Scott Douglas McBean is an award-winning writer, editer, and marketing communication professional.  Who also has an extensive background in training, presentations, meetings, forums, and events.  In August of 2010 Scott visited McBain Park with his parents and sent McBain of McBain these images.

We meet Stewart McBean at the signing of Bond in Edinburgh 2009.   Stewart offered to help maintain the Park!  on behalf of all members of Clan McBain/Bean we thank you!!   [View with PicLens]

This is an easy way to make a rosette out of your tartan sash. Often, women do not want to wear the sash across the breast beauty queen style, but prefer instead to keep the front of the dress free of the sash. Dancers, especially, use this style [...]]]> Lady Peggy of McBain of McBain

This is an easy way to make a rosette out of your tartan sash. Often, women do not want to wear the sash across the breast beauty queen style, but prefer instead to keep the front of the dress free of the sash. Dancers, especially, use this style but it is appropriate for anyone.

Step 1: Fold the tartan sash in half.

Step 2: Take the top of the folded end and fold it back about 6″. Now fasten a rubber band in the middle of this new fold, making the sash look like a bow with a long tail. (See example)

Step 3: Fluff the folds so that the bow looks like a rosette, then use pins to fasten the rosette’s half circles together or, if you wish it to be more secure, use a needle & thread to stitch the half circles together. Pin your brooch in the middle of the rosette to hide the rubber band.

Step 4: Pin the rosette to the shoulder of your dress with the end of the sash hanging diagonally across your back.

Step 6: Arrange the two ends of the sash diagonally across your back so that they reach your hip, then fasten the bottom end to your hip with safety pins, making sure that the pins are not visible. The top end of the sash should hang free.

We are talking about time periods almost before things were even written down. The official Mackintosh history puts the start of the “modern ” Clan Chattan at 1291. This was also the time frame we have for Mabean coming into the organization. Others say that a shadowy figure known [...]]]> written by
McBain of McBain

We are talking about time periods almost before things were even written down. The official Mackintosh history puts the start of the “modern ” Clan Chattan at 1291. This was also the time frame we have for Mabean coming into the organization. Others say that a shadowy figure known as Gillichattan Mor was one of the earliest Chiefs of Chattan going back another 100 years.

The original group of Clans who formed the Clan Chattan were related as a family therefore the term “blood” was used for these earliest member of Clan Chattan.

Clan Mackintosh
Clan Cattanach
Clan Macpherson
Clan McBean (McBain)
Clan Macphail

The Clan Mackintosh brought other names to the association

Clan Shaw
Clan Farquharson
Clan McCombies (Thomas)

Later other Clans joined the Association:

Clan Macgillivray
Clan Davidson
Clan Maclean of Dochgarroch
Clan Tarril
Clan Smith (or Gow)
Clan Macqueen
Clan Andrish
Clan Clark
Clan Macintyre of Badenoch
Clan Macandrew

The Clan Chattan is unique in that it’s membership consists of members of the members of the constituent Clans.

I am frequently asked, what is the proper way to wear a ladies tartan sash? .

Many women like to wear the tartan of their clan or their husband’s clan, but are not quite sure how to do it properly. Although the manner of wearing tartan sashes has had a [...]]]> Lady Peggy of McBain of McBain

I am frequently asked, what is the proper way to wear a ladies tartan sash? .

Many women like to wear the tartan of their clan or their husband’s clan, but are not quite sure how to do it properly. Although the manner of wearing tartan sashes has had a customary significance even two centuries ago, there is no legal significance. However, a due respect for custom is important. The following suggestions are based upon a careful study of traditional practice, and bear the approval of the Lord Lyon King of Arms.

