Clan Cameron History - Clan Cameron Ontario

Clan Cameron History
THE CLAN
As a Cameron, you belong to one of the most colourful and illustrious of the
Scottish clans. Little is known about them before the 14th Century. It may have
received its name from a chieftain with a crooked nose but the origin of the word
Cameron is still debated. What is not disputed, is its role in Scottish History.
The Clan’s story reveals involvement in every facet of Scotland’s evolution,
from the machinations of warlords to clan feuds to the Jacobite Rebellions to the
Highland Clearances. Surrounded by land hungry neighbours, geographically
situated between powerful factions and caught up in turmoils beyond its control,
the Clan fought for its lands and survival for centuries. “Unite”, the Clan’s
motto, succinctly expressed the need of a beleaguered people for cohesive action.
A combination of history and geography forced the Camerons to become
bellicose. Cameron territory includes Ben Nevis and is hilly and steep. The
rivers and lochs impede rather than invite transportation and the soil is acidic and
poorly drained. Forests provided good hunting but cereal and root crops did not
thrive. Demand for cattle always exceeded the land’s ability to support adequate
herds. The population strained the productivity of the land and raids to “lift”
neighbours livestock were as much a necessity as a blood sport in the lean years.
There were very few non-lean years.
Also, the Camerons found themselves dispossessed of their legal right to their
lands when stewardship of the Lochaber area was transferred to the MacIntosh.
The resulting feud lasted several hundreds of years and although the MacIntosh
had a “de jure” claim to the land, Clan Cameron controlled and occupied it by
right of the sword. For part of its history, the Clan was caught between the
Campbells and the Gordons who never tired of threatening Cameron interests.
Harassed from all sides, outnumbered by powerful enemies, struggling to coax
sustenance from a barren land, the Camerons became hardened by adversity.
They eventually earned a reputation for tenacity, pride and the ferocity suggested
in our war cry, “Sons of the Hounds, Come Here to get Flesh!”
Clan organization provided social, economic and military benefits to its
members. The Camerons were one of the fighting clans; the clan’s chief made
the final decision concerning war and all clansmen were expected to give loyalty
and obedience to the chief. Although he might consult with others, the chief’s
word was law in war, the dispensation of justice, the division of spoils and
allocation of land. The bond between the clansman and his chief occasionally
was severed when an individual and his dependents were driven from the clan
because of a murder or theft committed against a fellow clansman. On rare
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occasions, some of the smaller clans were decimated by war or disease. The
Camerons, more so than other clans, welcomed these “broken men” and settled
them, usually on marginal land or nearest their enemies. In this symbiotic
relationship, the broken men got a second chance to belong to a family grouping
and the Camerons got fresh blood to defend their territories. There is no record
of any betrayal or breach of faith by these additions.
The Camerons have been fortunate in having many chiefs who personified bold
leadership, courage, and a compassion for the welfare of the Clan. Ewan
Cameron (1629-1719), for example, was chief in the tumultuous years when the
Covenanters and Royalists vied for power and under his direction the Clan
threaded its way through the bloody events of this period. But, no patriarch had a
greater influence on the fortunes of the Clan than Donald, the nineteenth chief,
known to history as “The Gentle Lochiel”. With misgivings, he called the Clan
to arms in 1745 to support Bonnie Prince Charlie. Without the Camerons, the
Jacobite uprising would have quickly sputtered and died. When the Stuart cause
was extinguished on Culloden Moor, no clan suffered more than the Camerons.
It was the Camerons and the clans on the right of the line of battle who
experienced the stiffest fighting. The Camerons had an estimated three hundred
casualties. Lochiel himself was wounded then died in France in 1748, but
Achnacarry, the ancestral home of the chiefs, was burned, the lands of
Lochaber were forfeited to the crown and from 1746 until 1784, the Camerons
lived essentially as outlaws. The last Jacobite hanged was a Cameron. No one
knows the exact number who died destitute, who were hunted down as criminals,
or who died of fever or malnutrition in pestilence ridden prison hulks. Survivors
were often shipped to Britain’s colonies in North America to be sold as
indentured servants.
There is little record of the tribulations of the clan during this time but we know
that many Camerons joined Highland Regiments as they were created. In 1793,
Major Allan Cameron of Erracht raised the Cameron Highlanders, the famous
79th (since 1873, known as The Queens Own Cameron Highlanders).
The nineteenth Century began auspiciously for Clan Cameron. The rebuilding of
Achnacarry began in 1802 and until the end of the Napoleonic wars, there was a
demand for able-bodied men. But in the years after Waterloo, as technological
change began to eradicate cottage industries and the price of wool rose along
with the population, the raising of sheep became more economically attractive
than renting land to tenant farmers. Like tens of thousand of their countrymen
affected by these “Clearances”, many Camerons left Scotland for new worlds
and the resulting Diaspora scattered the Cameron name around the Globe.
Today there are Clan Cameron associations in Canada, the United States,
Australia, New Zealand and Great Britain. Members pursue historical or
genealogical studies, perpetuate elements of Scottish culture and socialize with
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their clanspeople. Whatever our interests, we are united by the bonds of a
common history and the pride of belonging to a clan with a most exciting past. If
you wish to explore the history of your clan further, you will find the following
of interest.
Fraser, C. I. The Clan Cameron Edinburgh & London: Johnston & Bacon, 1979
MacLean, Fitzroy. A Concise History of Scotland London: Thames & Hudson, 1988
Prebble, John Culloden Harmondsworth, England: Penguin Books Ltd., 1963
Stewart, John of Ardvarlich. The Camerons: A History of Clan Cameron Stirling:
Jamieson & Munroe Ltd. 1974
Donald Angus Cameron of Lochiel
27th Chief of Clan Cameron
Clan Cameron Association
It was in 1889 that a few "enthusiastic" Camerons, motivated simply by pride in
their heritage, decided to form an Association, to be called "Clan Cameron"
The most influential force behind the Association's formation was Mrs. Mary
MacKellar (Cameron) of Edinburgh. A Council was initially named, appointing
Mary, along with John Cameron, S.S.C., as joint secretaries. Sadly to say, Mary,
"a devoted Cameron of Kinlochiel 'stock,' whose knowledge of clan history and
traditions was unsurpassed," died within the first year of the Association.
The objectives of the early Association remain the same to this very day, "the
reviving, conserving and promoting of the interests, sentiment and
associations of the Clan; the cultivation of social intercourse among members;
the encouragement of education; the collecting and preservation of the records
and traditions relating to the History of the Clan, and any other objects which the
Association may from time to time determine."
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Some History of Clan Cameron in Ontario
I
Mary Garrett
t may really have begun in August of 1966! The West Elgin Caledonian
Society were the sponsors of the Dutton Highland games near London ON that
year and as usual they honoured one of the Clans. That summer they chose Clan
Cameron.
Dr. Harold Cameron was invited to be on hand as official representative. He was
involved in Piping circles at that time with his sons, and so was well known at
Dutton. Lochiel, upon the request of Dr. Harold, sent a greeting to Camerons at
Dutton that day. However, Dr. Harold told us he never met another Cameron at
that Games! He had the feeling that his was the only Cameron family in Ontario!
Subsequently, Dr. Harold received a letter from Mr A.D. Cameron, at that time,
President of the Glasgow (Scotland) Branch of the Clan Cameron Association
suggesting there might be a North American Branch. Harold reminded him that
North America stretched from sea unto sea unto sea, that it was no easy task.
After some thought however, he realized that the only chance was to go where
those of Scottish descent who were interested in their heritage might congregate
Again, likely through association with the Ontario Pipers Society of that day,
Harold had news of the Grandfather Mountain Games in Linville, in North
Carolina and he headed south in July of 1967. The Cameron tent was pitched at
Grandfather and many Camerons did come to speak to him. The response from
Camerons who attended that event was not only enthusiastic, but wonderfully
hospitable. As time went on, working by ‘phone and mail with some of these
folk, Harold planned an inaugural meeting in 1968. Within two years
Grandfather Mountain Camerons had been recognized as an official Branch, and
they can truly be said to be the ‘Grandfather’ of all the later Branches which now
compromise the Cameron Clan in North America.
And it was said before “it may have begun in August 1966”
But let’s get back to Ontario. During the 1960’s and 70’s there was quite a
resurgence of interest in heritage and in our case – Scottish heritage. 1967 – our
Canadian Centennial Year – sent many of us searching for our roots. The
Toronto Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society had begun and was adding
members by leaps and bounds.
In the mid 1960’s the Scots Federation of Ontario had been formed. This body
was comprised of representatives of some Clan groups, Pipers and Pipe Band
Societies, Highland and Scottish Country Dancers, some social groups such as
the Caledonian Societies – some fifteen organizations in all. Plans were laid for
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several months prior to the first year of the Scottish World Festival at the
Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) in Toronto – 1972.
