense of involvement in their country's future, but will lean the basics of conservation.  One day, not too distant in the next Millennium, both these "wee ones" and their parents alike will be able to look upon their handiwork with pride, knowing that they made a difference in their community.

The ancient Caledonian Forest which once roamed for the most part unchecked across Scotland, is now a distant memory in Lochaber.  Perhaps additional oaks will return to Lochaber, where they were once so numerous that Camerons donned their sprigs upon their bonnets.

 

GAELIC'S BRIGHT FUTURE
With one Cameron's observations on Gaelic in his community

At the opening of the 1998 Royal National Mod, Scottish Gaelic Minister Calum MacDonald detailed three steps, a "triple boost" to ensure that the Gaelic language and culture will flourish more than ever in the new Millennium. Highlights of his speech include:

"I am today making three announcements which demonstrate the Government's continuing and deepening commitment to Gaelic.  Firstly, we are taking forward the Columba Initiative to develop links between the Gaelic-speaking communities of Scotland and Ireland.  I am keen to see the Scottish-Irish links developed in the Scottish arts, particularly in music, and I am happy to announce that we plan to provide additional funding of up to £25,000 in the next year to support the appointment of an additional development officer.   The officer will have a specific remit to develop the arts dimension of the Columba Initiative.  The Government recognizes the value of secure status for Gaelic and with this in mind we have decided to sign and ratify the European Charter for Regional and Minority Languages.  Signing the Charter will commit the Government to 35 separate pledges on Gaelic.  This is a big commitment and a big step forward in terms of secure status and as an example of the value we attach to Gaelic.  Signing the Charter is simply the start.  I am happy to announce that I have asked my officials to hold meetings within the next month with the Gaelic organizations to discuss their specific proposals and for achieving secure status in law.  My third announcement is in respect of the grants which The Scottish Office provide in support of organizations which contribute to educational or cultural development.  An Comunn, which organizes the Mod, has for some years received a grant under this scheme.  I am pleased to announce that following consideration of An Comunn's application we have increased the grant for next year (1999) from £85,000 to £100,000 and that the increase will be maintained for the two subsequent years."

Mr. MacDonald also stated the Government's pledge to increase funding for CLI (Gaelic Learners), Comunn na Gaidhlig (CNAG), CNSA (Gaelic pre-school), and Proiseact nan Ealan (Gaelic Arts).

In Lochaber the results of this "triple boost" may already be seen. Dugald Cameron, owner of Cameron Bagpipes, a life-long resident of the West Highlands, makes the following observations:

"Gaelic is taught in the Acharacle local primary school, and the rest of the Highlands and Islands, to those who want to take part.  In some cases the entire teaching is done in Gaelic.  When I went to school, many years ago, I had no English.  Like most others in my age group, we had to learn English.  In later years, a lot of the younger people were leaving school, and went away to find work in cities, or to go to college, when they got married to somebody outwith the Highlands.  This caused a problem for the next generation as only the one parent had Gaelic.

Another reason I can see for the language's decline is the croft houses becoming vacant because of the above, and being bought by people from urban areas who didn't speak Gaelic.   As you know, a lot of people went away to foreign countries at the time of the Highland Clearances in the 18th to mid 19th centuries.  Some went of their own free will, others were shipped out. This had quite an impact on the traditional Gaelic language.  But another reason for the decline in the language in my own lifetime was people being too proud to speak it, and resorting to the English language.

I am pleased to say that there is a lot being done now in the Highlands and Islands by the Highland Council, Radio and T.V. which is helping the native Gaelic language back to what it used to be.   Rather like the oak and conifer forests...  With the passage of time, the conifers are now being felled to let the indigenous oak regenerate."

 

JAMES CAMERON SHOOTS FOR THE STARS

Following up on his "Titanic" achievements in the motion picture field, James Cameron is making an attempt to instill the "pioneering spirit" of the new Millennium and the desire for a space frontier into his next projects, both "backed" by Twentieth Century Fox.  The Collateral productions will include an Imax 3-D film under his directorial guidance, and a five-hour television miniseries that he will produce.

"The films we are making," James relates, "will attempt to show the reality of a humans-to-Mars project...the challenges and the rewards."   One of his goals for the projects is to explain that a Mars mission is a "near-term attainability."  "We're not trying to show a glitzy, fantastic high-design future, but a tangible, real tomorrow, which is right around the corner."

