MINUTES OF MEETINGS |
The Society of William Wallace minutes of meeting held in Elderslie Village Hall, Glenpatrick Road on Tuesday the 16th of February at 7.45 PM Vice Convenor Duncan welcomed everyone to the meeting as usual, with an especially warm welcome to Kimberley, David’s daughter, who will carry on in her father’s footsteps. We were also glad to see the safe return of Gordon, our bard, following his recent serious road accident. OFFICE BEARER'S REPORTS: Treasurer…George, outlined the balance of The Society. Since last meeting The Society has purchased a PA system for use at Wallace Day and other events. Web master…also George. The Pay pal system of membership subscription is now running. A new fee of £5.50 per annum, an increase of 50p, to cover costs. The new web site enables instant access to everything to do with the Society . It is easy to comment upon and add photos. Thanks George! Bishop Wishart’s tomb in Glasgow Catherdral: No news on this front as yet. The MSP linked to the Cathedral is writing to Historic Scotland regarding this issue. Cambuskenneth Abbey: Duncan reported on the suggestion that Wallace’s left arm was buried under a marked stone there. A stone thought to be such had overgrown turf removed. Photos were taken in 2006. The 700th anniversary tree, which was planted by David Ross and Irene Clarke to commemorate the Battle of Stirling Bridge, is close by. With a view towards The Abbey Craig it was also the spot where Society member Hugh Robertson recently filmed the appeal for Wallace to be the Most Famous Scot. Media Officers Report…Irene: showed members a photo of David with the actors who played the role of Young Wallace and Hamish in Braveheart. Bannockburn 2014: Irene has booked 60 rooms at the King Robert Hotel on the 20th and 21st of June 2014 in the name of The Society. The Rob Roy Hotel would also accommodate guests with a free bus. Member Hugh Robertson reminded members of the commemoration of the Battle of Flodden, which will be held one year earlier is also in the planning stages and would be of interest to the Society. As Hugh is tentatively involved with this on a professional basis, the society will be able to inform members as time progresses. BBC’s production of “The Seven Ages of Britain”. All present at the meeting agreed, to quote a Herald newspaper comment, that it was “inaccurate tosh”. There was very little, if any, reference to Scots, Irish, Welsh events and treasures. It was suggested by Irene that, with Kimberley’s permission, the Society contacted the Chief Land Services Officer to place a plaque on the railing beside the tree in Stirling. Irene will liaise with Kimberly in this regard. Monthly Historical mistakes by journalists in the popular Scottish Press were highlighted at the meeting and once again dealt with on the Societies behalf by Irene!...thanks Irene. Duncan reported on the expenditure of the new PA system. This will make life easier for all members of the society and audiences at events. WALLACE'S LETTER OF SAFE CONDUCT: Unfortunately Gary was not in attendance for a full update as was hoped. Society members heard of cataloguing mistakes at Kew which will further hinder progress. More will be heard on this at future meetings. On a positive note, historian Dr Fiona Watson and Geoffrey Barrow are supporting the movement to have them returned from Kew to Scotland. Duncan suggested a small group including Kimberley could co-ordinate a diplomatic approach on behalf of the society. Ted Cowan and Louise Yeoman are also possible supportive academics who may assist with this. Wallace Day 2010: Duncan has been in contact with Fiona Watson and has confirmed her attendance as a speaker at the memorial. Robroyston 2010. Sandra White MSP has confirmed that he will be in attendance at the commemoration there. Tributes to David continue to be received by Duncan from all parts of the world. Duncan has attended to them on behalf of the Society…many thanks Duncan for this very difficult duty. Duncan reported on the society’s link with Electric Scotland, which can only help to inform others on the web. He also brought awareness of the society to a recent article in the Scotland on Sunday newspaper on tartan registration. So many new tartans have recently been introduced that it has become a fashion design rather than a symbol of identity. Lanark: Members are keeping a close eye on plans which were made to make a museum with a holiday flat above on the site commemorating Wallace’s wife, Marion Braidfute of Lamington. Nothing has happened on this front. This could have been a fitting place for the 2005 coffin and a museum to Wallace. Duncan informed members of the generous donation of money and a signed book about Wallace by French author Beatrice Balti who has become supportive through her own interests, foremostly with Joan of Arc. Duncan has thanked her on behalf of the Society. A number of significant items, including an oil on canvas representation of the Wallace Statue at Drybrough may be auctioned at a forthcoming Tribute Night in Edinburgh. Kimberley has also been offered a guitar for this purpose, and Irene an original Braveheart video. More will follow on this subject soon. Merchandise Officer…Ziggy: The society has been offered an area in The Post Office in Leith Walk in Edinburgh where it could sell stock on a sale or return basis. He has confidence in the good intentions of the staff involved at this prime site in the city. The Society was supportive of this. Ziggy is taking on the sale of David’s books and DVD’s on behalf of Kimberley and will liaise with her in all matters regarding this. Stock could also be sold at the Edinburgh Tribute night. Ziggy showed prototypes of 3 new car stickers which should go down well with folk! Ziggy requested and was granted, a float of £100 for postage and packaging of items, to avoid any personal expenses. The new pay pal method of payment is now up and running and there are encouraging signs of increase in sales of merchandise. New suggestions always welcome! Thanks to Ziggy for keeping the merchandise sales up and the enthusiasm going! OTHER BUSINESS: Society member Archie wondered if the Letter of Safe Conduct could have the positive support of the Roman Catholic Church, as it has been confirmed that the pope will be visiting Scotland at some time in the near future. This could be seen as something which bonds the links with Wallace and the church which meant so much to him. Society member Gordon thanked everyone for their good wishes and support following his recent accident. He informed members of his activity on two main issues. The place of the 2005 coffin. As it could take up to seven years for Lanarkshire Council to do something about a museum, he suggested that an appropriate place might be The Abbot’s House in Dunfermline. Dr Fiona Watson is now in charge of the property and may be approached on the matter. Plaque for David at Stirling. Gordon offered cobblestones for use inside the railings around the tree at Stirling. A similar design could be used as at the Falkirk Cairn, with a plaque commemorating David’s contribution to Scotland imbedded into the design. All present were in favour of this idea…thanks Gordon! Duncan Thomson Chairman of Strathleven Artisans, and one of the 40 Bowmen of St Sebastian, informed members of the forthcoming event of the opening of the Robert Bruce Heritage Centre in Renton, Dumbartonshire on March 27th. The meeting ended with fond memories and stories of the big man and a bad joke from George! No refreshments or eats this evening….we miss you, Lily! Date of next meeting….Tuesday 16th March in Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm. Everyone is very welcome!!!! PS: Remember the meeting on in elderslie on Thursday the 11th March @ 5pm Late Website News….David had planned to tour with Albannach and over forty American Albannach fans in March this year to show them the sites and explore our wonderful country's history with them, alas it was not to be but everyone on the tour agreed that it should go ahead and be dedicated in David's honour. It is with regret that we have to inform you of the sad death of another of our members. May Macartney was a long standing member of the Wallace Society and was also our Minute Secretary for many years. |
The Society of William Wallace minutes of meeting held in Elderslie Village Hall, Glenpatrick Road on Tuesday the 19th of January at 7.45 PM Duncan chaired a very emotional meeting tremendously well considering the recent death on the second of January, of David R. Ross, Convenor of this society He warmly welcomed everyone as usual. He highlighted the fact that no-one can take the place of David, but the Society of William Wallace must go forward. He asked all members to help share the load for the future, “that what does not break us, makes us stronger” Tributes to David: Many thanks to all members of the Society who brought along news reports . These will be kept as a lasting tribute to the big man. Duncan informed members that he had received many emails of condolence from many individuals, groups and organisations, who knew David in many different ways. It showed the impact that David had on the lives of many people and that his words, written and verbal, reached out to many. There are also tributes on the following websites http://www.thesocietyofwilliamwallace.com/ http://www.bannockburnband.co.uk/ http://www.albannachmusic.com/ http://www.scotsmagazine.com/emails.asp http://news.scotsman.com/glasgow/First-Minister-pays-tribute-.5965561.jp http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/obituaries/David-R-Ross.5968587.jp http://www.heraldscotland.com/comment/obituaries/david-r-ross-author-and-historian-1.998815 Duncan will continue to liase with David’s Daughter, Kimberley on behalf of the Society, has offered and will continue to offer, assistance to her at this difficult time. Developments: Alan Reid from Fife has opened a Facebook Group regarding Wallace’s letter of safe conduct HERE Thank you to Rob Gibson, MSP for Ross-shire for putting letters into various highland newspapers, informing readers about David. Condolences were also sent from the Andrew De Moray Project. A new saltire for Avoch will be required soon for the annual commemoration which will be soon approaching. Some MSP’s supported the recent motion in the Scottish Parliament on bringing Scotland vibrant history more to the fore within