250th anniversary of one of its most famous sons, Sir Walter Scott

Abbotsford, home of Sir Walter Scott

"In 2021-22 Scotland celebrates the 250th anniversary of one of its most famous sons, Sir Walter Scott

Nobody has done more to give a nation a sense of itself. Through the mines of his imagination and the magic of his pen, he celebrated the history and landscapes of Scotland in a string of best-selling books that dominated the 19th century.

Scott’s legacy can still be experienced in the most extraordinary and unexpected places across Scotland, from castles to cashmere mills and from mountain tops to moments of mindfulness. Meet the real man behind the monument, whose imagination, integrity and patriotism shaped the Scotland of today."

Now launched the Walter Scott 250 website is now operational.

Walter Scott: The Man Behind the Monument (online course)

During the early period of COVID-19 containment, many of us discovered a new way to explore interests by taking courses in the comfort of your own home. Something tells me this may be a positive legacy of COVID. Disease was nothing new to Sir Walter Scott, the writer and master of Abbotsford, who experienced loss of five siblings in infancy and a sixth died at the age of five month. Walter’s own challenges with health issues necessitated him being removed from his urban home to recuperate and live with relatives in the countryside when his bout of childhood polio left him lame. Having to deal with his health issues we now know allowed him to experience a part of Scotland unfamiliar to most children living in Edinburgh and triggered a lifelong interest in collecting, countryside exploration, storytelling and history. The molding of the man was clearly in his boyhood which led to his great legacy in historical novels, which continue to cultivate international interest in all things Scottish.

I am currently taking an online course through the University of Aberdeen and FutureLearn called Walter Scott: The Man Behind the Monument taught by Professor Ali Lumsden and Kirsty Archer-Thompson.

Ali is the director of the University of Aberdeen’s Walter Scott Research Centre and Honorary Librarian at Abbotsford while Kirsty is responsible for the collections, interiors and built heritage of Abbotsford.

The course literature indicates that it is a four-week short course and is delivered entirely online via FutureLearn. “You can study anywhere in the world and manage your study hours to suit you. You’ll learn with academics from the University of Aberdeen, the Walter Scott Research Centre, and experts at Abbotsford, Scott’s home in the Scottish Borders.

The course features a range of online resources, including: videos, articles, audio clips, novel extracts, discussions, and quizzes. You’ll spend around two hours per week on this course.”

They indicate that it was originally a free Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) produced by the University of Aberdeen and Abbotsford. “However, in response to the Covid-19 crisis and the increased demand for armchair learning opportunities, it has been decided to keep this popular course open and free for people to drop into until August. The course will be mentored once a week by tutors during this time, before the launch of a fully-mentored version to celebrate Scott’s birthday in August.

The course has specifically been designed for beginners and there is no prior knowledge of the subject required. It requires no more than two hours of work each week and will provide a comprehensive overview of Scott’s work and legacy, while challenging common misconceptions.”

I have read several biographies of Scott over the years and Abbotsford is a Mecca for me but I continue to learn new things about the character and mind of the great bard. Not only did he have a great mind for detail and a prolific writing ability but he had a direct connection to the land in his exploration as a countryside rambler and collector. Walking the trails he created in his woods at Abbotsford is a great way to commune with his love of the land.

Currently I am still taking the course and we are examining the early years that prepared Scott for the life of the writer. The course materials tell us that:

“He collected historical artefacts. He later read relevant historical documents in Register House, and had friends transcribe relevant manuscripts in the British Museum. Scott's greatness as scholar and writer comes from his imaginative ability to synthesize these different kinds of historical evidence to create narratives in which detail is used to reveal the way in which people in the past construed their world and invested it with meaning.”

The course covers the work and legacy of Walter Scott under topics like:

·         Scott as a collector

·         Relationship between Scott’s home at Abbotsford and storytelling

·         Connections between Scott’s work and landscape, history and nationhood

·         Curating Scott’s legacy

 The website address is

https://www.futurelearn.com/courses/walter-scott

Scott Clan Gathering 2014 - Scotland

River Tweed at Abbotsford House

It was very special to return to Scotland in June and attend a gathering of Scott Clan which was held between Bowhill House, the Borders home to the Chief of Clan Scott, Duke Richard Scott and Abbotsford House, historic home of Sir Walter Scott.

Desk and Study Where Sir Walter Scott Did Much of His Writing.

Abbotsford Historic Home of Sir Walter Scott

Abbotsford being newly restored with the addition of an interpretative centre and the conversion of a family wing into accommodation has put the operation on the tourist radar once again as a top literary mecca and now, a wedding venue.

Hope Scott Wing

The accommodation wing was added to the historic house by Sir Walter's granddaughter, and is now called the Hope Scott Wing.


It was a very special opportunity to stay in the Hope Scott Wing, along with other members of Clan Scott Society.

The Sir Walter Scott room at Bowhill House

Bowhill House

Events included two days of touring Scott Country in the Scottish Borders, with knowledgeable guides and special events and dinners hosted at both Bowhill and Abbotsford.

Tours of both houses - real treasure houses - set in the countryside, remains a major highlight.

With Scotts in attendance from around the world, it was a reminder how Scotland remains an important ancestral connection for many Scottish families no matter how many generations ago their ancestors left to pursue new opportunities in distant lands.

