Clan Cunningham

2010-09-13T18:50:00.001-04:00

CLAN CUNNINGHAM TO GATHER!!

The plans have been made. The reservations have been made. The transportation reservations have been made. On the weekend of September 17th, 18th and 19th Clan Cunningham, under the unifying banner of Clan Cunningham International (CCI), will gather on the green slopes of Loon Mountain in Lincoln, New Hampshire.

This will truly be an exciting weekend for all who attend; new leadership will be installed; and new set of By-laws will be established to ensure that Clan Cunningham International belongs to its members and will never be held hostage for the sake of one person’s echo. Every 3-years, the members of CCI will have the opportunity to elect its officers, and no person can hold the title of President for more than 6-years. The key to any organization’s success is new members, new officers, and new leaders who bring new ideas, and ways of doing things that help an organization rise to new and greater heights.

Some may argue that change is not good, that a stern and unflinching leader is what is needed. Our great nation rejected that kind of tyranny, and we in CCI also reject that kind of thinking. Being old does not make you right.

Leadership change is the only way to ensure CCI continues to grow and evolve to meet the needs of the organization, as well as to serve the needs of all who hail from Clan Cunningham.
I am very proud of the roll I have played in building CCI. Today we have active members from every hot spot around the world where Cunninghams have settled. CCI is a growing community where all Cunninghams are made to feel that they are at home. New ideas from our members are welcome and encouraged and are given every consideration. No idea or opinion is ever rejected because it does not fit into our dear leader’s plans.

If you are looking for a Clan Cunningham organization where your voice will be heard, where your ideas will be encouraged, and where you will be treated like family, then look no further than Clan Cunningham International, (http://www.clancunninghamintl.org/).

Yours,
C. Stevens Cunningham

2010-02-27T11:28:00.000-05:00

2010 – An Exciting Year Ahead for All Cunningham’s’

Are you getting ready to shake off the winter’s doldrums? I know that I for one am looking forward to warmer and greener days.

This year Clan Cunningham International is planning an exciting agenda for our Cunningham family. CCI will be hosting Clan Cunningham’s at more Scottish Festivals and Highland Games here in the USA and Scotland than ever.

Hosting Clan Cunningham Tents is one of the most important responsibilities any Clan organization has. It is quite literally the Front Door to the organization. The first contact most family members have with Clan Cunningham International is the Tent Host. As they say the first impressions are the last impressions. We within Clan Cunningham International celebrate and recognize the hard work and dedication our Tent Hosts’.

Is hosting Clan Cunningham tents the only function of Clan Cunningham International? No. Clan Cunningham International has a number projects under way not only here in the United States but also in Scotland.

Clan Cunningham International is the only Clan Cunningham organization that is currently and actively is working with the Court of the Lord Lyon to identify a Chief for Clan Cunningham. Clan Cunningham International is working with two individuals who can trace their family lineage back to one of The Earls of Glencairn; these individuals are busy preparing their petitions to the Lord Lyon seeking his recognition as the Chief of Clan Cunningham. Clan Cunningham International is taking a true leadership position in searching for the true and rightful Chief of Clan Cunningham.

Clan Cunningham International is working with the members of St. Maurs Glencairn Parish Church XI, the Cuninghames of Caprington and the Historic Commission for Scotland to install new stained glass windows for the Glencairn Aisle. The finally drawing for these four replacement windows are currently being reviewed by the Historic Commission. Once we receive the Commissions approval the new windows will be produced and installed. For the first time in more than 30 years, the Glencairn Aisle will have windows installed, thanks to the fund-raising efforts of Clan Cunningham International.

Two years ago Clan Cunningham International produced the only history on Clan Cunningham designed for CD usage. Every member of Clan Cunningham International has received this free History CD when they renewed their membership or when they first joined Clan Cunningham International.

Currently a committee of Clan Cunningham International is working on a second CD which will highlight sites in Scotland that are related to members of Clan Cunningham. This will be a valuable resource if you are planning a trip to Scotland and you would like to visit historical sites that are associated with Clan Cunningham. It will also be a resource to those doing historic research and want to include connections to Clan Cunningham.

Clan Cunningham International is preparing for the historic Gathering of the Clan which will be held on September 17^th, 18^th, and 19^th of this year in conjunction with the New Hampshire Highland Games in Lincoln New Hampshire. We already have RSVPs from Scotland, California as well as many other states. The next official gathering will be in 2013 out in California and most likely the 2016 gathering will be in Scotland.

Clan Cunningham International produces four Newsletters every year. Each newsletter is packed full of news about the current activities of Clan Cunningham, photos and historic information which is of interest to all.

Clan Cunningham International is truly a multifaceted and vibrant organization. I invite you to visit the Clan Cunningham International web site (http://www.clancunninghamintl.org) stop by and check us out.

2009-12-23T19:01:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to All

There is no doubt that there is a schism among the Cunningham Clan here in America. I was not present when the split between one group of CCSA members had a falling out with the new leadership of CCSA. We can sit here and play the old blame game, never solving or achieving a resolution of the problem, or we can start talking with each other and finding an acceptable solution to this situation.

Let me say how much I applaud and admire the hard work of the founders and early members of CCSA. It is through the hard work and dedication of those early leaders of CCSA that saw our Clan Cunningham Society flourish, grow and gain respect among Scottish leaders here in America as well as in Scotland. It was those early leaders who wrote to the Lord Lyon, seeking his council as how to go about forming a Clan Society outside of Scotland. Indeed the Lord Lyon encouraged this small group of dedicated Cunninghams to move forward with their endeavors to form a Clan Cunningham organization. The Lord Lyon admonished those leaders that their work should always bring honor and dignity to the name of Cunningham.

I am sure mistakes were made along the way, misplaced checks, applications filed incorrectly, late newsletters and/or late reports. There was no malice intended. They were mistakes made by hard working volunteers who often had competing priorities such as family and work.

I need not apologize for any of these missteps made over 6-years ago. Their efforts to bring honor and dignity to the name Cunningham outweigh any mistakes that were made along the way.