Two Camerons were known in this planning group – Alex Taylor of the
Cairngorm Club of Toronto and Mary C. Garrett of the Toronto Branch of the
Ontario Genealogical Society. There were other Camerons among the
representatives as well and we soon spotted them by their tartan! Charter
member, Isobel Price was involved too.
An information booth for Scots was available at the CNE for questions and many
of the member groups “manned” the booth for four days from morning till
evening and this is where many of our Charter members signed on with Clan
Cameron and became part of the Ontario Branch. Some still are after all these
But, we are getting ahead of ourselves!
years. (1995)
In the fall of 1975 the members of the Clans Federation were invited to attend a
meeting in an hotel near Bloor St. and Avenue Road in Toronto, to discuss the reforming of the original group. Alex Taylor and Mary Garrett were at that
meeting and noted a Clan Cameron address on a list of Clans in Southern
Ontario. Dr. Harold Cameron of London, Ontario was shown as contact for our
Clan. We soon wrote to Harold for advice on how to get started with a Branch in
Ontario and in January of the following year Alex Taylor became the delegate for
us when the new organization became CLANS AND SCOTTISH SOCIETIES
OF CANADA. Mary Garrett was asked to be Newsletter Editor for the new
communicating body – now referred to as CASSOC. The newsletter was named
AN DROCHAID which is Gaelic for “The Bridge”.
ONTARIO BRANCH FINALLY GETS UNDERWAY ……..
Now there was a chap who lived in Royal Oak in Michigan who was a member
of the Grandfather Mountain Branch and he was one who signed our book at the
Information Booth at the CNE in those early days. Neil Martin let us know that
he was a Cameron and involved in the Branch at Grandfather Mountain and
offered to help us. Neil was an early editor of THE (Grandfather Mountain) PIPER –
the only organ in those days of the Clan Cameron in North America.
Finally in March of 1977, a planning meeting to form a Branch in Ontario was
held at St. James Islington United Church in Etobicoke, with Neil Martin as
chair. He told us about the structure and some of the history of the clan and
showed us some of the tartans. Thirteen Camerons attended and questions were
fired, and some answered.
During the summer of 1977, a Cameron tent was pitched at Alma, Michigan and
at Cobourg, Ontario. Camerons were represented as well at the CASSOC
information booth at the CNE in August as we had been since 1972, and we were
encouraged with some 150 names in our book.
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That October, a committee was struck! Alex Taylor was our first President,
Anne C. Maybee was our first Vice President, Fred Cameron would be Treasurer
and Mary C. Garrett became Secretary and also would do the newsletter. We set
the fee at $5.00 per family, with those under 18 years included. The Charter Roll
would be closed at 50 families. (appendix 3) Our first event was held on 26
November 1977, at which time many joined, and by 23 December we had our 50
families! Lochiel sent us his Best Wishes and gave his Blessing for the Ontario
Branch. We were official!
SOME EARLIER HISTORY …
At this point we should backtrack several decades, for altho’ we were the first
official branch of the Clan in Ontario, we learned that there had been an earlier
Cameron organization. Among the Executive Members of this branch were some
who had been part of an earlier roll. The details of it can only be pieced together
from “memories”.
Mary C. Garrett recalls that in the summer of 1957 her parents were invited to the
then University Avenue Armouries, to meet our Chief of the Clan. Our late
Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Ross K. Cameron and the late Fred Cameron also
remembered this event. At that time the late Dugald Cameron was organizer and
President of the group of Camerons and the late Gordon Cameron was Secretary.
Dugald died just prior to the time the present Ontario Branch was started, but his
widow, Dolly, was a regular at early meetings along with her daughter,
Annabelle, who served as Treasurer in 1980 and 1981.
Lochiel (Sir Donald H) recalls some memories of that 1957 visit: “I have a
photograph of us landing at Montreal, having gone by sea in one of the old
Anchor Line ships. I remember being sent back to my cabin to change into my
kilt for we were being met by the Black Watch Pipers! We later went by train to
Toronto where we were greeted by Dugald Cameron and Gordon Cameron, at
Union Station and piped across the road to the Royal York Hotel.
We also had a visit to Niagara Falls and stopped en route to visit with Camerons
in Hamilton, I think. We were taken to an ice hockey match and we saw the
building of the St. Lawrence Seaway. We met a lot of the Clan in Toronto but
don’t recall details of the party.”
Early members, Fred and Sally Cameron, both now deceased, came to Toronto
from Cape Breton in Nova Scotia. Sally was born in Scotland the daughter of a
man who played a great part in shipbuilding both in Scotland and in Canada,
between the two Great Wars. (See appendix 5) They were Life Members of the
Clan in Scotland by the time Dr. Harold was beginning to organize the
Grandfather Mountain Branch in 1967. Harold recalls visiting Fred and Sally in
Toronto at that time and also having had encouraging letters from Dugald
Cameron.
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Some fifty members attended a second social event held in February of 1978.
Again games were attended during the summer and at Cobourg we held a picnic
supper following the games, at the home of Anne (Maybee) Cameron. About 25
joined in the fun that day. Fergus and Windsor games were also taken in and by
summer’s end we had 84 families on the list. Another Ceilidh evening was held
in October and more than 60 Camerons and friends enjoyed an evening of music
and dancing. And the membership grew!
Ontario was the second branch to be authorized by Lochiel, although its roots were
actually in a former group of Camerons who had welcomed their Chief on an earlier
visit to Canada. Mary and Murray Garrett were the founding leaders of the Ontario
Branch.
Dr. Harold Cameron
In July of 1978 Anne Maybee and Mary Garrett drove to the games in
Grandfather Mountain and some grand friendships were begun. Now we could
put faces to names we had read and heard about.
The International Gathering of the Clans was first held in Scotland in 1977. It
had been decided by the Gathering Trust that every second year it would be held
in Nova Scotia – hence in 1979, the Nova Scotians would be hosting. Camerons
in Ontario felt that we should be represented on the programme and began to
make some plans. Fred Cameron, having come from Cape Breton and having a
lot of family still in Nova Scotia, and we had members on our list living in the
Maritimes. Although there was not yet a branch of the Clan in Nova Scotia,
because of contacts made in 1979, there soon would be.
Our then President, Alex Taylor and his Mary planned ahead to attend the
Gathering and with the help of a close friend in Halifax and Inverness , C.B., Ella
(Mrs. George) Cameron, we were able to work between Toronto and Halifax for
the event held in Hillsborough, C.B. Ella Cameron booked a schoolhouse near
Inverness and put together a wonderful musical evening – some of that musical
talent we know today on the world stage were there – singing, dancing, speaking
– a Cape Breton Ceilidh! And a grand feast to rival the 5 loaves and two fish! A
lot of long distance calls between Nova Scotia and Ontario prior to the event. It
surely was a “uniting”!
The following spring we heard from Ian R. Cameron of New Glasgow, N.S. who
wanted to establish a Nova Scotia Branch following the wonderful times had all
over Nova Scotia in 1979. It was Ian’s wish to have a well established branch by
the time of Lochiel’s proposed visit to N.S. in 1983. Many of those who attended
the Hillsborough Ceilidh became members of the Ontario Branch and formed the
nucleus of what later became the Atlantic Canada Branch, organized under the
leadership of Ian R. Cameron of New Glasgow.
At the same time as the Atlantic Canada Branch was forming as a chapter under
the guidance of Ontario Branch, Lochiel sanctioned a chapter of the Clan in
British Columbia and placed it also under the guidance of Ontario.
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These two chapters were authorized as Branches and were presented with their
certification by Lochiel at the Clan Cameron Rally at Achnacarry in August of
1981.
In October of 1980, the Ontario membership was honoured by a visit from
Lochiel and Lady Margaret Cameron. Murray and Mary Garrett welcomed the
Chief and members of the Executive of the Branch to dinner in their home after
which a reception was held at St. James United Church nearby. Some 80
clansfolk attended and each was introduced to our Chief and his Lady Margaret
and as well all enjoyed a programme of music and dance.
One special member sent regrets at being unable to attend, Alastair Donald
Cameron, then of Belleville, Ontario. Alastair, a retired banker had been born on
the Lochiel estate and has since then passed away. He was a few years older than
Lochiel because at the time of Lochiel’s christening he was the youngest toddler
on the estate, and it fell to him to present the ceremonial silver quaich to the
infant Lochiel the Younger, later the 26th Chief of the Clan.
In October of 1980, at Stone Mountain Games, a meeting was held with the
following present: Lochiel, Dan Cameron of Boone, N.C., and officers of any
branches in attendance at the Games. Dr. Harold Cameron represented Canada.