To be warmly welcomed back to an area that remains so rich in ancestral area for Scotts was much appreciated.

Bowhill House

Newfoundland & Labrador - Scott Names

Here are the entries in the Encyclopedia of Newfoundland & Labrador, for individuals with the surname Scott.
---------------------
Scott, Adam

(1823-1881). Educator. Born Canonbie, Scotland. Scott came to Newfoundland in 1852 as headmaster of the newly established General Protestant Academy. The Academy had been founded under provisions of the Academy Act of 1851, which provided for the establishment of a General Academy, divided on denominational lines into three branches, one for each of the Roman Catholic, Church of England, and ``General Protestant'' denominations. The last named initially comprised Methodists, Congregationalists and Presbyterians, but when in 1852 the Methodists set up their own school, the General Protestant Academy became the domain solely of Congregationalists and Presbyterians. (See PRESBYTERIAN COLLEGE.) It was as headmaster, often the sole teacher, of this institution, situated on Queen's Road in St. John's, that Scott, a long-standing member of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, presided for more than quarter of a century.
Although the Academy was technically administered by an appointed Board, Scott appears to have been left to preside single-handedly over all aspects of the school's operation, including the disposition of its curriculum. The Board, however, was responsible for dispensing the moneys necessary to fund the school's operation and upkeep. When in 1873 it failed to do this to Scott's satisfaction, he wrote it a highly critical report on the school's physical condition. When, a year later, help had not materialized, Scott resigned, but later withdrew his resignation. In 1876 a new Education Act made the curious provision that the rights of the two denominations responsible for the Academy would be recognized for a period of 20 years and ``as long thereafter as Adam Scott, Esq., the present master of the General Protestant Academy, shall live'' (Rowe). Because of ill health, Scott retired in the following year. Petitioned to reconsider, he wrote in reply, ``After conducting the G.P. Academy for a quarter of a century, I do not feel disposed to enter into any engagement to teach. I prefer to be free'' (Minutes: Aug. 4, 1877). Described as ``A gentleman of keen observation and considerable literary acquisition, a good citizen in every meaning of the term'' (Royal Gazette), he died at St. John's on October 22, 1881, whereupon the Board awarded his widow an annual allowance of £30.
F.W. Rowe (1952),
Ian S. Wishart (1993),
Royal Gazette (Oct. 25, 1881),
St. Andrew's Church archives, St. John's (Minutes of the Board of the General Protestant Academy, 1858-1893).
--------------------------------------
Scott, George Gilbert

(1811-1878). Architect. Born Gawcott, Buckinghamshire; son of Thomas Scott. Scott was a member of the High Church party of the Church of England and was one of the most famous Gothic architects in nineteenth-century Europe. He was awarded a gold medal by the Royal Institute of British Architects in 1859, and served as president of the Institute from 1873 to 1876. He was knighted in 1872. It was Scott's design that was chosen by Edward Feild qv for the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist qv in St. John's. (Feild rejected a design by James Purcell qv which had been approved by his predecessor, Bishop Spencer). During his career, Scott was involved in over 700 design or restoration projects. His books include A Plea for the Faithful Restoration of Ancient Churches (1850) and Medieval Architecture (1879).
DCB VIII (James Purcell),
DNB (XVII).
-----------------------------------------
Scott, James Banks

(1880-1939). Mariner; union organizer. Born St. John's. As a marine engineer sailing out of St. John's, Scott was at one time a member of Capt. Robert Bartlett's qv crew. In 1908-09 he was second engineer aboard the Roosevelt, the ship which Bartlett commanded for Robert Peary on a lengthy expedition to the north pole. Scott returned to St. John's, but in 1916 moved to Grand Falls. He worked as a machinist in the paper mill and became prominent on the local labour scene. He helped found the Grand Falls branch of the Newfoundland *Industrial Workers Association qv and, in 1919, the Grand Falls Co-op. From 1919 to 1937 he was an executive officer of local 63 of the International Brotherhood of Pulp, Sulphite and Paper Mill Workers. This local was involved in a strike in 1921, which ended without any concessions being gained from the company. President on several occasions, he helped keep the local functioning during the 1920s and 1930s. Scott was a delegate to the founding convention of the Newfoundland Trades and Labour Council in 1937.
Robert E. Peary (1910),
DNLB (1990),
Grand Falls Advertiser (Aug. 26, 1939).
-----------------------------
Scott, John

(1840-1901). Roman Catholic priest. Born Limerick, Ireland. Educated St. Bonaventure's College. Scott first came to Newfoundland with Bishop John T. Mullock qv. After completing his education in St. John's, he was ordained a priest in 1863. He was an assistant to Father O'Keefe in Brigus and acted as curate to Dean Cleary on the Southern Shore. After two years in the outports, Scott was appointed to St. Patrick's church in St. John's. With the support of Bishop M.F. Howley qv he was named monsignor and after his investiture embarked on an extensive European and American tour. He died in St. John's, where he had spent 36 years in pastoral work.
H.M. Mosdell (1923),
Hutchinson's Newfoundland Directory for 1864-65 (1864),
NQ (July, 1901).
--------------------
Scott, Patrick J.