We need not travel down the road of ‘he said this and he said that’. Yes, words have been said, some met to sting, while others clearly had malice intentions. It is time to stop the bickering and begin the healing process.

As we approach the New Year of 2010 and a new decade, my hope is that leaders of Clan Cunningham International can sit down with our counterparts from CCSA and bring an end to this situation that divides our family here in America.

Yours
C. Stevens Cunningham

Clan Cunningham International
United Worldwide - Together Worldwide
Join our Worldwide Family!

2009-11-29T10:36:00.000-05:00

Come to the Highlands of New Hampshire

September 17, 18, & 19, 2010

Come to the Triennial Gathering of Clan Cunningham and business meeting of Clan Cunningham International, September 17, 18, 19, 2010 at the NH Highland Games in Lincoln, New Hampshire.

The NH Highland Games is the largest gathering of Scots within the New England region which takes place over a three day period in September. Last year more than 60 Scottish Clans and other organizations along with 30 pipe bands were in attendance. Including Colum Cille Pipes & Drums of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, who wear the Cunningham Modern tartan.

Every 3 –years Clan Cunningham gathers to celibate their common heritage, renew old acquaintances, make new ones and set the agenda of Clan Cunningham International for the next three years. At the business meeting of Clan Cunningham International on Saturday afternoon we will a voting on Bylaw changes and electing Officers for the next three years. The next gathering of the Clan will take place in 2013 out in California. So if you live in the Northeast here is your opportunity to attend a Clan Gathering close to home.

Preliminary Schedule of Events

Friday, September 17^th

8:30 AM Set-up the Clan Cunningham Tent and Reception Center in the Clan Village

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM NH Highland Games Open

6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Cocktail Reception – Steve & Bonnie Cunningham’s Condo (RSVP ccusane@comcast.net – free)

Saturday, September 18^th

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM NH Highland Games Open

11:00 AM Clan Parade & Roll Call – Gather at the Clan Cunningham Tent – 10:45 AM

12:00 PM Opening Ceremonies & Massed Pipe Bands

3:00 PM Clan Cunningham International Business Meeting – Clan Cunningham Tent

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Clan Cunningham Dinner – Green House Room Beacon Resort, Lincoln, NH - $35 per person (RSVP by 9/1/10 to Steve Cunningham ccusane@comcast.net) Entertainment - Colum Cille Pipes & Drums of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Highland Dancing and maybe a surprise or two.

Sunday, September 19^th

10:00 PM – 4:00PM NH Highland Games Open

10:00 AM Worship Services – Kirkin’ O’ Tartans

4:00 PM Closing Ceremonies – Time to say Good-byes

For a complete list of activities and entertainers at the 2010 NH Highland Games visit their web-site at http://www.nhscot.org/index.php.

Area Hotels:

The Beacon Resort - Lincoln, NH - Phone: 1-800258-8934 - http://www.beaconresort.com

Comfort Inn & Suites - Lincoln, NH - Phone: 1-888-589-8112 - gm@comfortinnloon.com
http://www.comfortinnloon.com

Franconia Notch Motel - Lincoln, NH - Phone: 603-745-2229 - http://www.franconianotch.com

Indian Head Resort - Lincoln, NH - Phone: 603-745-8000 - http://www.indianheadresort.com

Visit NH Scot (http://www.nhscot.org/index.php?id=4&tpl=default) for a complete list of area accommodations. Rooms book fast so do not put it off.

The Northeast Regional Tri-Annual Meeting Committee is already hard at work planning for this event. If you would like to volunteer to assist the Committee, please contact Steve Cunningham, 28 Fox Hollow Rd. New Fairfield, CT 06812 or e-mail him at ccusane@comcast.net

Clan Cunningham International

United Worldwide - Together Worldwide

Join our Worldwide Family!

2009-10-04T19:20:00.003-04:00

Clan Cunningham

Uniting Under Clan

Cunningham International

Clan Cunningham is as united today as it has never been before. Thanks to the hard work and unquestionable dedication of David Pickens, Dr. William Cunningham, Jerry Lester, Alex Cunningham, Leslie Kenyon, and Jack Cunningham among a host of other Clan leaders both past and present. Clan Cunningham is poised through its clan organization, Clan Cunningham International, to take us to the next level.

CCI and its predecessor organization, Clan Cunningham USA have laid a solid foundation from which our Clan can reach new and great heights.

Recent Accomplishments:

David Pickens and Steve Cunningham were the official representatives for Clan Cunningham at the historic meeting of The Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs, held at Scottish Parliament Building. This is the first time that The Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs invited clans that do not have Chiefs to attend their meeting.

David Pickens was selected to represent Clan Cunningham at the Royal Reception at Holyrood Castle in Edinburgh. His Royal Highness, Prince Charles received Mr. Pickens and thanked him for representing Clan Cunningham at his reception and at The Gathering. Mr. Pickens was one of only four Americans invited by the Prince to the reception.

The Lord Lyon, David Sellers, stopped by the Clan Cunningham Tent in Edinburgh and briefly spoke with Leslie Kenyon, and thanked her for the outstanding job she is doing in trying to locate the rightful Clan Chief for Clan Cunningham. The Lord Lyon also spoke with David Pickens and encouraged David to think globally, to include Cunninghams from outside the United States within a united Clan Cunningham organization.

More than 60 Clan Cunningham descendents visited the Clan Cunningham Tent, hosted by Clan Cunningham USA at the The Gathering in Edinburgh, Scotland. These visitors represented 8 different countries and 16 States here in the US.

40 Clan Cunningham representatives joined the nearly 150 Scottish Clans who marched up the Royal Mile to the Edinburgh Castle. A crowd of nearly 30,000 cheered the members of Clan Cunningham on.

20 members toured the home region of Ayrshire Scotland prior to attending The Gathering in Edinburgh. They visited such family sights as Finlaystone Stone, that last home of the Earls of Glencairn. Caprington Castle, the only Castle still owned and occupied by Cunninghams’ and Akit Castle, where the Montgomery feud started. The tour included several Kirks (churches) where leaders for Clan Cunningham worshiped.

