Clan Maclean Heritage Trust
Celebrating the Clan Maclean
Celebrating the Clan Maclean tells the stories behind the places, people and events which illustrate how Macleans have made an impact worldwide, - including in North America, Australia, New Zealand, Morocco, and of course in Scotland. As a clan and as individuals Macleans have proved to be brave, loyal, determined and adventurous, although not always showing great prudence! Not exactly a history book, but certainly providing the story behind all the projects celebrated in the first 25 years of the Clan Maclean Heritage Trust.
Ian MacLean, a long time Trustee describes how and why the Trust came into being; the important players behind the scenes, and has delved into the projects – whether unique, or ongoing, in an easy but still thorough way. Each chapter focuses on one such project and they all illustrate what makes Macleans unique, and special. Included are descriptions of why and how they were involved in notable castles, and battles, and further provides the backgrounds on individuals or families that have been suitably remembered. Imagine a bagpipe playing Scotsman who becomes a General for a Sultan, a devastating battle where the majority of the Macleans are killed yet results in our most famous battlecry, the building of a fort named Castle Duart (Fort Dewart), whose remains are still preserved in the United States, a blood gathering Doctor in Australia who saves lives, - these are but a few of the strange but real tales.
Not forgotten are the Trust’s ongoing efforts to preserve our past through the collection and preservation of special Maclean historical items; production of books and a map designed to inform Macleans, sept members, or others who want to learn more about Clan Maclean; support for Maclean piping; and support for the maintenance of our culture both in clan lands and wider.
All proceeds from the book will help support ongoing efforts of the Trust.
A review of the book by Professor N W L Maclean of Pennycross CMG can be read here.
About The Author
The author, Ian MacLean’s work life was primarily in human services. His educational background includes a BA from Mount Allison University, a Masters in Social Work from Dalhousie University and an Advanced Diploma in Social Administration from the University of Keele in the U.K. He was an advocate for better services, a leader and a respected manager of a wide variety of human services working in both Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Ian and his wife retired to Tidnish, Nova Scotia; Ian is an enthusiastic Maclean.
Initially this interest revolved around reading about Scotland, particularly the Scottish Highlands, - everything from traditional tales, historical fiction, not forgetting academic histories, always with a focus on the Macleans. This led to many visits to Scotland, (his first visit to Duart Castle being in 1975) and he still loves to visit clan lands, and castles.
Ian has been heavily involved in organized clan activities since
the late 1990’s. He has been involved with Clan Maclean Atlantic
Canada as V.P., President and Editor of their newsletter the Banner; at the international level (Clan Maclean International) as VP, then President (twice); and is Secretary to the Duart Castle Restoration Board.
Perhaps his greatest joy has been his involvement in the Clan Maclean Heritage Trust. He was delighted when asked by the Chief to become a Trustee in 2003, and has remained an active participant
with the Trust ever since.
The book costs £19.99 plus postage for the paperback or £25 for the hard cover edition.
Books can be purchased from the Duart Castle Gift Shop or Lulu