After the recent discontinuation of the Flora MacDonald Highland Games, an event held annually in Red Springs since 1976, a group of Laurinburg resident are trying to reinstate a Scottish games and Highland gathering here.

“It is sad that, for a variety of reasons, the Flora MacDonald Highland Games were discontinued; however, it would be a shame if this region, which was home to one of the largest settlements of Highland Scots in North America, did not have a festival of this type to celebrate and honor this heritage,” said Bill Caudill, director of the Scottish Heritage Center at St. Andrews Presbyterian College and a member of the steering committee for the event. “Scottish gatherings of this caliber bring large numbers of people into the communities where they are held, and it is only fitting that Scotland County be able to host such an event.”

Since preliminary meetings in the late summer to explore the possibility, the idea has received support from local community leaders as well as the encouragement of members of the local Scotland County Tourism Development Authority. Planning assistance came from leaders of the world-famous Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, also.

“The steering committee selected the name ‘Scotch Fair Highland Games,’ a name based on the annual trade and agricultural fairs held near the site of the Old Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church,” Caudill said.

The Scotch Fair and a similar event held near Ellerbe, began in the 1790’s, and coincided with festivals in Scotland during bi-annual cattle market gatherings.

The proposed event will be at the John Blue House and Park facilities in Laurinburg, which also serves as home to the John Blue Cotton Festival. Traditional Scottish athletic exhibitions, such as the caber toss, bagpipe and Highland dance competitions, children’s events and exhibits of traditional Scottish clans, history and culture will be the featured attractions. “The site was selected in part due to its charm and historical connections with Scotland, as well as it’s suitability for the events,” said Caudill. “Many of the other Highland games held throughout North America have sites which exemplify the character of their regions. We have the added benefit of authenticity and a true connection to Scotland.”

A public meeting will be held Jan. 27 at Scotland Place at 1210 Turnpike Road in Laurinburg.

For information about the meeting, or to become involved with the steering committee, contact Theresa Lamson at 276-7420 or e-mail tlamson@laurinburgchamber.com.