Members of the Haughton-Mars Project, headed by Pascal Lee of the NASA Ames Research Center have been busily surveying Arctic terrain (similar conditions to a Martian surface) for the last three summers, and students from MIT and the Harvard Business School have been writing a feasible business plan to get humans to Mars.

"The human soul is starved for challenge," says James."  Only our outbound quest can satisfy this hunger, which is a very real hunger that is at once spiritual, psychological, and emotional, as well as intellectual.  We do this for knowledge, and to hone our technical capabilities. But most of all, we do it for our deepest hearts, which yearn outward."

Both the Imax film and the miniseries are scheduled to premier during the spring of 2001.

 

THE STATE OF THE ASSOCIATION
Reports from the five worldwide branches of the Clan Cameron Association

The modern day "chieftains" of the Clan Cameron Association, the presidents/commissioners of the worldwide branches, were each asked to participate in this publication by sharing their respective branch's story.  Their "State of the Association" reports stand as a record of their varied accomplishments in the past, and hopes for the future that Camerons seem to share on this, the eve of a new Millennium.

While separated by international boundaries, the Camerons of the Association all share a common belief: that their culture and traditions are possessions to be cherished.  These presidents and commissioners lead by example, volunteering their time and resources to keep the Cameron heritage alive and well.  As might any proud "parent," they are sharing stories of their "wee ones," the respective individuals and entities which make up their branch.

CLAN CAMERON NEW ZEALAND
by Mary Davidson Earle, President, Clan Cameron New Zealand

Clan Cameron New Zealand is on two islands in the South Pacific- we are the Camerons who live the greatest distance from Lochaber.  It was a long way to come, especially for the earliest pioneers who came in the 1840's and 50's. But the Camerons in our eight Branches still remember the people and the places in Lochaber, and the culture and the history.  As over fifty per cent of New Zealanders are of Celtic origins (mostly Irish and Scottish), there is quite a Celtic influence on New Zealand culture.

The pipe bands are part of New Zealand life and they are encouraged to perform at the highest level, with competitions throughout the summer.  In February/March, we have been honoured by the Edinburgh Tattoo; under their guidance we are holding a Tattoo in Wellington, New Zealand.  Our pipers, pipe bands and dancers are busy practising so that we can maintain the high standard of the Edinburgh Tattoo.

New Zealand will be the first country to greet the new Millennium, and some of our members live on the East Cape where the first light of the millennium will first be seen.  To commemorate this and also to recognise the young Camerons who work will start the new millennium, Clan Cameron New Zealand is starting a First Light Exchange for young Camerons between Lochaber and New Zealand.   We are planning that in the year 2000, a young Cameron will come from Lochaber and a young New Zealand Cameron will go to Lochaber.  This will not only develop the knowledge and skills for the young Camerons, but will give Clan Cameron New Zealand a better understanding of the changes occurring in Lochaber.

But as well as preparing for the future, Clan Cameron New Zealand is also recording the past.   At the present time, the Branches are writing their own histories and also the lives of the many people who have been part of Clan Cameron New Zealand over the years.  It is planned to complete this history of Clan Cameron New Zealand towards the end of the year 2000.  The Clan Genealogist has collected the histories of many Cameron families and also individuals in New Zealand; it is hoped to transfer some of this material onto computer records for easy access, and to write some of these stories in small booklets.

The other area we are studying is the culture of Clan Cameron - not only preserving the past but also growing it in the future in a New Zealand culture.  It appears to us that the position of Bard is not what is needed for the next century but that we need a group of people with knowledge and skills of specific areas of the culture - music (piping, instrumental and vocal), poetry, prose, dance.  We are faced with the problem of the language as few are Gaelic speakers - the language was lost about 80 years ago.  So we shall use an English/Gaelic mixture!   At the present time we are recording in a Clan Cameron songbook, the past and present songs of the West Highlands, so that we can use them in our gatherings.  We hope to encourage the younger members to write new poetry and prose, and to compose new music, so that we can develop our own New Zealand/Highland culture.

We send our best wishes to all other Camerons and give you a warm invitation to our Annual Gathering at the Easter weekend in Gisborne on the east coast of the North Island.  Also we should like to join with you in planning a future for Clan Cameron across the world and helping to make it happen.  We have a heritage, which has both good and bad aspects, and we need to preserve it and make it develop so that our young people can understand themselves and use this as a basis for their future.