A Clan Cunningham dinner was held in Glasgow Scotland. 26 members of Clan Cunningham joined together to eat, toast and celebrate our common heritage.

To bring unity to Clan Cunningham world-wide the Board of Directors of Clan Cunningham USA in September 2009, voted unanimously to change the organization name to Clan Cunningham International. Just this past month Clan Cunningham had a Clan Cunningham table at a local Scottish gathering in the “Borderland” of Scotland.

Clan Cunningham International is working very closely with The Court of the Lord Lyon in Edinburgh, Scotland and two members of the Clan who may petition the Lord Lyon to be recognized as the “Head of the Family” the lowlands version of the Highland Clan Chief. (Sir John Montgomery Cuninghame Baronet of Corsehill and William Robert Cunninghame Graham of Gartmore)

Since returning from the International Gathering of the Clans in Edinburgh, Scotland, CCI has experienced a significant growth spurt in the number of new members joining CCI, several of these new members first had to resign their positions in another Clan Cunningham club. We have also had individuals from Scotland and Canada join.

For the first time in a number of years CCI is fostering the growth of an affiliate organization in Scotland, Clan Cunningham in Scotland. This movement is being spearheaded by Alex Cunningham of Hawick Scotland. Alex is traveling to the states not only to visit relatives but to visit a Scottish Festival to see how CCI runs their extremely successful Clan Cunningham Tents.

Coming up Next

Clan Cunningham International will be holding its Triennial organizational meeting at the NH Highland Games in Lincoln, NH over the weekend of September 17, 18 and 19, 2010. The Colum Cille Pipe and Drum band will help make this a very festive occasion.

For anyone to deny that Clan Cunningham International is the Clan organization is uniting our Clan like it has never been done before is like denying that the Sun will rise and set on each day.

The future of Clan Cunningham is the brightest it has ever been, in many years. There is excitement in the air. It is safe to say the Earls of Glencairn would be pleased to know that their legacy is in the capable hands of Clan Cunningham International.

Clan Cunningham International
United Worldwide - Together Worldwide
Join our Worldwide Family!

2009-09-07T19:49:00.001-04:00

CLAN CUNNINGHAM IS ON THE MOVE

Clan Cunningham and Clan Cunningham International are moving forward. For the first time Clan Cunningham has an international presences, thanks to the volunteer leadership of Clan Cunningham USA.

Already we are seeing positive results. Since forming CCI we have had several new members join from Scotland and we are in contact with Cunningham’s from New Zealand and Australia.

Clan Cunningham International is the only Clan Cunningham organization that welcomes every Cunningham into its membership, without question, it is the only one that the members elect their leaders every three-year.
If you are a Cunningham, or a member of an associated family of Cunningham’s, join today, start learning about your family, or share your family history with us.

We are always looking for new members that are interested in writing articles for our quarterly newsletter. If genealogy is your thing, we have a place for you. Want to host a Clan Tent or volunteer at a Clan Tent we can keep you busy. If you just want to sit back and learn about your unique heritage that fine also.

The leaders of CCI understand that we are all volunteers; many of us have full-time jobs, families, church commitments, scouts, etc. So we know that sometimes life gets complicated and things sometimes slip by. And that is ok with us, we know the job we get done, the Clan will move on.
Clan Cunningham International is CLAN CUNNINGHAM. When you join CCI you are joining the authentic Clan Cunningham organization.

United Worldwide! - Together Worldwide

Join our Worldwide Clan Family!

C. Steve Cunningham
Vice President
Clan Cunningham Interantional

2009-08-29T19:31:00.001-04:00

A NEW START FOR CLAN CUNNINGHAM WORLD-WIDE

On Sunday, August 23, 2009 the Board of Directors of Clan Cunningham USA, with every board member present, (12) and voting in the affirmative to rename CCUSA to Clan Cunningham International to reflect the diversity of the countries where Clan Cunningham members live and work.

Why make the change from a geographical Clan Cunningham Organization, Clan Cunningham USA to an international society? While in Scotland this past summer to celebrate The Gathering in Edinburgh. We the leaders of CCUSA, we had 8 members of our Board of Directors in attendance, spoke with representatives of The Court of the Lord Lyon and The Council of Scottish Chiefs. We meet with Cunningham armigers as well as Cunningham’s who visited to the Clan Cunningham tent all urged us to think globally, not just geographically. We took this good council and have started the process of transforming Clan Cunningham USA into Clan Cunningham International. While our name has changed our mission remains the same. To encourage research into our historic past not only in Scotland, but where ever Cunningham’s emigrated to, and have become woven into the fabric nations throughout the world. To promote Clan Cunningham through participation at Scottish festival and games where ever they may be held. To share our common link with each other through our quarterly newsletter, The Unicorn, our history CD and our up coming CD on historic Cunningham travel guide. To encourage the development of regional and geographical Clan Cunningham organizations that celebrates our historic heritage. To hold regular Clan Cunningham gatherings so Cunningham’s can come together in celebration.

These are truly exciting times for Clan Cunningham; there is a real possibility that after more than 300 years we could have a candidate that meets the stringent heredity requirements to become our Clan Chief. Over 60 Cunninghams’ visited the Clan Cunningham tent at The Gathering; they came from Scotland, England, France, Australia, Canada, Switzerland and from 16 different states here in America. It would appear that Clan Cunningham International will have two affiliate organizations, Clan Cunningham in Scotland and Clan Cunningham in North America.

Yes we find our selves at the beginning of a new chapter in the book of Clan Cunningham. Each of you who are associated with Clan Cunningham has a part to play in how this new chapter unfolds. You can write historical articles for the newsletter. You can do genealogical researches helping others connect with their past, their family roots. You can do historical researches helping to connect the threads of time together so we can all see and understand the role members of Clan Cunningham have played in the events that have shaped our modern world. You can be a Tent Host, providing visitors with information on Clan Cunningham, the Scottish clan system, or answering the question, what is haggis? You can be Clan leaders taking an active leadership role in Clan Cunningham International or a CCI affiliate organization. Or you can be a member who cheerfully support the good works of Clan Cunningham International, everyone is welcomed.

