Looking Back: The Renfrew Highland Pipes and Deums

The Bromley Historical Society is pleased to honour the rich Scottish heritage of early Renfrew County settlers with a look back at the history of the Renfrew Highland Pipes and Drums, one of the oldest groups in Canada. This free public presentation will take place on Sunday, October 19, 2pm, at the Old Town Hall, 498 Micksburg Road, Osceola. Since 1911, the Renfrew Highland Pipes and Drums have shared and celebrated Scottish music and culture. It was founded by George Carruth, who ran a Renfrew tailor shop. At the back of his store, he gave lessons on playing the bagpipes to interested young people. As they grew more proficient, he decided to form a pipe band. After raising sufficient funds, the group’s first concert was held at a curling match in Pembroke. Fiercely proud of their heritage, enjoying their camaraderie, and with a strong sense of community, band members, echoing those early days, continue to instruct the younger generation to play the instruments. The presentation will be given Pipe Master Melissa Frick of Renfrew, Drum Sergeant Rob McKenzie of Cobden, and its oldest member, Clark Smith of Douglas. Refreshments will be served following his presentation along with a round of marches on the bagpipes.