Brief History of the Caledonian Society of Alabama

The Caledonian Society of Alabama came into being over twenty years ago, formed to preserve and promote our local Scottish Heritage. The society's founders were Gibson and Margaret McKenzie, John and Pauline Hendricks, Ken and Isabelle Siddle, Ian and Josephine Sturrock, Bob and Jeanette Swanson, Charles Ingram, and Larry MacIntosh. The fundamental purpose of such an organization was to establish and organize a group of like-minded people who all share the interest for their Scottish heritage and a passion for all things Scottish, and to promote and preserve the unique and exciting culture of Scotland among descendants of Scottish ancestry living in Birmingham and surrounding areas. Scottish culture is rich in history and tradition, featuring a uniqueness of music, dress, cuisine, art, and poetry. Scots and the descendants of Scottish ancestry have contributed a great deal to the progress and betterment of our country and the world and has a strong history in Birmingham, and in fact the entire Appalachian region of the southeastern United States.

The Society is a family oriented group promoting interests in Scottish bagpiping and drumming, Scottish country dancing, genealogy, singing, arts and crafts. The Society sponsors their own bagpipe band, the Heritage Pipes and Drums, who offers a program of education that includes the instruction of the Great Highland Bagpipes and Scottish drumming.

The Society has held four annual events since its inception: the Robert Burns Dinner, held annually to celebrate the birthday of Scotland's most well-known poet, the Spring Picnic, the Fall Picnic, and the St. Andrews Banquet, a formal social held annual in celebration of Scotland's patron saint. The Society has always featured a variety of entertainment at each event, such as the Scottish vocalist and recording artist Colin Grant-Adams, local Celtic ceilidh band Hooley, and at every event featuring their own Heritage Pipes and Drums.

Scottish heritage is very much alive Birmingham, and it is stressed now as it has ever been that the group be open to all of Scottish ancestry, and not be merely limited to the membership of a men's club. Though members are primarily located in the Birmingham area, the Society now boasts a membership of over 250 individuals and families of all ages in all areas of the state plus adjoining states. Every event is open to all members and their friends and guests, and all members-in-good-standing receive our quarterly newsletter and special mailings, including information about up-coming events.

If you are Scottish born or of Scottish descent, we would be happy to have you join us. Please follow the link above to our Membership page for more information and apply to become a member today!

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