Holidays & Observances

The spirit of Henderson fellowship is observed on certain key dates throughout the calendar year. On any of these holidays it is appropriate to make a toast to the Chief of the Clan and to wear the Henderson Tartan.

Celebrated on or near the day Robert Burns died. Traditionally commemorated with a Burns Supper. The traditional evening includes haggis (with the Address to a Haggis), poetry recitations, the Immortal Memory toast, and Scottish music and dancing. Burns Suppers are held by Scots and lovers of Scottish culture worldwide.

Anniversary date when Captain Robert Campbell, leading a contingent of English troops, acted under government orders to kill all MacDonalds under the age of 70. In all, some 38 residents of the Glen were murdered and others died trying to escape. Although history remembers the Massacre for its impact on the MacDonald Clan, 58% of those murdered were Hendersons. The Hendersons, at the time, were bound to the Chief, and were the MacDonald Clan’s pipers and bodyguard.

Americans of Scottish and Irish descent have played a large role in America’s destiny. From the framers of the Declaration of Independence to the first man on the moon, Scottish-Americans have contributed mightily to the fields of the arts, science, politics, law, and more. On this day, also the Anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320 AD, Scots and Irish accomplishments are honoured.

This day is considered the official Birthday of the Clan Henderson Society.

In honour of the Chief of the Name and Arms of Henderson, Alistair D. Henderson of Fordell.

A day to celebrate and honour the various branches of the Clan Henderson: Shetlands/Liddesdale, Caithness, Glencoe, Fordell, and Ulster.

St Andrew’s Day is the feast day of St. Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland. It is also Scotland’s national day and is an official bank holiday. The Saltire (St Andrew’s Cross) is the national flag of Scotland — a white diagonal cross on a blue background, representing the cross on which St Andrew was martyred.

A day to celebrate the Christian values and heritage of the Clan Henderson.

(Formerly Head of the Family Day.) Celebrated on the birthday of the Head (oldest living MacEanruig descendant) of YOUR family. A toast is appropriate to the health of your honoured relative and to our Chief.