The proper way to wear the sash is over the right shoulder across the breast and secured by a pin or brooch on the right shoulder. Or it can be worn on the right shoulder in the form of a pleated fan or rosette, secured by a brooch, with both pieces of sash streaming down the back. The longer piece of fabric should be on the bottom and can be secured at the left back side of the waist with the shorter top piece of fabric hanging free. (see sketch)

If you are a the Queen of Great Britain, a member of the Royal Family, a Scottish clan chief, a wife of a Scottish clan chief or the wife of a Colonel or General of Scottish Regiments, the sash should be worn over the left shoulder and secured with a brooch on the left shoulder.(See sketch)

The Lord Lyon also has stated that a woman who has married outside of her clan but wishes to wear the tartan of her family rather than that of her husband, should wear the sash over her right shoulder, across the breast and secured at the left waist in a bow. Over the years, I have never seen anyone wear the sash in this manner. I think that trying to make a bow out the sash is cumbersome. However, anyone wishing to wear it this way should do so as it is totally appropriate.(See sketch)

Questions have come to me about Loch Ness and it’s fabled monster.

Most commonly the question is “have you ever seen the monster?

The answer is NO.

“Had your father ever seen the monster?

Again the answer is NO.

But lets go a little further. My father told the family a story about meeting [...]]]> McBain Memorial Park overlooks Loch Ness!

Questions have come to me about Loch Ness and it’s fabled monster.

Most commonly the question is “have you ever seen the monster?

The answer is NO.

“Had your father ever seen the monster?

Again the answer is NO.

But lets go a little further. My father told the family a story about meeting a woman in Inverness who was a teacher at a local Primary school. Somehow the subject came up and she said “I am the most embarrassed woman in Scotland.” When asked why she said because for 16 years I have taught my students that there was no such thing as a monster in Loch Ness. Then one early bright evening (in the summer the sun stays up until 11PM or later.) I was looking at the still water of the loch when suddenly a great swirl of water and commotion was visible not far from the shore. Then I saw a hump, then what must have been a head but it looked like a huge snake head.

Then–

It disappeared.

Historically the first recorded tale of the Monster is in the story of Saint Columba who was traveling along the side of the Loch in around 530 AD he saw a great commotion in the waters and saw a great beast he told one of his traveling guards to swim out into the Loch and find out what it was. The story continues that the Monster headed towards the swimmer with mouth agape. At this point Columba raise his staff and called out in an unnatural voice to the Monster “ STOP and go no further.”

The Monster obeyed and the swimmer was able to swim to safety.

St. Columba proceeded towards what is now the town of Inverness where he was to meet with the “magicians” of the King of Scotland named Brude. The purpose of the journey was to attempt to bring Christianity to the King and his people. But that’s another story.

The chronicler of St. Columba was a monk who first put the life of Columba in paper.

The trouble with the story is that Adaman’s account of the events at Loch Ness took place almost 100 years after it happened. The reply was that most of the history at that time was verbal or folk tales that came down from one generation to another. This was the way it was done. We assume some elaboration took place but it is all we have.

Pictures of the monster which have appeared in print from around 1910 are about 60% false. But not all.

My only time spent with someone who saw the monster fairly regularly was the post mistress of the Dores Post office. Sitting in her living room she had a grand picture window looking out on the loch just a few yards from the water. When I put the question to her she said “Well, I have a friend who lives about a mile up the loch from me.” “ From time to time she will call and say there is activity in the Loch near her house and sure enough in an hour or so that turbulence comes down this way. It is quite
Exciting.”

Yes, you can visit Loch Ness any day any time. You
can see it from our Park. Please take a while to do this but don’t forget your binoculars and camera.

FSA is a designation and title of those who are members of The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.

This group was founded in 1780 the purpose was to preserve the ancient history of Scotland with emphasis on the archaeology of the country.

It [...]]]> McBain of McBain FSA SCOT
Questions come to me about the use of FSA SC0T.

FSA is a designation and title of those who are members of The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.

This group was founded in 1780 the purpose was to preserve the ancient history of Scotland with emphasis on the archaeology of the country.

It has about 3000 members worldwide. Prospective members must be recommended by two current members. Emphasis is placed on published articles or books by the prospect.

In the United Kingdom the following [...]]]> The arms that appear on the front of the”Clan MacBean Register” are those arms granted by the Lord Lyon King of Arms Edinburgh Scotland to James McBain of McBain and are considered the personal property of the Chief. The Chief has given permission to use HIS arms on the Register.