Lochiel was well pleased with the Association in North America and suggested
three Regions, each with a President and with a Commissioner who would be his
representative in North America. There would also be a revision of guidelines.
Commissioner
Dr. Harold Cameron
London, ON
President
Branches:
USA Eastern Region Dan Cameron, Boone, N.C.
Grandfather Mountain, Stone Mountain, Ohio
President
Branches:
USA Western Region
California
President
Branches:
Canadian Region Dr. Harold Cameron, London, ON
Ontario, Atlantic Canada Chapter, British Columbia
Chapter
Lou Clark, Van Nuys, CA
Ontario Branch President, Alex Taylor had held the office since our beginnings
in 1977. The year 1980 was a real high for Alex. He and his wife Mary had
driven south to Grandfather Mountain Games in July and he had been chosen to
carry the Cameron tartan in the Parade of Tartans during the weekend. He also
represented the Clan at the Memorial Cairn dedication service
Later in the Summer, we had a visit from Dan and Jane Cameron of Boone N.C.,
President of the Eastern Region. Camerons were featured at the CNE Scottish
Festival that summer and Alex and Dan rode in the CNE Parade through
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downtown Toronto. The southern Camerons and our Ontario President and his
lady sat in the Royal Box at the Tattoo and this was a “first” for the American
visitors since they had never before witnessed a tattoo. Then in October, we had
a visit from our Chief and Lady Margaret (which we have told you about earlier in this
epistle) and that was another grand night for Alex Taylor.
And so it was with great sadness that we learned early in 1981 that Alex had
cancer and it was terminal. He died 29 March 1981. Clan Cameron had arranged
the previous December, prior to our knowledge of his illness, that we would have
an “Alex Taylor Night” to honour him as our President. For he had told us he
would not serve another year. Now, Alex had expressed the thought many times,
that when his time came he wanted “to go out with a party” and so we kept to the
plan which happened to be the date of his Memorial Service. Prior to his death,
in hospital, Dr. Harold Cameron and Mary Garrett presented Alex with the
enlarged photograph which had been taken of him at the Cairn at Grandfather
Mountain the past summer. It was beautifully framed complete with plaque with
his name and telling of his service to Clan Cameron.
Although many International Clan Gatherings were held in Scotland and in Nova
Scotia and other places since, Lochiel always kept the Cameron Clan Rally to
another time, excepting for 1981. The Rallys at Achnacarry have happened since
1938 according to Ardvorlich’s book. Other dates were 1956,1964, 1967. There
was another in 1975 two years prior to the first International Gathering in
Scotland. As well, Lochiel received his Clan in August of 1981, 1989 and 1995.
At the Rally in 1981, Harold Cameron, Commissioner of Clan Cameron in North
America, presented to Lochiel The Clan Register. In so doing, brought greetings
of all the North American Camerons unable to attend. The Register is a loose
leaf three ring binder bound in green Morocco and with crest and title on the title
page. This would become an ongoing record of Clan events.
Following our Annual Meeting of November 1980, Dan Cameron took on the job
of President. Mary Garrett was Secretary-Treasurer. Our Dan and his family
took in the Rally at Achnacarry and received formally our Certificate of Branch
status (we really had had it since 1977) as well a witnessing the receipt of Branch
status for Atlantic Canada and the B.C. Branch. They were no longer under our
care.
All Camerons were excited that Catherine, daughter of Donald the Younger of
Lochiel and Lady Cecil and granddaughter of Lochiel and Lady Margaret would
be the young bridesmaid at the Royal Wedding of Prince Charles and Lady
Diana, who were married a week before the August Gathering at Achnacarry.
At the end of 1981 we had 103 families on our roll. We had two in
Saskatchewan, 70 in Ontario and some in Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania,
New England, Mississippi, Louisiana, Minnesota and Arkansas.
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Beginning in 1976, The Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan event was sponsored by CASSOC
and in 1982, Camerons turned out in good numbers for the Parade and Service in
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in downtown Toronto. This was followed by a
Clan Pot Luck picnic at the Garrett home in Islington.
1982 was also the year the Tartan Banner was made use of at Games and Ceilidhs
as well as the Heritage Ball, held each autumn by CASSOC. Many of the clans
made them up for decoration at these events.
Jeanine Cameron Avigdor took on the Chair at the beginning of 1983. Georgena
Twitchin (a Taylor) became Treasurer and Mary Garrett continued as Secretary.
Other executive folk were, Geoff Clark, Anne Cameron and Sandy Cameron.
1983 was the year of the Gathering in Nova Scotia when Lochiel and Lady
Margaret were special guests. Several from our Ontario Branch attended. A
grand week to ten days was spent as a clan family taking in all the special events
and meeting Camerons in all regions of the Maritimes.
At the AGM in November of 1983, which was held at the Montgomery Inn in
Islington, we enjoyed a steak pie and haggis dinner. Those in attendance from
age 3 to 73 were given a copy of the rewritten guidelines for CCNA (Clan Cameron in
North America) and we were to get comments back to the Executive by January
1984. We had appointed Rev. Dr. Ross K. Cameron as our Branch Chaplain and
he would begin his role I January 1984.
It was also noted that at the Nova Scotia Gathering in July that Lochiel had
appointed Ian R. Cameron of New Glasgow, President of the Atlantic Region in
Canada.
We had just over 100 families on our roll and showed a bank balance of
$2,833.25.
Through the middle 1980’s a popular musical group around Toronto – mostly of
the Gaelic Society – were much in demand. One of our members who emceed
the “Clackin’ Band” was Oighrig Keogh who was a MacNeil but also a Cameron.
We had these folks for several ceilidhs over the years and thoroughly enjoyed
those evenings.
In 1985 Georgena Twitchin – a Taylor – took on the Presidency and Mary Garrett
became Secretary/Treasurer as well as Editor. But we added several other names
to our roster. Janet Boese, Donald Ian Cameron, and Dr. John Henry Looney;
and Geoff Clark was still with us.
The Branch designed a clan pin – the clan badge superimposed on a Maple Leaf
and was about 5/8” in diameter. It sold for $5.00 and we sold out in a short time.
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Our first Branch Treasurer, Fred Cameron, died suddenly that August and Sally
was pleased when the Clan Executive supplied and served a tea following the
funeral service.
We learned that Lochiel and Lady Margaret would have quite a tour of Australia
and New Zealand and the itinerary would be very exciting. There was a new
chieftain who had been appointed in 1984, Dr. Ian H. Cameron of Croyden,
Australia. He was President of the branches in Australia and would also
represent the Chief there.
In Ontario, the Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan by CASSOC happened again in June and we
had quite a good contingent in the Parade and also at the Picnic at the Avigdor
home in Etobicoke following the church service. As well, we enjoyed a
combined ceilidh in April with Clan MacPhee. Lots of programme of music and
dancing.
In January of 1987, we learned that Lochiel and his son, Donald the Younger,
would be establishing a Clan Cameron Museum in the Old Post Office building
some 400 yards from the castle. A Charitable Trust has been set up to encourage
Clan members and Branches to contribute both personally as well as from Branch
projects. From that year onward we added a place on our renewal form for such
a donation to the Museum – large or small – and over the years we were able to
send over $1,000.00 to the Trust.
In May of 1987 we sadly learned of the resignation of Commissioner Dr. Harold
Cameron.
Although we had money in the bank and quite a number of families too, few
members wanted to hold office or be active. So we held a meeting in the
Waterloo area, October of 1987. Word had been spread about the meeting and
some new members came forward to help.
Donald D. Cameron of Milton, Ontario took the Chair in 1988. Dr. Bruce
Cameron, a dentist in Brampton would act as Treasurer, Pat Chalmers of Fergus
would assist as Secretary to learn the position and take on the whole job in ’89.
Mary Garrett to continue as Secretary / Editor. The AGM was also held in
Waterloo and it was felt we could have a new beginning.
At the AGM in 1988 with 145 families listed it was decided to raise the fee from
$5.00 to $7.00 – the first rise in a decade. This would begin in January of 1989.
Contact had been made with Cameron Heights Collegiate in Kitchener re a Music
Award for an outstanding student. The student to receive a keeper and the main
trophy covered in Cameron Tartan with sufficient space for winners names over
the upcoming years. The school band wears the Cameron of Erracht tartan.
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Beginning in 1989 Pat Chalmers began as Secretary and Mary Garrett carried on
with the Newsletter. Donald (Milton) was President. We were saddened in April
to lose Rev. Dr. Ross K. Cameron, our Chaplain. He had served the Church and
community well for many years.