CLAN CAMERON NORTH AMERICA
by Donald John Cameron, Commissioner, Clan Cameron North America

As we approach the new millennium few of us have concerns that exceed our fear of the Y2K syndrome.  Worries about the ability of our banks to keep tabs on our money, the airlines' ability to keep their airplanes flying and, worst of all, will our e-mail still function?  Compared to what our ancestors were confronted with during the passage of the first millennia, our annoyances pale by comparison.   Many of our ancestors believed that the serpent who had been chained up by an angel for 1000 years would reappear to seduce nations at will.  Those less concerned about Satan's reappearance had problems with Y1K.  How would the world deal with going from DCCCCLXXXXVIIIJ to just plain M?  Fortunately for all of us they worked through the problem and, here we are again, working through the same set of conditions.

There were no such matters on the minds of a group of men and women who came together, first in 1967, then again in 1968 to form a new branch of an ancient Scottish Clan...the Camerons.  Under the leadership of Harold Cameron from London, Ontario, Dan and Jane Cameron from Raleigh, N.C., Lyndon and Helen Hobbs from Shelby, N.C., Grimsley and Lois Hobbs from Greensboro, N.C., Burton Cameron and Genieve from Broadway, N.C., Virgil and Evie Cameron from Columbia, S.C. and Mickey Taylor from Johnson City, N.C. they formed the Grandfather Mountain Branch of Clan Cameron sanctioned by Sir Donald H. Cameron of Lochiel, 26th Chief of Clan Cameron.

From humble beginnings, great things happen as it did with our Clan organization.  Membership grew to such proportions that in 1980 the Clan was subdivided into three Regions: Canada, Western and Eastern USA. Harold Cameron was appointed by Lochiel to be his first Commissioner on the North American Continent.  The first Regional President of Canada, Ian Cameron, retains that office today.  Lou Clark was appointed President of the Western Region; Dan Cameron was appointed President of the Eastern Region.  Subsequently, Larry Cameron succeeded Lou Clark and Colin Cameron succeeded Dan Cameron.  Just recently, Larry Cameron retired and Shaun Rex assumed his office.  When Harold Cameron retired in 1987, Donald John Cameron was appointed by Lochiel to his position.

The growth continued.  Two more Regions were formed; one by dividing the Eastern Region into the Northern and Southern Regions.  Cerise Cameron Blair remained as President of the Southern Region while Tom Cameron became President of the Northern Region.  The Western Region was then divided into the Western Region and the Rocky Mountain-West Region.  Larry Cameron continued on as President of the Western Region with Mike Bozeman taking on the duties of President for the new Rocky Mountain-West Region.

Each of these Regions have several Branches and Chapters.  There are three Branches in the Northern Region: Northern Lights, Northeastern USA and Ohio.  Under these Branches there are four new Chapters: Mid-Atlantic, High Plains (Dakotas), Lake Michigan and the Electronic Chapter which, in itself, has been immensely successful.  The Southern Region has 4 Branches which are: Grandfather Mountain, Stone Mountain, Orlando and Red River.  Currently, there are two Chapters; one in Mississippi and one in Alabama. Three Branches also comprise the Western Region, namely; Northern and Southern California, Pacific Northwest and one Chapter called the Columbia River Chapter.  Our newest Region, Rocky Mountain-West has two Branches: Rocky Mountain and Arizona.  At present, there are no Chapters. Canada has two Branches: Ontario and Nova Scotia with no Chapters at the moment.  A Branch that had been in Vancouver became inactive several years ago and has disbanded.

The strength of our organization and its growth seems to lie in a unique structure.  While other Clans have National Headquarters with a centralized administration, The Cameron Clan in North America has remained a loose confederation of Branches and Chapters.  Our source of strength comes from the bottom up rather than from the top down.  Clans with National offices seem to lose touch with their locals groups relying on strict rules and regulations to maintain a uniform structure and character to their organization.  Clan Cameron, however, relies on individual groups to form, establish their own by-laws, maintain fiscal responsibility and publish their own newsletter but agreeing to stay within the Guidelines as published in 1980.  The Commissioner and Regional Presidents are there to assist Chapters and Branches in their organizing efforts, becoming responsible in money matters and in recruiting new members through various Scottish events including Highland Games.   They can also help with genealogy and history matters and much of the Clan heritage which comes down to us, not only in books, but orally, as well.

