Scottish Historic and Research Society
About Us
Founded in 1964 for the purpose of presenting an accurate picture of Scottish history and culture to the public, the Scottish Historic and Research Society is dedicated to all who have an interest in their Scottish heritage. Membership information is furnished upon request.
Incorporated in Pennsylvania in 1965, the Scottish Historic and Research Society qualifies as an un endowed, tax exempt, educational organization. From twenty-four charter members, it has expanded to an international membership of nearly 800 from thirty two states and six foreign countries.
Members receive "The Rampant Lion", the society's newsletter (now delivered online), which publishes projected Society activities, current Scottish events in the United States, Canada and Scotland, historical information, news and other features.
The Society's gift counter stocks attractive Scottish imports for purchase. The Kin-Stalkers, the Society's genealogical research wing of the society, can provide introductory aids for ancestral seekers. The Educational committee presents Scottish for schools and other institutions. This committee offers assistance to students of all ages in their studies of Scotland.
The Society maintains the William Morris McClain Memorial Library which consists of over 6,000 volumes dating back to the year 1806. The library is housed in a private residence and members of the society may have access to this collection upon request.
Past accomplishments include a donation of two bagpipes and six practice chanters to Covenant College pipe band in Chattanooga, TN. Restoration of the tomb in Gloria dei (Old Swedes) churchyard in Philadelphia, of Paisley-born Alexander Wilson, Father of American Ornithology. Sponsorship of a Scottish American exhibit in Philadelphia for the Bicentennial and another at the Philadelphia Saving Fund Society to memorialize Dr. Henry Duncan of Ruthwell, Scotland. Dr. Duncan in 1810 founded the first savings bank on whose principles the P.S.F.S. was founded in 1816.
The Society has sponsored a Scottish Cultural Festival on the campus of West Chester University in the past and is seeking to reestablish this event in 2010 in Chester or Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
Social affairs include meetings, summer picnic, a Robert Burns dinner in January and formal Tartan Ball in the fall.
Since its founding in 1964, the Scottish Historic and Research Society has been the most continuous active and diversified Scottish organization in the United States.
Our official pipe and drum band is the: Pipes and Drums of the Delaware Valley. Their website is: www.pddv.net
Our official pipe and drum band is the: Pipes and Drums of the Delaware Valley. Their website is: www.pddv.net
Stacey E.Apelt of Norfolk, VA makes a blade at the Williamsburg Scottish Games
SHRS Executive Director Christopher J. Gervais
at the Capital District Scottish games in New York.
at the Capital District Scottish games in New York.