In the United Kingdom the following rule applies: “According to the laws of heraldry in Scotland it is not legal for anyone to display as of personal right a coat of arms that has not been granted to him or her personally. People who ignore the law in this matter, not only look very foolish, but would under certain circumstances lay themselves open to prosecution.”

Many organizations around the world offer “family” arms for sale to be displayed by people with the name associated with the arms. In regard to Scottish arms, these offerings are not legal in the UK. Scotland is one of very few countries in the world which has a court to enforce the proper use of arms, namely the Lord Lyon Court of The King of Arms.

Those who can prove ancestry from Scotland may apply to this court for their own arms which will likely follow closely (but not exactly) the arms of the Chief To apply, simply write to Lord Lyon King of Arms, Register House, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.

Demi Wild Cat

Motto

The Chief ordered this change at the request of the Lyon Court. These items of heraldic importance stand at the pleasure of the Chief and can be changed by the Chief at any time. They are not “carved in stone”.

Mantiling

Helmet and Livery

Supporters

earth

Kinchyle

Red Lyon

In the most important part of the shield is the symbol of the Red Lyon, the ultimate representation of the Monarch of the Scots. It dates back to the time when we were living in the Kingdom of Dalriada (later Lorn), before our relationship with the Mackintoshes, before the time of Eva and probably before we identified ourselves under the name MacBean. The meaning is clear that we were a cadet of the old royal house, and despite few numbers and lack of wealth or power, our position was respected by other Chiefs and their families. We represented the Crown of what was to become Scotland.

Red Hand

Red Hand

This emblem is in the second most powerful position on the Arms Shield. Today it is commonly associated with the County of Ulster in the North of Ireland. There is significant history to prove that before they came to Scotland the people known as Scots resided in what is now Ireland- The most powerful symbol of those Scots was the noble lineage Ui Neill or O’Neill. Before we had surnames this was the term for the ruling monarch. The famous legend of the “Red Hand” has several versions including the story of a powerful ruler who had too many sons! The land he possessed was to be divided among them but one island that all sons coveted could not be awarded without causing great family division. A plan was set in motion. Each of the sons was given a boat to paddle to the desired island. They all started at the same distance from the destination. The island was to be awarded to the first one of the sons to claim possession by placing his hand on the island. There was a furious volley of paddling and yelling as they started out. Within yards of the island one of the sons began falling behind, but he was so determined to claim the land that, taking his dirk (medium sized knife) in his left hand, He cut off His right hand and threw it onto the shore. He was the first to claim the land by rule! Thus the story of the bloody hand. This legend is also found in the stories of the Sommerled Chief of what was to become the MacDonalds.

The Sword

The Sword

The Galley

The Galley in heraldry takes two forms: 1) The oars are in a rowing position. This may indicate a striving for battle or some distant shore. 2) The oars are crossed as in our case. This indicates a peaceful arrival. In Scottish lore the Galley is a symbol of the Norse Vikings who had such a great impact on Scotland from around 1100 to 1300. They are blamed for raids on the monasteries and the towns and villages around the perimeter of Scotland, England and Ireland. Many of them over the years married into Scottish families and were accepted as worthy members. The common name in Scotland today “Lochlan” means Viking. Most came from what is now Norway and for many years the King of Norway held the Orkney and other islands as his own property. Celebrations are still held in the Shetland and Orkney Islands celebrating their Norwegian heritage. The Galley symbol was important in the Clan Chattan confederation, and with our association as a “blood” Clan of Chattan, we take it as our own in the fourth quarter of the MacBean shield.

The Clan McBain (MacBean) was out in force in July at the Gathering of Clans, an event supported by the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs.

Over 100 recognized Chiefs attended along with their Clans and supporters. Initially our first destination was the Scottish [...]]]> We were there at the largest Clan Gathering in the world—–In Scotland—where else?

The Clan McBain (MacBean) was out in force in July at the Gathering of Clans, an event supported by the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs.

Over 100 recognized Chiefs attended along with their Clans and supporters. Initially our first destination was the Scottish Parliament were we were seated to discuss such topics as “The Clan System in the 21st Century” It was an all day affair with a break for a fire alarm in the building where we were escorted outside (in the rain) for the inspections and whatever cleanup had to be done.

