(Established 1898). The Waimate Advertiser. (Published every evening since 1914). THURSDAY, MAY 18, 1922. A SCOTTISH NIGHT.

Waimate Daily Advertiser, Volume XXIII, 18 May 1922, Page 4

(Established 1898). The Waimate Advertiser. (Published every evening since 1914). THURSDAY, MAY 18, 1922. A SCOTTISH NIGHT.

To-night will be the nearest Waimate has attained to a “Scottish Night” for some years. There are quite a number of folk about the Waimate district whose ancestors come from north of the Tweed; and prior to the war a strong Scottish Society flourished. Here the countrymen of the immortal “Rabbie” were wont to foregather to spend evenings in social surroundings to talk of the land and clime where the heather flourishes on the hills and braes; and the skirl of the pipes would sound anon. We remember, among the distinguished guests entertained by the Society, the late High Commissioner for New Zealand Sir Thomas McKenzie, who was made their chief. He later sent out from the Old Country a handsome snuffmull as a gift to a prominent member to show that he had not forgotten the Society. Shortly afterwards came the war; and with the departure of many of its members for the front, and the transference of the activities of the ladies interested to patriotic wirk, the Society, like many another worthy body, languished and finally passed out of existence, to all practical purposes. Quite a considerable period has elapsed since Mr James Craigie, M.P., who is a recognised authority on the subject, gave his address here on Burns; but it can safely be assumed that his appearance this evening will prove as popular as it did years ago. Such a subject will kindle enthusiasm in the heart of many a Scot; and we would suggest to those responsible for JSfr Craigie’s visit that they take this opportune moment for reviving the Scottish Society. We are not aware whether the old ‘Society has any funds in trust; but that is a small matter. The revival of interest created by the handling of such a subject in the skilful manner with which it will be approached by Mr Craigie will be sufficient to ensure the succesful founding of a Society that can do much in passing away the dark and dreary winter nights in a pleasant and profitable fashion.