About Us
Considered to be the oldest continuously active pipe band in the United States, the Holyoke Caledonian pipe band continues to be a viable part of the community.
The band was organized in 1909 by a group of emigrant Scots associated with the Holyoke Caledonian Benefit Club. Our first Pipe Major, Robert Ramsay, served in that capacity from 1910 to 1930, when he was succeeded by P.M. Wilson Mathieson. P. M. Mathieson, a noted pipe instructor, served the band faithfully for the next 45 years until his retirement in 1975.
The band made its first appearance in uniform in Holyoke’s Fourth of July parade. The uniforms, appropriately enough, were of the Ramsay Tartan. This tartan was worn until 1935 when it was replaced by the Gordon Tartan, which was woven locally at the Livingston Worsted Mills in Holyoke. In 1962, the band was completely reoutfitted in full Highland dress with kilts and plaids of the Royal Stewart Tartan. This continues to be the tartan worn by the present day band.
Throughout the years, the membership has been primarily comprised of individuals of Scottish descent. Current membership rosters continue to reflect a great incidence of Scottish-Americans, although this is not a requirement for membership. The band cordially welcomes anyone who has a genuine interest in piping and drumming.
Since the band first appeared in 1910, it has delighted generation after generation of New Englanders with stirring strains of the “great Highland bagpipe”. Your support will enable us to maintain our tradition of excellence and to provide continuing service to our community.
