Beyond the Song: "Loch Lomond"

Loch Lomond by Thomas Nugent, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

“Loch Lomond” is one of the most popular Celtic songs around. Ireland has its own lyrics to the song with “Red is the Rose,” but Scotland’s “Loch Lomond” has historical meaning behind it, dating back to Jacobite times.

Back in the Battle of Culloden in 1746, an hour-long battle which took place during the Jacobite Risings, leaders were either killed on the battlefield or taken to London for show trials. During the “trials,” they were found guilty and executed in a gruesome way.

The heads of those executed were put on pikes and paraded from London to Edinburgh by way of the highway, which is referred to in the song as the “high road.” This parade was meant to be a warning to those who might be planning to rebel.

One theory is that the song is written from the perspective of a woman who was in love with one of the men who was executed. The families of the men executed, including their wives and girlfriends, would go to London to watch their loved ones being tried and executed. They would travel on the “low roads,” which were the roads and paths they were able to take on their way to London. They would take the same way home, getting home before the heads and corpses of their loved ones.

Another theory says that the song is a conversation between two captured soldiers. Though the captured prisoners were given a trial, it was mostly for show. However, the fate of the prisoners, particularly who would live and who would be executed, was left to chance and lots. In the song, the prisoners are discussing the bleakness of the situation.

There are many theories about the origins of “Loch Lomond.” Some claim that the song was heard or composed by Lady John Scott in the 1840s. Others, including the Clancy family, believe that the song is derived from the Irish version “Red is the Rose,” though some say the Irish lyrics seem more recent.

 The song remains popular today, though most have no clue about the dark history behind the song and its connection to the Jacobite Rising and Culloden. 

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Bram Stoker

 

Author Bram Stoker

en:W. & D. Downey[1], William Downey (1829-1915) and Daniel Downey (1831-1881), 

Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Bram Stoker was born on November 8, 1847, in Clontarf, which is north of Dublin, Ireland. He was the third of seven children in his family. His parents were Dubliner Abraham Stoker, who was a civil servant, and Donegal native Charlotte Mathilda Blake Thornley, who was a civil servant. 

In the early years of his life, particularly in the first seven years, he was a sickly child who often found himself bedridden. From a young age, he would listen to stories that his mother would tell his father, and he wrote ghost stories of his own. He anticipated that he would grow up to be a writer and started getting writing experience early on.

Stoker received his B.A. in 1870 from Trinity College, Dublin, where he was awarded mathematics honors. He then attended Middle Temple in London and was called to the Bar in 1890. He began his career as a civil servant in Dublin from 1867 to 1877. 

Throughout his college years, Stoker was friends with fellow Irish writer Oscar Wilde. Wilde previously courted Stoker’s future wife. When Wilde was exiled from Ireland, Stoker even went to visit him in his new home. 

From there, he went on to be a drama critic for the “Dublin Mail” from 1871 to 1878 and an editor for “Halfpenny Press” in 1874. He was the manager of the Lyceum Theater and the acting manager for Sir Henry Irving from 1878-1905.

Stoker’s writing career occurred between 1880 and 1912. He is best known for his fiction novel, “Dracula,” but he wrote more than 25 other works and contributed to periodicals. Early critics of “Dracula” said that the events in the novel involved excessive horror, it became one of his most popular works. 

On December 4, 1878, Stoker married Florence Anne Lemon Balcombe, with whom he had one child, Noel. Aside from his career success, Stoker was awarded a medal from the  Royal Humane Society in 1882 for his efforts to prevent a suicide attempt.

Stoker died of syphilis on April 20, 1912, in London, England. After his death, his widow sued the German filmmakers who made “Nosferatu,” which was the first vampire movie, for replacing Dracula with Nosferatu to copy the rest of Stoker’s work. She won the case in 1925. 

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Beyond the Song: "The Minstrel Boy"

Photo by Artem Kulinych: https://www.pexels.com/photo/clouds-over-palace-13158121/

“The Minstrel Boy” was written by Irish poet Thomas Moore and set to an Irish air called "The Moreen.” The song is one of Moore’s most famous works, along with “The Last Rose of Summer.” Moore was born in Dublin in 1779 and died in 1852. He is known as a poet, singer and songwriter, and author.

“The Minstrel Boy” was written to honor and remember Moore’s friends who fought and died in the Irish Rebellion of 1798. The character of the song has a mission to defend his country with the sword and sing its praises while playing his harp. He destroys his harp when he falls in battle because he would rather destroy it than have his enemies get their hands on it.

In the song, the warrior musician symbolizes the patriots who showed up during the rebellions over the course of 100 years. Moore envisioned this person as idealistic yet likely naïve. He was passionate and ready to fight, yet young and new to warfare.

The warriors represented in “The Minstrel Boy” symbolize the patriots Moore met while at Trinity College, though Moore was never a revolutionary himself. These men were from well-off families and backgrounds and were often not well-acquainted with warfare. One of these patriots was Robert Emmet, who led an unsuccessful rebellion in 1803.

This type of soldier represented the overall makeup of the Irish military of that time. In the 19^th century, most of Ireland’s skilled military became a part of the British army, leaving behind passionate and devoted soldiers who were not nearly as skilled. This was seen in Moore’s time, as well as the 1867 Fenian Rising and the 1916 Easter Rising.