Clan Cunningham International
United Worldwide! - Together Worldwide
Join our Worldwide Clan Family!

2009-07-11T18:42:00.004-04:00

Excitement is in the Air

On Monday, July 20^th more than 20 members of Clan Cunningham USA (CCUSA) will descend on Glasgow, Scotland for the first-leg of our homecoming trip to Scotland. We will visit such places as Bannockburn Battlefield, Sterling Castle & Wallace Monument, Finlaystone House, Kilmacolm Kirk, Paisley Abby, Kilmaurs – visit the ruins of “The Place”, then St Maurs-Glencaim Church and the Glencairn Aisle. As well as Kilmarnock and a visit to Caprington Castle. On Thursday evening evening in Glasgow we will hold a Clan Cunningham dinner.

On Friday July 24^th while the CCUSA tour group relocates to Edinburgh, Mr. David Pickens and I will be representing Clan Cunningham at the meeting of the Standing Council of Scottish Chiefs. One of the items up for discussion will be how will the Council deal with the issue of Clans that have no Chief or Chiefs who choose to be inactive. As you may know Clan Cunningham does not have a Clan Chief and up to now the Clan Cunningham chair at the Council table has been empty.

On Saturday, July 25^th CCUSA will host the Clan Cunningham tent in the heart of Edinburgh at The Gathering. We will be joined by other members of CCUSA, members of Clan Cunningham Society of America, (CCSA) as well as other Cunningham family and supporters from Scotland and other points from the globe. All will be warmly welcomed. I am sure one of the issues that will be discussed is how the search for a Clan Chief goes, as well as how do we build a united Clan Cunningham international organization that will encourage Clan Cunningham organizations and society beyond the shores of Scotland and America.

It is my sincere hope that from these informal discussions at the Clan Cunningham tent, that a new beginning for Clan Cunningham here in America will take shape. As a member of the Board of Directors of CCUSA I will urge my fellow Board Members to open the lines of communications with our counter of CCSA. The first step toward any reconciliation, CCSA must take down the offensive material on their two web-sites as well as their Blog. These words only serve to divide us.

These are indeed exciting times for Clan Cunningham, and I am proud to be a part of this excitement.

2009-03-04T18:55:00.003-05:00

Time to Stop the Bickering

If Larry Augsbury, High Commissioner for Clan Cunningham Society of America put half the amount of energy in bring our two Clan organizations togeather, that he does in attacking and belittling members of CCUSA, we all be marching down the Royal Mile in Edinburgh under one banner.

2009 is a wonderful time to be a Scot; we are all celebrating the 250 Birthday of Robert Burns, Homecoming Scotland 2009, and The Gathering 2009, the largest gathering of the Clan in Scotland in Edinburgh this summer.

Mr. Augsbury laughs at The Gathering 2009 as being nothing more than a “commercial endeavor.”

In the spirit of celebrating our Scottish and Clan Cunningham heritage one would think a leader like Mr. Augsbury would look into ways of bring Clan Cunningham together. Sadly for all us who lay claim to the historic Clan Cunningham legacy, this is not the case. Instead Mr. Augsbury continues with his personal war of lies, half-truths and degrading remarks about me and other associated with Clan Cunningham USA. It is truly dishearten to see a leader debase himself in such a manner.

I will be the first to omit, that yes sometimes I am slow to respond to an e-mail or in seeing that a membership application is sent on, as I am sure others in CCUSA and CCSA are just a guilty. It seems that Mr. Augsbury forgets we are all volunteers we all have families and jobs that come first in our lives, while each of us take seriously our responsibilities and obligations to Clan Cunningham USA, we do haves other responsibilities.

There is only one way to “Stop the Bickering” and that is trough an open dialog, free from name-calling and insults. Mr. Augubury the time for talking face to face is at hand, what a wonderful way to celebrate this historic year for all Scots, if the leaders of both CCUAS and CCSA could sit down and just talk.

Steve Cunningham Contact information - ccusane@comcast.net

2009-01-23T18:23:00.001-05:00

Reconciliation

While the High Commissioner, Mr. Larry Augsbury of Clan Cunningham Society of America, hyperbole becomes more personal and combative on his web-site, I still stand ready to work toward reconciliation if not unification between our two clan societies. Mr. Augsbury has attacked me personally, because I have stepped forward on several occasions extending my right hand of friendship to Mr. Augsbury and any other member of CCSA interested in exploring a resolution to the current state-of-affairs between our two societies.

I know that the road of reconciliation will be long and tough; there are so many hurt feeling on both sides. So many insults have been hurled by all, including me, however we need to end this petty and often times childish bickering. Yes mistakes have been made by all involved, while it true, none of us can change the past, however we must learn to forgive and move forward as a united clan organization. The divide that divides us is not so great that it cannot be bridged. As leaders within the Clan Cunningham movement here in America I stand ready to do my part in bring to an end this sad situation.

I call upon my brothers and sisters of CCSA to reach out to their brothers and sisters of CCUSA with their right hand of friendship. I would welcome contact with any member of CCSA that would like to start a dialog. I promise that I will keep all contacts strictly confidential. The path of reconciliation needs to start with someone, why not you?

Steve Cunningham Contact information - ccusane@comcast.net

2008-06-01T12:46:00.003-04:00

INTEGRITY IMPUGNED

On another Clan Cunningham sight, the individual who currently leads this organization has chosen to attack me personally by impugning my integrity. Because he is incapable of have an intellectual debate on the topic of why one Clan Cunningham organization is better, or is more capable of representing Clan Cunningham here in America as well as at gathering in Scotland he is forced to the lowest form of debating/attacking – Name Calling.