(1848-1899). Lawyer; politician. Born St. John's. Educated St. Bonaventure's College. Married Eleanor Margaret Little. Scott studied law in the 1860s with George J. Hogsett and with his brother-in-law John Little qqv. Admitted to the Newfoundland bar in 1872 he was later made Queen's Counsel. He entered political life in 1873 as a member of the anti-confederate and largely Roman Catholic Liberal party. Elected as a candidate in St. John's West, Scott sat in the House of Assembly as a member of Charles F. Bennett's qv government. He was re-elected by acclamation in 1874 and 1878. While a member of the Liberal opposition he earned a reputation as an orator and financial critic of the Conservative governments of F.B.T. Carter and William V. Whiteway. During the 1882 elections the Liberals allied themselves with the pro-railway party of William V. Whiteway, but in the aftermath of a sectarian riot in Harbour Grace Scott and other Catholic Liberals withdrew from the alliance.
Re-elected for St. John's West in 1885, Scott became the spokesman for those members who, though they sat in the opposition, were generally sympathetic to the administration of Robert Thorburn. Scott accepted an invitation by Thorburn to attend talks to discuss the prospects of union with Canada, though he was himself an avowed anti-confederate. Scott soon became involved in the rivalry between politicians Moses Monroe and Edward P. Morris qqv by supporting Monroe in municipal elections. Monroe won the municipal election, but Scott lost his seat in the House of Assembly to Morris in 1889. In 1893 Scott was again defeated in his old district, but later won a by-election. When a ``caretaker'' Liberal administration was formed, by Daniel J. Greene qv, Scott was given the appointment of Receiver General, and retained the position when Whiteway returned to power. Whiteway's government was defeated in the general election of 1897, Scott himself being defeated in the district of Placentia and St. Mary's. He then returned to private legal practice. He died while attempting a political comeback in a by-election in the district of St. John's East.
DCB XII,
ET (Oct. 23, 1899).
----------------------
Scott, Peter

(1948-). Botanist. Born Toronto, son of John Scott and Marjorie C. Davis. Educated University of Alberta; Memorial University of Newfoundland. Scott moved to Newfoundland at an early age. A professor of botany and genetics at Memorial University, his first book, Conifers of Newfoundland, was published by the University's department of biology. In 1975 Some Edible Fruits and Herbs of Newfoundland was published by the Oxen Pond Botanic Park. It was re-issued by Breakwater Books in 1978. Scott has also written Boreal Flora: Vascular Flora of Newfoundland and Newfoundland Gardening. He has appeared regularly as a gardening consultant on CBC Radio and has been active in several community projects, including Oxen Pond Botanic Gardens and the Freshwater Resources Centre in Pippy Park, has conducted vegetation analysis for the national Green Plan, and has served on the Canadian Global Challenges research panel. In 1992 he designed the heritage garden for Campbell House in Trinity. Scott was awarded the Southcott Award for Heritage preservation in 1993.
Peter Scott (1975; 1978; interview, June 1993),
ET (Mar. 13, 1967).
--------------------
Scott, Robert

(1835-1913). Merchant. Born Glasgow, Scotland. Married Mary Caroline Lucas. Scott was an agent for Walter Grieve and Company until around 1865, when he established himself as a trader at Fogo. Between 1867 and 1.105 he registered 12 vessels at St. John's. Along with his general fishery supply business, Scott operated a passenger and freight service to and from Fogo Island. He was for many years magistrate, justice of the peace and collector of customs at Fogo. Scott died in January 1913.
Mildred Howard (1980),
DNLB (1990),
Newfoundland Directory (1864-1904),
Maritime History Archive (Newfoundland Shipowners File).

2014 Clan Gathering - activities (June 28 - 30, 2014)

Announcement from the Council of Scottish Clans and Associations:

The pieces of the 2014 Clan Gathering are finally being shaken into place - and the resulting picture is actually pretty exciting. While it has taken some time for the concept of the 2014 Clan Gathering events to materialize, the developing vision and approach are fresh and energetic.
The Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs (SCSC) has released a press release that speaks to the current plan in broad terms. CLICK HERE to read the SCSC press release.

Here are the highlights:

1. Previous plans for a Gathering at Stirling on July 11 -13, 2014 have been scrapped. The highland games scheduled for that weekend will, we understand, continue, but there is no longer any "Gathering" event being planned at Stirling.

2. The revised plan is to center a general clan gathering directly around the Bannockburn 700th Anniversary activities (June 28 - 30, 2014). An extra day of reenactment has been added to accommodate the clans. Additionally, a Clan Village is now in the works. Bannockburn events are being very capably organised and designed by The National Trust for Scotland and promise to be spectacular (See for yourself at the NTS Battle of Bannockburn website HERE). Bannockburn is a natural pairing for the second Gathering as is explained in the SCSC press release.

3. The Bannockburn gathering activities will be complemented with several regional Clan based events that gather clans and celebrate history and heritage all across Scotland. There are already some very exciting ideas well into development.

4. Finally, the clans will convene a 2nd International Clan Convention to coincide closely with the Bannockburn gathering activities and to conduct the continuing business of the international Scottish clan community.