Right away, “The Minstrel Boy” tells listeners that the main character is not a soldier, which is on point with the military of the time. He lacks military experience, but is passionate and will readily sacrifice everything for Ireland.

While the song is a rebel song, it is a bit more subtle and has more depth than many other rebel and nationalist songs, which aided in the song’s popularity. Since Ireland was never specifically mentioned in the song, it appeals to those in other countries as well. The song remains one of the most performed songs in the world on St. Patrick’s Day. 

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Celtic Hauntings: Coylet Inn

Thomas Nugent / The Coylet Inn / 

CC BY-SA 2.0

The Coylet Inn is located in Scotland on the banks of Loch Eck. The inn dates back to the 17^th century, and it has a history of being a smuggler’s den. It was a coaching inn when it first opened. Today, it is a restaurant and an inn with four themed rooms that people can stay in.

The Coylet was originally called Loch Eck Inn and has been open since at least 1650. It is located nine miles north of Dunoon and is an 11-acre property. The Inn attracts tourists and day-trippers alike who are looking for a place to stay.

Ghosts and apparitions wander the halls of the inn and linger by the water.  One of the most famous apparitions is the “Phantom Bagpiper.” The bagpiper died while finding his way back to the inn on a stormy night. Bagpipe tunes continue to ring through hotel halls in the dead of night.

Another famous ghost at the Coylet Inn is the ghost of a young boy known as “The Blue Boy.” The young boy was a guest who drowned in Loch Eck after sleepwalking. Others say he froze to death outside it. Either way, his spirit remains at the Coylet Inn, particularly in room 4. His footsteps can be heard in the hallways, even when there are no guests at the inn. The “Blue Boy” was the subject of a 1994 BBC drama that starred actress  Emma Thompson.

The Coylet is reported to have paranormal activity. This includes the clinking of glasses and the murmurs of long-lost patrons. Others have reported wet footprints being left, cold spots, and objects being moved without cause.

Despite these hauntings, the Coylet Inn boasts scenic views and relaxing lodging for travelers. It attracts travelers as well as those interested in the paranormal aspects of the inn. 

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Beyond the Song: "Zombie" by the Cranberries

Duke Human Rights Center, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

“Zombie” by The Cranberries was released in 1994 and became one of the most powerful protest anthems of the decade. The key theme of the song was addressing the ongoing violence in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.

The Troubles were a period of violence and conflict that took place from the late 1960s to 1998. The main fighting was between the unionists/loyalists, who wanted Northern Ireland to stay in the United Kingdom, and the nationalists/republicans, who wanted Northern Ireland to reunify with the Republic of Ireland.

The Specific event talked about in “Zombie” was the Warrington bombing on March 20, 1993. In this attack, the IRA planted two bombs in the town of Warrington, England. These bombs ended up killing two children, Johnathan Ball and Tim Parry, as well as injuring dozens. The attack and its aftermath shocked the public in the UK as well as Ireland.

The song relays the feelings that many felt after the attack. It became one of the most “aggressive" songs written and performed by the Cranberries. Unlike other Cranberries songs, the song was written only by O’Riordan and reflects her sadness about the event.

“Zombie” was released as the lead single for the band’s “No Need To Argue” album on September 19, 1994. Both the song and the video that was released and promoted made a significant and powerful impact. The goal of the song was to promote peace between Ireland and England.

The music video was filmed in Belfast during The Troubles, using real-life footage. It was shot by Samuel Bayer. The people featured in the video are real British soldiers and local children. O’Riordan’s paint was her idea, and it symbolized the pain that was caused. The paint also had some religious connotations as well.

On August 31, 1994, a few weeks after the song’s release, the IRA declared a ceasefire, ending the conflict that had lasted 25 years. Some critics wonder if the IRA was willing to call the truce to prevent the Cranberries from writing any more songs about the conflict and the IRA itself.

To this day, the song is still played frequently on the radio. In some cases, radio stations play it around Halloween, not knowing the context and history behind the song. It is important to realize that this song is not about actual zombies and tells the story of a conflict that took innocent lives. 

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Hugh O'Flaherty

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/52/Monsignor_Hugh_O%27Flaherty_-_geograph.org.uk_-_4143046.jpg/1280px-Monsignor_Hugh_O%27Flaherty_-_geograph.org.uk_-_4143046.jpg

Most people have heard of Schindler’s List. It has become a famous movie, and Schindler is considered a hero to all who hear his story, which he very much is. He helped save lives from the Nazis. However, not many people know about the Irish priest who saved 6,500 lives from the Nazis.

Hugh O’Flaherty was born in Kiskeam in northern Cork, but he moved with his family to Killarney. In Killarney, his father was the steward of the Killarney Golf Club. O’Flaherty chose to become a priest and he was posted to the Vatican in 1922. He studied and got his degree in one year and was officially ordained in 1925. His studies continued, and he earned doctorate degrees in divinity, canon law, and philosophy.

Over the course of a few years, he served the Vatican as a diplomat in Egypt, Haiti, San Domingo and Czechoslovakia. He was called to come back to Rome after his service in these other places and continued his work.

