Glaswegians, however, should not forget that it was Gentle Lochiel of '45 fame who saved the city from being sacked by Prince Charlie's men returning from Derby. The grateful citizens of the day decreed that whenever he or his descendants passed through Glasgow the bells of the Tolbooth should be rung. In Australia he attended a family gathering in memory of Alexander Cameron who went over in 1838. I'm also launching an appeal for funds to do so and we hope to get various grants from people like the Highlands and Islands Development Board. Lochiel is not convinced that collective International Gatherings of Clans work well in Scotland, particularly when held in Edinburgh and Glasgow, although he supports the concept overseas.
Most clan chiefs agree that gatherings are best when held in their own lands.
And we're going to have a Clan Cameron Gathering at Achnacarry in 1989. I know it sounds a time off, but it alllows clan members overseas time to make arrangements and it will coincide with our Golden Wedding. The last time we had a gathering here we had over 800 people and more than 200 came from abroad. The tall, distinguished chief of one of Scotland's most noble clans is very much aware of the past and future. When he greets you at his door wearing the red Lochiel kilt, and accompanied by his gentle, dignified wife, you are transported back in time, particularly when you reflect on all the great events of history that this ancient land and stately house have seen.