There is such a wealth of history, ancestry and genealogy to be studied and enjoyed by the members of our Clan. Added to that fact is our Scottish desire to preserve the culture, music and heritage of this magnificent little country that has such a rich history and has played such an important part in the development of both Canada and the United States.  The coming together of these two endeavors makes belonging to Clan Cameron an extremely satisfying enterprise.

Throughout all we do, let us remember our ancient motto: Aonaibh Ri Chéile - Unite!

CLAN CAMERON ENGLAND
by Raymond McKenzie Cameron, President, Clan Cameron England

Millenium greetings to all Clan Members, supporters, and friends, from The England Branch.

We started as a Chapter as the North of England Branch in 1980, receiving our Charter from Lochiel at the August 1981 Clan Gathering.  We had a small nucleus of enthusiastic founder members. We now find ourselves The England Branch with members living as far afield as France and Wales (the Auld Alliance between Scotland and France is still strong, and we welcome our Welsh members).

As a Branch we keep in touch with the present activities and aims of the Clan but do realise that we should have a threefold view of affairs if we are to be successful and enter into the 21st Century - we should rejoice and remember our formation and past as a proud and noble part of Scottish heritage, be able to adapt and to take advantage of the present times with the challenges and changes happening within the Clan worldwide, and look forward to a strong and vibrant future, even in this new and uncertain approaching century.  Clan Cameron and The England Branch must grasp the new opportunities and plan ahead.

As a Branch we have the difficulties of having members spread over a large geographical area and will attempt to knit together for the benefit of all.  Over the next year or so we will hopefully organise an England Branch Gathering, and offer guidance, help, information and support to our existing and new members.  A Grand Ceilidh is one of our thoughts, as is the display of Clan memorabilia and photographs.  Our Clan must be remembered, revered, and moved forward into the new millenium - adapt and succeed must be the watchword, and The England Branch is in there, ready for the challenge.

The drawback we face, as I'm sure with all other Branches, is that in an ever busier lifestyle we have work and business commitments and family duties which take the largest chunk of our days and energy.  This does sadly very much limit the work we can do to further the Clan and its interests, and now that we are The England Branch instead of the North of England Branch the task has grown.  We therefore must seek to get some active members over the next few months.

We look forward to making contact with other Branches across the globe, and to hear all their news and views and to share their ideas.

CLAN CAMERON AUSTRALIA
by Dr. Ian Henry Cameron, Chieftain, Clan Cameron Australia

Cameron Australia was established in the state of Victoria in September 1933 at a time when there was interest in Clan memberships.   My grandfather, a Presbyterian minister founded the Clan with the idea of fostering interest in Scottish customs, the preservation of records and to assist members of the Scottish community.  He also established St. Andrews Presbyterian Hospital and Homes for the Aged in Melbourne.  The Clan has gathered every two months during the last sixty-six years.  A number of our members have been singers, dancers, pipers and musicians and we are not short of entertainment.

Presently we hold ceilidhs, socials, Scottish video presentations and genealogy forums in Melbourne.  In 1983 Clan Cameron New South Wales re-formed after their initial meeting in 1938.  Similarly Clan Cameron Queensland re-formed in 1986. Clan Cameron South Australia started in 1983.

The Clans in these states are autonomous and each recognizes Lochiel as the hereditary Chief of Cameron.  Lochiel has appointed me his High Commissioner in Australia and a Proclaimed Chieftain in Clan Cameron.

The Clan Cameron Newsletter is published in Victoria by Clan Cameron Australia and is distributed to all Clan members in Australia, other Clan Societies in Victoria and overseas Clan Cameron Societies in New Zealand, North America, England and Scotland.

We are aware that many of our Clan members live a great distance from the social activities of our Clan Societies and welcome this informative Newsletter.  The committee members welcome the opportunity to attend Highland Gatherings in provincial towns to meet with members who find it difficult to travel.  We recognise the contributions made by Camerons in the development of this country by erecting plaques and statues in their memory.  Our members support the other Clans and Societies' activities recognizing that many people are able to claim membership of more than one Scottish Clan or Irish family.

Clan Cameron New South Wales has published an extensive Genealogy of Camerons now in preparation of its third edition.  This has proven to be an important reference for researchers of their family's genealogy and has been compiled from the personal researches of our Clan members.