O’Flaherty worked in Rome at the Vatican during World War II. In 1943, Nazi Germany occupied Rome. Herbert Kepler led the Nazi Gestapo to hunt down Jews, escaped Allied prisoners, and resistance fires. O’Flaherty refused to stand by.

O’Flaherty used his connections and built safehouses, used disguises, and forged documents to aid those being targeted by smuggling them out of the city. He hid people in convents, apartments, and Vatican buildings.

When the Nazis painted a white line out of hatred and ordered O’Flaherty not to cross it or he would be arrested or killed, O’Flaherty disguised himself as a beggar, a street cleaner, and a soldier to sneak in and out of the Occupied Nazi reign to continue moving people to safety.

By the end of the war, O’Flaherty had saved over 6,500 people. After the war, Herbert Kepler was arrested and sentenced to life in prison. The only person to visit him while in prison was O’Flaherty, the person he wanted to kill. O’Flaherty became one of the war’s greatest unsung heroes.

O’Flaherty’s actions earned him the nickname “Scarlet Pimpernel of the Vatican.” He earned many awards and decorations, including Commander of the British Empire and the US Medal of Freedom. He passed away on October 30, 1963, and he was mourned worldwide. The New York Times even dedicated the front page of its paper to him.

Because of his actions, there are several tributes and memorials still around to honor and remember O’Flaherty. There is a statue of him in his hometown of Killarney. The Hugh O'Flaherty International Humanitarian Award seeks to honor those who, like O’Flaherty, are working to help those around the world who are in need.

There have been several books and other works produced about O’Flaherty and his work. Joseph O’Connor wrote a book entitled “My Father’s House.” “The Scarlet and the Black: The True Story of Monsignor Hugh O'Flaherty, Hero of the Vatican Underground” was written by J. P. Gallagher and was later turned into a TV movie. 

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Celtic Hauntings: Greyfriars Kirkyard

Statue of Greyfriars Bobby at Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh, Scotland. 

Photo by Ivan Dražić 

Greyfriars Kirkyard, a cemetery located in Edinburgh, was established by Mary, Queen of Scots in 1562. It remains open and is one of the most famous cemeteries in the world. It is also home to more than 500 recorded poltergeist sightings, making it the most haunted graveyard in all of Scotland.

No one knows how many are buried here.  Due to poverty, many could not afford a casket. Because of this, people are buried in mass graves just an arm’s length below the topsoil. While there is no knowledge of how many are buried here, as of 1900, the estimate was 100,000 people, many of whom died of illness

One of the most famous ghosts of the graveyard is Sir George Mackenzie. He is known for summary executions before a trial took place. It is said that his ghost scours the graveyard looking for Covenanters. His mausoleum is locked up to prevent vandalism, but people can visit them briefly on official tours of the cemetery. His grave has decayed, which is due to neglect done in respect to Mackenzie’s victims.

The first reporting of paranormal activity at the graveyard was not until the 20^th century. A violent yet unseen spirit manifested itself after someone broke into Mackenzie’s mausoleum. This spirit has been known to push and scratch cemetery guests as well as cause bruises, burns, and broken fingers. The ghost has also followed people home to continue attacking them.

Greyfriars Bobby was a Skye terrier, belonged to John Gray, a nightwatchman in Edinburgh’s police force. Bobby joined Gray on his patrols, and the duo became a well-known sight on Edinburgh’s streets. When Gray died of tuberculosis in 1858, Bobby stood guard over his tomb for 14 years. He was cared for by locals and he became known as Edinburgh’s best friend. Bobby went on to be the subject of a hit Disney movie in 1961 called “Greyfriars Bobby.”

To this day, people still come visit this graveyard in massive numbers. Many come to see the graves that inspired some of the people and places in the “Harry Potter” series, including Voldemort himself, Thomas Riddell. 

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Celtic Hauntings: Leap Castle

 

Mike Searle / Castles of Leinster: Leap, Offaly

Leap Castle, located in County Offaly, Ireland, was built in the 1500s and is said to be Ireland’s most haunted castle. It has borne witness to betrayal and bloodshed, along with other atrocities.

The castle is one of Ireland’s longest continually inhabited castles, and has a rich history to match. It was built in the 1500s by the O’Bannon clan, who were the secondary chieftains under the O’Carroll clan. It is thought that this current castle was built over a castle that existed before.

The castle was originally called “Leap of the O’Bannons.” According to legend, two O’Bannon brothers were fighting to be the chieftain of the clan. To settle the dispute, they decided to jump off the rocky outcrop where the castle was going to be built in order to show off their strength and bravery. Whichever brother survived would be the clan’s chieftain.

One of the main purposes of the castle was to be the stronghold of the O’Carroll clan, used to guard the pass through the Slieve Bloom Mountains. It is known to be one of the most well-fortified castles. The O’Carrolls lost ownership of the castle in 1642 when it was sieged by John Darby, an English soldier who was part of the Cromwellian forces.

Over the years, the castle has been remodeled numerous times, mostly under the Darby’s. The Darby’s owned the castle from 1642 until the castle burned in 1922. It remained dormant until 1974 until it was purchased by Peter Bartlett. The Ryans are now continuing the work of keeping the castle alive.