This is a developing story and we will continue to bring you updates as we can, but here are just a few thoughts and a bit of background and perspective for now:

Background
In putting together the upcoming Stone Mountain Chiefs and Clans conference set for Oct. 19th at the Stone Mountain Highland Games, it occurred to us (COSCA and SCSC) that there was still precious little further to report about plans for the 2014 Gathering. It actually was occurring to many people. Oh Oh.

So, several months ago, we began to make our voice of concern heard as well as our offer to help. The upshot is this: SCSC, through the keen leadership of Sir Malcolm MacGregor of MacGregor, is now deeply and rightly integrated in the correct channels and places in Scotland to begin to kick start and directly influence planning efforts.

What's Different Now
"More details will be coming". Of course we have all heard that before. But here is what is different and very encouraging now:

1. We have Dates and a Place to Gather. We have pretty solid dates and a place/event around which to now organise, and as you point out, it's a good one (Bannockburn). The event is well funded, well directed by National Trust for Scotland, and will be by all appearances, spectacular and energizing. It is solid. Truly something to remember and pretty much something to travel to Scotland in 2014 for, all by itself (CLICK HERE). COSCA will continue working to encourage integration of the clans into Bannockburn events in creative and exciting and meaningful ways.

2. We Have Leadership. We now have a very effective and very reliable pipeline for information and ideas and input straight to the very
center of planning for 2014: Sir Malcolm MacGregor currently sits on the right committees and in the right meetings to really communicate and advocate for the clans and greater Diaspora interest. The SCSC is an outstanding partner.

3. We Have Partners. The Scottish Government has been extremely responsive to our concerns and we are confident that we have found an able and effective partner with which to work on 2014 heritage events. We will continue to work with the Scottish government through Robin Naysmith here in North America and the Homecoming 2014 team in Scotland in fine fashion.

4. We Have Ideas. The idea of regional events swirling around the Bannockburn dates and a 2nd International Clan Convention is, to me at least, a truly exciting one. While Bannockburn will give us the opportunity to gather together, the idea of a feast of regional gatherings in various clan homelands around Scotia is tremendously appealing. I believe the possibilities are truly limited only by our own creativity and the idea has real legs within the planning team.

5. We Have Goals. This experience has re-emphasised something that our great friend Robert McWilliam openly suggested to the first Clan Convention in 2009 and that many of us have often contemplated: The Clans need a hame in Scotland - a place that will provide a home and reliable opportunity to gather and conduct our business that lies under our own control.

6. We Are Working. This experience has also drawn together a growing alliance of Scottish Diaspora leaders and organisations that will prove critical in future months and years as we tackle all of the opportunities and challenges of which we so often speak.

I hope the take away from all of is indeed an exciting and optimistic one. I clearly understand that the early announcement of dates from Scotland has created difficulties for some folks who have made plans. Here is the lesson: the clans need much closer - indeed direct - involvement in the 2014 planning process itself. I am quite confident that we now have that and we will continue work to enhance it.

Yours aye,
Susan L. McIntosh, President
Council of Scottish Clans & Associations

Clan Scott - BBC video

This was produced by BBC as part of a television series on the Clans of Scotland. The full show on Clan Scott is now available on You Tube. Hope you enjoy it.

Clans 2014! - An International Gathering of Clans - July 11 - 13, 2014

Stirling, Scotland  

AFTER A LONG ANTICIPATION, IT IS OFFICIAL: Stirling Council has  followed on to EventScotland's recent announcement of funding for  Scotland's 2014 Year of Homecoming with a huge announcement of their  own: Stirling will host an international gathering of clans, proposed  for 11 - 13 July 2014 to coincide with the Sekonda Stirling Highland Games.  The 2014 clan gathering is envisioned to take place across a number  of venues in Stirling, and is planned to feature:     

* Clans Village     

* Cavalcade procession between the Clan Village and the Castle     

* Entertainment on the Esplanade     

* A program of musical and other cultural events in other key venues  From the looks of it, things are going to be absolutely hopping in  Scotland in 2014, especially in Stirling. In addition to all of the  regular cultural and entertainment events in the area, and in  addition to Clans 2014 International Clan Gathering, Stirling Council  plans to add the following events in 2014:     

* A packed Bannockburn 700 Weekend, featuring re-enactments, the  official opening of the National Trust for Scotland's new Visiter Centre     

* A potential youth arts festival and schools event     

* A "Stirling Tastes Good" food and drink festival in September     

* A potential angling festival Of course, the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs has already  committed host to a 2nd International Clan Convention to conduct the  global business of the Clans, in 2014, most likely also in Stirling  and well coordinated with Clans 2014, Bannockburn 700 etc. COSCA and  Standing Council will partner in America to ensure that American  Scots are well integrated into all of the 2014 events, especially the  Clan Convention.  This is going to be fun. Stay tuned for more info as it becomes  available. Buy more luggage. Go here to take a peek at Stirling Council's excellent 2014 website: 

 http://www.stirling2014.co.uk/ 

Yours, aye!  - Susan L. McIntosh, President

Clan Scott Association of Australasia

The newly launched website for Clan Scott Association of Australasia brings us information on the organization that represents Clan Scott in both Australia and New Zealand. Scottish immigration in general to both Australia and New Zealand and more specifically immigration by Scotts, has been significant to the development of both countries. Great to see the new website and learn about their recent activities.