We expect that through the Internet we will be able to share with Camerons their interest in their genealogy, their Scottish origins and the wealth of Scottish customs and history.

Our Clan is fortunate to have as its chief a highly respected gentlemen in Lochiel who actively leads the Clan worldwide and it behoves us to uphold all the traditions of the Camerons.

The immigrants to Australia a little over two centuries ago were predominantly Anglo-Saxon and attracted many people of Celtic descent.  Our associations in Australia enable Camerons and septs of the Clan to access the Clan's history, the history of Scotland and to understand the customs of their forebears.  Our Clan will continue to recognize the achievements of the early Scottish settlers.  Our Socials encourage participation in the song, dance, music and the customs of ancient Scotland.  At Highland Gatherings the Clan is always prominent with its information booths and display.   In the future we look forward to the continuation of the Gatherings at Achnacarry when we can have personal contact with the family of Lochiel and the members of the world wide Clan.

At the start of the twenty-first century, I send Greetings from Australia to members of Clan Cameron around the world and trust that our Cameron history will continue to be recorded, customs preserved and that our Scottish heritage will continue to be a source of pride and inspiration for the generations which follow through the next millennium.

CLAN CAMERON SCOTLAND
by David Roderick Cameron, President, Clan Cameron Scotland

It has been said that a nation which forgets its past is dead - and this could also happen to a clan if nothing is done. Clans enrich the heritage of Scotland and in the 20th Century this bygone inheritance has somehow helped to maintain the ties with the numerous families of the Scots who emigrated to the "new world" and "down under."  Although the Clan Cameron Associations around the world have a strong and active following, unfortunately in Scotland there has not been the same level of support, particularly since the 1970's, and the Association here has perhaps been rather taken for granted.

However I sense a change possibly arising out of the increased focus on Scottish identity and cultural matters with the newly re-opened Scottish Parliament in historic Edinburgh.  So I am very hopeful that our Association will revive as clansfolk rediscover that desire to belong to the Clan with such a distinguished record in Scotland's history.  The turning at New Year of the Century and the Millennium must give everyone more than usual pause for thought about their roots in Clan Cameron and be a reminder of the kinship of our birth.  When we meet at the Clan Gathering in 2001 it will, I am sure, be with a feeling of pride and unity and also a realisation that Clan Cameron under its Chief, Lochiel, can still provide a degree of stability and continuity in a rapidly changing world.

In anticipation of reawakened interest the Association in Scotland has reorganised Council into five regions (like the crest of arrows) and hopes to see membership expand.  In order to retain commitment I feel there needs to be something with a wider purpose than simply local events.  The New Zealand Association has developed the "First Light Exchange Programme" for young Camerons - and I think we should start a complementary fund as an educational foundation or charitable trust, perhaps called the "Lochaber Links Appeal," to benefit young people in Scotland wishing to exchange with those in other parts of the world. Possibly it could tie in with fund-raising elsewhere.

The Clan history by John Stewart of Ardvorlich has only a short list of famous Camerons.   There must be many more in a wide range of endeavours particularly in the 20th Century from around the world who it would be good to make better known.   These could be compiled in appropriate categories and what better for the year 2000 than a synopsis of the lives of significant Camerons of the cloth following the early Bishop, John Cameron of medieval Glasgow and Richard Cameron the Covenanter.  Certainly with my background in architecture I would like to know of noteworthy Camerons in the building industry to add to Charles Cameron, Architect to Catherine the Great of Russia.  It's not all men as for instance there was an important Victorian photographer, Julia Cameron, who deserves to be better known. It is important to update Clan history to help inspire future generations.

As we stand at the gate of the Millennium can we begin to see a pathway ahead which will appeal to younger members and give renewed purpose to the Clan?  I doubt if I have shed much light as a recently appointed President, but certainly the combination of all the messages and topics requested by Tom Cameron will be most illuminating.  What I can say on behalf of the Council of the Association is that visiting Camerons and members of septs will always be given a warm welcome and assistance in finding places of Clan importance in Scotland.

 

WHAT HAS BEEN PRESERVED FROM THIS PAST MILLENNIUM
by Denis Muir; Curator, Clan Cameron Museum

It is strange, and a reflection on our society, that the most common preserved relic is that most fragile of materials, paper; more particularly, legal documents, showing the importance that has been placed on having a clear written record and not relying on the spoken and remembered word.