In this individual attempt to justify his own organization he quickly loses sight of the issues and his tirade falls into name calling. I see clearly now we members of Clan Cunningham can never have an open and honest debate about our competing Clan Cunningham organization as long as this individual remains in absolute and unchallenged control of his organization, where decent is met with being expelled.

Now to the assassination of my character: Any one who knows me personal or professional knows me as a hard working ethical and honest individual. My professional career demands it. I have spent my entire career helping those who could not help them selves. I am an institutional advancement officer working in the non-profit world. Simply put I am a fund-raiser, rising funds primarily for healthcare organizations. Currently I just completed a $20 million Capital Campaign for a community hospital, so that the citizens of that region will have accesses to the most up-to-date Emergency Department. Over the past 30 years I have helped to raise funds for a Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, a free standing Cancer Center, a Hospice house, a Cardiac Case Institution, funds for three different Emergency Departments. Not to mentions millions of dollars for other hospital’s programs and services.

To be a successful Development Officer, one’s reputation is as important as one’s skills. So when someone impugning my integrity, simple for self gratifications as this individual has, I take such attacks very seriously. Even against my legal council’s advice I have chosen to make this response.

Ethics, my personal and my professional ethics are at the core of who I am. When those who know me on either level are asked to give a one word answer of who I am, the word ethical comes up the most. That is why when the town of Hampstead, NH asked to me to chair the town’s Ethic’s Commission and to rewrite the towns Ethic’s code, they turned to me. The new Ethic Code that our committee passed was overwhelming accepted by the town’s citizens at our annual town meeting.

On this persons web-site he questioned my true fullness, and yes he did catch a math mistake I made in regard as who on the board of directors were once members of his organization. We have 12 elected members of our Board of Directors, 7 or 58% were once members of another Clan Cunningham organization and 5 or 42% to my knowledge were never members of that other organization. I stand corrected, and I apologies for my mistake. At least I will admit when I am wrong and will make the necessary corrections.

I guess this individual has to vilify me and other to maintain his autocratic control over his organization. He has zeroed in me, because I tried at least three times over the fours to try and start a dialog between these two Clan Cunningham organizations, something this individual fears. The only way disputes can be settled is by having an open and fair dialog. Not one where one of the individual can not raise his argument above level of name calling.

It time to move on, and that is what I plan to do. I enjoy representing Clan Cunningham at Scottish and Celtic events throughout the Northeast. And I plan to do so for many years to come. I have learned so much about my families its heritage over these past four years, that I have even greater respect for what our ancestors have done both for this great nation as our as well as for Scotland. I learned recently that a great Uncle of mine broke the speed record for trains in Scotland by being the engineer of the Flying Scotsman. I have so much more to learn.

Your,

C. Stevens Cunningham

2008-05-30T23:34:00.001-04:00

A Busy Year for Clan Cunningham USA

The Scottish Highland Games and Festival Season is well under way here in the Northeast, and Clan Cunningham will be well be attending events in ME, NH, MA, CT RI and NY.

Hosting the Clan Cunningham tent at these wonderful events is a great way to met fellow Clan Cunningham members and to share family stories, find connections and sometime filling in some missing links.

Recently at the RI Scottish Festival, which kicks off the festival season in New England I had the opportunity meet new and old friends. Some were members of CCUSA; others were members of CCSA while other were attending a Scottish for the first time. All were greeted with a friendly smile and a firm hand shake.

The RI Scottish Festival is a mid-size gathering allowing visitor and participate alike to get involved in the activities or just to soak in the music. It’s had been six months since I had a meat-pie, and yes I enjoyed it, every last bite.

The next stop for our Clan Cunningham Tent will be The Round Hill Highland Games in Norwalk, CT on Saturday, July 5^th. So celebrate the 4^th on Friday night and than explore your Scottish heritage on the 5^th, you do not even have to be a Scot to enjoy the day.

Yours,

Steve Cunningham

2008-03-16T18:49:00.006-04:00

Scotland's Gathering in Edinburgh 2009 - Cunningham Representation

Larry Augsbury would have the organizers of the 2009 Gathering throw out the accepted application from Clan Cunningham USA or he will take his bat and ball and go home. Go home; you are doing irreparable harm to Clan Cunningham Society of America as well as to Clan Cunningham as a whole.

I wonder what it will take for the membership and the Board of Directors of Clan Cunningham Society America, to but to an end the rantings and bombastic statements that Mr. Augsbury has made in the name of Clan Cunningham Society of America.

I am not sure why Mr. Augsbury carries so much anger and hatred toward some of his fellow kinsman.

Now for some interesting facts:

1) Clan Cunningham USA was the 3rd Clan organization to submit its application to host the Clan Cunningham tent at the 2009 Gathering in Scotland.

2) Mr. Augsbury talks about the theft of a trailer, what he does not what you to know is, when he and CCSA took Mr. Lester to court in Nevada, Mr. Augsbury and CCSA lost, that right they LOST the case. The court ruled in favor of Mr. Lester. In a since the Court in Nevada said the trailer was not stolen.

3) CCUSA has spoken with Lord Lyon and has followed the recommendations, something Mr. Augsbury has not. The Lord Lyon’s Office has told Mr. Augsbury and CCSA to stop holding them selves out as "the Official" Clan Cunningham organization. Such a statement is misleading and is untrue.

4) Most, 60% of the current members of the CCUSA Board of Directors have never held any positions within CCSA. In fact most have never been members of CCSA at any time.