Clan Scott Association of Australasia

Homecoming Scotland 2014

The word is out - Homecoming Scotland 2009 was a spectacular success and now it's time to begin planning a similar set of events in 2014. The Government of Scotland announced recently that 2014 has been designated as the 2nd Homecoming Scotland year-long event to involve the broad Scottish Diaspora in events taking place in the homeland.

Homecoming 2014 will take place in the year that Scotland hosts the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup and marks the 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn.

More information is available at from the Scottish Government.

Clan Scott was a participant in Homecoming Scotland 2009.

Turner work donated to Walter Scott’s Abbotsford home

As published by BBC News

Two works by JMW Turner, painted during a visit to Sir Walter Scott's home in the Scottish Borders, are being donated to the property.

The postcard-sized watercolours, which feature Abbotsford and Newark Tower in Yarrow, were painted when the artist visited Scott at Abbotsford in 1831.

They were used to illustrate The Poetical Works of Scott in 1833.

A series of additional drawings by Turner are also thought to be beneath the mounts.

The paintings are being donated to The Abbotsford Trust and are due to go on display at the property in 2013.

They are being handed over by current owner Phoebe Barrow, who inherited them from her grandfather John Edward Allen.

The deal, made possible thanks to the Art Fund, is part of plans for a £13m redevelopment of Abbotsford, which will include the construction of a new visitor centre and the refurbishment of the house itself.

Lord Sanderson, chairman of the trust said: "We are obviously delighted that two such significant works have been donated to the trust and are extremely grateful to the Barrow family for this magnificent gift.

"The paintings have close links with Scott and the home that he loved so much, and also illustrate the links between two of the most important cultural figures in our history."

Stephen Deuchar, director of the Art Fund added: "These atmospheric watercolours capture the beauty of Abbotsford and echo the mystery and romance of Sit Walter Scott's writing.

"We're delighted to have helped facilitate Mrs Barrow's generous gift, which allows future generations to admire these precious works and appreciate their significance to this historic house."

Research Your Nova Scotia Family Tree

The Research Your Nova Scotia Family Tree site has an innovative approach to showing geographically the concentrations for surnames within the province (in orange) - with an overlay of the local historical organizations/museums (in blue) which helps researchers in locating resources that could be of assistance to the search.

The example shown is for the Scott family name.


Check it out at: Research Your Nova Scotia Family Tree

Frederick Scott is remembered

Friend, councillor and family man: Frederick Scott is remembered

As published by the Hants Journal on April 29th, 2010

Christy Marsters

“He was able to lace on skates well into his 80’s whenever ice formed on the lake at the family farm, as a younger man; he played hockey with the St. Croix Aces and the Hants County Farmers in The Windsor District League. An avid reader, he had great interest in political history and public affairs.” -- It was one segment of his obituary; yet, it seemed to well describe the ambitions of a long-time locally elected official.

Frederick Scott, a West Hants Municipal Councillor of 15 years and a founding member of the NDP, passed away on April 17; at the age of 98. On April 24, a memorial service was held in his honour at the St. Croix United Church.

Deputy Warden Gary Cochrane says Scott was a councillor before his time, yet he still knew him in later years through church and as an active member in the community.

“[Scott and his wife Leola] were really community orientated,” Cochrane said. “They’d both dedicated their whole lives to community ... and whenever you saw one you saw the other.”

“What I admire most about Scott was that he was a hard worker but he never liked to take the credit for it ... he just helped whenever he was called on,” Cochrane said. “I’m quite sure the community at large is going to miss him.”

“He worked off the land ... Fred was a good old-fashioned farmer,” Cochrane added. “I think his openness and being there; whenever he was needed to assist, was what this community really appreciated about him.”

In 1934, Scott began operating Elm Farm after attending the Nova Scotia Agricultural College in Truro.

Warden Richard Dauphinee said Scott offered extra parking at his field in St. Croix (in 1998) when the Canadian Senior Men’s Fastpitch Championships took place.

He just agreed to let everyone park there for free and it’s because he has always been such a community minded person, Dauphinee said. “He’ll always be missed.”

I think his openness and being there, whenever he was needed to assist, was what this community really appreciated about him." - Gary Cochrane

Fredrick’s Nephew Ian Scott said his uncle was a good neighbour; yet, he was not one to brag. “[He] knew it wasn’t special honours or personal gain that mattered most but the simple sense of accomplishment that came from putting ideas into action.”

He was a great source of encouragement for young people too, Ian said. “He wouldn’t skimp on praise when it came to teaching children. Even in his 90’s he would cheer in great pleasure to see simple things -- like a well split piece of wood go flying or a well swung axe make good kindling.”

In politics, Fredrick was deeply committed to his cause, Ian said. “Seeing the NDP gain support of Nova Scotians in 2009 was something he never thought he would live to see.”

Family roots nurtured his focus to make things better for others, through his political actions, Ian said. “As a municipal elected official ... and, as a member of the CCF who ran provincially.”

“I especially liked going to the barn at milking time with Fred,” Ian said. “It was a time we were alone to chat while we worked.

“I recall once, as a student, when Ecology was becoming a public issue and I thought I knew everything; we were talking about various cycles: nitrogen cycles; water cycles and energy cycles,” Ian added. “What profound discussion we had that day I don’t recall, yet, as we looked at the lively brook full with the promise of spring – his answer is one I will never forget.”