It unfortunate that the Achnacarry documents were lost in 1746, although we do know what the chest contained in 1727.  It is probable that any family that lived in a stone built house would have had such a chest; incidentally, does anyone know where the Clunes chest is?  It disappeared quite recently, when contact was lost with the member of the family who had it, together with other family items.   The museum has few original documents; but it does have some of the estate account books for the nineteenth century, with the names of the tenants of the crofts, farms and fishings, with details of their rents and arrears.

For other artefacts, we have Sir Ewen Dubh's boots; they were preserved because in 1745 Drummond of Balhaldie was writing his biography, and had taken away some of the stuff concerning him.  We claim to have his gun, but this I doubt - as it was made by H Knock, who was producing his weapons in the eighteenth century; his original order book survives, and I want to look at it one day to see for whom the weapon was made.

Lochiel has many relics at the Castle; one must mention Ewen McIlduy's sword (a fearsome weapon) and the Clan Banner which was carried at Culloden by MacLachlan of Coruanan, who brought it away after the battle and hid it in his house (although that must have been later, for his house and barns, to the value of £10, were burnt), and it was given back to Lochiel in 1877 by Miss Janet MacLachlan before she joined her sisters in Canada.  Then there are the Gentle Lochiel's pistols, targe and snuffbox; I was recently asked why the motto on the targe "Fear God, Honour the King" is in English, and not, as would have been expected, in either Latin or Gaelic.  If anyone knows the answer, please let us know.

The museum does have a large number of genealogies which have been given to us by members of the Clan, and we want more.  I must mention the Australian Genealogy, which is produced by the New South Wales Branch of the Association; we try to get any Australian Cameron coming in to look at it to ensure that they are mentioned, but have to send many on their way saying "You must get it up to date."  A few weeks ago a lady came in and asked if we knew anything about John Cameron the Wise; she was dumb-founded when I put in front of her our very heavy copy of "1001 Descendants of John Cameron the Wise," which was published by the Glengarry Genealogical Society of Glengarry in Canada.

One of our projects is to put our genealogies onto computer so that they can be searched efficiently; even now, we have our successes with people finding branches of their families which they did not know existed.  But I repeat, we want more genealogies, even if they do not go very far back - the one that you send in may be the one that someone else is looking for.

But, please, we cannot help with "Donald Cameron who lived near Ben Nevis."

 

THIS PUBLICATION

Since early September 1999, when the Millennium Newsletter project began, over forty-eight editorial hours and well over one hundred revisions have been made to this document.  The Millennium Newsletter's editor, the Association's Northern U.S. President Thomas Alexander Cameron, would like to thank those Camerons who have graciously provided such superb content and cooperation.  Another "nod" of appreciation must go out to the various individuals who are receiving "master copies" of this document and re-distributing it on their local levels - no small effort in itself!   Lastly, the funding required to reproduce and mail "hard copies" of this newsletter to the previously mentioned Association contacts, was provided by a member of the Lake Michigan Chapter who has asked to remain anonymous.  While honoring this request, we would nevertheless like to thank this "proud Cameron" for underwriting the Clan Cameron Association's Millennium Newsletter.

 

THE CAMERON KIDS PLEDGE

Clan Cameron Online recently posed the following question to Association members: "What do you see as the 'key' to preserving our Cameron heritage in the new Millennium?"   Without exception the response was "the children."   With that thought in mind, the following "Cameron Kids Pledge" was created and posted on the website, asking the "wee ones" to take the following pledge:

 

* As a Cameron Kid, I pledge to learn of my proud Cameron heritage, and of my Scottish ancestry;
* I also pledge to help others discover the traditions, history and culture that Camerons from throughout the world share with one another;
* Further more, I pledge to represent the Clan Cameron with dignity, and to respect all others, regardless of their nationality or race;
* Lastly, I promise to uphold these pledges now and in the next Millennium, as a proud Cameron Kid.