the Scottish Education System….well done them! Treasurers Report: Our new treasurer, George, gave his first Society of William Wallace Financial Report. There was some discussion over money. It will take time for the team to adjust to a new system of work. As the new secretary was elected by a quorum, present at the AGM, and entrusted with the finances of the society, all members are asked to support him in every way possible for the benefit of the society as a whole. Bob Irving was again thanked for his support at treasurer of the Society, which he fulfilled for around ten years. The money is now in George’s capable hands! A message was reported by George from our Merchandise Officer, Ziggy Wilson, that Kimberley Ross, will settle the merchandise account on behalf of her dad. Web masters report….Also George! George is happy for his address to be put on the Society Contact List on the web site. George also asked if anyone had any photos of David for the Society website, so that he could compose a tribute to him. A discussion occurred regarding payment methods for worldwide merchandise customers and member’s fees. George will explore the best options available to, and for, the Society. Change: A discussion ensued looking forward to the future of the group. It was suggested that guest speakers be invited, which would affect the finances of the group. Names of prospective speakers are most welcome! Wallace Day: Fiona Watson would be contacted by Duncan to enquire if she would be the main speaker at Wallace Day 2010. Postal address: Duncan will change the postal address of the Society on the printed membership forms. New Statue of Bruce: Finally, after 150 years, a new statue of Robert, The Bruce, was unveiled on the 18th of January. We hope to have a picture on our website soon! Memorial at Glasgow Cathedral: Bob Irving enquired about progress. This memorial to those present at the Battle o’ The Bell o’ The Brae continues to be at the planning stage. Lanark: Lanarkshire Council have ended the hopes of The Society that the coffin of 2005 should rest there. Wallace statue in Lanark, Gordon reported that the statue has been refurbished, but the Lanark sword has not yet been replaced. A similar situation occurred at the John De Graham tomb a few years ago. It was eventually replaced. Gordon Aitken: Spoke of the kind generosity of Ken Shirra of the Knights Templar in Scotland. Thank you Ken, on behalf of the Society. Gordon read two moving poems to the society, with thoughts of David, which will be available on the website of the Society. One by Muriel Roebuck of Kirriemuir, the other by Gordon himself, entitled ..A Tribute to a Patriot, David R. Ross, Our Own William Wallace….thanks Gordon! Gary Stewart: Reported on behalf of Andy Middleton on the state of the monument to Wallace at his place of betrayal in Robroyston. Apparently Historic Scotland are responsible for the Cross only and not the surrounding railings etc. The monument stands within the jurisdiction of Glasgow City Council. This clarification may result in the appropriate people being pressured into action of some sort. Gary also reported on the future visit of 45 american visitors to Scotland. The tour was meant to be led by David, and will continue. Everyone is asked to lend a hand if possible to ensure that the tour continues with our guid scots hospitality and friendship. Albannach at Menzies Castle, near Aberfeldy, and Fiery Jack have been mentioned so far, but please check website for further developments. This will be an opportunity to fund raise for the Wallace Coffin and 2014 commemorations, …all Society members are asked to support us in any way they can. Bowling Trophy: The possibility of offering a bowling trophy to remember Wallace and David Ross was mentioned. Monthly meetings are held in the hall in front of Elderslie Bowling Club, during the summer, members can watch the matches as a backdrop to the meetings! Tower of London: Betty and Charlotte reported on the forgotten Scots who died in the Tower of London. It is said that a group were forced to put on their own shrouds before being shot. They are thought to be buried in an unmarked grave close to the grave of Anne Boleyn. Media Officer Irene: Reported on some of the tributes paid to David in the national press and local papers. Irene also received a telephone call from Scotland First Minister, Alex Salmond and a letter of condolence followed. This was read by Duncan to all present at The Glasgow Ferry at David’s funeral on the 11th of January. Irene showed the Society a commemorative brooch and piece of plaid which was given to her daughter. This once belonged to a member of the team of the inspirational film, Braveheart, and has a certificate of authenticity. It is her intention to auction it at some point, to raise funds for a future Society commemoration. ….a plaque in London beside the Wallace plaque at St Bartholemews commemorating the events of 2005. …a bench at the Wallace Tree in Elderslie, or Stirling Bridge. …a plaque set in cobbles. Money, time , upkeep and vandalism issues are all factors in consideration but suggestions continue to be welcome. Bruce Plaid: Chris MacLeod showed the society the plaid that she had completed on the 11th of January. This was meant to be David’s new plaid in The Bruce tartan, woven by her on the 200 year old loom in Weaver’s Cottage, Kilbarchan. The first threads were put on the frame on Wallace Day 2009, by David himself, before starting the Wallace Commemoration. As a mark of respect, this plaid will be kept until 2014, and used in some form in the Bruce Commemoration. Two pieces of the plaid were cut from the cloth and passed on to two significant people. One was symbolically given to his daughter Kimberley and the other to Duncan Fenton. Duncan wore the piece at David’s funeral. The meeting ended by a show of true appreciation of the big man…a telling (or re-telling)….of some of his bad jokes…..just as it always did! Thanks to Lily for supplying the buffet for members after the meeting. Date of next our meeting will be Tuesday the 16th of February at 7.45pm in Elderslie Village Hall, all welcome! Slainte! Late News: As members discussed ways of creating a lasting tribute to our late Convenor, David R. Ross, a vote was taken to ascertain whether members thought it would be appropriate to use money from the Society’s funds for this. Nearly all members were in agreement, but one member raised a point of order that the whole membership of the Society be consulted on this matter. So I would ask any member who disagrees with this proposal to lodge their objection with the Webmaster or Vice Convenor. It is not always feasible, due to time restrictions, to poll every member, & wait on feedback, for every decision, so this has been discussed by the office bearers, & we propose that any decision that has to be taken, is put to the vote to the members attending that particular meeting. With most of the previous decisions, that is what we have always done. Again, if any member disagrees with this, please raise your objections in the manner stated above. |
The Society of William Wallace Minutes of The Annual General Meeting of The Society of William Wallace held in Elderslie Village Hall Glenpatrick Road, Elderslie. On Tuesday 17th November 2009. Election of Office Bearers for 2009-2010:The meeting began with the election of office bearers, chaired by Bob Irving. Bob stated that he did not wish to be re-elected as treasurer. The following is the result by election…. Convenor…David R Ross Vice Convenor…Duncan Fenton Acting Secretary…Duncan Fenton Minute Secretary…Chris MacLeod Webmaster … George Boyle Treasurer…George Boyle Media Officer…Irene Clarke Merchandise Officer…Ziggy Wilson & Craig Wilson Social Convenor...Lily Love All posts with immediate effect. CONVENOR (David R. Ross): Re-elected by members present, David proceeded to continue the meeting. He responded to various questions including: The let of the hall…perhaps an alternative venue could be looked into as the rental has increased dramatically…the hall is booked until July 2010. The general feeling was that Elderslie, the birthplace of Wallace, meant something to most people. The hall was best suited to Wallace Day. Signatories…Previously Bob Irving and Willie Douglas, requires an update. Bob will continue meantime. Decline in attendance… .unsurprisingly since the high of 2005 – 2006. A suggestion was made that a series of regular speakers could be introduced. This would require a healthier bank balance to pay for the expenses of other speakers. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): Duncan continued to encourage more use of emailing correspondence, which is much more convenient and saves the society over £100.00 per month in postage. Two thirds of the Society membership is now on email. A quarterly newsletter was suggested to be sent by regular mail. No decision was taken on this. Good Exhibition on in The National Library of Scotland. There was a copy of an excellent article by Rennie McOwan, printed in the Scots Magazine, November 2009, which was distributed and discussed. David Ross is to contact the author for permission of the Society to use his article some time in the future. David will speak at the St Andrews Day March in Edinburgh. The Society website was discussed. All agreed that it was looking great. A big thank ye to George Boyle for the great work!. George is happy to receive any relevant information which may be added to the site. Media Officer (Irene Clarke): Continues to scour the press and point out historical inaccuracies when required…an immense task!...Irene accepted re-election to the post…all thought that she's doing a great job! Topics discussed were current media articles on Blind Harry,The Seal of Lubek and Wallace’s Letter of Safe Conduct. A Letter read out by David from D MacKinnon of Ostaig House complaining about the Wallace monument site. STV Greatest Scot…Society member Hugh Robertson did us proud!. He commended Wallace as THE greatest Scot. The results would be known on St Andrews Day Merchandise Officer,(Ziggy Wilson): Reported that any money made from the sale of Wallace merchandise is ploughed straight back into increasing stock. Ziggy was re-elected to the post...many thanks indeed!! Ziggy also welcomes any suggestions for new merchandise ideas (things that will sell well!) . Ideas include…mugs, stickers and badges…perhaps including “I’ve brought you to the ring, now dance the best ye can” and “Wallace was Innocent” Do please let Ziggy know by email, bearing in mind that a large quantity has to be ordered. Members and friends are actively encouraged to take a look at the great range of stock for personal, gifts which greatly contributed to the support of the society. George is hoping to get the online shop up and running soon, meanwhile please continue to support us! Lily, as usual, provided us with great tea, coffee and eats! The Society really appreciates all she that does for the members. a Merry Christmas & prosperous new year. NEXT MEETING to be held on Tuesday 19th January 2010 at 7.45 pm in Elderslie Village Hall. |