In the afternoon we had what was called a “breakout” session where I addressed the group on the importance of treating Clan membership as a family affair and that political boundaries (such as national boarders) had no place in our family history.

The next two days were devoted to the Scottish Games which featured a greeting from Prince Charles thanking us for coming together. About 100 Clan tents spotted the grounds of Holyrood Palace arranged in more or less alphabetical order. The McBain tent was centrally located and was one of the nicest tents Peggy and I had ever used. A problem was that we had almost nothing to show in the tent. No tartan no books no exhibits. I did raise my personal flag over the tent. George Wiseman showed up the first morning and brought some Clan membership forms. Peggy and I manned the tent throughout the days and we had many visitors. Australia, Canada, New Zealand and most importantly Scotland and the UK they were happy to meet the Chief and the Lady of McBain.

Later we had a march up The Royal Mile along with the other Clans and six pipe bands. The strongest feeling I had was noticing that the crowds along the route was three and four persons deep. Cheering each Clan as we went along. My legs decided it was too much as the speed kept increasing and I was forced to drop out about 1/2 way but was able to rejoin the Clan at the top in the esplanade in front of
Edinburgh Castle. A sixty minute show was the climax to the event illustrating 800 years of the Clans History.

Next to Inverness and the gatherings there, Loch Ness McBain Memorial Park, the Inverness celebrations and the march through town.

James McBain of McBain FSA Scot

Despite the unbelievable settings, the people were the best part.  Many thanks to Richard for letting me come with him, to Celia for letting us stay with her and for being such a gracious host and working to support [...]]]> Well, it was a remarkable trip (photos below: for a slide show click on [View with PicLens]).

Despite the unbelievable settings, the people were the best part.  Many thanks to Richard for letting me come with him, to Celia for letting us stay with her and for being such a gracious host and working to support Clan Chattan, to Louisa and Stewart for their gracious kindness and for doing so much Clan Chattan work and to Donald, Denise and Rex for Clan Chattan work and being so nice to boot.

Richard and I were in Scotland Aug 3-13.  We stayed at Moy Hall with Celia (and many others) until the 10th I think it was.  Then we drove west and stayed in Oban one night, then trended Southeast toward Edinburgh, staying in Callandar one night (my favorite spot, other than Moy Hall, of course) and Edinburgh (at a B&B right at the airport) and had a short 6 hour layover in London.

The photos (277 of them, which is the short version, by the way) are below.  The photos are hereby copyrighted (I hope to make a few of the images into cards).  To see photos as a slide show, click on [View with PicLens].  Otherwise, you can click on a photo to make it bigger, and reclick on it to make it smaller.

Page 1 is mostly McBain Park, which is a quaint park owned by Richard’s family that overlooks Loch Ness, with a few shots of Moy Hall.  Page 2 starts with some shots of Moy Hall, then shows the walk up to the plaque on the Boulder commemorating the re-signing of the Band of Union after 400 years, then there are some shots of the laying of the wreath at the Culloden Battlefield (which was decisive and resulted in suppression of the clans).  Page 3 is more Culloden.  Page 4 shows Culloden, Dores and marching up to the boulder.  Page 5 is at the boulder.  Page 6 is mostly the march through Inverness and the re-signing of the Band.  Page 7 is a fancy gathering and the Sports Fair on part of the front lawn of Moy Hall.  Page 8 is dancing and the bus tour of some Clan Chattan lands.  Page 9 is more bus tour, standing council and the wonderful dinner at Tomatin.  Page 10 is more Tomatin dinner, Rob’s “performance” and Moy Hall.  Page 11 is the island and more Moy Hall shots.  Page 12 is Moy Hall and the Salmon stream area.  Page 13 is more Salmon stream, Moy Hall driveway and the area around Oban.  Page 14 is near Callander, Sirling Castle, Edinbugh Castle and one shot of London at the very end.  Great trip!

If you’d like to read more about the Band of Union go to:  http://www.clanchattan.org.uk/catalog/BondUnion2009.php

[View with PicLens]

1234...121314►