In August at Achnacarry there was a Rally and in part to celebrate the 50th
Wedding Anniversary of our Chief and his lady. Our gift from Ontario Branch
was a cheque to the Museum Fund as well as a plaque to commemorate the date.
Mabel McLean of Cornwall, of our Branch, in Scotland for the Rally, presented
for us.
1990 began with a new President in the person of Anne Cameron of Kitchener,
Bruce Cameron still Treasurer and Pat Chalmers Secretary, - and praise be – after
12 years a new editor. Donald (Editor) Cameron actually called to volunteer. He
and his wife Mickey had met Lochiel in Scotland and the suggestion was made
by the Chief that they be in touch with the Clan in Ontario. Donald’s job is to
edit Hansard (Ontario Government’s daily record) and so, of course, we were quite
delighted.
In 1987 the Scots in Nova Scotia had celebrated the first Tartan Day on April 6th.
This Province had sanctioned this date and slowly after that many other
Provinces have followed. Many of the CASSOC members went to talk to an
MPP about a private members bill in Ontario. Bill Murdoch agreed to use his
right to put this before the House and it went through first reading that December
in 1991. We first celebrated in 1992.
Early in 1992, a few changes to our executive. Donald Ian Cameron took the
Chair, Bruce Taylor became Secretary / Treasurer and Dr. Russell Hall became
our Chaplain.
Except for the four fine issues of THE LITTLE PIPER by Donald (Editor), not
much else happened in Clan Cameron Ontario until the Annual Meeting held at
St. James Church. At the end of the meeting, when we expected to hear the new
slate of Officers, Donald Ian told us he was resigning and that he did not feel the
responsibility to fill the chair. And so we left the meeting FLAT. Then there
followed a programme of Scottish Country Dancing and refreshments.
In the first issue of the newsletter in 1993, a very negative letter went out from
Donald Ian and as a result, many did not renew. At the end of 1992, we had
some 109 families whereas only some 50 families would continue in ’93. Late
spring a group got together to talk about our future. The decision was made to
call a meeting of as many as would come, to be held at the Seagram Museum in
Waterloo in September. A questionnaire was sent to the membership e.g. “Do
you want Clan Cameron Ontario to continue?” “Should we surrender our Charter
and disperse our funds?” “If we continue to are you willing to serve?”
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The meeting was held and the enthusiasm was so great another meeting had to be
called to continue planning. Since nothing has happened for the past two years
many member families had fallen through the cracks on our rolls and so they
were out of touch, but many wanted to continue.
The decision was made to continue – reduce the fee to $5.00 and have two
newsletters a year. Anne Cameron would assume the Chair. Mary Garrett would
again be Secretary and with the help of Bruce attempt to get the roll on track.
Donald (Editor) would not continue so Mary agreed to do the two newsletters for
1994. Alex Cameron of Restoule and David Shepherd of Minesing would come
on to a committee at large. Lindsey Hogan would assist with the secretarial
duties with the desire to take the job on in 1995. Clan Cameron Ontario would
go on!
Again in October of 1994 the AGM took place in Waterloo. About 25 enjoyed
lunch together, a tour of the Seagram Museum and made a contribution to the
meeting. Anne, Bruce Taylor, Lindsey Hogan would continue on the Executive.
Anne would remain as President for the year 1995. She would have as Secretary,
Lindsey Hogan, Bruce Taylor would remain Treasurer. Dr. Russell Hall will be
our Chaplain. Jack Lennick will be the CASSOC Representative. Glenn
Goldstraw will take on the job of Editor.
The listed Scottish games and Heritage events continued to grow. Clan Cameron
was represented at several with a brand new ‘portable’ tent which was partially
paid for through generous subscription from our Cameron families. Several new
memberships were taken.
Late in ’95 we lost one of our very early members – Barbara Ross, RN. BSc.
Barbara was a close friend of Sally and Fred Cameron – also early Camerons.
She was a fun lady and had graduated from Toronto General School of Nursing
in 1934. She served overseas during WWII with the third Canadian General
Hospital and later in 1947 she received her Batchelor of Science degree. We will
miss her.
We also lost our second President of Ontario Branch, Daniel J. Cameron, who
was President in 1981 and 1982. He passed away suddenly October 14, 1995.
Born in Hamilton, Lanarkshire, he came out to Canada in 1954. Dan & Greta,
his wife were # 15 on our Charter Roll. He was always a fine figure in Highland
Dress
In 1996, the executive continued on from the previous year. Some 31 new
members signed up over the Summer, confirming it surely pays to attend the
Games for it seems every Cameron wants to join. Well almost everyone. Two
newsletters were produced.
Page 14
A Cameron barbeque gathering, the first of many, was held August 17th at the
Goldstraw’s in Campbellville. The weather was good, the Camerons merry, and
the food terrific. It was a great get together with some 25 people on hand.
Members came from as far away as Sudbury in the North and New York State in
the South. Great food, good fun, piping by young Andrew Cameron, and a story
by Murray W. Garrett.
The activities of this Clan Branch are not as many as in the earlier days.
Members are more widespread and it seems more difficult to motivate them to
come to a ceilidh, for example. We seem to be satisfied with going to a Burns
Dinner and look forward to which Highland Games we’ll attend during the
summer. Thankfully, many new members joined at the Games last summer.
For 1997, Lindsey Hogan took on the combined position of Secretary / Treasurer
with Anne as President and Glenn, Jack and Dr. Hall continuing on. Phyllis
Urquhart joined the Board as a Director.
The barbeques we have been holding during the summers are very much enjoyed
and have increased in numbers.
Another thing we have noticed through this period is that more members are
contributing stories or articles to the PIPER. Dave Shepherd is sharing his
history finds concerning Clan Cameron, and they are most interesting.
In THE ONTARIO PIPER (Vol 20 No 1) Margaret Hall (Mrs Dr. Russell) gave us a
great read regarding that early “Caribou” Cameron. He was a miner during the
Gold Rush in Northern British Columbia. He was a native of Glengarry County,
in eastern Ontario as is Margaret. It was likely one of the stories she was raised
on.
A North American Gathering was held in April ’97 at Loch Norman near
Charlotte N.C. Jeanine C. Avigdor was on hand. She was amazed to hear that
many folks there had not heard of Clan Cameron Ontario! They must have been
newly elected to the committee for we had lots of correspondence with Dan
Cameron, the first Commissioner after our Dr. Harold Cameron and Donald
Cameron of Charlotte who came next. And after all, were we – Clan Cameron
Ontario – not the second Branch after Grandfather Mountain???
During the summer, there was an International Gathering in Nova Scotia. Jack
and Margaret Lennick attended with a MacKenzie bus tour. At the main event, a
Tattoo in Halifax, they met Ian and Evelyn Cameron of Nova Scotia who took
them to Pictou where the historic ship Hector is berthed. Nearby is the Loch
Broom Church replica of 1787. A grand Cameron Memorial was recently built in
the same area. Ontario Branch contributed to it.
Page 15
1998 ushered in an expanded executive which allowed a spreading of the
workload. Anne Cameron continued as President, with Jeanine C. Avigdor as
Vice-President, Lindsey Currie Secretary, Phyllis Urquhart Treasurer, Glenn
Goldstraw Editor, Dr. Russell Hall Chaplain, and Jack Lennick as CASSOC
Representative. Cameron Hopkins and David Shepherd are Directors.
Fred Cameron, gave his memories in story form (appendix 5), reflecting the reality
after Culloden when hundreds came from Scotland and the western Islands. He
and his wife Sally were among the very first to assist in the forming of our
Branch. Fred was an enthralling story teller.
For 1999, we thanked Anne Cameron for her successful stint as Chair and
welcomed Jeanine C. Avigdor as incoming President. Janet Boese became the
new Secretary and continuing were: Phyllis Urquhart Treasurer, Glenn
Goldstraw Editor, Dr. Russell Hall Chaplain, Margaret Lennick CASSOC
Representative and Betty Currie Membership Secretary. Mary Garrett was
appointed Branch Advisor. Cameron Hopkins, David Shepherd and Jack
Lennick were Directors.
This year also marked our first membership in Clan Cameron online, where we
are set up to be contacted when any searcher on the World Wide Web looks for
Clan Cameron in Ontario. We attended several Games, and had another very
pleasant Bar B Que.
In 2000, the executive carried forward and as we turn the page on the 20th
century, each Branch of Clan Cameron received a wonderful “Millennium Issue”
of the worldwide Clan Cameron Association. A very special beginning for our
New Year.
There are reports in this commemorative issue from Sir Donald Hamish Cameron
– 26th Chief of the Clan – and also from Donald Angus, the Younger of Lochiel
and the various branches of the Clan Worldwide: New Zealand, Australia, North
America, England and Scotland.