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 20th OCTOBER 2009 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: A. Millar, J. Millar, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, Jim Adams, Dorothy Adams, Richard Quinn, George Boyle (Webmaster), Lily Love (Social Convenor), David Ross, (Convenor), Duncan Fenton (Vice Convenor), Bob Irving (Treasurer), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), APOLOGIES: Nan Irving, Susan Boyle, Willie Douglas, Hamish MacQueen,, Ziggy & Craig Wilson (Merchandise Officers), TREASURER (Bob Irving): Several members paid their membership subscription. If any members have not done so, could they please send in their subs as soon as possible. Thanks to all who have paid. MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke) Irene informed members of the charter granting Royal Burgh status to Perth by King William the Lion in 1210, which has just been repaired & cleaned & the original seal re-affixed. It will be on display at Perth museum next year. Irene suggested a trip by members to go to see it. Irene told members that the controversial ‘Mel Gibson’ statue which stood at the foot of the National Wallace Monument in Stirling, has now been removed to make way for a new visitor centre. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): Duncan contacted Alastair MacIntyre, webmaster for popular website ‘Electric Scotland’. There was an old outdated link to our very first website from years ago. Duncan gave Alastair the details of our new website & asked if he would be good enough to update the link. Alastair replied that he was happy to do so. Duncan contacted ‘UK Destinations’ website to bring attention to an error in their article on Wallace. It had given the date of the Battle of Stirling Bridge as 1287 instead of 1297. He also informed the editor that another website ‘New Zealand News UK’, had copied their article containing the same error. He received a reply thanking him for pointing it out, & that it was a simple typo. They will also contact the other website to enquire why they have copied their content. The error has now been fixed. Although Duncan also contacted NZ News to point out their error, they have not replied, & the error still stands. Duncan has purchased two new extending poles for the Society’s smaller banner. This will be taken to other events, not necessarily Wallace-related, but will represent the Society’s presence. This may also increase membership. CONVENOR (David R. Ross). David told members of his recent travels in the USA. H e visited the Wallace statue in Baltimore, which was erected in 1893, and unveiled on St.Andrews Day of that year. David asked that more members become involved in contributing ideas and content to the Society. David suggested providing a trophy for the Bowling Club which is adjacent to our village hall. This could be named the “William Wallace Trophy” or something similar, & could be played for each year. A.O.C.B. Ideas for expanding & enhancing Wallace Day were discussed. Suggestions included getting children more involved with face painting & side shows to entertain them. Irene suggested buying a fridge or chill cabinet to keep drinks cool in the bar. She also suggested that instead of hiring glasses for the day, which is becoming increasingly more expensive, we should buy our own. After the initial outlay, there would be no further expense. David suggested handing out wristbands to visitors as they pay their entrance fee at the door at the evening event. This will give us a truer picture of the number of attendees. The recent commemorations of Wallace Day & Stirling Bridge were discussed. Reports & videos can be found on our website at HTTP://WWW.THESOCIETYOFWILLIAMWALLACE.COM David thanked Craig Wilson & Andy Currie for acting as door stewards at the Wallace Day celebrations at the evening event. The annual Wallace Society dinner will be held in the nearby Wallace Tavern in Elderslie, on 4th December 2009. Thanks to Lily for supplying the buffet for members after the meeting. NEXT MEETING will be the Annual General Meeting on 17th November 2009 at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm |
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN KILBARCHAN WEAVERS COTTAGE ON 15TH SEPTEMBER 2009 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: A. Millar, J. Millar, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, Jim Adams, Dorothy Adams, Christine MacLeod, David Bailey, Richard Quinn, Morag MacLaren, Willie Douglas, Mary McCabe, George Boyle (Webmaster), Duncan Fenton (Vice Convenor), Bob Irving (Treasurer), Nan Irving APOLOGIES: Susan Boyle, Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), David Ross, (Convenor), Lily Love (Social Convenor), Ziggy & Craig Wilson (Merchandise Officers) TREASURER (Bob Irving): Duncan handed Bob money that had come in from memberships, & money from Wallace Day that David Ross gave to him before he went to the USA. This month’s meeting followed a different format from the usual. As the Weavers Cottage is a little on the small side, we had to split into two groups. This made talking to all members a little difficult. A decision was made to carry over any business from last month to the October meeting, & let member Christine MacLeod, who works there, give us a guided tour. First, Christine showed us the 200-year-old loom on which she wove the blanket which will go on Robert Burns’ bed in Burns’ Cottage in Alloway. She explained how the sett was chosen, which natural dyes were used, & which plants they came from. She explained how it had just been completed that day, & that MSP Mike Russell, Minister for Culture, had performed the cutting off ceremony. Moving back upstairs, we were handed over to guide, David Bailey, who explained the mechanics of making peg rugs. We were split into 2 groups, one of which was set to having a go at rug making. The other was treated to tea & coffee in the next room. After a while we switched places, so that everyone had a turn. When members had finished their spot of rug making, we were asked to sign our names in a book, which will record all those who helped in the process. These rugs will also be taken for display in Burns’ Cottage, so we all had a share in a little bit of history. Thanks for that, Christine. We were then allowed to have a browse around the rest of the cottage, which is a cruck-built structure, of which there are not many left in Scotland. There were old style box beds, recessed in the walls, & old crockery & fittings from the period. Even a pair of the obligatory wally dugs on the mantelpiece, which every household used to own. On leaving, everyone thanked Christine & David for a very enjoyable & educational evening. NEXT MEETING will be on 20th October 2009 at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm |
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 18th AUGUST 2009 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: A. Millar, J. Millar, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, Jim Adams, Willie Douglas, Mary McCabe, Simone Dugas, Eddie MacNeill, Malcolm MacNeill, Lily Love (Social Convenor), Jim Love, David Ross, (Convenor), Duncan Fenton (Vice Convenor), Bob Irving (Treasurer), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), APOLOGIES:Nan Irving, Hamish MacQueen, George Boyle (Webmaster), Ziggy & Craig Wilson (Merchandise Officers), TREASURER (Bob Irving): Bob gave Irene & Duncan a cheque for the drink to be purchased on Wallace Day. This was taken to the local shop which supplies us. MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke): Irene again had a go at the newspapers for their distortion of history. A recent item said that Walter Raleigh had introduced tobacco to the “British” government & the “British” monarch, Queen Elizabeth I. Most people know that Scotland & England had separate governments & different monarchs at that time. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): Duncan read out an e-mail from one of our members in Australia, Robert Dudgeon. Last month he told members of a new book by Dr.Anne McKim. He has since phoned Dr. McKim to tell her that her book had been mentioned at the Society’s meeting, & sent her a copy of the newsletter. Robert said that she was interested in the Society. Duncan had an e-mail from member Dick Clark about the missing document pertaining to the National Wallace Monument. His friend, Mike Williamson, had the original Confirmation Document to Rockhead, being a family member. Before the 700 anniversary commemorations, Mike travelled from Banchory to the Stirling monument to hand over this one-off document to a Council Officer. The result was, Dick says, his friend was not invited to any of the celebrations, nor even given a letter of thanks. An e-mail from member Scott Love informed that he has persuaded Radio Station De Tha Dol to publicise Wallace Day on air. He has also been assured that they will advertise other Wallace related events if they are given plenty of notice. Duncan gave a report on the recent Commemoration at Robroyston, at which Duncan presented young Glen Wood with a certificate of Honorary membership of the Society, in recognition of the work he has done in highlighting the state of the area around the Monument & the Well in the national press. |
