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Calling of the Clans bittersweet for Campbell Derek Dunn derek.dunn@metroland.com
EMC news – Last Friday night’s Calling of the Clans on the Waba Museum grounds was a bittersweet event for Bob Campbell. The township councillor was among the first to perform the ritual of placing a wooden torch on a fire, a way in Scottish heritage to unite families, share information, prepare for war or similar. Of the 100 or so at the event, which is about the same number as at last year’s inaugural version, few could say they understand their background as clearly as Campbell. His family has been on the same property since 1825, when Peter Campbell arrived with the Laird of McNab to settle this part of the world. But all that could change. “I am Bob Campbell of the Clan Campbell,� he said moments before taking his torch. “And Clan Campbell of the Dochart comes here today to reaffirm our commitment to our families, communities and this great gathering.� He explained that his family settled on the banks of the Dochart Creek in McNab Township, farmed, prospered, and gained more land. Peter Campbell, whom Mayor Mary Campbell also traces her linage back to, was one of the three leaders in forming the Friendly Society that petitioned for the notorious Laird of McNab’s removal and the establishment of self-government by the people. McNab was the only area in Canada pressing for what would eventually evolve into today’s municipal governance system.
David, left, and Kyle Felhaver entertain the crowd of some 100 people at the Waba Museum grounds last Friday night with Celtic music. Taking a break from dancing is Kyle’s little girl, Addison. Peter Campbell served as the township’s first clerk, while his oldest son would serve as reeve in 1854. Peter’s great-grandson Gordon served as deputy reeve in 1959. As proud as he is that his family has been on the same spot of land for 187 years, Campbell could be the last. “I have a son. He lives in Edmonton,� Campbell said.
“That could be the last of it.� Meanwhile, Mayor Campbell said she was pleased with the number of children and grandchildren that were included in the Calling of the Clans ceremony this year. “It’s good to see the next generation getting involved,� she said. “They’ll be the stewards of our heritage.�
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Photos by Derek Dunn
Bob Campbell carries a torch to the fire during the June 22 Calling of the Clans. His family has lived on the same piece of land for 187 years, but that could come to an end with him.
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LOCATED BETWEEN ARNPRIOR & RENFREW 3 MINUTES OFF HWY #17 AT 1370 SCHEEL DRIVE
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! Customer Appreciation Day Saturday with the M&M ‘s BBQ on site. The money raised from the BBQ will be donated to The 10th Annual Special Olympics Golf Tournament.
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Arnprior Chronicle-Guide EMC - Thursday, June 28, 2012 13