One of the spirits that roams the halls is the Governess or the Nanny, who interacts more with guests than the owners. She is often seen with two girls, Emily and Charlotte. She manifests by brushing against people. Emily and Charlotte are believed to have lived in the castle in the 1600s and usually play in the main hall or run in the stairwells.

The Elemental is a mysterious entity that has caused trouble in the castle. Its exact shape is unknown, but there are theories about its origins. One states that the Druids put the Elemental on the land before the castle was there in order to protect the sacred site, which was used for Druidic magick and initiations. Others say it was placed by invaders to burn the castle from the inside. Theories from locals say that the Elemental is a spirit of someone from the O’Carroll clan who died of leprosy. Still others believe that Mildred Darby dabbled in the occult, and the Element was summoned as a result of her dabbling. The current owners, who have lived at the castle since 1991, have never felt its presence. However, the Elemental will show up if provoked, and it has the potential to cause harm.

The Priest’s House is also said to be haunted. Most of the accounts are from when the Darbys lived in the house, especially now that it is empty. Shadowy forms are seen in what is supposed to be an empty building. Visitors have heard chanting coming from the house, but as soon as it is mentioned, the chanting stops. There is a presence that lies on beds and snores, and people can feel a body pressing against them. A man dressed as a peasant has been reported pushing a barrel up the stairs, and the barrel rolls down the stairs once it reaches the top, disappearing right after. The apparition of a monk has also been spotted.

The Murder Hole Room, also called the Muckle Hole Room, is said to have been the host of multiple experiences when the Darbys lived in the castle. However, now the exact location of the room is unknown. Mildred Darby recounted several experiences she had in the room in an article, including a hand grasping her hand, followed by the sound of prayers being spoken.

The apparition of a woman who was murdered by an O’Carroll has also been seen and heard. She has very few clothes and her mouth is covered by a red cloth. When she appears, she screams twice and then disappears.

The Red Lady is a tall apparition in a red dress. She has a dagger raised in her hand, and a light radiates within her. When she appears, those who see her describe a cold feeling that fills the room and then enters their hearts. It is believed that this woman was captured and raped by an O’Carroll. She became pregnant and had a baby as a result, but the O’Carroll clan could not afford the feed the child so they killed him. She proceeded to kill herself with the same blade.

The “Bloody Chapel” hosts many of the castle’s spirits. At night, visitors have seen lights coming from the upper windows of the chapel, which was reported even when there was no one occupying the castle. Visitors have reported a smell of rubber in the upper hall. A priest has been spotted roaming the chapel. The chapel is home to the oubliette, which is a chamber in the northeastern corner of the chapel. It is believed that this chamber once stored valuables but was also used to hide during a siege. Eventually, it was modified to be a dungeon where they threw prisoners when they were dead or dying, and they were left and forgotten there. This chamber was cleared out when the Darbys moved in, and it is reported that three cartloads of skeletal remains were removed. The current owners say the apparition of a man lives in the oubliette. 

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Celtic Hauntings: Ringcroft

The Ringcroft house was located in Galloway, Scotland. Reverend Alexander Telfair began recording poltergeist activity that was occurring. The first instances of the activity took place in 1695. This case is one of the earliest known accounts of poltergeist activity as well as one of the most carefully documented cases.

Paranormal activity at the Ringcroft house began in February 1695. Animals were bound for the night, and these bindings were loosened and broken overnight. When stronger bindings were created, these too were broken. People reported seeing apparitions. Furniture moved on its own.

Things were also being thrown at those within the house. Creels (wicker baskets used by fishermen to hold fish) of peats were placed in the middle of the floor, and were set on fire. The smoke woke up the family, allowing them to evacuate to safety.

Eventually, things were being thrown at those in the house as well as visitors. Fiery peats were thrown at people. Stones were hurled within the house, which is a common poltergeist theme around the world.

People reported hearing tapping sounds on boards and chests as well as a voice warning those within earshot that the voice was told to tell people to repent. Rev. Telfair saw and felt the touch of a white hand and arm down to the elbow. Some members of the house even reported being dragged on the floor by their clothes.

Local ministers came to the house to try to rid the house of the spirit that was plaguing the family. These ministers were instructed to spend as much time as possible at the house while fasting and praying. Many even stayed a few nights, which proved to be difficult. They experienced much of the same violent poltergeist activity that the family had been dealing with.

After more violent acts and spoken threats towards the people in the house and those visiting, the poltergeist activity ceased suddenly. The Ringcroft cottage is no longer standing, but the foundations are still there. A row of four trees was planted where the cottage once stood, and now a single tree survives where it was located.

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Celtic Hauntings: Ballechin House

"Alleged Haunting of B-- House" Book

The Ballechin House is located near Ballinluig, Highland Perthshire in Scotland. It was inherited by Major Robert Stewart after his father’s death. When Stewart was stationed in India, he rented the mansion out to tenants and moved in when he returned to Scotland and the tenants moved out. It is considered to be the most haunted house in Scotland.

Very little is known about Stewart and his except that he owned many dogs and that he believed in reincarnation. His wish was that when he died, he would come back and occupy the body of his favorite black spaniel. When Stewart died, his eldest nephew, John Skinner. He shot all of the dogs because he feared his uncle would reincarnate into one of their bodies. As such, Stewart was forced to haunt the house as a disembodied spirit.