4-A) Apology - I stand corrected - somewhat

There are currently 12 elected members of the Board of Directors CCUSA. They are:
President - David M. Pickens - A former member of CCSA
Vice President - C. Stevens Cunningham – Never a member of CCSA
Secretary/Treasurer - Margie Cheatham - A former member of CCSA
Membership Chairman - Patricia A. Paisley - A former member of CCSA
Historian - Carole Bishop - A former member of CCSA
Newsletter Editor - Bonnie Cunningham – Never a member of CCSA
Genealogist - Jon Czarowitz - A former member of CCSA
Webmaster - Beverly B. Lueke - A former member of CCSA
Great Plains Regional Director - LTC Bartley Payne – Never a member of CCSA
Midwest Regional Director - Robert P. Cunningham - A former member of CCSA
Southeast Regional Director - Dave Cunningham – Never a member of CCSA
West Coast Regional Director - Kelly Cunningham – Never a member of CCSA

The following are non-voting positions and are not Officers of CCUSA
Parliamentarian - Jerry Lester - A former member of CCSA
Special Advisor - Dr. William A. Cunningham - A former member of CCSA

By my count 7 members of the current CCUSA Board of Directors are former CCSA members and 5 have never been members of CCSA. I stand corrected 42% of currant CCUSA Board Members are not former CCSA members and 58% are former members. At least I am man enough to acknowledge my mistakes, unlike some others.

5) Mr. Augsbury has never brought to the attention of the Board of Directors of CCSA, a proposal made by the Board of Directors of CCUSA to have Board to Board discussions as to how these two worth organizations can work together for the common good of Clan Cunningham.

I have meet members of CCSA and I have even spoken with CCSA Board Members, they are good and decent folk and I am proud to call the kinsmen. One day Mr. Augsbury will be history, the question is will CCSA survive under his leadership?

Steve Cunningham

2008-02-15T18:39:00.002-05:00

Clan Cunningham USA - Northeast Region has a new home

To better serve the members of Clan Cunningham USA as well as the Scottish, Irish and Celtic communities Clan Cunningham USA - Northeast Region has moved to (http://ccusane.org) or just click on the link to the right.

The Clan Cunningham USA - Northeast Region has the most up to date information on Scottish, Irish and Celtic Festivals and events as well as performance dates for your favorite band in the Northeast and Eastern Canada.

Stop by take a look and let us know what you think.

2007 Highland Games and Festivals

2007-04-01T09:31:00.001-04:00

Spring has arrived here in the Northeast, and that can only mean that the Highland Games and festival season is just around the conner. This promises to be a busy year for Clan Cunningham USA here in the Northeast.  We will be hosting  a Clan Cunningham tent at the following events this year.

May 19 - RI Scottish Highland Festival - Richmond, RI

June 23 - Western Mass. Highland Games & Celtic Festival - Easthmapton, MA

August 18 - Maine Highland Games - Brunswick, ME

September 1& 2 - Capital District Scottish Games - Altamont, NY

September 21, 22, 23 - NH Highland Games - Loon Mountain - Lincoln, NH

October 7 - Scotland's Highland Festival - Scotland, CT

June 1,2,3 - Clan Cunningham USA Triennial Meeting (election of Officers and By-Law changes) - Glasgow Highland Games Games - Glasgow, KY

If you are at one of these festivals stop by the tent and say hi.  If you are interested in hosting your own Clan Cunningham tent at another festival or you you would like to volunteer sometime time at one of the above events, contact me at ccusane@comcast.net.

See you soon.

Steve Cunningham

2007-02-28T19:57:00.000-05:00

FLOWERS OF THE FORREST

Originally written to commemorate the fallen Scots at the battle of Flodden, Flowers of the Forest has become a tune to be used to commemorate lost relatives.

Agnes Cunningham – 1911 to February 28, 2007

Agnes Cunningham was born in Saco, Maine in 1911 into a Scottish family. Growing-up in a family of three brothers, her life was filled with childhood adventures, secrets, and household responsibilities. Agnes's Scottish parents and her siblings celebrated many traditions and rituals throughout the years. For Christmas, Ms. Cunningham's mother would cook pork pie and short bread for the family holiday. At New Years, Agnes and her siblings would race each other to see who would be the first person over the threshold to win and gain the "good luck" for the New Year in what they called "The First Footing". Only when Agnes and her siblings were older were they fully aware of this custom. (Thornton Academy “Living Legends”)

Today a new flower of the forest is in full bloom. Today the Clan Cunningham with its American roots firmly rooted in Saco Maine has lost its matriarch, Agnes Cunningham, Aunt Nan to her family. For 96+ years God let us have Aunt Nan among our selves, but today he called her home to join her parents, her two brothers and her sister, leaving her last brother, my father to carry on as the patriarch of this shoot of Clan Cunningham.

Nan Cunningham lived a whole and reach life, and her influence traveled well beyond her family. For 30 years she taught the children of Saco Maine, who know how many lives she touched and changed for the better? Nan never married; we her nephews and nieces were her children. Nan taught us about our proud Scottish heritage. I remember clearly attending the first New Hampshire Highland Games at Loon Mountain, when the whole event could fit in one building at Loon. It was my Aunt Nan who encouraged me to become involved in Clan Cunningham. At one time she asked me if I would ever wear a kilt, me in a dress never! That was then and this is now, I wear the Cunningham tartan proudly and will do so in remembrance of Aunt Nan from this point own.

As my brother and I spoke this evening neither of could think about any one who spoke ill of our Aunt Nan. Her door was always open to us and I would expect any student, regardless of their age and status in life. She greeted all with a smile on her face, a cup of tea and shortbread naturally. I had a couple of pieces of Nan’s shortbread tonight and thought of all the happy times we all had with her. She filled our lives with love, comfort and sage advice; and those whose life’s paths crossed Nan’s are certainly richer for doing so.

When, her family and friends join together over the next few days to say are good byes. I will try to remember that while tears will fill our eyes, that it is Nan’s life that we should celebrate and hopefully share with other as we to travel down life’s paths.

Nan will miss you, and I know I am a better person to have know you – rest well your job is well done.

Love

Steve, Bonnie, Stephanie and Heather

2007-02-17T11:58:00.000-05:00

For Every Season there is a time ……. For Reconciliation!

