Great Scot!

January 24, 2011

Tomorrow, January 25th, is the anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns, widely recognized as Scotland's national poet.  Burns was born in Ayrshire, Scotland in 1759.  His father was a tenant farmer, and Burns' early life was one of poverty and hardship.  Though he had little regular schooling, Burns wrote original poems and songs, and he also collected many folk songs of Scotland.  Some of his best known works are Auld Lang Syne, Scots Wha Hae, A Man's A Man for A' That, To a Louse, To a Mouse, and Tam o'Shanter.

Many Scottish societies in the United States and elsewhere celebrate Robert Burns' birthday by hosting "Burns suppers" on January 25th. This is a time to gather and enjoy great bagpiping and some tasty haggis in honor of Robert Burns.  If you don't like bagpipes or haggis, you can wear your favorite tartan to celebrate one of Scotland's national days.  

Sheryl W.
North Oak Branch