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CONVENOR (David R. Ross): David had to go in person to the local council offices for the licence for Wallace Day, because they had promised it would be sent by post, but after three weeks, it still hadn’t arrived. Further to last month’s request, David showed members a detailed report of merchandise bought & sold. This had been sent to him by Merchandise Officer, Ziggy Watson. The subject of the proposed new badges was raised. Duncan will speak to Ziggy on this at Wallace Day on Saturday. David attended the Borders Gathering in Dumfries at the weekend & gave a series of talks. He was asked by the organisers if the Wallace Society would like to take a table at next year’s event. This was discussed with a view to taking up this offer. A subject discussed last month was the missing document from the National Library of Scotland of the proposal for funding to build the National Wallace Monument in Stirling. David has been on to them & it seems that it has turned up. The reason given is that it had been mislaid. David had a phone call from the new owners of the nearby Wallace Tavern. It had recently changed hands already not so long ago. David asked if they could accommodate members for the Annual St. Andrew’s Day dinner. This was confirmed & a date of Friday evening on the 4th December has been pencilled in. Ted Christopher should be available to entertain us on that evening. SOCIAL CONVENOR (Lily Love): Lily requested members to donate home baking or sandwiches for the tea room on Wallace Day. Also requests for members to help run tea room. Lily informed members of the sad death of member Gaston Olivier. Gaston was well liked by all members. Member Cris MacLeod: Cris reminded members that the next meeting will be at the Kilbarchan Weavers Cottage, where she works. She has been asked by the National Trust for Scotland to weave a new blanket for the bed that Rabbie Burns was born in Burns Cottage in Alloway. All members are invited to come & see the work that is being done. This will be on 15th September. Photography is allowed, so please bring your cameras. |
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A.O.C.B. Final preparations for Wallace Day were discussed. Members agreed we will attempt to attract some high profile speakers in plenty of time for next year Thanks again to Lily for supplying the buffet for members after the meeting. NEXT MEETING will be on 15th September 2009 at Kilbarchan Weavers Cottage at 7.45pm |
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MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 21st JULY 2009 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: A. Millar, J. Millar, Jim Adams, Clare McColl, Heather Ross, Willie Douglas, Mary McCabe, Lily Love (Social Convenor), Jim Love, George Boyle (Webmaster), David Ross, (Convenor), Duncan Fenton (Vice Convenor), Bob Irving (Treasurer), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), APOLOGIES: Nan Irving, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, Gary Stewart, Gordon Aitken, Karen Owens, Grant Williamson, Ziggy & Craig Wilson (Merchandise Officers), MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke) Irene spoke about a recent letter in the press by Derek Parker who branded the forthcoming Wallace day march as an SNP Rally. Willie Douglas had a letter printed the next day challenging his view. The Society would like to take this opportunity to again stress that we are a non-political, non-racial organisation, & welcome members of any race, religion or political persuasion. MEMBER WILLIE DOUGLAS: Asked why coverage was given to the recent Bannockburn Commemoration on our website, when this has nothing to do with William Wallace. Webmaster George Boyle answered that there were many Society members at this event so felt that it was appropriate for inclusion.Duncan voiced the opinion that, strictly speaking, Bannockburn does not have anything to do with Wallace, but neither do events remembering Culloden, Avoch, Killiecrankie, Sheriffmuir, or Arbroath, but many members attend these every year, and so details are published on the website & the newsletters. Many of our members are well up on Scottish history & attend many events not always associated with Wallace. Willie also asked how much money had ben raised by the sale of Society merchandise. David will contact Merchanise Officer, Ziggy, for an update. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): Duncan read out an e-mail from one of our members in Australia, Robert Dudgeon. He recommended a book on Blind Harry’s Wallace, by Dr.Anne McKim, which has over 40 pages of notes at the back which make very interesting reading. Duncan spoke about the Society’s attendance at the recent Battle of Falkirk Commemoration at Callendar Park. Duncan also mentioned the changes for the forthcoming march in Stirling to commemorate the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Ted Christopher, who organises this event sent Duncan the details. The Robroyston Commemoration will take place on Saturday 1st August at 2.00 pm. Speakers will be David Ross & George Boyle. Members Archie & Jean Millar: Said they had met Hugh Robertson, from Living History Group, Fire & Sword, at Kilmarnock recently. He asked if the Society would like him to come & do an illustrated talk. The Society has been educated & entertained by Hugh on previous occasions, & was very well received. Duncan will contact Hugh to arrange this. CONVENOR (David R. Ross). David received a phone call from the local council about the application for the drinks licence on Wallace Day. It seems it hadn’t been properly filled out. David will fill out a new form & hand it in personally. Speakers for Wallace Day were discussed. Ken Shirra of the Scottish Knights Templar has agreed to speak, & David will ask Ted Christopher if he would like to speak too. David spoke about his tour of the USA & said that many Americans are planning to come here for the “Homecoming” & will attend Wallace Day. Having spent so much time there recently, he has starting learning American history. He showed members a Confederate flag he had brought home, which is based on the saltire. Many Scots who went to America swelled the ranks of the Southern regiments during the Civil War. He showed a photo of a saltire in a museum which was carried into battle by McCowan’s regiment. David said that the National Library of Scotland has just completed an inventory & it sems there are around 250 documents missing. One of these is the proposal for funding to build the National Wallace Monument in Stirling. David has been doing interviews with the press recently, & one story they want to follow up is of 13 year-old Glen Wood, who mounted a campaign to improve the state of the area around the Robroyston Monument. Carrying a placard saying “Wallace Deserves Better”, he featured on our website. Now Glen has agreed to do an interview with the press. David mentioned that the new museum featuring the Black Douglas will open on 5th September in Teba, Spain. It will be housed in the old castle there, where Douglas was killed on crusade carrying the heart of Robert The Bruce. SOCIAL CONVENOR (Lily Love) Lily requested members to donate home baking or sandwiches for the tea room on Wallace Day. Also for prizes for the evening raffle. Thanks to Lily for supplying the buffet for members after the meeting. NEXT MEETING will be on 18th August 2009 at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm |
| MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 16th JUNE 2009 AT 7.45 PM.
PRESENT: Peter Malcolm, Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor), Bob Irving (Treasurer), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), APOLOGIES: Nan Irving, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, A. Millar, J. Millar, David Ross, (Convenor), Ziggy & Craig Wilson (Merchandise Officers), Lily Love (Social Convenor). George Boyle (Webmaster). Duncan chaired the meeting as David Ross was in the States. TREASURER (Bob Irving): Bob suggested reminding members that the monthly meeting for September will not take place in Elderslie, but in the Weavers Cottage in Kilbarchan, where Cris MacLeod works. This was discussed at the last meeting. A location map will be included in the August newsletter. MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke): Irene continues with her quest to correct the media when they get our history wrong. The Glasgow Herald’s “On this day” feature continually includes mostly English orientated events in history. Irene also phoned the BBC to complain about an item on their BBC History website. It states that King Henry VIII was responsible for bringing Scotland & England together. Last year, following the damage to King James III’s graveslab in Cambuskenneth Abbey, Historic Scotland sent it away to be repaired. When Irene inquired about it, they told her they would inform her when the work was completed & where it was going on display. So far there has been no news. Irene will contact them again on this. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): There had been a rumour circulating recently that the Bannockburn March this year had been cancelled. But details have now been confirmed that the march will leave the 1314 Inn car park at 1.00 pm. Duncan read out e-mails sent to him by Convenor David Ross. These were exchanges between himself & the councillors who are involved with helping us get permission to erect a monument to the Battle of the Bell o’ the Brae in Glasgow. One response from the Executive Director of development suggested an inscribed Caithness slab set into the pavement, but Councillor Craig Mackay agrees with us that we should be looking at a higher profile monument than that. He likes our idea of a large claymore with an inscription on it, so that is the project we will go with. The important thing is that Glasgow City Council planning department don’t have any objections at this stage. David has arranged a meeting with the councillors involved. More details will follow on the outcome of this. Duncan brought in photos of the granite broadsword memorial at Coldstream which was mentioned at last month’s meeting during discussions about the proposed monument in Glasgow. Also a photo of the Bore Stone which used to mark the traditional mustering place of the Scottish army at Borough Muir in Edinburgh. It is now built into the wall of Morningside Parish Church. Our caretaker at the hall, Charlie, retires in a few days. So, as a token of our appreciation, the Society presented him with a cheque for £50 for all the help he has given us for the last 27 years. NEXT MEETING will be on 21st July 2009 at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm |
| MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 19th MAY 2009 AT 7.45 PM.