I have been a member of Clan Cunningham USA for almost 4 years now. I started out as a Game Host for the New Hampshire Highland Games. When I decided join CCUSA I did so after carefully review each of the two Clan Cunningham organizations, Clan Cunningham Society in America and Clan Cunningham USA. I carefully read each of their web-sites and after carefully weighing this decision I choose to join Clan Cunningham USA. At the time I knew nothing of the personnel rift between the High Commissioner of CCSA and the founders of CCUSA, all who had been early leaders of CCSA.

Today I am the Membership Coordinator for Clan Cunningham USA, an officer of CCUSA. I am proud of the men and women that I have come to know through my affiliation with CCUSA. I have also spoken with several current and former members of CCSA, the over riding sentiment from these individuals is their hope that the High Commissioner of CCSA, Larry Augsbury and the Officer of CCUSA, would find away to bring both organizations together, for the unity of Clan Cunningham.

Since I have joined CCUSA I now of at least two attempts by CCUSA to reach out to CCSA, with an “olive branch in hand.” Both times it was Mr. Larry Augsbury who slapped it away. I know this for I was involved in both occasions.

The first attempted I offered as new CCUSA member, with little knowledge of what took place to cause one group of loyal CCSA officers and members to break away and form a new clan organization. I was in many ways I was still a neutral party. While the Board CCUSA was willing to discuss the idea, Mr. Larry Augsbury took it upon him self to reject it, he would not even allow the members of his Board to discuss the issue. The second time the Board of CCUSA reached out with an “olive branch,” again Mr. Larry Augsbury took it upon him self, to slap it way and turned his back on an offer of reconciliation from the Board of Directors of CCUSA.

Let’s explore the CCUSA proposal that was made and communicated to Mr. Augsbury:

That both organizations exchange there By-laws to see where and what changes would have to made in order to unify these two legitimate Clan Cunningham organizations under one banner.
That both organizations exchange their Board of Directors list, including mailing and e-mail address so that each Board member would know what was going on and what was being said.
That reconciliation talks be held be held either by a committee, size to be determined or by the entire Board’s of each organization.
Mr. David M. Pickens, President of CCUSA offered to step aside, and sign a statement that he would never serve or seek the Presidency of what every organization came out of the reconciliation talks if Mr. Larry Augsbury also agreed to do the same.

Mr. Augsbury refused to even consider or present to his Board of Directors the proposal being made by the Board of CCUSA. I can tell you there were members of the CCUSA Board that wanted nothing to do with any dialog with CCSA as long as Mr. Augsbury was involved. However ever cooler heads and debate among the elected officers of CCUSA prevailed. At least the Board of CCUSA was total involved in the discussion. Mr. Augsbury said he did not have to take anything to his Board, that he and he alone could make the decision, so much for the democratic process with in CCSA.

As a current member of the Board of Directors of Clan Cunningham USA, I can assure every member of Clan Cunningham that any reasonable offer by CCSA to commence reconciliation talks will be carefully consider by the entire Board of Directors, and not rejected by just one individual. It is my fondest hopes that someday soon Clan Cunningham will be able assemble under banner.

Steve Cunningham

P.S.

This Blog and these comments and thoughts are those of this writer and are mine alone, they do not represent nor authorized by the Board of Directors of Clan Cunningham USA. Any comments should be directed to me and to me alone.

P.S.P.S

For additional insight on this subject see my earlier posting - Wednesday, July 19, 2006

“Why are there two different Cunningham society sites on the internet?”

2006-10-28T14:59:00.000-04:00

Clan Cunningham USA – Celebrating 5 Years of Service

In May of 2002 a group of Clan Cunningham men and woman having a desire to celebrate and share their Scottish heritage and having no where turn to, formed Clan Cunningham USA. Clan Cunningham USA was founded on democratic principles, that each member has a right to be heard and where discuss and yes respectful disagreements are greeted with open arms.

Today Clan Cunningham USA is truly a national organization/clan society. We have members cost to cost and even over seas. This year Clan Cunningham USA had Clan Tents to welcome fellow clan members at over 30 Scottish Festivals from Maine to California. Here in the New England/New York Region I hosted along with other Clan Cunningham USA members a Clan Tent at 6 Scottish Festivals. It was great to meet and greet fellow clansman and woman.

Often our tent visitors would greet us, saying they have been waiting for a long time for their clan, Clan Cunningham, to have clan tent at their local festival. It is great to see the smile on the faces of the young people when they visit their clan tent and more about their clan history. This is why I joined Clan Cunningham USA a little more than two years ago. My daughter and I got tired of going to Scottish Festivals throughout New England each time hoping that we would find a Clan Cunningham Tent in the Clan Village, only to be disappointed. Than threes-years ago my daughter turned to me and said, “Why don’t we host a Clan Cunningham Tent.”

That winter I set out on a quest to learn how to host a clan tent. I turned to the Internet and found Clan Cunningham USA. After carefully reviewing their web-site and noting that they were hosting Clan Cunningham Tents in other regions of the country, I took out a family membership and went about talking to the leaders of CCUA about hosting a Clan Tent. I was not only encouraged several of the Officers of CCUSA loaned me material, flags, banners, and tartans to enable my daughter and I to host our first Clan Cunningham Tent at the NH Highland Games in 2004.

Today I am the Membership Coordinator for Clan Cunningham USA as well as the Regional Director of the New England/New York Region. I have the wonderful assignment to welcome new members into their Clan Society, Clan Cunningham USA. I have gotten to know and to work with these outstand men and women who’s sole purpose is to promote, educate and celebrate our rich clan/family history.

I am proud of Clan Cunningham and I am proud to call all members of Clan Cunningham USA my friends. As CCUSA celebrates its 5^th Anniversary we have much to celebrate, we also have a bright future to look forward to. If you Clan Cunningham blood flowing through your veins or you have interest in Clan Cunningham, I invite you to join Clan Cunningham USA. I look forward to welcoming.

If you a member of another Scottish Clan I urge you to seek out your own Clan Society and consider joining it

Celebrate our Scottish Culture and Rich History Join your Clan Society Today
If we don’t holdup our Scottish heritage who will?