President Jeanine C. Avigdor represented Ian Cameron of Nova Scotia, our
Canadian Regional President at the first ever Regional Presidents of CCNA at
Gatlinburg, Tennessee. She termed it a remarkable success!
We also updated our Ontario Branch branded merchandise by introducing new
golf shirts for sale at the Games Tent and by mail to Branch members. We are
supporting the establishment of the Trans Canada Trail which runs continuously
from the Atlantic, to the Arctic Ocean and thence to the Pacific. The Clan
Cameron Ontario plaque is prominent in the Waterloo Ontario Pavilion.
Page 16
Glenn & Donna Goldstraw (Camerons by way of McPhail) reported on walking for
95 miles along the West Highland Way from Glasgow to Fort William, including
a visit to the Achnacarry museum.
2001 was an extraordinary year. The Executive continued intact into 2001, but
early in the year we learned that our Canadian President, Ian Cameron of New
Glasgow, Nova Scotia would be resigning at 31st July. He would be President
Emeritus of Clan Cameron Canada.
Lochiel then appointed Jeanine C. Avigdor as the new President (Canadian
Region). Since Jeanine is the current Ontario Branch President as well, she will
hand over the reins to incoming President David Shepherd prior to the AGM.
Our Roll consists of exactly 100 families.
This year we lost another early member of Ontario Branch. Hilda Cameron
Young joined the Clan in 1980. Hilda had been a runner in the Berlin Olympics
of 1936 where she had won a bronze medal.
Ontario Branch Past President Georgena Twitchin (85, 86, 87) also passed this
fall in her 72nd year. She and husband Fred had moved to Bolton.
The big event of 2001 was, the International Gathering at Achnacarry in August.
As a gift to Lochiel from our Ontario Branch, we sent, via Jeanine, a photo
collage of all members, both past and present. Mary Garrett scanned our picture
albums to select suitable pictures from the past 20 years.
On the local front, for the first time, Ontario Branch had a tent at the Durham
Games in the summer and it was well done. AGM reports showed a comfortable
bank balance of $1,065.00
This was also the year we first heard that a new Chapter was about to happen in
Western Canada. It would become the Highland Prairies Branch under the
convenorship of Apryl Cameron Weaver and the guidance of Ontario Branch.
In 2002 David Shepherd continued on as President with: Janet Boese Secretary /
Membership, Phyllis Urquhart Treasurer, Glenn Goldstraw Newsletter, Dr.
Russell T. Hall Chaplain, Margaret Lennick CASSOC Representative, Mary
Garrett Branch Advisor and Jack Lennick Games. Cameron Hopkins and Robert
G. Cameron were Directors.
This year saw some firsts for Ontario Branch. Two activity booklets focused on
different ages were developed by ‘Kitchener’ Anne (Mrs Gord C.) and David
Shepherd. As well, we conducted our first annual Cameron Hike along the Bruce
Trail by a party of Camerons and friends. Of course, we did not forget the
Games attendance and our Summer Bar B Que.
Page 17
We learned early in 2003 that the Camerons would be the featured Clan at Fergus
Games in August. So it was then decided that we would hold a Canadian Clan
Cameron Rally on August 8, 9 and 10. Unfortunately, we would have to scale
back that ambitious undertaking (see appendix 6). However, the Fergus experience
Aug 10 was quite uplifting.
Many past members showed up to say hello and some of these renewed their
membership. A silent auction took place in our tent during the day that reaped
$718.00. Grateful thanks to those who contributed.
We also had visitors from the USA, our North American Commissioner Donald
J. Cameron and his wife Beverly from Charlotte N.C. Don opened the Games. It
was a grand time to meet and greet with Camerons from elsewhere and many of
us had a lovely time at a planned dinner as well.
John Allen Cameron was awarded the distinction of becoming a “Fellow” of the
Order of Canada this year, and once again he was honourary Chieftain at the
Fergus Games. As usual, he found time to drop by and say ‘slainte’ at our Tent.
The Parade of Clans at these Games was led by the Cameron Pipe Band of
Huntsville, Ontario and with the Cameron contingent following. The person who
organized the Pipe Band some years ago was an early member of our Branch, the late Urquhart Cameron
Our Branch was saddened to lose a grand couple who had given much to Clan
Cameron Ontario. Both Harry and Janet Boese passed away late in the year. As
Secretary, Janet had made outstanding progress in organization and procedures,
including summarizing highlights of the Ontario Branch History.
This year, through the initiative of David Shepherd, we managed to acquire and
deliver to Achnacarry an engraved granite fragment of the Canadian Shield. This
‘Ontario Stone’ will be added to the Memorial Cairn established at last year’s
Clan gathering.
At the close of 2003, we had some 85 member families and a balance in the
Treasury of $2,166.87. We had also reviewed and subsequently incorporated
some updates to our Branch Structure and By-Laws. Another milestone was that
this year marked the first time the Ontario Piper would be published 4 times per
year.
2004 marked several changes in the Branch Executive, David Shepherd
continued as President with Cameron Hopkins as Vice. Ewan Cameron came
onboard as Secretary / Membership, Murray W. Garrett took up the reins of the
Treasury, and Phyllis Urquhart became our genealogist. Remaining positions
remained as they were in 2003.
Page 18
In May of 2004, Camerons worldwide mourned the loss of our Chief.
On May 26th, Sir Donald H. Cameron passed away at the age of 93. He
was Chief and Captain of Clan Cameron of Achnacarry near Fort William,
Invernesshire, Scotland. He was the 26th Chief of the Clan. Donald Angus
Cameron became our 27th Chief.
Sir Donald was survived by his Lady Margaret, their four children,
fourteen grandchildren and four great grandchildren. He had been
commissioned into the Lovat Scouts in 1929 and served with them in
World War II, rising to the rank of Major. He was appointed as Lord
Lieutenant. of Inverness from 1971 until 1985. He was knighted by Queen
Elizabeth II in 1973.
Closer to home, we learned that the Highland Prairie Chapter under the guidance
of Mrs Apryl Cameron Weaver, a member of Ontario Branch, was well started on
its journey toward Branch status. Canadian Region President Jeanine C. Avigdor
and especially David Shepherd, President of Ontario Branch were shepherding
the process along.
Also in May, at the North American leaders Rally in St. Louis, Ontario Branch’s
Cameron Kids Activity booklet received high praise. Also, Commissioner
Donald J. Cameron announced his resignation, to take effect in April 2005. In
August, he announced that his successor was Thomas A. Cameron, President of
Northern US Region, and our Clan Cameron webmaster.
The Branch was once more active at various Games over the summer, with some
new merchandise and some silver pins generously donated by Jeanine. The now
annual hike and our summer Bar B Que were well received. We had some 93
families on the Roll and $1,487.00 in the Bank. David Shepherd stepped down
from the Chair after a very successful term.
For 2005, Robert G. Cameron came into the Presidency supported by Cameron
Hopkins as Vice President, Pat Jensen Secretary / Membership, Murray Garrett
Treasurer, Glenn Goldstraw Public Relations / Editor, Dr. Russell Hall Chaplain,
Margaret Lennick CASSOC Representative, Mary Garrett Branch Advisor, Jack
Lennick Games and Phyllis Urquhart as Genealogist. J. Scott Cameron and
Ewan Cameron filled the Director positions. David Shepherd served as Past
President.
We heard reports of a very successful Clan Cameron International Rally in New
Zealand. – the first outside of Scotland - Unfortunately, no one from our Branch
had been able to attend.
We have been discussing our relationship with the CASSOC organization and an
ongoing question trying to decide what we offer them and they offer us.
Page 19
We also discussed the need and duties for a Branch Archivist. Jeanine Avigdor
has experience in this area and volunteered to sort materials into preliminary
order. We do seem to have accumulated a lot of ‘stuff’.
The topic of Flags was discussed as well. David S. had been given a Pensil (a
pennant like flag) which would be used by us in Canada if our chief was in
attendance. There was one in N.S. in 1983 at the International Gathering and it is
quite different. We will maintain this in our archives until Lochiel’s next visit.
We tried a modified information package for newly met clansmen to review and
return as an application for membership. This included a pre-stamped return
envelope. Results were inconclusive. But an updated Brochure was developed
by Jeanine A and Glenn G. These will be given out at every opportunity.
There was a full slate of activities for the Branch with a Spring Hike, attendance
at various games and our regular Bar B Que. The Cameron DNA project was
announced. We will watch its progress with interest. We closed the year with a
successful AGM at Montgomery’s Inn in Etobicoke with a pub supper following.
Ontario Branch ended 2005 with some 90 families registered and $1,485.00 in
the bank. We also have extra inventory valued at an estimated $4,700.00 which
needs to be moved.