A maid at the house made the first report of a haunting in 1876. Paranormal activity became commom after this. There were reports of a booming bell-like sound that filled the house. Occasionally, people reported ghost sightings, including a nun, which makes sense since nuns were allowed to use the property. The mysterious sounds of footsteps were heard throughout the mansion.

Because of the paranormal activity, governesses and servants would not stay for long out of fear of the activity. Ballechin was rented in 1896, but the tenants fled due to paranormal experiences they had that terrified them.

Lord Butte invited 35 guests to the house to investigate the paranormal activity. Some of the guests were members of the Society for Psychical Research. Aside from the paranormal activity reported in the past, these guests experienced other eerie events. They spotted a hunchback, saw a hand holding a crucifix, felt invisible dogs rubbing against the guests, and heard a weeping woman.

A book, “The Alleged Haunting of B-House,” was written in 1899. The family members who owned the property were so appalled at the book that their real names were removed and the hauntings were labeled as “alleged.” The house became uninhabited by 1932  and was demolished after a mysterious fire in 1963. 

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Celtic Hauntings: Pitmilly House

Pitmilly House. Source: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21376049-pitmilly-house

The Pitmilly House is located near Kingsbarns in Scotland. During the 1930s and 1940s, there was paranormal activity at the house that is said to be the most intense poltergeist activity in recent years.

It is unknown why the paranormal activity began. The castle belonged to the Monypennys from the 12^th century. When they fell on hard financial times, it was let to tenants. The house was sold to Captain John Arthur Jeffrey in 1930, and the Jeffrey family saw the bulk of the paranormal activity.

There were intense paranormal events that were recorded in the house. The first recorded paranormal event occurred when a piece of coal appeared in the middle of the table during dinner.

Pictures were found on the floor, smashed. Furniture moved and relocated on its own without being touched by anyone.  Cigarettes that were already in an armchair ashtray were reorganized a moment later, with no one being in the room with the person who noticed.

A sculpture fell in the hallway and caused a crashing sound, and a clock was found on its face for three days and was smashed on the fourth day. Billiard balls rolled down the hallway one night, disturbing sleep. The wife buried the red and white balls, and the red one reappeared

A fire at the house caused most of the paranormal activity to cease, but when the house was requisitioned, the soldiers experienced some of the paranormal activity. The house was turned into a hotel before it was demolished in 1967.  

Some people attribute the paranormal activity to earthquakes. There were a number of earthquakes recorded in the areas surrounding the Pitmilly House between 1936 and 1940, which was when the bulk of the paranormal activity was recorded. Despite this, people who experienced the activity still believe it to be

The house has become an inspiration for pop culture. Frank Harvey Junior’s 1947 play, “The Poltergeist,” and the 1948 film, “Things Happen at Night,” were both inspired by the Pitmilly House. Since these creations, little has been written or inspired by the Pitmilly house. “Pitmilly House: 'Poltergeist Manor'” by Lorn Macintyre details the paranormal activity that occurred within the house. 

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Beyond the Song: "The West's Awake"

Photo by Mario Spencer: https://www.pexels.com/photo/dunguaire-castle-28126979/

“The West’s Awake” was written by poet Thomas Davis in the 1843. Davis wrote a note that said the tune that would accompany the song is “The Brink of the White Rocks.” The song has remained popular and relevant long after it was written. It is seen as Galway’s anthem.

During the time the song was written, there was great social and political upheaval within Ireland. It talks about the western counties of Ireland having a slumbering spirit, despite everything going on. Davis felt like the west was on the verge of awakening to embrace the Irish heritage.

The song starts out with two stanzas that tell of the sadness of the slumbering spirit of the west, specifically Connacht. People are not aware of what is happening, so they are in a state of inaction, unwilling to step up and defend the land they live in. These stanzas emphasize the beauty of the land that remains peaceful while the people refuse the land.

Despite the sadness and despair of the first two stanzas, the third stanza takes a more hopeful tone. It declares that the people of the West are “awake” and are ready to be vigilant to defend and protect Ireland. Other countries, like England, that hope to oppress the Irish are no longer able to conquer the Irish. It invites the Irish to come together to reclaim their freedom and defend their land.

There is symbolism within the song that uses the land’s beauty and strength to convey a message. The “crashing wish and lashing sea” represent the power and freedom that the Irish need to embrace in order to achieve liberty for themselves. The song also references historical battles that occurred in Ireland’s fight for freedom. The clans of Connacht were successful under O’Connor, and the Normans fled Ireland quickly.

Although the song is specifically about Ireland, it resonates on a broader level as a call to pride in one’s country as well as resilience. It is a call to embrace one’s cultural identity and have pride in their heritage. It beckons people to remain connected to their cultural roots, both the land and the people.

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Beyond the Song: "Flower of Scotland"

Photo by Jens Mahnke: https://www.pexels.com/photo/pink-thistle-flowers-776112/

“Flower of Scotland” is the national anthem of Scotland. Many think it is about William Wallace, but it is actually about the medieval wars for Scottish independence, particularly those involving Robert the Bruce.

The song specifically tells of the time where Robert the Bruce, who was King of the Scots at the time, claimed victory over Edward II, who was then King of England. This took place at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Although England’s army was twice as large as Bruce’s army, they were still defeated.