Via the Internet, the following twenty-one determined "Cameron Kids" took the pledge:

Tyler McClellend Blair, Texas, U.S.A., age 5
Alexander Franklin Cameron, Arizona, U.S.A., age 11
Bret Gordon Cameron, Washington, U.S.A., age 6
Brooke Ellen Cameron, Arizona, U.S.A., age 6
Christopher Lee Cameron, Minnesota, U.S.A., age 12
Eve Sheila Cameron, Ayrshire, Scotland, age 9
Janie Clare Cameron, Canterbury, New Zealand, age 9
Jessica Lynn Cameron, Washington, U.S.A., age 4
John David Cameron , Illinois, U.S.A., age 5
Katie Lynn Cameron, Maryland, U.S.A., age 7
Rebecca Fay Cameron, Ayrshire, Scotland, age 11
Ryan Alexander Cameron, Illinois, U.S.A., age 7
Sarah Rose Cameron, Canterbury, New Zealand, age 7
Schuyler Franklin Cameron, Arizona, U.S.A., age 9
Shawn David Cameron, Minnesota, U.S.A., age 15
Joshua Adam Holstein, Ohio, U.S.A., age 11
Scott Cameron Kessenick, California, U.S.A., age 15
Julie Ellen Leibold, Minnesota, U.S.A., age 13
Christina Marie Ryan, Ontario, Canada, age 15
Heather Marie Taylor, South Dakota, U.S.A., age 12
Cameron Jay Worrall, Victoria, Australia, age 11

 

A VOICE FOR THE NEW MILLENNIUM

On the occasion of the new Millennium, Lochiel's grandson, the son of Donald Angus Cameron, Younger of Lochiel, Donald Andrew Cameron, sends the following greetings.   As does his father, Donald Andrew represents the future of Clan Cameron with great pride and dignity.  As the Clan Cameron "heads" into this third Millennium, our future appears to be secure, with the Camerons of Lochiel as hereditary chiefs.

"Let us hope that Clan Cameron goes from strength to strength as we head into the 21st century.  With better communications and interaction between its many diverse parts, the Clan Cameron Organisation across the world will hopefully draw closer together, as we continue to enjoy and take pride in our shared heritage. May an honourable PAST and an exciting PRESENT, drive us on to a happy and fulfilling FUTURE.

Slainte!"

 

THE CLAN CAMERON MILLENNIUM TIMELINE

* 1000: The "1st" Captain of the Camerons, Angus, is said to lead his kinsmen in Lochaber

* 1165: Robert of Cambrun granted lands of Ballegarno in the Carse of Gowrie by King William the Lyon; his "Cameron Connections" are unclear

* 1314: Camerons join King Robert the Bruce at the Battle of Bannockburn for a glorious victory over England's King Edward II

* 1320: Sir John de Cambrun is among the Scottish nobles who signs and seals the historic Declaration of Arbroath

* 1333: Cameron forces, led by John De Cameron, "supposed" VIII Chief, fight in the 3rd division of the Scots army at the Battle of Hallidon Hill

* 1370: The Battle of Invernahavon, one of many early "Cameron vs. Macintosh" conflicts that would continue over the next three hundred years

* 1396: The Battle of the North Inch of Perth, possibly fought between Camerons and Macintoshes before King Robert III

* 1400: Donald Dubh Cameron becomes the XI Captain of the Camerons; his "patronymic" remains for the next 600 years with each and every Cameron chief

* 1411: Donald Dubh Cameron, XI Chief, and his men join the Lord of the Isles in the "indecisive" Battle of Harlaw - many Camerons perish

* 1430: John Cameron, Archbishop of Glasgow, founds a portion of Glasgow Cathedral

* 1431: Clan Cameron joins King James I's unsuccessful Royalist army against Donald Balloch - after his victory, Balloch ravages Lochaber in retribution

* 1441: Camerons meet Mackintoshes in a "sanguinary conflict" at Craig Cailloch, after which Macintoshes were silenced - for the moment

* 1472: For the first time in recorded history, the phrase- name "Clan Cameron" is recorded - a clan is born

* 1492: The Cameron lands on "Locheilside" are officially granted for the first time to Ewen Cameron, XVII Chief

* 1503: The Camerons fight in the Rebellion of Donald Dubh, and Ewen, XVII Chief is "declared rebel" by the Crown

* 1513: Camerons, led by Ewen MacAllan Cameron, XIII Chief, join King James IV in defeat at the Battle of Flodden, in Northern England

* 1527: The Captain and Chief of Clan Cameron is referred to for the first time as "of Lochiel."