That is how life works – it all keeps going around and around,” Scott told his nephew.

Frederick Charles Gillmore Scott (1911-2010)

Fred Scott at age 98 was the last remaining member of his generation of Scotts - the 4th generation of a Scottish family from Forfar to live in Nova Scotia. Currently the family includes individuals who comprise the 5th to 10th generation across North America. As the last surviving member of a prior generation Fred Scott was an important link to the early years of settlement of the family in Nova Scotia, and is much missed by his family.

Frederick Charles Gillmore Scott

Passed away in: Ste. Croix, Nova Scotia, Canada
Passed away on: 17/04/2010

The memorial for Frederick Charles Gillmore Scott of Ste. Croix, Hants Co., Nova Scotia, as published by the Hants Journal on April 29th, 2010 is now available through the In Memoriam website.

Scott, Frederick Charles Gillmore - 98 of Ste. Croix, passed away on April 17, 2010. He served as an elected member of Hants Municipal Council for 15 years and ran provincially for the CCF. Committed to the principles of democratic socialism, he was a dedicated volunteer within the co-op and credit union movement and a founding member of the NDP. Ordained an elder in the United Church of Canada 72 years ago, he was an active member until his death.

After attending Nova Scotia Agricultural College in Truro he returned to Ste. Croix in 1934 to become the 4th generation to operate Elm Farm. A successful dairy farmer, in retirement he maintained his woodlot, a commercial rhubarb patch, and a beef herd for many years. He was an active gardener until his death.

Fred loved to walk, and for many people in Hants Co. he was known as 'the man who walks along the side of the road with a dog.'

He was able to lace on skates well into his 80's whenever ice formed on the lake at the family farm; as a younger man he played hockey with the Ste. Croix Aces and the Hants County Farmers in the Windsor District League. An avid reader he had a great interest in political history and public affairs. He enjoyed for many years singing bass with the Newport Men’s Choir.

Cherished by every member of his family, he is survived by sons Albert and John; grandson Robie; nieces and nephew Ruth Scott, Lillian Salmon (Winston), Ian Scott (Daphne); grand-nieces and nephews Tim Baxter; Denise, Susan and Karen Salmon; Rob, Andrew and Suzanne Scott. He was predeceased by his wife Leola Dexter Scott and son David; and his brother John (Jack) and sister-in-law Jean Scott.

Fred’s wish was to help advance medical education and scientific research and to that purpose he made provisions that his body would be donated to the medical school at Dalhousie University. His remains will be interred at a later date. His memorial service was held at Ste. Croix United Church on Saturday April 24, at 2 pm with reception that followed in the church hall.

Fred was a man who showed his appreciation and great affection for all those around him; he was highly regarded by those he met and when in hospitals had great regard for all staff, which was quickly reciprocated. Within the family circle he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle and great uncle to his nephews and nieces.

Dedicated to the pastoral charge, he had special affection for the Ste. Croix church which was build on Scott land which his grandparents donated to the congregation. Fred and his father served as elders for over one century. Raised in the tradition of the Social Gospel where actions speak louder than words, he came by his concern for others, and the need to improve society, honestly; his namesake ancestor, Rev. George Gillmore of Ardoise was a pioneer Presbyterian minister in the district and his brother Rev. Jack Scott, served as a minister in Hants County as well as in four other provinces.

Fred was the son of Lillian Harvey and John Albert Scott; his father’s words written as a birthday greeting in 1929 still resound today.

“May your course through life be full of joy to yourself and others and when your own star shall set at life's close, may it set as the Morning Star that goeth not down behind the darkened West but melts away into the brightness of Heaven.
Lovingly,
Dad”

Sir Walter Scott's stolen Waterloo souvenir returned

The quaich was one of several items stolen from Abbotsford House in the 1990s. Picture by Paul Dodds

A stolen souvenir from the Battle of Waterloo has been returned to the Borders home of Sir Walter Scott.

The silver bowl, known as a quaich, was taken from Abbotsford House near Melrose in 1994.

However, it was spotted late last year in a French antiques market by silver expert Wynyard Wilkinson who identified it and arranged for its return.

The Waterloo Tree Quaich, one of many historic relics collected by Scott, will go on public display this weekend.

The piece is made from silver gilt and elm wood that was cut from a tree at the Waterloo battlefield.

Scott collected a fascinating array of objects during his lifetime Jacquie Wright Abbotsford Trust

The Duke of Wellington directed his troops from a position under the tree in 1815 and it subsequently became a target for souvenir hunters.

The timbers were used to make a number of prestigious pieces including Chippendale chairs for the Prince Regent in 1821, and a chair for the Duke of Wellington, which was presented to him in 1837.

The quaich dates from 1824 and was made by Joseph Angell of London.

It is engraved with Scott's motto, "Watch Well".

'Hugely grateful'

The quaich was one of a number of items stolen from Abbotsford when it was owned by his descendants, Dame Jean and Mrs Patricia Maxwell Scott.

Jacquie Wright, executive manager of the Abbotsford Trust, said it was "hugely grateful" to Mr Winyard for spotting and returning it.

