Scottish Festivals

Lake Norman &Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain Scottish Games

I donned my maroon baseball cap with the Reid Family Crest stamped on the front and headed for Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina, for the annual Scottish Games sponsored by the Southern and Atlantic Scottish Society. Fortunately for me, I am Scotch on both sides. I am Reid, (Donacheitdh), on my mother's side, and Brown, (Douglas), on my father's side.

As we approached the permanent gates that welcomed the visitors to the games, (which were set in a large open meadow and ringed by brightly colored tents as far as the eye could see), I was amazed at the sights and sounds that greeted me.

Everywhere, Scottish clan members, decked out in their authentic Scottish attire, strolled, chatted, danced, and played, and competed in the various Scottish games. Scottish bands marched and played their instruments for the delight of the crows that were milling throughout the woods and meadows.

I watched the log throw, the hammer toss, the bag pitch, high jumpers, runners, and hatchet and javelin throwers as they competed for the many prizes and cheers of the crowd that lined the track and arena. Massive arms heaved and pitched the various instruments of competition in each game.

Mellow troubadours entertained the crowds with their Scottish brogues and Celtic whit and charm. Authentic foods filled the air with the rich smells of a Scottish country fair. Everywhere, the lilt of the Scottish music filled the air with its rich heritage.  It was truly a day of celebration, a celebration of the Scottish heritage that most of these people shared.

I hope that by learning as much as I can about my ancestors, I can create a legacy I can hand down to my children and grandchildren. It is important to belong, and this is one way to create a feeling of belonging that can bridge the isolation that many of us feel today in this fast paced world where we move frequently and live hundreds of miles from our families.

The following pages are filled with pictures we took at the Scottish Festivals at Lake Norman, North Carolina and Grandfather Mountain...

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