The song emphasizes the theme of rising up to defend Scotland and not be defeated by the British again. It wants the British to think twice before invading again.

The tune and the lyrics were written in the 1960s by Roy Williamson. Williamson was a member of the beloved Scottish folk band, the Corries. The group first performed “Flower of Scotland in 1967 and has since become one of the most popular Scottish songs around.

A fun fact about the song is that it cannot be properly played on the bagpipes, an instrument that is most associated with Scotland. This is because bagpipes cannot play a flattened seventh, which is part of the song. However, it is still played on bagpipes and people enjoy it still.

“Flower of Scotland” is known as "Flùr Na H-Alba" in Gaelic and "Flouer O Scotland" in Scots.

Billy Steele, who was a winger of Scotland’s rugby team, heard the song and encouraged his team to sing the song in 1974 during the British Lions tour of South Africa. In 1990, the song was adopted as the pre-game anthem during the Five Nations championship. In 1997, the song became the pre-game national anthem thanks to the Scottish Football Association.

The song has also become popular at other sporting events as well. Champion boxer Jim Watt used the song as his entrance music in the 1990s. It is also played at Highland Games, either opening or closing the event. “Flower of Scotland” has been used for the Scottish national anthem at every Commonwealth Games since 2010, replacing “Scotland the Brave.”

The title, “Flower of Scotland,” has become a Scottish history book called “The Flower Of Scotland: A History Of Scottish Monarchy” by James J. Sharp. It also became the title of the biography about Williamson, the composer of the song, which was published in 1993 by his daughter, Karen. 

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Commodore John Barry

Charles Homler, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Most people who live in the Philadelphia region have heard of the Commodore Barry Bridge. What many might not realize is that the bridge is named after someone who was actually born in Ireland!

Commodore John Barry was born in County Wexford, Ireland, in 1745. From a young age, he was strong in his Catholic faith and he held onto this faith throughout his life. He moved to Philadelphia in the United States in1760 when he was still quite young. As he grew up, he became a shipmaster and owner, which helped hone his skills for his future successes.

Commodore Barry is known for his seamanship. During the Revolutionary War, he commanded the first warship that was commissioned under the Continental Congress. Under his command, he secured several victories at sea and protected American independence. Barry trained future naval officers and wrote the first U.S. Navy signal book. Because of this, he is known as the “Father of the American Navy.”

In his personal life, he was married twice. The identity of his first wife is unclear, but her name was either Mary Burns or Mary Cleary. He married his second wife, SarahAustin, on July 7, 1777. He did not have children in either of his marriages.

Throughout his Navy career, he received praise for his courage and skill at sea. He even received congratulations from George Washington for his victories. He was one of the first American commodores and the first American to capture a British ship (he captured the ship, “Edward,”in 1775). After the Revolutionary War, he was named senior captain of the United States Navy. He fought in other wars and commanded the Navy in other capacities.

Barry died in Philadelphia on September 13, 1803. To this day, he is honored in both the United States and Ireland for his heroic efforts and skills at sea. As mentioned before, there is a bridge named the Commodore Barry Bridge outside of Philadelphia. Philadelphia’s Irish center is called the Commodore John Barry Arts and Cultural Center. Even today, he is considered to be the most important figure of the United States Navy.

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Celtic Connections: Golf

Photo by Kindel Media: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-golf-ball-on-the-grass-6572955/

Golf is one of the world’s most popular sports. It is played worldwide by people of different ages and is a common pastime. The word “golf” comes for the German word for “club.” While some scholars say that golf originated with the Egyptians or Romans, most historians agree that modern golf has its origins in Scotland.

The first recorded mention of the sport occurred when King James II bannedthe sport in 1457. He feared that it would surpass the popularity of archery, which was the national sport at the time. The ban was lifted a half a century later, and King James IV made the first recorded purchase of a golf set. Many historians point to the year 1552 as the year that began the era of modern golf. This was the year that the town of St. Andrews allowed people to play sports, including golf, in public.

The world’s first golf course was built in St. Andrews, Scotland, and players still travel to play there today. This course was created by Queen Mary Stuart, who was also the first woman to play golf. The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers was created in 1744 and was the first golf association. St. Andrews Golfers, which later became the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, was created in 1754 and is one of the world’s most famous golf associations.

When golf made its way to the United States, it began with a ban in Albany in 1659. Golf was banned due to the risk of residents being struck by golf balls when it was played in the streets. According to records in Leith, Scotland, a shipment of 96golf clubs and 432 golf balls were sent to North Carolina, where the first golf club was formed in the United States.

Today, golf is played around the world both professionally and for fun. There are competitions and associations that players can join to prove their skills. The oldest golf championship in the world, now known as the British Open, began in 1860 at the Prestwick Golf Club in Scotland. The game has evolved over the years, from rules and regulations to equipment used, but there is no sign of the popularity of the game slowing down anytime soon.

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Beyond the Song: "Braes of Killiecrankie"

Source: Thomas Medland, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

(https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Thomas_Medland_-_Pass_of_Killicrankie_-_B1998.14.765_-_Yale_Center_for_British_Art.jpg)

“Braes of Killiecrankie” is a song that talks about the Battle of Killiecrankie. The battle took place on July 27, 1689, during the first Jacobite rising. It ended in a decisive victory for King James VII of Scotland. The battle took place at the Pass of Killiecrankie.

