Introduction

Here are Housed the Relics and Memorials of Rich Historical Interest not only to Scottish Clans- men but to all of Whatever Race they may be who are Attracted by the Story of High Resolve Patriotism and Loyalty.

So reads the proclamation at the door of the Clan House and Museum in Newtonmore, Scotland. It reflects the desire on the part of Clansmen from Scotland and abroad to bring together, house and display the history and culture of the clan at home and abroad.

The Cluny Estate had fell into an unfortunate position financially during the period leading up to WWII. The Clansmen in Scotland and abroad did make an effort but were unable to save the estate. and for a time the relics were lost to the clan. Then on 31 May 1943 Tom Macpherson, now Lord Macpherson of Drumochter made a report in which he said:

"Thanks to the co-operation of members of the Clan at the Sale and no serious competition from dealers, I was able, from proceeds of public subscriptions by members of the Clan at home and abroad, on 3 May 1943, at Wyllie & Lochead's public sale in Glasgow of the contents of Cluny Castle, to purchase all the principal Relics at quite reasonable prices." A Glasgow visitor some years later explained the "no serious competition" refereed to by Lord Macpherson in his report. He had been at the sale and told of how the anxiety and determination displayed by the Macpherson buyers to regain their historical Clan possessions, brought about a "gentleman's agreement" which was entered into by the other potential purchasers to allow the Macpherson's to regain their treasures.

Museum Curator

Ruiseart Alcorn is our current Curator for the Clan Macpherson Museum, a post which he took up the 1^st April 2009.

Ruiseart took over as the Curator at the start of the 2009 season. He was born in Grimsby, Lincolnshire, where his Scottish father was serving in the Royal Air Force. His family moved to Armadale, Western Australia when he was 12 years old. Ruiseart is a professional musician (9 instruments) and a martial arts instructor. He has a love for the Highlands of Scotland and is a student of the Gaelic language.