June 13-15, 2008
E. H. Young Riverfront Park
Riverside, Missouri

Scots Heritage

The history, language and culture of the Scots are interwoven and come to us as common heritage. The heirs of this vital people can appreciate the contributions our Scottish forbears left in America and worldwide. Indeed, modern Scots continue to impress upon current generations the strong and distinctive qualities we value so highly and proudly maintain. The Kansas City Scottish Highland Games are very pleased to highlight a few of the enduring contributions made by our Scots kinsmen. We hope you enjoy the excursions at the Games into our colorful heritage.

Gaelic Language

THE LANGUAGE OF WARRIORS AND LEGENDS

In the beginning ...

The first people to be identified as Scots migrated from Ireland in the 5th Century and spoke a Celtic language known to linguists as Old Irish. They populated the region of modern Argyle, named "Airir Gaidheal" [air-ir gayle] meaning "coast of the Gaels." The isolation of the tribes kept the language to its old form. The communities began growing and dialects and local idioms appeared. Scots Gaelic (as it is known today) was essentially an oral language in its beginnings, although one of the earliest known written manuscripts in Scots Gaelic is a Tenth - Century work, the Book of Deer, found in the East Highlands. The richness of the language is due to its oral story-telling tradition. Due to the relative isolation of the highlands and islands, much of the language was still pure by modern times.

And today ...

Far from being a dead language, Gaelic is now enjoying a rebirth of interest. That revival is due to the realization that so much of Scotland's history, music, and culture are tied with the language. Accommodation to foreign allies resulted in "borrowed" words – words which are today a part of the Gaelic language, but have their basis in Pictish words, Viking words, Latin, French, and English. The effort at keeping the language alive is joined by growing numbers of individuals in Scotland, Nova Scotia and the United States who are petitioning the newly-formed Scottish Parliament to secure Gaelic's position in Scotland. Awareness programs and education through internet media, language classes and immersions, and Gaelic clubs and organizations support this movement.

Keep the Gaelic spirit all year 'round with Gaelic lessons. Contact Greg McCoy at gmacaodh@hotmail.com. There are ongoing Scots Gaelic classes - and new ones forming.

VIST THE GAELIC TENT

Chi sinn thu an-seo!  (We’ll see you there!)

History and Culture Tent

Unique to the midwest Highland Games experience, the History and Culture Tent allows its visitors to experience the history of Scotland as expressed by interpreters of Scottish culture. Each year we customize the presentation to allow for a variety of interests.

Sons of Alba Live Steel Sword Fight - Sword Fight Arena
The Sons of Alba is made up of six members who love performing, weapons, combat and any combination of those three! Come learn about the different types of weapons and see a full contact broadsword fight.

The Great Kilt Demonstration - Main Tent
Always wanted to know about the Great Kilt? Join us and learn why it's a part of Scottish heritage and how it's worn. You will also have the opportunity to try one on and feel for yourself the luxury and comfort of this traditional garment.

Traditional Wool Weaving - Weaving Tent
You've seen the Great Kilt, now come see one woven right in front of you! Join weaver Lynda Anderson as she gives a Sheep-to-Shawl talk that takes you from shearing to wearing while she demonstrates everything from spinning wool thread to weaving it into plaid.

The Scottish Bard - Main Tent
Jeff Campbell, our very own Scottish Bard (Story Teller) will entertain you with stories of Scottland's past. He will make you laugh, make you think and maybe make you cry, but you won't want to miss him.

Black Oak Maille Guild - Maille Tent
The Black Oak Maille Guild is composed of four craftsmen who will portray the daily workings of an armorer and his apprentice on campaign. They demonstrate the craft of making maille armor, with period tools and techniques, and explain the difference between running a maille shop in town and life as a camp follower.

Clydesdales - Sword Fight Arena
Join Breeder Shannon Piepergerdes as she talks about these giant beauties and see one up close and personal.

Highland Wrestling - Sword Fight Arena
Scotland's version of wrestling has been verified to be as old as the 6th century and is second in age only to Greco-Roman wrestling. It is possible that it has been around longer as there are many standing stones that depict the Celts and Picts wrestling! Join Kenny Price and all Highland wrestlers as they compete in this age-old sport.

Historical Reenactors

Come enjoy the 42nd Highland Regiment of Foot, a 1758 reenactment camp authentically interpreted by local reenactors. Learn about life as an 18th century Scottish soldier serving in colonial America during the French and Indian War.

The regiment first came to North America in 1756. It took part in the assault of Fort Ticonderoga in 1758, where it fought bravely in a costly defeat. Later in 1758 it became a Royal Regiment by order of King George II. It was then known as the Royal Highland Regiment and its soldiers wore the dark blue royal facings on their red coats. Our company also includes a scout of the Mesquakie (Fox) Nation. Come join us and peek at camp life of the early Black Watch in North America.

Mjr. Duncan Campbell's Coy.
Col. Lord Jno. Murray's Highlanders