During this battle, John Graham, known as Bonnie Dundee, was killed. Ultimately, though, he led his army of men to victory against General Hugh MacKay.

The tune of the song was written soon after the battle, but the lyrics were written a century later in 1790. The song was written as an account of the battle and focuses on themes of bravery, loyalty, and struggling for freedom. The lyrics capture the emotions and experiences of the soldiers involved in the battle, painting a clear picture of what went on during the battle.

The opening lines of the song paint a picture of the landscape where the battle took place. This contrasts the beauty of nature with the ugliness of war. The song continues and talks about why the Jacobite soldiers were fighting the battle and their loyalty to King James VII.

Once the song gets to the battle itself, there is a sense of urgency and mayhem. During the battle, the Jacobites fought in the darkness, giving them an advantage and an element of surprise that aided them. Although the Jacobites won, the song also notes the cost of war and those who died in the fight for freedom.

The refrain of the song repeats key phrases, emphasizing the themes of unity, determination, resistance, and resilience that were so important to the battle. The battle itself is a key focus of the song, but beyond that, the song highlights the impact of the battle on Scottish identity and history.

“Braes of Killicrankie” is a tale of the battle, but it goes beyond that. It is often used as a rallying cry for Scottish pride and a celebration of Scottish heritage. It captures the spirit of the Jacobite movement and speaks to the resilience of the Scottish people who have been through so much. The song tells the story of the battle itself, but it represents so much more. 

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Celtic Connections: New York Police Department

Photo by Howard Herdi: https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-walking-on-the-street-5874676/

When Irish immigrants came to the United States, they had a rough time. Many times, they lived in poverty in the poorest neighborhoods of their cities and towns. However, for those Irish immigrants who went to New York City, joining the New York Police Department was a way out of poverty.

At one point, NYPD was nicknamed “The Irish Police” because by the late 19^th century, more than half of the officers in the NYPD were Irish-born or first-generation Irish Americans. The Irish made up all ranks of the department, from the lowest to the highest ranks.

This image of police departments across the country being made up of Irish Americans made its way into popular television shows like Looney Tunes, specifically “Bugs and Thugs.” Even radio shows and movies got in on the concept. While modern police departments are more diverse, recent shows like “Copper” and “Blue Bloods” showcase the evolution of the Irish in the police departments.

Thomas Francis Byrne is one of the most famous Irish Americans in the NYPD. He was known a the “Original Sherlock Holmes within NYPD. Byrne was born in Dublin and came to New York with his parents when he was a child. Initially, he served as a firefighter but switched to the police department. He served as the head of the NYPD detective department from 1880 to 1895. One of his achievements was the “Rogues Gallery,” which was the forerunner of the modern-day database for criminals.

Today, the NYPD Emerald Society keeps this legacy and heritage alive. The organization began on March 16, 1953, and is known for its bagpipes and traditions at parades and memorials.  It was set into motion by policewomen  Doris Burke, Lillian Reilly, Mary Paterson, and Eileen Romancheck. Each year, the Emerald Society gives out the Patrick J. O’Connor medal to an officer who performed their duty in a life-threatening situation. It was named in honor of a member who was killed in the line of duty.

Today, the NYPD is more diverse, but the heritage of its Irish past still lingers to this day. The department has the Emerald Society, Pipes and Drums, and even a Gaelic Football Club. Their roots remain strong, though they are branching out to become even more diverse. 

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Beyond the Song: "Bonnie Dundee"

(Peter Lely (1618-1680), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons)

“Bonnie Dundee” was written by Walter Scott in 1825. It was a poem and a song written to honor John Graham. Graham was the 7^th Laird of Claverhouse and was created created 1st Viscount Dundee in November 1688. He was known as “Bloody Clavers” by his opponents and “Bonnie Dundee.”

In 1689, Graham led a Jacobite rising. This rising led to the Battle of Killiecrankie, in which Graham fought and died. The Battle of Killiecrankie occurred after Graham was betrayed by Melfort, the King’s adviser. The Highlanders were successful in the battle was killed after being pierced by a musket ball under his breastplate and falling off his horse.

Aside from the victory and Graham’s death, the battle of Killiecrankie had very little impact on the outcome of the war, but it had an impact on other things.  Roads were built in order to move troops more quickly and safely. Bridges were built as well to aid in the movement of troops. The roads and bridges not only helped move troops, but they also aided in improving communications.

Aside from this song, Scott wrote a novel, “Old Mortality,” which paints Claverhouse in a sympathetic portrait. This novel was published in 1816. This novel was the first time Graham was referred to as “Bonnie Dundee,” as this description was only attributed to the Scottish town before this. Graham did not know this nickname during his lifetime.

The poem and song were written in 1825 in Scott’s journal. It was written from Graham’s point of view, just like the novel. Scott sent a copy of the poem to his daughter-in-law. It was them published in a miscellany, “The Christmas Box,” and was then featured as a song in “The Doom of Devorgoil,” Scott’s unperformed play.

After Scott’s death, the song underwent some changes, including adding some “Scotticisms” to the verses. There is also an older lyric version of the song called "Jockey’s Escape to Dundee." The song has been used by Scottish regiments in the British army as a regimental march. It was even adapted to be used by the Confederate army during the American Civil War. 