Moving forward into 2006, we welcomed Glenn Goldstraw as President and
Newsletter Editor. He was supported by Pat Jansen Secretary / Membership,
Murray Garrett Treasurer, Dr. Russell Hall Chaplain, Mary Garrett Branch
Adviser, Jack Lennick Games Coordinator. Directors were J. Scott Cameron,
Ewan Cameron, Bruce Taylor and David Shepherd. Phyllis Urquhart continues
as Genealogy Contact, and Margaret Lennick as CASSOC Representative.
In March we were saddened by the passing of Lochiel’s mother, Lady Margaret
Cameron, at the age of 93. Ontario Branch sympathy was conveyed directly by
several individuals who had met Lady Margaret and her husband Sir Donald
Hamish Cameron our 26th Chief. Jeanine Avigdor, Canadian Region President
extended formal Branch condolences. As well, we supported tributes presented
on behalf of the entire Clan Cameron Association of North America. It was the
passing of an era.
On a most positive note, Lochiel (Donald Angus Cameron) sent an official
certificate recognizing the Highland Prairie Branch as a full member of the Clan
Cameron Association.
Ontario Branch, for the first time, compiled and distributed a Clan Contact list
with the name, city and phone number of all our members. We also purchased
another Games tent (we saved too much money compromising on its water resistance).
Page 20
This second tent has greatly simplified the logistics of getting materials to the
next volunteer steward(s). It also increases the number of Games / events we can
reach, as we can now be in two locations on the same day. We attended the
Owen Sound Celtic Festival for the first time.
New this year, we tried out the concept of Saturday afternoon local “Pub” visits
in locations where there is a concentration of members, but no nearby local Clan
events. Results were encouraging and we will try again next year.
In September, we welcomed Gayle Luneau to the position of Newsletter Editor
for the Ontario Piper. She will work with Glenn on the first few issues, then
carry on.
Also in September, our annual hiking expedition evolved into a full bore Cattle
Reiving Creach with a committee of Ewan Cameron, Dave Shepherd and Glenn
Goldstraw. The challenge was issued to all other clans to participate and take
part in a 10 kilometer hike along the Bruce Trail and general thievery of ‘wee
coos’ (plush toys) brought along by individuals. Title of ‘Best Reiving Clan in
Canada’ went to Clan Cameron
We closed 2006 with 91 Members on the Roll, $2,025.00 in the bank and an
estimated $2,800.00 worth of inventory.
Going into 2007 the executive remained stable with Glenn Goldstraw President,
Pat Jansen Secretary /Membership, Murray Garrett Treasurer, Gayle Luneau
Newsletter Editor, Dr. Russell Hall Chaplain, Mary Garrett Branch Advisor, Jack
Lennick Games Coordinator, and Phyllis Urquhart as Genealogy Contact.
Leighton Cameron comes on the Executive as a Director along with Ewan
Cameron, Bruce Taylor and Dave Shepherd. Jeanine Avigdor is now acting as
Archivist on a temporary basis.
One of our long time members Irene Cameron of Ridgetown passed away in
November last year at the age of 99. She was a close cousin of David Shepherd
who wrote. “Clan Cameron has lost someone who understood and appreciated
what it means to belong to this remarkable family. We have lost an individual
who personified many of the virtues of our clan.”
So too did John Allen Cameron, a native of Mabou, Nova Scotia who was
responsible for bringing awareness of Celtic music and the music of Cape Breton
to Canada. He was a friend of the Branch and visited our tent at Fergus.
We were once again very active this summer, with several games, a couple of
Pub Visits, the Annual Bar B Que and of course the Cattle Reiving. We do not
seem to be getting great numbers of people to each individual event, but over the
season have been in direct contact with many of our members who are fully
spread across Ontario. (plus the USA and other Provinces)
Page 21
Beth Shepherd completed a scrapbook of the 2006 Cattle reiving which has to be
seen to be believed. We were able to display it at many of our Tent events. We
also began to distribute the Ontario Piper via the Internet which allows for full
colour pictures and saves the branch some printing and postage.
At the AGM we had the opportunity to approve some updates to our Structure
and By-Laws including a change to our fiscal year end, clarifying banking
signatures and adding a clause clarifying the process should the Branch face
potential dissolution.(a need had developed from a negative experience in the USA).
We closed 2007 with 84 Members on the Roll, $2,900.00 in the bank and
$2,375.00 worth of inventory. All in all, a pretty full year.
Starting 2008, Glenn Goldstraw as President was supported by; Pat Jansen
Secretary / Membership, Murray Garrett Treasurer, Marg Lennick Assistant
Treasurer, Dr. Russell Hall Chaplain, Mary Garrett Branch Advisor, Jack
Lennick Games Co-ordinator, Leighton Cameron Genealogy Contact, Bruce
Taylor CASSOC representative, Dave Shepherd and Ewan Cameron as Directors.
The Newsletter position will be handled by Glenn for the interim.
Ontario Branch and Clan Cameron suffered a major loss with the passing of
Murray Garrett in January. Our long time; member, treasurer and storyteller.
“Murray and his wife of 60 years, Mary, were among the founding members of our Branch in
the late 1970’s. Murray, most recently, ably served as treasurer and his dedication and
stewardship were great strengths of the Clan.
Who will forget Murray, our seanchaidh (storyteller), standing quietly, hands folded in front, a
sly twinkle in his eyes, as he related a clan anecdote or a Scottish legend?” Pat Jansen
We learned that Dan Cameron, Past Eastern U.S. President, an early friend of
Ontario Branch and a founding member of Clan Cameron North America from
1968 died. We also miss Phyllis Urquhart, our Genealogist and dedicated
member of Ontario Branch who passed away in June. She also contributed 25
years of volunteering with the National Ballet.
Another CCNA initiative unveiled this year is an application for a registered
‘Coat of Arms’ representing Clan Cameron North America. Based off Lochiel’s
red and gold shield, it will include the Canadian Maple Leaf. The motto will be
“Aonaibh Thar a’ Chuan Siar” – “Unite Across the Western Sea.”
This summer’s attendance at the Highland Games was marked by being the
rainiest season any of us can remember. Aside from our tents, members and
guests being sodden and grumpy, massed band performances, dancing
competitions and Parades were curtailed, or cancelled outright. At the Cobourg
Games, “we came, we got wet, we went to the pub,” Fergus and Maxville were as
bad or worse. Red ‘Sons of the Hounds’ tee shirts were very popular.
Page 22
During the year President Glenn passed on the gavel to Leighton Cameron.
Glenn will continue on as Newsletter Editor and Past President. (it was easier to
find a good president, than anyone to volunteer for being Editor!).
This summer, we learned that Jeanine Cameron Avigdor is retiring from her
position as President of the Canadian Region. She served well for many years in
this International position with Clan Cameron North America (CCNA).
The Branch is starting a collection of Family Histories and collecting
geographical records of where our families are now and where they came from
immediately prior to that.
The 3rd annual Cattle Reiving event was held in Cambridge on a misty September
day. (Scottish weather?) 20 people and 3 dogs representing 5 Clans hiked 11
kilometers, finishing at the Black Badger Pub. Clan Cameron narrowly
reclaimed its title as ‘Best Reiving Clan’ in Canada.
We also heard about the first CCNA rally to include direct representation from
each Branch to be held Chicago this fall. President Leighton, will represent
Ontario Branch.
We currently have 90 member families, a healthy Treasury and ambition to
develop our Clan Heritage as we move into an uncertain future.
Glenn Goldstraw
Am Far Fardaiche - Reiving ‘08
Note this marks the end of the 2nd edition of the Ontario Branch History,
an update is planned for the 35th Anniversary in 2012. Mary & Glenn
Page 23
Page 24
Appendices:
1–
Chiefs of Clan Cameron
Ontario Branch Presidents
Honorary Memberships
2-
Grants Awarded
Best Music Student
Donations
3-
CHARTER ROLL - Clan Cameron Ontario
4-
Ontario Branch History - Dr. Harold Cameron
5-
Family Memoirs - Fred Cameron
6-
International Rally Postponed - David Shepherd
7-
Ontario Branch History – Janet Boese
Ontario Branch in the Homeland!