"Scott collected a fascinating array of objects during his lifetime and we're delighted that the Waterloo Tree Quaich is back in the collection and can be seen and enjoyed by our visitors," she said.

The trust is currently trying to raise about £10m to secure the future of Scott's Borders home.

It is awaiting a decision from the Heritage Lottery Fund about a grant application for more than £4m and is also consulting with the public about its proposed plans for the attraction.

'This is probably the single most important planning application in the history of Galashiels

As published by Border Telegraph Thursday, 18th February, 2010
by Ally McGilvray


FEARS have been voiced that a supermarket could be built next to the historic home of Sir Walter Scott - if plans for a new visitor centre on a neighbouring site are approved.

Drew Tulley, former leader of Scottish Borders Council, spoke out at a meeting of Galashiels and Langlee Community Council after members were shown plans to develop Abbotsford House, near Galashiels, into a world-class tourist attraction.

He pointed out a number of planning applications for the site earmarked for the visitor centre car park had been rejected to protect the area from overdevelopment.

The former planning convener revealed that before the first house was built in Tweedbank it was agreed there would be no building in the field between the village and the A-listing building.

Speaking from the public gallery, MrTulley said: "I am a great supporter of Abbotsford but my fear is if these plans are approved it could open the way for commercial development in that field.

"We could of had a supermarket or non-food outlet there already had we not turned them down because there has been a lot of interest shown in that field in the past, and any development would weaken the case for future planning applications on what has been green belt land up until now."

The Abbotsford Trust argued it proposed to build the car park within a line of trees bordering the field and the Border Abbeys Way and revealed Scottish Borders Council and Historic Scotland were supportive of their plans.

Last month, the Border Telegraph revealed it has applied to Scottish Borders Council for planning permission to build a new visitor centre and cafe within the grounds, upgrade the main building and create a new large car park on adjacent farmland.

It also wants to create self-catering visitor accommodation in the Hope Scott Wing to cater for up to 12 people, as well as new interpretation facilties to conserve the collections inside - and a playpark inspired by characters from Sir Walter Scott's books.

The Trust has already secured much of the £10million required to upgrade the 200 baronial mansion with grants from various public bodies.

However, it has warned if it doesn't win enough support for the plans, Abbotsford - which is already losing £100,000 a year - will be forced to close within three years.

Tony Taylor, from The Abbotsford Trust, said: "This is an exceptionally important project which aims to create a legacy for one of the region's most important sons and through this, to help to attract more visitors to the area.

"It's an enterprise in which all Borders residents have a stake so we want to get as much feedback as possible before putting our final plans forward to Scottish Borders Council.

"Abbotsford needs to develop into a financially viable, world-class visitor attraction which is why these plans are so important.

"Visitor requirements are changing and there is immense competition from other regions so we need to create something very special that will make Abbotsford and Sir Walter Scott relevant to today's audiences and encourage as many people as possible to come here.

"In Scott and Abbotsford, we have a globally famous asset here in the Borders and we believe it's time to capitalise on that and establish Abbotsford as a heritage tourism focal point for the region from which we can all benefit."

But he added: "The support of the Borders public is crucial and we look forward to hearing their views."

Pre-planning consultations are underway with Community Councils in Selkirk, Melrose, Tweedbank and Galashiels in advance of an eventual planning submission to Scottish Borders Council. A larger public consultation event is also being planned for the coming weeks.

The consultations will inform those attending about the overall aims of the project and how it has progressed to date and will give them the chance to comment about the outline plans that have been developed for the house, visitor access and parking and a new visitor reception building.

All plans for the development of Abbotsford will depend on the Trust raising the necessary funds to take them forward. Fundraising efforts are currently underway and a final application for grant of over £4m from the Heritage Lottery Fund will be submitted later this month with a decision expected in May.

However, if the plans are approved and all funds raised, work could start on building the new visitor centre in September 2010 and be open in June 2011 and the project be completed by 2013.

Following a presentation on the plans at Galashiels and Langlee Community Council last week, community councillor Peter Roden said: "This is probably the single most important planning application in the history of Galashiels."

And community councillor Murray Dickson, President of the Old Gala Club, added: "From the historical society's point of view we fully support any development that attracts more visitors to Abbotsford and keeps the memory of Sir Walter Scott alive."

Rob Roy and Ivanhoe to get a modern £10m home in the Borders

As published by The Scotsman
10 February 2010

By BRIAN FERGUSON

TRUSTEES spearheading a £10 million campaign to transform the Borders home of one of Scotland's most celebrated writers have unveiled the first images of a new visitor centre to be built beside it.

The planned visitor centre at Abbotsford House, complete with café and shop, has been designed to fit in with the landscape, trustees say

They have also revealed that work is due to begin this year on a long-awaited restoration of Abbotsford, built by Sir Walter Scott near Melrose in the early 19th century.

The enduring legacy of the creator of the Waverley novels, Rob Roy and Ivanhoe will be explored in the striking new complex, to be built in a woodland area about 500 metres away from the existing baronial mansion.

The new building – which will also house a shop, café and reception area – will chart the changing face of Abbotsford estate, which had only a cottage and a farm steading when Scott arrived there in 1812.

The house was opened to the public in 1833, just five months after the writer's death, and was cared for by his direct descendants until the death of his great-great-great granddaughter in 2004.