PRESENT: T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, A. Millar, J. Millar, Jim Adams, George Boyle, Cris MacLeod, Gordon Aitken, Eddie McNeill, Malcolm McNeill, Mae Duggan, Peter Malcolm, David Ross, (Convenor), Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor), Bob Irving (Treasurer). APOLOGIES: Nan Irving, Karen Owens, Grant Williamson, Susan Boyle, Jennifer Gilmour, Michael Reid, Ziggy & Craig Wilson (Merchandise Officers), Lily Love (Social Convenor), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer). DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton) Duncan gave a report on the recent visit to Avoch on the Black Isle, where along with members Eddie & Malcolm McNeill and Irene & Paul Clarke, they attended the flag raising ceremony hosted by the Andrew de Moray Project. As is customary, Duncan presented the group with a new saltire on behalf of the Society. Convenor Rob Gibson MSP, gave a speech, where he highlighted the need for a statue to properly recognise the part played by Andrew de Moray during the Wars of Independence. He is in dialogue with Historic Scotland, who are responsible for the site of Ormond Castle, to further this aim. CONVENOR (David R. Ross) David brought in the application form for a grant towards the cost of the proposed monument to the Battle of the Bell o’ the Brae, near Glasgow Cathedral. This was duly filled in & designs were again discussed. David will meet again with the coucillors involved when he hands the form in. Plans may include providing proper car parking, rather than the 3 spaces at present, a footpath from the cross to the well, and general tidying up & renovation. He asked if the Society would like to get involved & invited representatives to their next meeting. This is welcome news after years of trying to get something done about the condition of the area without success. David told of a recent trip to the visitor center at Bannockburn Heritage Centre. He said that they were only two cars in the car park, & the centre itself was looking a little shoddy, with many of the artifacts that used to be on display there not present. The audio-visual display has been updated, but was not as good as the previous one. This prompted a discussion among members, who have noticed that more & more of properties under the care of the NTS & Historic Scotland are being staffed by non-Scots. This is not a racial issue – it just seems that Scottish people will know more about their own history & will be a little more passionate about it when dealing with the visiting public & answering their questions. David talked about the Gathering Stone that used to stand on the Borough Muir in Edinburgh, the traditional mustering place of the Scots army. He had read from old books that it had disappeared from its original location many years ago. Having gone looking for it, he found it just outside Morningside Parish Church, where it was placed in 1852. David informed members of a bust of Wallace in the Kelvingrove museum in Glasgow. MEMBER Gordon Aitken Gordon broght in a clipping from the Falkirk Herald, which carried the story of the recent vandalisation of the Falkirk Cairn. Someone had sprayed black paint over the sandstone plaque. Gordon’s comments were noted in the newspaper. Gordon has managed to clean the paint off. Gordon brought in tickets for sale for the Annual Falkirk Cairn Commemoration on 18th July. Member Cris MacLeod Cris spoke about an article which appeared in the local press about the Kilbarchan Weavers Cottage, where she works. She has been asked by the National Trust for Scotland to weave a new blanket for the bed that Rabbie Burns was born in Burns Cottage in Alloway. This is to tie in with the Burns “Homecoming” year. She proposed that one of our monthly meetings could be held in the Weavers Cottage, & invited all members to come & see the work that is being done. After discussing this, it was agreed that this would take place on 15th September. Member Jean Miller Jean said that she will speak to the Pipe Major of the Kilbarchan Pipe Band to ask if they are available to lead the march on Wallace Day. NEXT MEETING Will be on 16th June 2009 at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm LATE NEWS Duncan received an e-mail from John F. Early from New York City requesting help from our members in locating a drawing of Wallace. Below is his e-mail. John asks for assistance in re-locating an image he saw five months ago of a personage he strongly believes to be Wallace. John had been looking on his computer for any and all depictions of Wallace, when suddenly he came upon a simple pen and ink drawing. The extremely fine drawing shows the face and uppermost torso of a man in a tunic or nightshirt. John did not download the image or save it on computer hard drive, and ever since has been unable to locate it anywhere. Of all the portraits of William Wallace that John has seen, he maintains that the man in the drawing he saw looks most like the one hanging in the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum, also same face positioning. If anyone comes across this image or something similar, please contact John at Received an invite to members for Lachlan’s 50th birthday party. Here is his e-mail. LACHLAN WILL BE HAVING A (BELATED) 50TH BIRTHDAY PARTY ON THE 17TH JULY (HIS BIRTHDAY IS THE 11TH) ALL MEMBERS ARE INVITED. |
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 21st APRIL 2009 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, A. Millar, J. Millar, Jim Adams, George Boyle, Richard Quinn, Cris MacLeod, David Ross, (Convenor), Kimberley Ross, Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor), Bob Irving (Treasurer), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer) APOLOGIES: Nan Irving, Gordon Aitken, Karen Owens, Grant Williamson, Gary Stewart, Susan Boyle, Ziggy & Craig Wilson (Merchandise Officers), Lily Love (Social Convenor). MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke) Irene showed members a poster advertising a fund-raising abseil down the National Wallace Monument. Members agreed that a building, which is in fact a War memorial, is not a suitable venue for this kind of event. David will contact Stirling Council on this. Duncan was particularly dismayed by the invitation to “text FUN WALLACE” in order to take part. The Society has raised concerns about this in the past, but it still continues. Irene has applied for the drinks licence for the hall for Wallace day in August. She also contacted the local police, who again agreed to come to the hall periodically on their rounds to make sure we don’t suffer from drunken youths trying to gatecrash. She also contacted the lady who did the wreaths for our various commerorations last year, who will supply them again this year. Irene showed members a gift she had recived from a stuntman who had worked on ‘Braveheart’. A golden clasp brooch with a broadsword flanked by the words ‘Braveheart’ and ‘Freedom’. This was in a presentation box with a 3 x 3 inch square of tartan from Mel Gibson’s kilt, which was worn in the film. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton) Duncan read from a press cutting brought in by Member Jean Millar proposing a modern re-trial for Wallace. David Ross had supplied his opinion which was printed in the Scotsman’s version of the article. This has been brought up in the press before, and members agreed with David when he said we don’t want a pardon for Wallace, because that leads to the assunption that he was guilty. Duncan read out a news article concerning the National Trust for Scotland, who are suffering a finacial crisis. Plans include shedding 91 jobs and closing up to 11 of its properties to the public to save money. Another option discussed was to merge with the National Trust in England. Opponents of this have said that it would become a “junior partner of a much larger organisation”. I think we heard something similar in 1707. WEBMASTER (George Boyle) George told members of a newly launched website which has highlighted the state of disrepair around the Wallace Memorial cross in Robroyston. This can be found at WWW.ROBROYSTON.ORG CONVENOR (David R. Ross) David said that he has noticed recently an increase on TV and in the press of all things “British”, with advertisers using the Union Flag more & more. He wonders if this is a deliberate effort to promote “Britishness”, as Gordon Brown has always said he wants to do. Also there seems to be more goods on sale on Scotland bearing the Union Jack logo, & less emphasis on the Saltire. Members’ own experiences have reinforced this. David spoke about the recent commemoration at Culloden which he attended, and also the one for hte “Rout of Moy”. David had a meeting with Councillor Craig Mackay about the proposed memorial to the ‘Battle of the Bell o’ the Brae’ in Glasgow. He read out a letter he’d received from him. Glasgow City Planning department have so far raised no objections to this& we have been invited to submit sketches of possible designs. This was discussed at length by memberswith some very good ideas being put forward. David read out an e-mail from Susan Barclay at Robroyston Community Council. She has asked that, follwing the success of last year’s Robroyston Fun Day, some mebers could again come along, suitably kilted up, to help explain the link between Wallace & Robroyston. This will be held at the local Ppimary school. Several members have agreed to do so. Member Cris MacLeod: Cris said that on a recent trip to the Epcot Centre, she visited the United Kingdom pavilllion. It contained mostly images of England. It’s own website invites you to “travel to jolly old England”. This is supposedly representative of the whole of the UK. Member Jean Millar:Jean suggested we make posters advertising Wallace Day in plenty of time this year. She and husband Archie are willing to hand these out to local shopkeepers for display in their windows. This is a direct response to the negative attitude shown by the local council in the past, when we have put up posters on lamposts, only to have them removed the next day by council workmen. Webmaster George Boyle agreed to produce the posters. NEXT MEETING will be on 19th May 2009 at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm |
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 17th March 2009 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: Gordon Aitken, Karen Owens, Grant Williamson, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, A. Millar, J. Millar, Peter Malcolm, W. Clow, (guest),Jim Adams, George Boyle, David Ross, (Convenor), Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor) APOLOGIES:Nan Irving, Bob Irving (Treasurer), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), Ziggy & Craig Wilson (Merchandise Officers), Lily Love (Social Convenor). Member Archie Millar raised a very good point. He suggested that we don’t give out details of the bank balance as the newsletters are now available anyone to read on the website, & not just to members. Members agreed. Duncan will still send out the newsletter to members as usual, but webmaster George Boyle will delete the bank balance entry for posting on the internet. Convenor David Ross brought in a pile of cheques for subscriptions that he received while he was away, & will post these on to the treasurer. Duncan has a note of these & will mark them up as paid on the database. Archie also mentioned that there are a few old websites with the domain name of the Wallace Society, or a variant of it, that are no longer functioning, & suggested that we try to et them removed, so that our website will be more prominent to a search engine. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): Duncan read out e-mails he has received. An e-mail from member Alan Reid about the renewed attempt by MSP’s to secure the return of the Wallace “safe conduct” letter currently held at Kew. He suggested that more members could write to their MSP & to the press to show the volume of support for this move. Alan also mentioned that to celebrate 10 years of the Scottish Parliament, a new quotation is being sought for inclusion on the Canongate Wall. There are currently 24 quotes inscribed on stones from various prominent Scots. Alan suggests Wallace’s rallying call, “I’ve brought you to the ring – now dance the best you can”. If members log on to the parliament website they can leave their suggestion. The decision will be made on St Andrews day. Duncan has already done this. (Since the meeting his letter regarding this has been published in the Scotsman newspaper 20/3/09). Duncan brought up the subject of setting up a Paypal account on the website. Webmaster George Boyle said he is already looking into this & has asked David Murdoch to assist with the technicalities. MEMBER Gordon Aitken Following last month’s request for Wallace Day speakers, Gordon has asked Ken Shirra, leader of the Knights Templar in Scotland, to speak. Ken has said that he would be honoured to do it. CONVENOR (David R. Ross) While in the States, David had a meeting with an American film company who are keen to make a DVD version of David’s book “On the Trail of William Wallace”. This would show the locations of the various monuments & sites relating to Wallace. He also spoke with the Canadian Tourist Board, who will have the copy of the Wallace sword on loan. This is the copy that is kept in the National Wallace Monument & not the original. He sword will be going on a tour of Canada, & they have requested permission for the Wallace coffin to accompany it. No member raised any objection to this. David read from a news clipping brought in by Jean Millar concerning a new book called “Bannockburn: The Triumph of Robert the Bruce, by David Cornell. The author suggests that the chroniclers got it wrong when they wrote about the numbers of English killed in battle. He states that it was far less because most of them fled. Comments have appeared in the press from David R. Ross, Ian Scott from the Saltire Society and much respected Prof. G.W.S. Barrow, among others, who disagree with Cornell’s interpretation of history. David read out a report from Media Officer, Irene Clarke, who could not attend the meeting. Irene had e-mailed Alex Salmond’s office to ask him to speak at Wallace Day. She has received a reply saying that unfortunately, he will be unavailable for that day. She has also contacted the provost’s office & is awaiting a reply. David has been told on several occasions that Scots commemorate battles they have lost, but the English don’t, & that the reason for this is that they didn’t lose many. David reckons the reason this view is widely held is because they don’t teach English defeats in their schools. To illustrate this, he spoke about two battles that are all but forgotten in England, Bannockburn excepted. They are the Battle of Bauge & the Battle of Byland. NEXT MEETING will be on 21st April 2009 at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm |
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 17th February 2009 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: Gordon Aitken, Karen Owens, Richard Quinn, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, A. Millar, J. Millar, Peter Malcolm, Jim Adams, George Boyle, Frank Boyd, John Paterson, Bob Irving (Treasurer), Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), APOLOGIES: Nan Irving, Grant Williamson,Willie Douglas, David Ross, (Convenor), Ziggy & Craig Wilson (Merchandise Officers), Lily Love (Social Convenor). Duncan chaired the meeting as David Ross was in the States. TREASURER (Bob Irving): Bob asked members for suggestion for speakers for Wallace Day. Also that we should try to get more guest speakers for the monthly meetings. Bob suggested that their expenses could be met from society funds.
MEMBERS Jim Adams & John Paterson told members that nearby Johnstone Castle, which has recently been purchased, is being renovated by the new owner. Member George Boyle Has taken over as webmaster of the society’s new website, www.thesocietyofwilliamwallace.com George has added a lot of new content to the existing stuff on our old website. He asked members for anything they would like to contribute, like articles or photos. Gordon Aitken suggested excerpts from the CD Rom which descibes the building of the Falkirk Cairn in Callander Park. Copies of the meetings’ monthly minutes & newsletters can be found on the website. Members are reminded that meeting are held on the third Tuesday of every month, except December. Duncan sent an e-mail of thanks to David Murdoch, webmaster of Crann Tara’s site, who kindly allowed the society space on their website, & who made the transition from his site to our new domain as seamless as possible. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): Duncan read out e-mails he has received. An e-mail from member George Boyle with the information that Springburn SNP are trying to get the Wallace monument at Robroyston floodlit. Also to have it designated a site of national importance. Councillor Craig Mackay was contacted by John Toner who asked if it could be possible to erect a plaque of some sort to commemorate the Battle of the Bell o’ the Brae, which Duncan spoke about at the last meeting. The councillor in turn contacted the societyto see if we wished to apply for funding for this project, & that he would support us. He asked if the society would be interested in assisting in identifying a suitable location and commissioning a plaque. Duncan replied to him, saying that we would like to be involved. This will be discussed further. Mr Toner also mentioned to Councillor Mackay the lack of an information plaque on the tomb of Bishop Wishart, Wallace’s friend, in Glasgow Cathedral. This has been discussed at previous meetings, with members bing urged to make a comment to that effect in the visitor’s book An e-mail fom John F. Early from New York. John asked for help in locating a image of Wallace he saw recently. It is a drawing showing Wallace from the waist up. Duncan asked members to let him know if they had any ideas about this. NEXT MEETING will be on 17th March 2009 at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm |
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MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 20th JANUARY 2009 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: Gordon Aitken, Karen Owens, Richard Quinn, Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), APOLOGIES: Bob Irving (Treasurer), Nan Irving, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, A. Millar, J. Millar, Grant Williamson, David Ross, (Convenor), Ziggy & Craig Wilson (Merchandise Officers), Lily Love (Social Convenor). Duncan chaired the meeting as David Ross was in the States. MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke) Irene spoke about a programme which was broadcast on BBC Alba around Christmas about Scottish history. She will bring the DVD to a forthcoming meeting. Irene phoned the Scottish Daily Mail about a recent article entitled ‘British Monarchs’. We are used to sloppy research & this time was no different. Included were Edward I & Henry VIII among others who are obviously English kings. It is difficult to tell whether this is ignorance or arrogance on the press’s part. Lily phoned Irene about a TV programme due to be shown this Sunday on Channel 4. Reference is made to the “English Isles” MEMBER Archie Millar sent in a news clipping about a forthcoming talk on Wallace by Alan Steel as part of the 200th anniversary of the founding of Paisley Philosophical Institution. This will take place at Paisley Museum on Thursday, February 26, at 7.30 pm. Admission is free & there is no need to book. MEMBER Gordon Aitken told members that the date for the anniversary of the Battle of Falkirk will be 18th July this year. Further details to follow. Gordon sang a new song he has just written called “Patriotic Heart”. It is a rallying call for all Scots of diverse views & persuasions to forget their differences & come together for the greater good of Scotland. Scots have always been too ready to quarrel amongst themselves – it is now time to unite. