The Scots have been celebrating Hogmanay since the 16^th century. Before the Reformation, the Scots celebrated a wide range of festivals from Christian, Norse and Celtic traditions. At the time of the Reformation, the Church of England cancelled all festivals except the most important feast days and by the mid-16^th century, the observance of many of these had been almost entirely abolished. Christian feasts were seen to incorporate and sanctify pagan rituals. The Scottish Church forbade the celebration of Christmas, and in 1647 its observance was forbidden by an Act of Parliament. The result was that the Scots focussed on the celebration of the New Year - Hogmanay. By the 19^th century, Christmas had been restored as a religious observance and Hogmanay continued as a time of merry-making.

     Part of the preparation for the coming year involved putting one's house in order. Debts were paid, the house was swept clean, clocks were wound, musical instruments were tuned, silver, brass and pewter was polished, clothes were mended, clean sheets were put on the beds and anything borrowed was returned to its owner to ensure that all was in readiness when the New Year arrived. Stray dogs were sent away, as they were thought to bring bad luck. Finally, the fire was piled high, the higher the flames, the greater the luck to come.

     As with any festive occasion, Hogmanay includes the preparation of special food and beverages. At Hutchison House, on New Year's Day, visitors will be treated to Scotch Black Bun, a rich mixture of currants, raisins, peel, spices and whiskey, baked in a fine pastry dough, Clooty Dumpling or Duff, Scotch Eggs, Potted Salmon, cheeses, oatcakes, shortbread and Haggis. In the Highland tradition, the Hogmanay beverage, Atholl Brose, a heated mixture of honey and whiskey topped with a dollop of whipped cream and toasted oats, will also be available.

     Our first-footer will be "piped in" at precisely 1 p.m. January 1 ^st with a rousing rendition of 'Burns Address to a Haggis' to follow shortly thereafter. Visitors will enjoy tours of the museum as well as samples of the taste of Scotland throughout the afternoon. Fiddle music, Highland dancing, and the skirl of the bagpipe and drum will round out the day. Plan to drop in to wish new friends and old neighbours the best for the coming year.

     The Hogmanay celebration will take place 1 to 4 p.m. at Hutchison House, January 1, 2008. Admission Prices: Adults $4.00; Children $1.00; Family Rate $10.00. Space at the museum is limited and inorder to accommodate all visitors to this popular event we respectfully ask participants to keep the length of their visit as short as possible to avoid overcrowding. Atholl Brose sold separately. For more information call the museum at (705) 743 - 9710.