BRANCH 53 R.C. LEGION-PIPES AND DRUMS

The above mentioned Pipe Band has had a colorful past since 1975. Members, which wear the coveted Tartan- MacDonald of Clan Ranald pictured above. The Band has varied in size over the years. The late Pipe Major Angus MacLeod, a World War II Veteran and ex Prisoner of War with the U.K. Seaforth Highlanders, one of Canada's most prestigious and experienced Pipers, who had successfully taught many of the present day Pipe Majors of prominent Pipe Bands in Canada. Having taught many pipers to master this challenging art, in as little time as three years, in lieu of the normal seven years, usually required to become proficient.

The Bands mission in the future is to enhance its awareness with a view to training Youth, ages 9-14 future.

The home of the Band as mentioned above has been a tremendous supporter since its inception.

Peter MacDonald of Clan Ranald, who operated the Golden Oven Bakery for many years in Duncan (current site Save-On-Foods), and the late Angus MacLeod started the Band by teaching Youth at the Moose Lodge in Duncan, then moved to the Duncan Legion shortly thereafter.

The Band has achieved many special awards over its lenghtly history, commencing with a successful Tattoo at Kerry Park arena in 1976. Consistently winning numerous First and Best Band awards in the USA and the Canadian Pacific Northwest, played for Royalty, Military, numerous civic and Legion functions in conjunction with the Branch Colour Part. In 1986, the Band was invited to attend Expo 86. The band has regularly attened and has had many members compete in the ever popular B.C. Legion Highland Gatherings throughout the Province, complete with Parade, Massed Bands and Ceilidh. The Legion and the Band hosted this event in Duncan in 1991.

The current Lt. Governor of B.C. has a personal Piper and Chauffeur, who has served in this position over 20 years, and was the Pipe Major of this Band from 1979 to 1982.

The origin of the Pipers is lost to recorded history. A very ancient instrument where references are made to them in Chinese, Persian, Greek and Roman folklore dating as far back as 2000 years ago. The Romans used them extensively and the British Army is credited with having promoted Pipe Bands and a total rejuvenation of Piping after the 1700s. RS Blair PhD. Piping Historical Website.

The information provided above is a brief history of this prestigious Pipe Bands, past with a positive vision for its future in the 21st century and beyond.

Your valued interest in this site is sincerely appreciated and any or all support that could be afforded to the continued operation of this Band would greatly appreciated.

Prospective adults with children ages 9-12, experienced adult pipers and drummers are always welcome to join.

Practices are held regularly at the Duncan Legion Room 203, every Wednesday evening from 7-9pm.

For further information contact: Tom Thompson 9-5pm Monday to Friday at the above mentioned numbers. Websited for information only.