F. Marian McNeill facts for kids

Florence Marian McNeill (born March 26, 1885 – died February 22, 1973) was a Scottish writer and activist. She was very interested in Scottish traditions and stories. People know her best for her books about Scottish folklore and cooking. Her most famous works are The Silver Bough and The Scots Kitchen. She also worked to help women get the right to vote.

About Marian McNeill

Early Life and Education

Marian McNeill was born in Holm, Orkney on March 26, 1885. She was one of twelve children. Her father, Daniel McNeill, was a minister in Orkney for almost 50 years. Her mother was Jessie Janet Dewar. Marian's family and friends often called her "Floss."

She went to Kirkwall Burgh School. There, she became friends with the famous poet Edwin Muir. Her sister, Mary Lauchline McNeill, became a doctor. Mary also worked for women's voting rights. She even served in a Scottish Women's Hospital during World War I.

In 1912, Marian graduated from the University of Glasgow. She earned an MA degree. After that, she spent a year teaching English. She taught in both France and Germany.

Working for Change

When Marian returned to the UK in 1913, she started working for women's rights. She was an organizer for the Scottish Federation of Women's Suffrage Societies. These groups worked hard to get women the right to vote. Later, she became a secretary for a group in London. She stayed there until 1917.

After World War I, she lived in Greece for a short time. Then, she moved back to Edinburgh, Scotland. She began working as a researcher for the Scottish National Dictionary. By 1929, she was a main assistant on this big project. The dictionary helps record and explain Scottish words.

Scottish Culture and Writing

Between the two World Wars, Marian became a key part of the Scottish Renaissance. This was a time when Scottish writers and artists worked to bring back Scottish literature and culture.

Famous Cookbooks

In 1929, she published her well-known book, The Scots Kitchen. This book is like an encyclopedia of Scottish cooking. It shares many traditional recipes. It also includes interesting historical facts about Scottish food. Some recipes you can find in it are Forfar bridies, Cock-a-leekie soup, and porridge.

Another of her important books is Scots Cellar: Its Traditions and Lore with Old-time Recipes. This book explores Scottish drinks and their history.

Scottish Folklore Studies

From 1957 onwards, Marian published a major work called The Silver Bough. This was a four-volume study of Scottish national festivals. It explored many Scottish traditions and beliefs. The book covered both big national celebrations and smaller local ones. It was the result of many years of research.

In 2008, a youth music theater group adapted The Silver Bough for a stage show. It was performed at a festival in Aberdeen.

Other Works

Marian also wrote a detailed book about the island of Iona. It was called Iona: A History of the Island. She wanted to create a simple guide to the island.

In 1932, she wrote her only novel, The Road Home.

Political Involvement

Marian McNeill was also involved in politics. She was one of the people who helped start the Scottish National Party. Her brother, Duncan MacNeill, was also a founder. Later, Marian became a vice president of the party. This party works for Scotland's interests.

Awards and Legacy

In 1962, Marian McNeill received an award called the MBE. This award was given to her for her great contributions to Scottish culture. She passed away in Edinburgh on February 22, 1973. Her work continues to teach people about Scotland's rich history and traditions.