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): Another e-mail from a Liz Longden at Capital Press. They are preparing a story for the national press regarding the recent motion lodged in the Scottish Parliament by Murdo Fraser MSP, calling for the return of the Lubeck letter. She asked Duncan for comment on behalf of the Society. This was duly sent. Another e-mail from Elizabeth Crocket, who has just learned from the press about the safe conduct letter which was taken from Wallace on his capture & now lies in the National Archives at Kew. She asked if there had been any attempts to get it returned. Duncan replied & attached copies of all the relevant letters which have gone back & forth over the years on the subject. Duncan e-mailed the BBC’s Religion and Ethics website to bring their attention to an error on their article about St. Andrew last year. It gives the Battle of Athelstaneford as 736 AD, when it should have been 832 AD. They replied saying they would amend this as soon as possible, which they have now done. Duncan has been researching the Battle of the Bell O’ the Brae, which took place in Glasgow in 1297. Wallace’s forces defeated the English garrison of Glasgow Castle, which was under the command of Earl Percy. Having obtained several writers’ views on the subject from 1894, 1911 & 1913, he printed out an account of the battle with maps of the area around Glasgow Castle from differint times in history. This was distributed to members. NEXT MEETING will be on 17th February 2009 at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 18th NOVEMBER 2008 AT 7.45 PM. MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 21st OCTOBER 2008 AT 7.45 PM. MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 16th SEPTEMBER 2008 AT 7.45 PM. |
| MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 19th AUGUST 2008 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: Gordon Aitken, Karen Owens, George Boyle, A. Millar, J. Millar, Eddie McNeill, David Murray, Eddie Scott, John Paterson, Jim Adams, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, P. Malcolm, Bob Irving (Treasurer), David Ross (Convenor), Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), Lily Love (Social Convenor). APOLOGIES: Nan Irving, Malcolm McNeill, Richard Quinn, Susan Boyle, Hamish MacQueen, Grant Williamson. TREASURER (Bob Irving): Bob signed cheques for the alcohol for Wallace Day, & the wreaths for various commemorations. MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke) Following reports of vandalism of King James III’s tomb cover at Cambuskenneth Abbey, Irene phoned Historic Scotland to ask why it had been kept in such a vulnerable site. When Irene mentioned that she originally thought they had meant the raised tomb in front of the high altar, the lady she spoke to admitted that she didn’t even know it was there. When the Daily Record covered the story, it carried a picture of King James VIII ! Irene asked members for donations of bottles of alcohol for the bar. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): Duncan suggested that one of our collecting tins be put on the bar for customers’ loose change. Duncan praised David Murdoch for setting up our new website, but called for any member with the experience to take over the running of it, to add new content, etc. He felt this was unfair to ask David to do this, as he is already Webmaster of at least half a dozen other sites. Member George Boyle agreed to do this & will speak to David on this subject. Duncan has many photos that could go on a picture gallery on the site. Duncan thanked George Boyle for making his first speech for the Society at the recent Robroyston commemoration. CONVENOR (David R. Ross) David spoke about the recent success of the Scottish competitors at the Beijing Olympics, & said that it was time that Scotland had its own team to compete in future Olympics, as happens in the Commonwealth games at present. David informed members that the pub close to the village hall, The Wallace Tavern, is now under new management. He has spoken to the new owner & believes he is a patriot. The pub will also be holding events to commemorate Wallace Day, & it is hoped that this will attract more people to the area & swell the numbers at the celebrations. SOCIAL CONVENOR (Lily Love) Lily asked for donations of sandwiches, home baking, etc., for the tearoom. Member Jean Millar has spoken to the Pipe Major of Kilbarchan Pipe Band & they have confirmed that they will lead the march on Wallace Day. Member Eddie Scott suggested the Society have a stall at next year’s World Pipe Band Championship, held in Glasgow. Member Gordon Aitken brought in a recent copy of the Falkirk Herald, which featured an article with photos of the commemoration of the Battle of Falkirk, at the newly built cairn in Callander Park. A.O.C.B. David Ross asked Gordon Aitken if he would like to do a few musical numbers during the ceilidh on Saturday night, while the bands are taking a break. Gordon agreed. Eddie McNeill said that the friends he will be bringing to Wallace Day have their own instruments, & would be willing to do the same during the breaks. Irene suggested that Eddie MacNeill be chosen to lay the wreath at the monument this year. This was agreed. All other final preparations for Saturday’s commemoration were discussed. Could I remind members that the annual subscriptions are now due. This can be paid on the day or by completing & posting the attached form. Thank you again for your support. Thanks again to Lily Love, our Social Convenor for providing tea & snacks for members after the meeting. NEXT MEETING will be on 16th September at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm. P.S. I have been asked to attach this to the newsletter to publicise next year’s Homecoming celebrations. ============================================================= As I’m sure you are aware, 2009 is the 250th birth anniversary of Scotland's most famous son, poet Robert Burns. This landmark event has inspired the creation of Homecoming Scotland in 2009, to celebrate Scotland as the Home of Your Ancestors, the Home of Golf, the Home of Whisky and of course the Home of Burns. As part of Homecoming, there will be an exhibition of contemporary art inspired by the life, poetry and songs of Robert Burns, featuring work by a distinguished group of artists from the UK and overseas. The contemporary work will be presented alongside a small collection of previously unseen Burns’ relics. The exhibition represents a fascinating and unprecedented way to convey the influence and relevance of Robert Burns' work in the present day. The Exhibition takes place at the Mitchell Library in Glasgow between 4 April – 20 September 2009 and admission is free. We are firstly looking to encourage Scots and expats to come back to Scotland but also secondly, to visit the exhibition. |
| MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 15th JULY 2008 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: Gordon Aitken, Karen Owens, George Boyle, A. Millar, Douglas Cassidy, Willie Douglas, Mary McCabe, Eddie McNeill, Sandra MacGregor, Mae Duggan, Shannon McLaren, Bob Irving (Treasurer), David Ross (Convenor), Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer) APOLOGIES: Nan Irving, Malcolm McNeill, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, J. Millar, Lily Love (Social Convenor), Jean Nellies, Richard Quinn, Michael Reid, Jennifer Gilmour, Grant Williamson. TREASURER (Bob Irving): Bob brought up the subject of stall lets in the village hall for Wallace Day & prices were discussed. MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke) Irene reminded everyone that stalls are not allowed to sell or raffle alcohol, because this has caused problems in the past with under-age drinkers. Irene phoned the Sunday Herald to complain about an article which equated nationalism with nazism. Irene will organise the wreaths for commemorations of the Battle of Falkirk, Robroyston & Wallace Day. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): Duncan brought in an article from BBC History magazine, which tried to excuse Butcher Cumberland’s actions in the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden. Too many modern day historians seem to want to santise our history to make it more palatable. Member Debbie Bardo e-mailed Duncan to watch out for this article. Duncan remnded members that Doors Open Day is approaching. During the month of September, many properties open their doors free of charge to the public. More information can be found at www.doorsopendays.org.uk Duncan reminded members that the annual commemoration at Robroyston will take place at the monument on Saturday 2nd August, beginning at 2.00 pm. The Campsie Nairn pub has been booked from 3.00 till 5.00 pm for refreshments. It is situated in Woodhill Road, just off Auchinairn Road (B812). Duncan thanked Scott Love for cleaning the graffitti from the Wallace Stone at Riggend, and tidying up the surrounding area. CONVENOR (David R. Ross): David spoke about his recent time in the USA on the Highland Games circuit. He read out a letter he’d received from a Reverend that he’d met. It said that David’s speech had touched him, making him realise that although he is 7 generations American, his bloodline is 100 generations Scots. David also mentioned just how many Amercans speak Gaelic, when there are so few speakers in Scotland. David read out a letter of thanks to the Society from Robroyston Community Council for members of the Society taking part in their annual fun day, educating people about the links between Wallace & Robroyston. Thanks to Willie Douglas & Mary McCabe who provided the buffet after the meeting in the absence of Lily Love, our Social Convenor. NEXT MEETING will be on 19th August at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm. |