However, it had been allowed to fall into decline and the number of visitors had slipped away due to its run-down state.

A group of trustees, headed by the Duke of Buccleuch, launched a campaign to save Abbotsford for the nation four years ago and won a pledge of £4.5m from the Heritage Lottery Fund last year.

With Scottish Borders Council committing a £1.5m grant just before Christmas, the trustees announced yesterday that they were in a position to press ahead with the project later this year, subject to planning approval.

Historic Scotland has also been asked to support the project.

Community groups in the area are being given the chance to comment on the new building and the full-scale restoration and repair programme for the house over the next few weeks.

The entire project is expected to take about three years.

It will include the creation of six rooms of self-catering accommodation in the mansion, as well as new conservation and interpretation facilities and an education suite for school groups.

The visitor centre was designed by the same architects behind the restoration of Edinburgh's Festival Theatre and Usher Hall.

Trustee Tony Taylor said: "The site of the new building is a fair bit away from the house, in an area of woodland in the estate, and it has been very carefully designed to fit in with the landscape.

"It should make a huge difference to our understanding of Scott and his work.

"We don't yet know whether work will start first on the new building or the restoration but we're hoping to plan the work to ensure that Abbotsford remains open as normal every year from March to October."

David Parker, leader of Scottish Borders Council, said: "Our vision is for Abbotsford to be a world-class heritage centre and tourism attraction for the Borders.

"Abbotsford has been an underused asset for the area for a long time now, and this project should make a huge difference to our understanding of the life and work of Sir Walter Scott."

Historic Clan Scott Sites - Aikwood Tower - Scotts of Harden

The lands of Aikwood were granted, in 1517, on behalf of the infant King James V, to Maister Michael Scott, namesake of the thirteenth century scholar on whom the legends of wizardry are founded. Previously, Aikwood had been one of the forest steadings in the Royal Forest of Ettrick: the outright grant may indicate that Michael Scott had performed some special service.

The tower and farm - the last of the Harden properties in Ettrick - were sold to the Duke of Buccleuch during the post-WW II period. In 1989, Sir David Steel (now Lord Steel of Aikwood) along with Lady Steel bought the tower, and adjacent garden ground and restored it as their home. It had been 200 years since the tower had been lived in.

Articles on this transformation include pictures of the house.
Article 1
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Historic Clan Scott Sites - Newark Castle, Scotts of Buccleuch

Situated on the grounds of Bowhill, home of the Chief of Clan Scott, Newark Castle has one of the longest histories of all the Scott peel towers that dot the Borders region between Scotland and England.

In 1473 Newark was given to Margaret of Denmark, wife of James III of Scotland. The royal arms are visible on the west gable. Newark was unsuccessfully besieged by an English army in 1547, but was burnt the following year. In 1645, during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, 100 royalist followers of the Marquis of Montrose were shot in the barmkin of Newark after the Battle of Philiphaugh.

The castle was altered for Anna Scott, Duchess of Monmouth and Buccleuch at the end of the 17th century. Today it is a standing ruin and recognized as a Category A listed building.

Wikipedia provides a fuller background on Newark Castle.


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Historic Clan Scott Sites - Dryhope Tower - Scotts of Dryhope

One of the Clan Scott historic sites near Selkirk, Scotland is Dryhope Tower.

Mary Scott a member of the Scotts of Dryhope, was known as the "Flower of Yarrow" and was given in marriage to Wat Scott of Kirkhope, a notorious Border Reiver. The property passed to Wat Scott's family, the Scotts of Harden, and Scott took possession of Dryhope following his marriage. However, in 1592, Wat Scott fell out of favour with King James VI due to his association with Francis Stewart, 1st Earl of Bothwell. King James levied an army and proceeded through the forest and slighted many houses of his opponents. Wat Scott did not get off lightly and Dryhope was amongst Scott of Harden's fortalices that were slighted. The tower seems to have been rebuilt by 1613. The castle fell into terminal decay in the latter part of the 17th century and was acquired by the senior branch of the Scotts, the Dukes of Buccleuch.

Dryhope Tower today belongs to the Philiphaugh Estate, and has recently been undergoing stabilisation work.



The history of Dryhome Tower is well covered in Wikipedia.


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Historic Clan Scott Sites - Kirkhope Tower

Kirkhope Tower is west of the village of Ettrickbridge (near the town of Selkirk, Scotland). It was used as a residence of the eldest sons of the Scotts of Harden and Young Wat Scott brought his bride and cousin Mary Scott of Dryhope, known as the "Flower of Yarrow" back to Kirkhope prior to the death of his father William.

Wat Scott was later to be a supporter of Francis Stewart, 1st Earl of Bothwell, an unsuccessful warrant for his arrest was made in 1592 by James VI. Wat Scott, although the subject of many Border ballads is perhaps best remembered by his wife's reaction to empty stores, presenting him with his spurs on a platter for dinner; a signal to ready his men for a raid.


Kirkhope came into the possession of Anne Scott, 1st Duchess of Buccleuch, widow of the Duke of Monmouth in the early eighteenth century and from mid-nineteenth century it fell into a state of decay.

Background on the site at Wikipedia gives a good history of this important Clan Scott site.


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