Mo rùn geal òg facts for kids
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"Mo rùn geal òg" (which means "My fair young love") is a famous Scottish Gaelic song. It is also known as "Cumha do dh'Uilleam Siseal" (meaning "Lament for William Chisholm"). A lament is a song or poem that expresses deep sadness, often for someone who has died. This powerful song was written by Christina Fergusson. She wrote it for her husband, William Chisholm, after he was killed in a big battle called the Battle of Culloden in 1746.
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The Story Behind the Song
Christina Fergusson was likely born in a place called Contin in Ross-shire, Scotland. She married William Chisholm. William was a very important person in his community. He worked as a smith, which means he made things out of metal. He was also an armourer, making and repairing weapons and armor. On top of that, he was the standard bearer for the Chief of Clan Chisholm. This meant he carried the clan's flag into battle.
The Battle of Culloden
In 1746, William Chisholm fought in the Battle of Culloden. This was a very important battle in Scottish history. It was the final fight of the Jacobite Rising. In this battle, Scottish Highlanders who supported Prince Charles Edward Stuart (also known as Bonnie Prince Charlie) fought against the British government's army. Sadly, William Chisholm was killed during this battle.
Christina's Lament
After William's death, Christina Fergusson wrote "Mo Rùn Geal Òg" to remember him. In the song, she expresses her deep sorrow and how lost she feels without her husband. She even speaks to Prince Charles Edward Stuart in the poem. She tells him that fighting for his cause caused her to lose her beloved husband, leaving her heartbroken.
Remembering Christina and William
Today, you can find a special memorial near Struy in Strathglass. This roadside memorial marks the spot where Christina and William's cottage once stood. It helps people remember their story and the sad events of that time.
Famous Performances
"Mo rùn geal òg" is a very moving song, and many famous singers have performed it. Some of these talented artists include Flora MacNeil, Mary Ann Kennedy, and Anne Lorne Gillies. Their performances help keep Christina Fergusson's powerful lament alive for new generations.