Yours truly,
C. Stevens Cunningham

2006-09-17T13:27:00.000-04:00

Scottish National Anthem

What should the National Anthem of Scotland should be and why?

Here are the top chooses:
Flower of Scotland
Scotland the Brave
Highland Cathedral

Other candidates are:
A Man’s a Man for a’ That
Scots Wha Hae

It is hard to make a selection from the top three chooses, but here goes. Scotland the Brave, this selection has always meant Scotland to me from the first time I heard it at the First N.H. Highland Games some 25 + years ago. The Flower of Scotland is a wonderful piece of music and certainly deserves all the recognition it gets. Highland Cathedral is unfortunately to new of a piece to be truly considered for the National Anthem. Do not get me wrong, I love Highland Cathedral and if my older daughter gets married I will recommend that the Highland Cathedral with pipes and organ be played at her Wedding.

Now you know my choose what’s yours?

Yours,
Steve Cunningham

2006-08-27T10:13:00.000-04:00

Scotland Independency – Aye or Nay

Should Scotland be allowed to have a referendum on the question of Scottish Independency?

Will the Scottish National Party, ever gain enough seats or form a coalition in the Scottish Parliament to force a referendum on Scottish independency?

Would the British government honor the outcome of such a referendum, if the voters, voted for Scottish independents?

Tough questions, what are your thoughts.

For me I am not sure where I come down in this debate, on one hand have a free and independent Scotland sounds great. On the other hand I do wonder if Scotland will have the financial resources to sustain it self.

Maybe the debate here on this webblog along with research will help me and other Scots come to a decision. Yes, I know as an American/Scot I will not have a say in the outcome of this question.

Let’s here from you.

Yours,
Steve Cunningham
A Scot living in Connecticut

2006-08-20T17:28:00.000-04:00

Clan Cunningham and its clan society, Clan Cunningham USA are on the Move!

Saturday, August 19, 2006 was a great day to be at the Maine Highland Games at Thomas Point Beach in Brunswick Maine. Over 40 Clan Societies and Association, including Clan Cunningham, USA answered the role call of the Clans.

Several Clan family members stopped by the Clan Cunningham Tent, hosted by Dr. William Cunningham and Steve Cunningham. Many sought information about their rich clan history, renewal their CCUSA membership, or just to say high.

Thomas Point Beach is a great setting for a Scottish festival, the fresh sea breeze helped to make a warm summer day a delight to be out and about. The high light of any Scottish Festival is the opening ceremonies which included the parade of the Clan Societies and Association as well as the mass-pipe bands. Who can not help to get Goosebumps when you hear over 100 bagpipes and drums playing a traditional Scottish tunes. The organizers did a great job in selecting their pipe bands.

The great weather brought out a great crowd, and their was lot for them to take in including, the athletic events, great Scottish food, dance competitions, great Scottish food, sheepdog heading, great Scottish food, Scottish music entertainment, great Scottish food, Scottish vendors of every sort and did I mention some great Scottish food?

If you are in the Maine area on the 3^rd Saturday of August next year, plan a trip to Thomas Point Beach and be sure to stop by the Clan Cunningham Tent and say hi.

Yours,
C. Stevens Cunningham,
Clan Cunningham USA - Regional Director for New England & New York

2006-07-09T10:06:00.000-04:00

CUNNINGHAM

Crest Badge: A unicorn’s head, argent, crined and armed

Motto: Over Fork Over

Gaelic Name: MacCuinneagain

The family Cunningham take their name from the district of Cunningham in northern Ayrshire. The land of Kilmaurs of that area granted by Hugo de Moreville, constable of Scotland to a vassal named Warnebald in the 12^th century and it is from descendants that the Cunningham family originate. Harvey de Cunningham of Kilmaurs was among those who fought against the King of Norway at the Battle of Largs in 1263 and for his bravery his possession of Kilmaurs was confirmed by Alexznder II. Robert the Bruce granted further lands and through the marriage of Sir William Cunningham to Margaret, daughter of Sir Robert Dennieston the Cunninghams extended their possessions further to include Glencairn. His grandson Sir Alexander de Cunningham was created Loard Kilmaurs in 1462 and then Earl of Glencairn in 1488 by James III. However he died with James at the Battle of Sauchieburn in that year. William, 3^rd Earl was captured at Solway Moss but released in exchange for support of the marriage of Mary Queen of Scots to King Edward VI of England. Alexander, 5^th Earl of Glencairn was a supporter of the Reformation and responsible for the destruction of the chaple at Holyrood, his Protestant sentiments fuelled the longstanding feud between the Cunninghams and the Montgomeries, Earls of Eglinton. However the 9^th Earl returned to the Stewart side leading the rising of 1653 for Charles II. The rebellion was defeated but he was made Lord Chancellor after the Restoration in 1660. The 14^th Earl, John was a friend of Burns and on his death in 1791 Burns wrote “Lament for the Earl of Glencairn”. On the death of the 15^th Earl who died without issue in 1796 the Earldom became dormant although the undisputed claimant to the chiefship today descends from the Cunninghams of Corsehill. Other important cadet branches are the Cunninghams of Caprington, Craigends and Robertland.

http://www.clancunninghamusa.org/ and http://webpages.charter.net/clancunninghamusane/home.html

2006-07-04T14:46:00.000-04:00

Welcome!!

What a great day to start this Blog - July 4th "Independence Day - In the words of William Wallace - "FREEDOM!!"

THis Bolg is not just for Cunningham's but for all who share the Scottish/Celtic heritage. To share with one and another, our research, our understanding heritage. To alert all of Scottish/Irish/Celtic activities and events so we can take part and to promote and keep alive our that heritage for future generations.

I do not hold my self out as any kind of expert, far from it. I look forward to learning from each of you. If I can make my on contribution along the way to the discussion at hand, well that will be an added bouns to the dialog.

No one, or almost no one will be prejudged, I encourge all who visit this Blog will leave their mark, contribution to the conversation. I look forward to reading each of your posts.

So let's get started - enjoy.

Steve
CCUSANE@comcast.net