* Circa 1533: The great "strong house" of Torcastle replaces Eilean nan Craobh as the Cameron seat

* 1546: Ewen Cameron, XIII Chief, is beheaded at Elgin by the efforts of Huntly, Lieutenant of the North

* Circa 1553: Ewen Cameron, XIV Chief, is murdered at the castle of Inch-Connel, in Lochow

* 1569: Donald Cameron, XV Chief, is murdered by his own clansmen - chaos ensues for the next 8 years

* 1569-1577: Donald "The Taillear Dubh" Cameron heroically defends the Camerons from the Mackintoshes - his deadly battle axe is feared throughout Lochaber

* 1598: Allan Cameron, XVI Chief, and his men undertake the First Raid of Moyness, in Moray - many cattle are "lifted"

* 1635: John Cameron, eldest son of Allan Cameron, XVI Chief, dies - his son, the future Sir Ewen, is now heir

* 1645: The Second raid of Moyness is undertaken upon the same lands as the first raid - many Camerons are killed in the aftermath

* 1645: The Battle of Inverlochy - 300 Camerons proudly fight for the victorious Montrose

* 1647: An eighteen-year old Ewen Cameron returns to Lochaber upon the death of his grandfather, to lead the clan

* Circa 1654: Ewen Cameron, XVII Chief, takes a desperate bite out of the throat of an English officer in battle - and lives to tell the story

* Circa 1655: Work commences on the Chief of Clan Cameron's grand new fir-planked residence, Achnacarry

* 1665: The Cameron - Macintosh feud comes to an end after 360 years of nearly continuous conflict

* 1671: Camerons begin to arrive in America prior to this date, when one is noted as living in Virginia

* 1682: While in Edinburgh, Ewen Cameron, XVII Chief, is Knighted by HRH, the Duke of York

* 1680-1685: Sir Ewen purchases lands in both Jamaica and East Jersey, in "The Americas"

* 1689: Sir Ewen charges barefooted along with his Camerons to victory at the Battle of Killiecrankie

* 1715: John Cameron, XVIII Chief, leads the Camerons in support of the Jacobite cause

* 1745: Donald "The Gentle Lochiel," XIX Chief, leads the Camerons in support of "Bonnie Prince Charlie"

* 1746: After two forceful campaign victories, the Jacobite army is defeated at the Battle of Culloden - many Camerons lay dead or wounded on the moor

* 1746: As Lochiel looks on, Achnacarry is burnt to the ground. Later that year he will escape to exile in France

* 1753: Dr. Archibald Cameron, brother of Donald XIX Chief, is executed in London. He is the final Jacobite to die for Prince Charles' cause

* 1790: Donald Cameron, XXII Chief, returns to Lochaber for a visit, and is welcomed by Cameron clansmen

* 1802: Ground is broken on "New" Achnacarry; it would be completed thirty-five years later

* 1814: Donald Cameron, XXIII Chief, fights at the Battle of Waterloo with the Grenadier Guards

* 1857: Donald Cameron, XXIV Chief, appointed 1st attache in Lord Elgin's mission to China

* 1891: The Clan Cameron Association is founded on January 29th of this year, in Glasgow

* 1915: Donald W. Cameron, XXV Chief, leads the 5th Battalion, Cameron Highlanders at the Battle of Loos

* 1934: King George V creates Donald W. Cameron, XXV Chief, a Knight of the Thistle

* 1938: The first ever worldwide Clan Cameron "Gathering" is held at Achnacarry

* 1939: Donald H. Cameron, XXVI Chief, commands his regiment of the Lovat Scouts during World War II

* 1956: A worldwide Gathering of Clan Cameron is held at Achnacarry

* 1964: A worldwide Gathering of Clan Cameron is held at Achnacarry

* 1967: A worldwide Gathering of Clan Cameron is held at Achnacarry

* 1973: Queen Elizabeth II creates Donald H. Cameron, XXVI Chief, a Knight of the Thistle

* 1989: The Clan Cameron Museum, a concept initiated by Donald A. Cameron, Younger of Lochiel, is opened on the grounds of Achnacarry

* 1995: A worldwide Gathering of Clan Cameron is held at Achnacarry

* 1999: As the Millennium ends, approximately 2,500 families worldwide are proud, active members of the Clan Cameron Association

 

ANNS AN DEALACHADH
(finally, in closing...)

And so we now close this Millennium Newsletter, the 35th Online Newsletter in Clan Cameron Online's five years of existence.  Camerons from throughout the Association are sharing this publication, and other Camerons are also viewing the Online Newsletter in its entirety for the very first time outside of our membership...

Mar sin leibh