"The handsomest man who ever slit a throat."

[Orionson]

I'm guessing that "The Clans" is the most appropriate place to post this, but it would also fit right in in the recent threads regarding vintage horsehair sporrans and stylish, distinguished Highland Gentlemen.

Sir Winston Churchill called him "The handsomest man who ever slit a throat." He was, of course, the one and only, MacShimidh - Simon Fraser, 15th Lord Lovat and 25th Chief of the Clan Fraser of Lovat.

I had the pleasure of attending a Ceilidh at the Lovat Arms Hotel in May, 1977 where this photo was taken. MacShimidh was one of the most deeply gracious and thoroughly engaging men that I have ever had the honour to meet. The Evening was very much a family affair with his sons playing the Pipes and a cashe of Beauly based Frasers performing traditional Scot's Music throughout for a very appreciative audience. I actually tape recorded the entire evenings offerings on my ancient "portable" cassette tape recorder. It's rough and quite basic, but highly atmospheric. Looking through the photos while listening to the music takes me right back.

I thought the Rabble might enjoy seeing this photo of this most remarkable man.

[ASinclair]

A very stylish, distinguished-looking gentleman, indeed. That sporran is beautiful! I really like the Churchill quote. That's a wonderful story, and it's so nice that you have the recording to listen to. Thanks for this post, Orionson.

[EagleJCS]

Sounds like it was indeed quite an evening. Great pic.


(The pic's reversed btw - see the lettering on the wall behind him.)

[Orionson]

Well spotted, John. I was shooting with a Yachica SLR 35mm onto slide film back in those days. I always felt that the clarity and colour reproduction of slide film for outdoor use was superior to print film. This shot is a print from the original slide and obviously reversed.

Cheers!