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 17th JUNE 2008 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: David Brown, Gordon Aitken, Karen Owens, Grant Williamson, Richard Quinn, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, A. Millar, J. Millar, Marion McMillan, Sandy Bain, Ann Bain, Douglas Cassidy, Willie Douglas, Mary McCabe, Bob Irving (Treasurer), Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), Lily Love (Social Convenor). Duncan chaired the meeting as David was in the States at the launch of his new book. MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke) Irene brought in a news clipping about a proposed statue of Robert the Bruce to be erecterd in Annan – facing across the Solway Firth to where Edward Longshanks’ statue stands in Burgh-by-Sands. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): Duncan gave details of the forthcoming Bannockburn March on 21st June. He mentioned that the Wallace Stone at Riggend, which had been vandalised with paint, has now been cleaned up, and thanked member George Boyle & his friends at the Paisley Tartan Army for this. Member Richard Quinn Voiced disappointment at the open day at Robroyston not being mentioned at last month’s meeting. The local primary school had asked the Society to send along some members in highland dress to man a table to explain to the public the connection with Wallace & Robroyston. David Ross & some members attended. Duncan apologised for this ommission. Member Archie Millar Showed members a leaflet for the Marie Stuart Society, & asked if our Society should be putting out something similar. It was discussed that this was possible to have on display at Wallace related events, but the cost of putting them into visitor centres would be prohibitive. Member Gordon Aitken
Gave a report on the commemoration of the massacre of the Clan Lamont by the Campbells, which occurred in 1646. This was held last Saturday in Dunoon, and organised by Na Fir Dileas. At the end of the meeting, Marion produced a bottle of Scottish Independence whisky, & asked David Brown to break the seal. This was served among members in memory of her late father. Marion told us that this was her father’s wish. Thanks again to Lily for providing a superb buffet for members to enjoy after the meeting. NEXT MEETING will be on 15th July at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm.David Ross's monthly contribution hasn't reached me yet as he is still in the USA. This will be sent out as soon as I receive it. |
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 20th MAY 2008 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: Eddie MacNeill, Malcolm McNeill, Peter Malcolm, Jim Adams, Gordon Aitken, Karen Owens, APOLOGIES: Bob Irving, Hamish McQueen, Grant Williamson, Susan Boyle, Gary Stewart. MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke) Irene thinks that the Glasgow Herald have finally taken on board her comments about their “On this day” feature in which they consistently confuse Britain with England. The last few entries have made this distinction. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton) Duncan gave a short report on the Annual flag-raising ceremony at Avoch this year by the Andrew de Moray Project, at which he presented the new saltire to Charlie Beattie on behalf of our Society. CONVENOR (David R. Ross)
David will be in the USA shortly to launch his new book, “James the Good – The Black Douglas”, which is released on 3rd June. Duncan suggested each group could bring a stone from their locality to the battlefield, perhaps with their town’s name painted or engraved on it. This could maybe be built into a cairn at a later date to commemorate the 700th anniversary. Malcolm McNeill Malcolm told members of an upcoming event in Dunoon on 14th & 15th June. Organised by Na Fir Dileas, this will be a march to commemorate the slaying of the Lamonts by the Campbells which took place in 1646. There will entertainment at a local pub in the evening. NEXT MEETING will be on 17th June at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm. |
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 15th APRIL 2008 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: Eddie MacNeill, Malcolm McNeill, Peter Malcolm, Jim Adams, Gordon Aitken, Karen Owens, Mae Duggan, David R. Ross (Convenor), Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor), Lily Love (Social Convenor). APOLOGIES: Bob Irving, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, A. Millar, J. Millar, Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), Willie Douglas, Angus McKenzie, Cris MacLeod, Hamish McQueen, Grant Williamson, Jennifer Boyle, Michael Reid. MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke) Irene phoned David to during the meeting to say that she had a puncture en route to Elderslie, & couldn’t make it. CONVENOR (David R. Ross) DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton) Duncan showed a collection of photos taken by former secretery, Willie Douglas. These showed post boxes around Glasgow that still have the King Edward VII cipher on them. Of course Scotland never had a King Edward. Member Gordon Aitken Attended the re-enactment of the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath last week & brought in photos of the event. He informed members of the Battle of Falkirk Commemoration, which will take place on 19th July. Gathering at the tomb of John de Graham outside the parish church, at 1.00 pm, the march will leave at 1.30 pm to the Falkirk Cairn in Callander Park, unveiled just last year. Commemoration led by Scottish Knights Templar, begins at 2.00pm. Evening entertainment will be at Camelon Bowling Club, with Kevin Wilson’s new band, White Rose & Fiery Jack. 7.30 till 12.30. NEXT MEETING will be on 20th May at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm. |
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 18th MARCH 2008 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: Brian Young, Cris MacLeod, John Paterson, Geoge Boyle, Peter Malcolm, Jim Adams, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, A. Millar, J. Millar, David R. Ross (Convenor), Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), Lily Love (Social Convenor). APOLOGIES: Bob Irving, Nan Irving, Eddie MacNeill, Malcolm McNeill, Susan Boyle, Irene Rowan, Hamish McQueen. MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke) Irene read out a short story about Wallace written by our newest & youngest member, Ellie Hunter, who is 6 years old. She is the neice of member Betty Burns. It’s good to see youngsters taking an interest in Wallace. CONVENOR (David R. Ross) David had been invited to the opening of the new Wallace exhibit at Edinburgh Dungeon. This will deal with Wallace’s torture & death. He gave them a copy of his book, “For Freedom” to use as reference. John Smeaton, the Glasgow Airport have-a-go hero was also present for publicity. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton) Duncan mentioned a newsclipping about history teaching in Scotland. Schools in Glasgow are being given a curriculum pack which explores Glasgow in the medieval period. He also spoke about the forthcoming BBC Scotland programme called “Scotland’s History”. It has already attracted a lot of negative comments from academics for being blantly Anglo-centric. Duncan has been to see the Silver Bell racing trophy which is on display at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh. He warned members that if they go to see it, photography is not allowed in the exhibition. Duncan e-mailed Rosslyn Chapel’s website which now also has a no-photography rule. As he has photos from previous visits over the years, he asked why this ban is now in place. No reply has been received as yet. NEXT MEETING will be on 15th April at Elderslie Village Hall at 7.45pm. |
MINUTES OF MEETING HELD IN ELDERSLIE VILLAGE HALL, GLENPATRICK ROAD, ELDERSLIE ON TUESDAY 19th FEBRUARY 2008 AT 7.45 PM. PRESENT: Gordon Aitken, Karen Owens, Richard Quinn, Malcolm McNeil, Eddie McNeill, Brian Young, John Paterson, Alex Scullion, George Boyle, Susan Boyle, Peter Malcolm, T. Lavelle, I. Lavelle, A. Millar, J. Millar, Frank Boyd, Bob Irving (Treasurer), Duncan Fenton ( Vice Convenor), Irene Clarke, ( Media Officer), Elizabeth Gosnay (Minute Secretery). APOLOGIES: Nan Irving, Lily Love, Angus McKenzie, Jamie Wright, David Ross, Brian Young, Grant Williamson, Fiona Douglas, Hamish McQueen, Morag McLaren, Willie Douglas Duncan chaired the meeting as David had a prior speaking engagement. MEDIA OFFICER ( Irene Clarke) Irene phoned the Glasgow Herald about an article which mentioned King James II. She pointed out that although they meant James VII of Scotland and II of England, they never make this clear. This means that young people who are just learning our history may be confused. The book about St. Mungo mentioned at last month’s meeting is now on display at Glasgow Cathedral. DEPUTY CONVENOR ( Duncan Fenton): Duncan spoke about a news clipping sent to him by Archie & Jean Millar. It mentioned a forthcoming five part TV series on Scottish history. It will portray William Wallace as a failure, Robert the Bruce as a king who struggled to keep power, and that Scotland agreed willingly to the union with England in 1707. There was no mention of the programme makers or which channel will be showing it, only that it will be aired in the Autumn. David had intended to do the Wallace slideshow, but as he could not attend the meeting, Duncan showed a home video of the Knights of Royal England performing a medieval jousting display, shot at Linlithgow Palace in 2001. |
| © William Wallace Society 2007 |