Jack Bruce Cameron & Sons on Ben Nevis
Page 25
Appendix 1
Chiefs of Clan Cameron
1951-2004 Sir Donald Hamish Cameron of Lochiel K.T. C.V.O. T.D
2004-____ Donald Angus Cameron of Lochiel
Ontario Branch Presidents
1977 – 1980
1981 – 1982
1983 – 1984
1985 – 1987
1988 – 1989
1990 – 1991
1992
1993
1994 – 1998
1999 – 2001
2002 - 2004
2005
2006 – 2008
2008 -
Alex Taylor
Daniel J. Cameron
Jeanine Cameron Avigdor
Georgena Taylor Twitchin
Donald D. Cameron
Anne (Mrs Gordon) Cameron
Donald Ian Cameron
Executive Management
Anne (Mrs Gordon) Cameron
Jeanine Cameron Avigdor
David C. Shepherd
Robert G. Cameron
Glenn M. Goldstraw
Leighton Cameron
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Milton
Kitchener
Toronto
Kitchener
Toronto
Minesing
Mississauga
Campbellville
Newmarket
Honorary Memberships
Sir Donald Hamish Cameron of Lochiel K.T. C.V.O. T.D
26th Chief of Clan Cameron
Donald Angus Cameron of Lochiel
27th Chief of Clan Cameron
Dr. Harold Cameron
Donald J. Cameron
Thomas A. Cameron
Founding Commissioner CCNA
Commissioner Emeritus CCNA
Commissioner CCNA
Ian R. Cameron
Jeanine Cameron Avigdor
President Emeritus Canadian Region
President Canadian Region
Mary (Mrs Alex) Taylor
Dr. Russell Hall
Mary Cameron Garrett
Branch Founding Member
Past Chaplain
Branch Founding Member
Page 26
Appendix 2
Grants Awarded in support of Cultural Heritage
Supreme Drummer of Ontario
1979 – 1980
1981 – 1982
1987 – 1988
1989
1990
Hugh Cameron
David Constant
J. Reid Maxwell
Drew Duthart
J. Reid Maxwell
Kitchener, ON
Kitchener, ON
Toronto, ON
Brampton, ON
Toronto, ON
Best Music Student Cameron Heights Collegiate, Kitchener, Ontario
Donations:
Gaelic Mod
Highland Dancers of Ontario
Clan Cameron Museum
St. Andrews Presbyterian Church
Toronto
Toronto
Achnacarry
Toronto
‘Memorial Chair for the Boardroom in memory of Rev. Dr. Ross K. Cameron, former
Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Canada and Chaplain to Ontario Branch’
Cameron Memorial
Trans Canada Trail
Bruce Trail
Pictou, NS
Waterloo
Ontario
Murray Garrett & Jeanine Avigdor
Page 27
Appendix 3
CHARTER ROLL -- CLAN CAMERON ONTARIO -- 1977
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
51.
Cameron, Harold & Grace
Martin, Neil & Mary
Taylor, Alex & Mary
Maybee, Anne (C)
Cameron, Fred & Sally
Garrett, Murray & Mary (C)
McIntosh, Les & Betty (C)
Cameron, Hugh R.
Beattie, David C.
Cameron, Earnest & Bernice
Cameron, Peter & Marilyne
Cameron, Lachlan & Betty
Cameron, Margaret
Scott, Robert & Moira (C)
Cameron, Daniel & Greta
Cameron, Iain & Anne
Cameron, Lauchlin & Sharon
McCaughan, John & Elizabeth
Ross, Barbara (C)
Jones, Erma (C) & Geoff
MacLoed, Alex & Ethel (C)
Hayes, Wanda (C) & Maurice
Stasiuk, David & Edna (C)
Hall, Dr. Russell & Margaret (C)
Fisher, Glen & Christine (C)
Van Assche, Laura (C)
Ewing, Euphemia A. Taylor
Cameron, Duncan & Ethel
Cameron, Jean & Krausse, Marjorie (C)
Young, Rev. F.N. & Margaret (C)
Taylor, Elizabeth D.
Price, Angus & Isobel (C)
Cameron, Annabelle & Dolly (Mrs Dugald)
Cameron, Gertrude & Jeanette
Cameron, Jack & Mabel
Taylor, Charles & Edeline
Lowey, George & Ann (Chambers)
Cameron, Richard D.
Cameron, Alex W. & Carolyn
Hackett, Jim & June (C)
Solum, John & Millie (C)
Stewart-Byrd, E. (C) & Patti
Taylor, Rev Roy & Dorothy
Taylor-Brown, Norman & Betty
Cameron, Stuart & Mildred
Cameron, Hilda
Young, Rev. George & Gwen (C)
Cameron, Jock & Mary
Taylor, Rev. Alex & Ruth
Cameron, Michel A.
Page 28
London,
Royal Oak
Toronto
Cobourg
Islington
Islington
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Weston
Brampton,
Etobicoke
Burlington
Toronto,
Toronto
Toronto
Hamilton,
Toronto
Toronto,
Toronto
Willowdale
Rexdale
Hamilton
Richmond Hill
London
________
Stroud
Peterborough
Toronto
Guelph
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Toronto
Seeley’s Bay
Hamilton
Scarborough
_________
Timmins
Sunbury
Hamilton
Calgary
Sudbury
Leaside
Barrie
Brampton
Sarnia
Hamilton
Regina
Alma
ON
Mich
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
Mich
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
Mich
ON
Penn
ON
Alta
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
ON
Sask
Mich
Appendix 4
Ontario Branch History is recalled by Dr. Harold Cameron, one of our
Founding Members and Commissioner for North America (1980 – 1989).
Dan Cameron, was the moving force behind the Grandfather Mountain Branch
after I set up the makeshift tent there, yea those many moons ago - 1967 if I
remember rightly. The 'tent' was a tarp with a centre pole and four corners which
soon succumbed to the lashing rain, but was rescued by the stalwarts from the
Guilford College Pipe Band of Greensboro N.C.
We, myself and three of our kids, were camping in our trailer on the meadow
where the Games were held, and after the Games Dan and his wife Jane insisted
that we follow them back to Raleigh. They found a spot to park our trailer, on a
next door lot, and we spent a wonderful few days of true southern hospitality in
their home.
That was the beginning of our friendship with them and, under Dan's leadership,
so many other Camerons from the Carolinas and beyond. The outcome was a
return visit the following year where the "plot" was hatched (by the Hobbs
families and Dan and Jane) to invite Lochiel to come to Grandfather. The first
Games where our Clan was officially represented was the previous year in Dutton
Ontario (1966), but the impetus for the spread came from the Carolinas, south of
the border, and from Mary and Murray Garrett here in Ontario.
The beginnings of the Clan Association were subsequent to, and as a result of a
telephone version of a half nelson put on me by the organizer of the Dutton
Games - he got my name from a good friend and colleague (the scoundrel) and
that phone call resulted in much merriment among our kids who had never
personally witnessed a time when their father's repeated "no" had simply
contributed to the CO2 in the environment.
The years have gone by and, as so often happens, we lose touch; but we never
forget the friendships we enjoyed, encouraged as we were by Sir Donald and
Lady Margaret.
Dr. Harold Cameron
Ontario Piper Vol 31 No 2 Spring 2008
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Appendix 5
Fred Cameron, one of the earliest members of Ontario Branch (died Aug 1985), wrote this
story about the arrival of his families to areas of Nova Scotia. [Ontario Piper Vol 21 No 3].
Back in the late 1700’s and early 1800’s when clansmen, after Culloden, were
forced to leave their hills, glens and crofts to seek the liberties and freedoms that
all Scots hold dear, Canada was an infant country with very little in the way of
comforts and conveniences, except, perhaps, for those who were in government
employ or connected with the British Militia. This was particularly so in Nova
Scotia where the Canadian part of my heritage begins. These people had left
their beloved Highlands with no hope whatsoever of ever being able to return….
“From the lone shieling and the misty islands
Mountains divide us - and a waste of seas.
Still the blood is strong, the heart is Highland
And we, in dreams, behold the Hebrides.”
My Mother’s people (also Cameron) came from Lochaber at an earlier date than
my father’s family who had gone to the Isle of Rhum after Culloden. These
Camerons were here in time to obtain land about 20 miles from Pictou. They
settled at River John.
My Father’s folk were too late to get holdings in Pictou County, but, at the time,
there were large tracts obtainable on Cape Breton Island. They took up land on
the upper reaches of the Margaree river, now Scotsville. This river forms the
outlet for Lake Ainslie and provided the settlers with trout, salmon, eels and shad.
In those days there were ship’s agents in Scotland who would sell passages to
would-be immigrants. One had to be sure that the vessel was safe and that its
captain and crew honest and trustworthy. Tales were told of some poor souls
embarking on ships little better than traps with subsequent trouble and hardship
during the voyage.
Most vessels were cargo carriers - their holds converted into small sections with
bunks. The space allotted to an adult amounted to 3’ x 3’ x 6’. Children were
crowded in, 3or 4 to a bunk - thus a family of 5 or 6 would occupy two bunks.
Each family took along food for the voyage, prepared beforehand. This consisted
chiefly of oatmeal, homemade sausage and oatcakes. On clear days, families
went on deck and prepared meals with the oatmeal (mixed with the ship’s water often barely drinkable) making a kind of porridge cooked over open deck-fires.
