July 9th 2024.
Did you know that Maine is home to the largest concentration of people with Scottish heritage in the United States? As we approach the 45th Maine Highland Games, I had the pleasure of speaking with Shari Rodden, the Events Director of the Games, to learn more about her personal connection to Scotland.
Shari's love for Scotland can be traced back to her grandparents, who immigrated to the United States from Scotland. Even though she no longer has family there, her son attended university in Scotland and she eventually met and married a man who is now the President of the Saint Andrew's Society of Maine.
Growing up with a strong sense of her Scottish roots, Shari feels fortunate to live in Maine, which has the highest per capita of Scots in the US. With over 14% of the population being of Scottish descent, there is a strong interest in exploring and celebrating their heritage.
However, Shari notes that people in other countries may view Americans participating in Highland Games and wearing kilts as a mere novelty. But for Shari and many others, it is a way to honor and connect with their ancestors who endured and persevered through difficult times.
As the Events Director of the Maine Highland Games, Shari is passionate about promoting Scottish heritage and culture. The Games offer a unique opportunity for those with Scottish ties to come together and celebrate. But it also serves as a platform for educating the public about Scottish history and traditions. There is a special tent where attendees can learn about their family's Scottish roots and see if they belong to a clan.
In addition to promoting Scottish culture, the Maine Highland Games also support the community through scholarships. As a non-profit organization, all the proceeds from the Games go towards funding scholarships for various Scottish activities, such as piping and dancing, with some even taking place in Scotland.
For Shari, the highlight of the Maine Highland Games is not just the traditional events, such as heavy athletics and mass pipes and drums, but also the sense of family and community that is fostered throughout the day. She also loves seeing people of all ages and backgrounds participate in Scottish dancing and learning about their culture.
When asked about her favorite place in Scotland, Shari is quick to mention several locations that hold special meaning for her, including Cellardyke, Falkland, and Ceres, where the first Highland Games were held. But ultimately, she feels at home anywhere in Scotland and gets emotional just thinking about the country's rich history and beauty.
As the 45th Maine Highland Games approaches, Shari and her team are working tirelessly to make it the best one yet. With an expected attendance of 5,000 people, the Games continue to grow each year. But for Shari, it's not about the numbers - it's about preserving and celebrating Scottish culture for future generations.
Even though organizing such a large event is no easy feat, Shari is motivated by the desire to ensure that the next generation has the opportunity to discover and connect with their heritage. She believes that everyone, regardless of their background, has a deep connection to their roots and deserves the chance to explore it.
So, if you find yourself in Maine on August 17th, be sure to stop by the Maine Highland Games and experience a day filled with Scottish traditions, food, and community. It's an event that Shari and her team have poured their hearts into and one that truly captures the spirit of Scotland.
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