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Heather and Thistle Photograph Collection

 Item
Identifier: Photo 2193

Scope and Content

The Heather and Thistle Photograph Collection consists of six digital items and twenty related objects documenting the activities and performances of the Heather and Thistle Pipes and Drums group. These photographs capture key moments from various parades, events, and performances organized by the band, showcasing its cultural significance and involvement in the community.

The original digital photographs were provided on a CD and have been transferred to the NDSU Libraries' S: drive for long-term preservation and access. These files can be located under the following path: S:\SLA\NDSU-Archives\Shared\Born Digital Records - Preservation\Institute\Photo 2193 H&T.

This collection serves as a visual archive of the Heather and Thistle group's history, reflecting their contribution to preserving Celtic heritage and music.

Dates

  • 1964-2019

Access

The collection is open under the rules and regulations of the Institute.

Copyrights

The Institute for Regional Studies owns the copyrights.

History

The Heather and Thistle Pipes and Drums is a non-profit educational band based in Fargo, North Dakota. Founded in 1992, the group was formed after an initial meeting at the First Congregational Church, where about fifty people expressed interest in learning the bagpipes or supporting the endeavor. Eighteen members attended, electing Nelson Stone as President and organizing regular Tuesday night practices. Steve Orr became the first instructor, and in March 1992, the band adopted its official name. The band incorporated as a non-profit in August 1992 and later welcomed Dan Aird, a piper trained at the College of Piping in Glasgow under Seumas MacNeill, as an instructor. Aird has since trained many new pipers, helping the band grow over the years. The group gave its first public performance at the Robert Burns celebration on January 23, 1993. Today, the Heather and Thistle Pipes and Drums consists of nearly 20 pipers and a half-dozen drummers. They regularly perform at events across the Red River Valley, including the Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans services, St. Andrew’s Society Dinner, Celtic Festival, Waterama, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and the Fargo Marathon. Despite changes in membership, the band continues to foster a love for Celtic music through education and performances.

Extent

11 Photographic Prints (11 Photographic prints)

6 Digital Images (6 digital images )

3 Sheets (3 photocopies)

Language of Materials

English

Overview

The Heather and Thistle Pipes and Drums is a non-profit educational band, dedicated to promoting Celtic music and culture. Established in 1992, the band performs at parades, festivals, and community events across the Red River Valley and beyond.

Provenance

Donated by Rebecca Dura, 2024 (Acc. 2024-008irs)

Property rights

The Institute for Regional Studies owns the property rights to this collection.
Title
Finding Aid to the Heather and Thistle Photograph Collection
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin

Repository Details

Part of the Institute for Regional Studies Repository

Contact:
West Building N
3551 7th Avenue North
Fargo North Dakota 58102 United States