People in the geographic area known as the South have long been fascinated with family. Around the middle of the century which just ended, many Southerners became increasingly aware of the myriad family ties which bound them to Scotland and Ireland. Amid that awakening of heritage, a group in Charlotte, North Carolina, decided to establish an annual celebration to recognize and celebrate the Scottish roots of so many American families. That was in the late 1950s, and the annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games were the result.
Murvan M. Maxwell, a rising young New Orleans architect, was very
much aware of his Scottish-Irish roots. With his wide circle of
friends, news of the new Scottish games in North Carolina soon
reached Scotty in New Orleans. He and Edith decided to
investigate, and the following July found them in western North
Carolina. The beautiful location, the many interesting people,
and a chance to explore his Scottish connection convinced them to
plan a return visit each year to meet an ever widening circle of
friends.
For several years after the initial trip, Scotty and Edith
continued to expand their activities and participation at the
Grandfather Games. He also continued to talk to other Maxwells
and those with Maxwell connections. Finally, in 1964, he moved
forward with the formal organization of the Society. It was a
proud and happy time for all the Charter Members. They had made
new friends and made connections to their past - and - they had
found an enthusiastic, capable leader.
To lay the groundwork for the new Society, Scotty talked with
other Clan groups - picking and choosing ideas to incorporate in
the new Society. He also continued to recruit and promote the
idea of the new Clan Maxwell Society.
It is worth noting that at this time most Scottish family
societies and organizations started with a rather narrow
genealogical focus - i.e., composed of “blood” ties.
Scotty took a different course. Realizing the historical truth
and significance of the old feudal type of allegiance in the
Borders, he established Society membership on the basis of a
family (surname) present in the feudal territories of the
Maxwells. The wisdom of this egalitarian basis has since been
followed by many other clan and family societies.
Even away from his home in New Orleans, his innate charm and
hospitality found an outlet. He and Edith arranged to have his
new “clan” join them for breakfast at the lodge where
they were staying. Other guests took note, and the next year
there were three clan groups for breakfast. Scotty, the
innovator, was in full stride.
Scotty was always willing to share experience and offer advice to
friends who were organizing their own clan societies. Both the
McLeans and the Campbells received his help during their early
period of formation.
Scotty was a tireless promoter for the things in which he
believed; the Society, Scottish games, and the rich heritage of
the Scots in America all benefited by his attention.
For the first twenty years of the Society’s existence,
Scotty served as President and Convener. The growth and early
success can be attributed to his leadership. In the mid 80s, he
decided to step down as President. Restructuring the by-laws and
reserving a “life-rent” as Convener, he brought new
leadership to the Society, continuing to make valuable inputs to
its operation and progress.
The Society has continued to be blessed with capable members
willing to serve its needs. The expanding geographical base and a
travelling Annual General Meeting suggest that other changes may
soon be necessary. Even with the changes, we can look back with
thanks to the broad and sweeping vision which Scotty Maxwell had
so many years ago. Now that he has gone, we will miss his advice
and experience.
— Larry Long, President, Clan Maxwell Society of the USA
