"The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other's life".
Richard Bach
Hunterston Castle is the ancient seat of of Clan Hunter, whose history dates back to the 12th century and the invitation of Norman knights into Scotland by David I. The Hunters were granted land by King David, with the family being appointed Royal Huntsmen. They have held their clan seat continuously for over 900 years, since it was built, making it the oldest castle of its kind still owned by the family who originally constructed it.
Madam Pauline Hunter, 30th Chief of Clan Hunter
Taken from their website: Madam Pauline Hunter of Hunterston has been Chief since 1994. She is the 30th Chief of Clan Hunter and the fifth female to be Chief since 1616. Madam Pauline is the current Patron of the Largs Viking Festival. Having spent her career in farming, the National Health Service and film production, she is focused on developing Clan Hunter and the ensuring the preservation of Hunterston Castle.
To the left are the arms of Madam Hunter displayed as a lozenge, which is the normal portrayal for female arms in Scottish heraldry.
Clan Hunter is now a worldwide organisation with members in most of the world’s continents. Madam Pauline has ensured it is a modern outward looking Clan whose values encompass the Stewardship of Hunterston Castle, encouraging and promoting the connection of those with Hunter ancestry to each other as well as Hunterston itself. This includes all those with Hunter Connections, including West Indian and African American members ensuring there is amn inclusive and lasting Legacy in the preservation of their Clan Seat and the historic Hunter heritage.
Madam Pauline with her daughter Louise, Hunter Chief and Chieftain together.
For those who have had the pleasure of meeting Madam Pauline and many of us have, she is a warm, intellagent and welcoming lady, highly active in the Scottish clan scene and a guiding light for both her clans folks as well as a great supporter of her friends. Madam Pauline epitomises what a modern clan chief should be and remains proactive in her role, the ‘Bond of Friendship is a fine example of this.
Michael Carruthers, Carruthers Convenor with the Chief’s banner replendent in day wear.
Below is a summary report from our good friend Ross McEwen, Shennachie to that clan, describing the day as it went. (italics are add ons)
A splendid afternoon leading into the evening at Hunterston Castle was had by all who attended an event to celebrate three milestone events. It brought together the Chiefs of Hunter, MacEwen, Grant, Carruthers and Irving of Bonshaw as signatories to the Bond, as well as the Chiefs of Buchanan, Hannay and McArthur who attended to show their support. We were also joined by Tom Urquhart, Chieftain in Clan Urquhart, the Commander of Logan, and colleagues representing Clans McDougall and MacFarlane.
Presentation of the Bearing Sword to Madam Pauline Hunter, Chief of Clan Hunter. Note the March Pursuivant Extraordinary, Philip Tibbett Officer of Arms from the Court of the Lord Lyon, observing the occasion.
Firstly, Clan Hunter’s formal acceptance of the stewardship of one of only 5 Bearing swords in Scotland.
- A ‘bearing sword’ is an oversized ceremonial sword, typically carried by a squire or servant during parades to showcase the wealth and status of its owner. These swords were not meant for combat and were used in Europe from the medieval period to the 17 hundreds. Carried by royal bodyguards as a display of power, bearing swords were used throughout Europe from at least as early as the medieval period and as late as the 18th century.
Secondly, the inauguration of Louise Hunter as the first Chieftain of Clan Hunter in over 900 years. This is first time any clan has had both a female Chief and Chieftain at the same time, a great historic occasion.
- To be named chieftain of a clan is a great honour, whether immediate family or not.
Peter Carruthers of Holmains signing the Bond of Friendship on behalf of Carruthers with a very happy Ross McEwen back right. Ross has worked tirelessly to help make this all happen and Graham Wright, Macer Venatorus to Clan Hunter is seen back left.
Thirdly, the signing and sealing of a formal Bond of Friendship between Clans Hunter, Carruthers, Grant, Irving of Bonshaw, and MacEwen. (which included speeches honouring the moment by the signatories involved). Each Chief spoke very well, and it all brought together what really felt like a historic coming together and a great achievement of all involved.
- A clan bond of friendship is a historical agreement between clans in Scotland where they pledged mutual support and protection, typically in military contexts. These bonds allowed clans of equal power to assist each other, strengthening their alliances against rivals. In today’s world it shows the deep friendship and recognition between the clans/families whose signatures are recorded and sealed.
The King was represented by Matt Smith, Deputy Lieutenant for Ayrshire & Arran, and Philip Tibbetts, March Pursuivant Extraordinary, from Lyon Court.
The visiting Clan Chiefs and their entourages were entertained to dinner by Madam Pauline Hunter of Hunterston and Clan Hunter.
It was a fantastic event and set the bar high for the rest of us when we reciprocate!!
- The Bond of Friendship, known as the Hunterston Declaration was authored by Ross McEwen
A gathering of the Chiefs and representatives present
Carruthers were represented on the day as one of the clans/families to participate in the historic formalities of signing the Bond of Friendship (Hunterston Declaration).
Attending on our behalf was the Chief, Peter Carruthers of Holmains, his wife Madam Judith as well as our convenor Capt. Michael Carruthers, who carried the chief’s banner. They were made very welcome by the host Madam Hunter, who also included Michael’s wife Sue and daughter Karen in on the festivities.
This is has been a great honour for us as a family and shows just how far we have come in both recognition and respect since the days starting on this journey more than 20 years ago. With the assistance of Dana Carruthers Norton from Kansas we were successful in organising our family internationally, in support and preparation for the confirmation of our chief in 2019.
We look forward to any reciprocation by Carruthers and would have to assume that the Rievers may play a role in the event. On that occasion, I hope to be free to be there in person.
Well done all and thank you again Madam Pauline and Clan Hunter for this wonderful and much appreciated opportunity and again to our great friend Ross for all his hard work in the background – a true facilitator, who simply makes things happen.