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Beyond the Song: "The Foggy Dew"

RossGannon1995, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

“The Foggy Dew” is one of the most famous songs written about the Easter Rising. It was written by Charles O’Neill, who was a priest from County Antrim. This was his only known published ballad, and he never made a ton of money from the song.

The song was originally a poem written after a roll call that commemorated the lives lost during the Easter Rising. It had such a profound impact on O’Neill that he wrote the poem, though he used the pseudonym “Iascar.” This was done to protect his identity since things were dangerous, and he wanted to avoid unwanted attention.

In the early 1900s, the British had considered a Home Rule Bill so that Ireland could make their own decisions about governing their people. However, these considerations halted once World War I broke out. This left the Irish wondering if they would ever gain independence.

The Irish saw the irony that those who fought in WWI did so to help small nations, but Ireland itself is relatively small. Ireland had been occupied by the British for years, and many thought they should be able to be free and independent. Britain was fighting for Belgium’s independence while not allowing Ireland their own independence.

Irish nationalists staged a rebellion in 1916 to make a stand for Irish independence. The rebellion was quickly quelled by the British and several of the rebels were executed for their participation in the Rising. While many did not agree with the rebels initially, their minds changed when they were executed.

The song talks about both the Easter Rising and World War I, suggesting that it was better to die in Ireland than fight for the British crown in faraway lands. This references the nearly 210,000 Irishmen who enlisted in WWI to fight for the British. Those who fought in the Easter Rising are remembered, but those who fought for the British have not been honored as much.

“Foggy Dew” is set to the tune of “Banks of the Mourlough Side.” It is also called “Down The Glen.” The “wild geese” mentioned in the song refers to the emigration of the Irish armed forces after Limerick’s surrender in 1691.

The melody is written in ABA form, and the time signature varies between 2/4 and 4/4. The song itself has not changed through the years, but the arrangement has, depending on the artist who performs the song. “Foggy Dew” has been recorded about 150 times.

Traditionally, the song was sungby men. However, in recent years, women have taken to singing the song. Such women include Sinead O’ Connor and Sarah McLachlan. McLachlan was chosen to sing the song for the Chieftans in the United States. Most of the male performers tend to perform it at a tempo that resembles a fast polka. 

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Celtic Connections: Andrew Carnegie

(Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Andrew_Carnegie_(1835-1919)_by_B._L._H._Dabbs.png)

Andrew Carnegie is known as a famous businessman who made a substantial impact on the United States and the world at large through his entrepreneurial success and philanthropy. He is known as the “Father of Modern Philanthropy” after all. Many may not realize that he has Celtic roots.

Carnegie was born inDunfermline, Scotland, in 1835. He had a brother named Tom who was 8 years younger than he was. In 1848, industrialism made jobs like weaving obsolete, which left his family out of work and unable to make money. They moved to the United States to seek better opportunities.

The family decided to live in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, which is a suburb of Pittsburgh. They had friends and relatives there, so it was a perfect place for them to settle. Their ship traveled from Scotland to New York City, where Carnegie mingled with the people who lived there. Once in Allegheny, Carnegie’s father took over a relative’s weaving shop, but that business ultimately failed.

When Carnegie was 13, he worked in a cotton mill, carrying bobbins to workers at their looms. This earned him $1.20 each week. At the age of 14, he became a telegraph carrier and was promoted to telegraph operator after teaching himself how to work telegraph equipment. This led him to work on the Pennsylvania Railroad, where he was promoted to superintendent at 24.

Carnegie was educated primarily through reading books. Since he lived in Allegheny, he was able to take advantage of the library of Colonel James Anderson, who allowed local working boys the rare opportunity to utilize the library.

During his time working at the railroad, Carnegie became interested in other business interests. He received $500 to invest in shares and explored other opportunities as well. By the age of 30, he had several business interests and had built the Carnegie Steel Corporation. Carnegie became a steel master in the United States and was considered the greatest entrepreneur of the age.

Carnegie began his philanthropic endeavors in 1870. He supported many causes, but is best known for his work with libraries. His first library was built in his birthplace, Dunfermline, and he eventually built libraries across the English-speaking world.

Even though he lived and worked in the United States, Carnegie bought several propertiesin Scotland, particularly in the Highlands. He felt in tune with the customs of the Scottish Highlands. After purchasing Cluny Castle in 1888, he spent 10 summers there. Carnegie also purchased Skibo Castle in Sutherland. He spent five months out of the year in this castle, calling it “Heaven on Earth” and feeling at home there.

In 1901, Carnegie sold his steel business to J.P. Morgan and retired from business. He was eager to share his wealth with others. Aside from libraries, he was able to buy organs for churches, start nonprofits, help schools, and fund other endeavors.

In 1911, he established the Carnegie Foundation as a product of his wealth. Through his wealth, Carnegie was able to fund things such as the discovery of insulin, Pell Grants, and even Sesame Street.

Carnegie died on August11, 1919. Throughout his life, Carnegie lived a life of success and generosity. He leaves behind a legacy of giving and of peace. One of his goals was world peace, and his work and legacy echo this goal and his efforts to achieve this in his lifetime.

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