During bad weather, they remained below decks and ate the prepared oatcakes.
Weather conditions were responsible for either pleasant or miserable crossings some amounting to nightmare voyages lasting upwards of 5 or 6 weeks. Pictou
Harbour must have been a very welcome sight! After resting for a few days, the
group my people traveled with set out again on a long wearisome road to the
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Strait of Canso - across which lay their promised land on Cape Breton Island. A
few isolated homes and settlements along the way gave the newcomers their first
taste of the Highland hospitality they had been accustomed to. No one was
turned away on that 70 mile trek from Pictou to the Strait.
Then, after being ferried across the strait at what is now Port Hastings, there was
another 70 mile trek to reach their destination and their land grants in the Lake
Ainslie Territory. Then they set about clearing land, planting potatoes and such
other seed as the government provided. They fished and the ‘colony’ thrived in
their lovely valley. Later on they built better homes and raised their children in
the Highland tradition - Gaelic was their language, and is still, in Cape Breton.
Everyone helped on the land and they prospered. In time they were able to
pursue a very pleasant way of life. But, later on, economic conditions changed
and made it necessary for many of the young people to leave their home and
make new lives in different parts of Canada and in the USA.
These early settlers were very jealous of good education for their families and
many of their descendants have carved their mark in different branches of the
professions - doctors, lawyers, priests, ministers, teachers, etc. One family of
MacKinnons from Lake Ainslies’s shore produced two doctors, and 4 ministers.
The late Archbishop Neil MacNeil of St. Michael’s Cathedral, Toronto was a
farm lad from Hillsborough, near Mabou, CB.
My Grandfather Alan Cameron, son of the original settlers was a school master
and staunch Scots Presbyterian. He had to walk (with the occasional farm horse
ride from time to time) 180 miles in order to attend Normal School in Truro.
Grandfather, when he retired became Postmaster in Mabou Harbour.
In true Presbyterian fashion, Morning Worship was held right after breakfast with a “Grace as lang’s my airm”. Worship meant everyone present had to drop
to their knees before the service began. Bible reading was in English, but all
prayers were in Gaelic. Before commencing, Grandfather would look around the
room - if anyone remained standing a resounding “Down on your knees” would
shake the house. Our neighbourhood was predominately Roman Catholic but,
regardless of religious persuasion, everyone obediently got to their knees despite the fact they had only come to collect mail!
At school, my classmates were mainly the descendants of the Highlanders who
came to Canada in those early days and the names in the school registers
certainly conjure up a lively kaleidoscope of the Clan tartans. MacDonalds,
Chisholms, Frasers, MacKinnons, Campbells, MacGregors, MacMillans,
Fergusons, Dunbars, MacIsaacs, MacLeans, MacLellans, MacLeods, MacKays,
Hendersons and so on … not forgetting our CAMERONS!
Fred Cameron (circa 1975)
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Appendix 6
International Rally Postponed!
It is with the utmost reluctance that I announce major changes in the 2003
Cameron Canadian Rally. The decision of the Rally Committee and Branch
Executive to scale back the plans has not been easy. Despite literally hundreds of
hours of work from many individuals, a conspiracy of factors has created a
situation which precludes hosting a clan gathering of the magnitude and quality
that we wish.
The idea for the Rally originated at the Oberlin Games in Ohio. Ontario
Camerons who attended were so impressed by the organization, camaraderie and
clan spirit evident at Oberlin that we were receptive when Clanspeople suggested
a Canadian get-together in 2003.
In the initial phases of our planning, we were on track and our world was
unfolding as it should. We were prepared for some of the predictable challenges,
the sort that manifest themselves during any undertaking of this kind. For
example, we knew that just the right mix of suitable entertainment was going to
be difficult to find and we searched diligently for quality performers who could
awaken the common denominator of our Scottish heritage.
Several of us had our job situations change and were unable to commit the time
or energy we wished. Like all organizations, not everyone shared the same sense
of urgency as planning deadlines approached. But our Rally Committee was
flexible, dedicated and willing to overcome the usual hurdles that spring up
whenever a group of people who wish to meet for a common purpose. What was
unforeseen were two phenomena in a larger picture.
First was a general social and economic malaise in the aftermath of the 9/11
attacks. Although the Canadian economy remained resilient relative to America,
the global climate reflects a dramatic downturn. Much personal wealth
evaporated. The security and sense of personal safety many once felt, even when
traveling was now history. The North American tourist industry had been
devastated, major airlines filing for bankruptcy, hotel workers unemployed and
border crossings taking hours instead of minutes. In short, the post 9/11 world
was not a healthy or inviting world and not in any way conducive to a Rally
whose success depends on the attendance of many people who gather from afar.
The second and far more damaging was the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory
Syndrome (SARS). Those of us who live in Ontario were aware of the extreme
and very effective measures put in place by our excellent health care workers to
contain this imported disease. We watched in disbelief as the World Health
Organization placed a travel ban on Toronto and we were angered when this
unnecessary action destroyed large segments of our tourist industry.
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Those of us who lived in or visited Toronto were able to keep the situation in its
proper perspective, but the damage had been done. Media sensationalism once
again created a situation rather than reported accurately on it.
Just when we thought our tourist situation would return to normal, a small spike
in the SARS statistics, the discovery of one cow with BSE and the seasonal focus
on West Nile Virus were much heralded in the American media. We had now
become equated with health concerns in the minds of tourists, and as a result,
tourism in South Central Ontario reeled. Closures and postponements ran the
spectrum from hit musicals to baseball games. In this environment, the Rally
Committee found itself with some agonizing decisions to make.
All of us in the Ontario Branch wanted the 2003 Rally to be superlative. We
would not settle for an indifferent event. Perhaps the International climate will
change in a year or two and we can once again entertain plans to call our
Clanspeople from distant regions to celebrate our heritage and our spirit.
Everyone involved in the planning agreed; we will only be satisfied with a first
class, top drawer truly memorable occasion. In 2003, forces beyond our control
destroyed our ability to guarantee what our clan deserves. The situation was not
a defeat; it was a setback. An International Cameron Rally will not take place in
Ontario in 2003 as it was originally envisaged. There will be an International
Rally in the future.
David Shepherd
President Ontario Branch
David Shepherd
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Appendix 7
A Brief History of Ontario Branch - Janet Boese, Secretary 2002
Ontario Branch has an illustrious history! It is one of the senior Branches of the Clan in North
America. Through the years, several people have made important contributions to this Branch
and the further Clan. Always we have appreciated our association with Lochiel, the Chief of
our Clan
In 1957 Lochiel visited Toronto and was welcomed by a Cameron group which later
disbanded. Dr. Harold Cameron arranged, in 1966, greetings from Lochiel to the Dutton
Highland Games. The Scot’s Federation was formed in the mid 1960’s. The Scottish World
Festival, in 1972, came to the Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto. Many of our Charter
members resulted from contact here. 1975-76 saw the re-formation of the Scots Federation
into CASSOC (Clans and Scottish Societies of Canada).
In March 1977, a planning meeting was held to form Ontario Branch. Neil Martin of Royal
Oak Michigan was a driving force. By October, an executive was established, a charter Roll of
50 families signed and Lochiel’s endorsement received.
In 1968, the inaugural meeting of the Grandfather Mountain Branch was planned by Dr.
Harold Cameron from London. This was the first official branch of the Clan in North
America.
New Branches established under the auspices of Ontario Branch:
1980 – The Atlantic Canada Branch (originally Nova Scotia Branch). It was formed
under leadership of Ian R. Cameron New Glasgow, N.S. Certified by Lochiel in 1981.
1981 – British Columbia Chapter begun under Ontario’s leadership. It failed to
flourish though it was certified by Lochiel in 1981. (ed. note: may have been 1983)
2002 – Prairie Chapter was organized by Apryl Cameron Weaver with support of
Dave Shepherd of Ontario Branch and Jeanine Avigdor the Canadian Region President.
It was later renamed Highland Prairies Branch.
Association with Lochiel:
1957 – Lochiel and Lady Margaret visit Toronto
1980 – Ontario Branch hosts Lochiel and Lady Margaret with dinner at the
Garrett’s, and afterward a reception for some 80 members.
1981 – At the Cameron Rally in Scotland, a Clan Register was presented to
Lochiel by Dr. Harold Cameron for recording ongoing Clan events (!).
2001 – Jeanine C. Avigdor named President of Clan Cameron Canada, replacing
Ian Cameron of Nova Scotia, at the Achnacarry Gathering.
2002 – Ontario Branch sent Lochiel a birthday gift of a pictorial history of the
Branch compiled by Mary Garrett.
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