Three hundred years ago, the 6th Earl of Mar raised the standard to start the 1715 Jacobite Uprising in Braemar.
Across this weekend, July 23-26, Braemar will remember this significant event in the history of the village, which lost the Earl his title and lands and earned him the nickname of Bobbin’ Jock.
A staunch supporter of king and government, he had changed sides after being snubbed by George I. The passions of the Jacobite Uprisings generated a rich tradition of music, most in support of the rebels.
Tomorrow, July 24, an evening of Jacobite music will be held in culture and arts venue St Margaret’s, with a mix of established and local artists. Heading the programme will be traditional singer Sheena Wellington and north-east fiddler Paul Anderson with Feis Ross Ceilidh Trail, joined by the Braemar Pipers, the Blaeberries trad music group and the choir Wheesht.
When the earl sneaked back to Braemar from London, he began to negotiate with the clan chiefs to raise an army against the government. He rallied the clans under the pretext of a hunting party and invited them to join him at the Linn of Quoich. They filled an indentation in the rock with whisky, now known as the Earl of Mar’s Punchbowl, and toasted the King over the Water, James Francis Edward Stuart, the Old Pretender. On Saturday, July 25, a Land Rover safari will set off from the Fife Mews for the Quoich for a re-enactment and barbecue. Tickets are limited and must be booked in advance.
On Sunday, July 26, there will be plenty space in the grounds of Braemar Castle for everyone to join in. History will come alive from 11am to 4pm with a costumed Jacobite fete, re-enactments, a “living history” camp and traditional food and games with sword fighting, pony rides, hog roast and a chance to see whether you have Jacobite blood with the North East Family History Society.
The Earl of Mar will be looking to recruit for the Jacobite cause and will once again raise the standard on the Braes of Mar. The day will culminate with a costumed pageant telling the Jacobite story.
More information and bookings on www.braemarcastle.co.uk or by phoning 01339 741219.