Our Workshops & Instructors

our workshops & instructors

Highland Echoes

✓Highland Dance Demo & Legends Behind The Dance
✓Scots Gaelic Song Styles & History
✓Explore The Pipes
✓Scots Gaelic Mouth Music
✓Scottish Ceilidh Dance
✓Step Dance
✓Scots Gaelic Waulking Songs
✓Appalachian Scottish Music Connection

Ranger
William Caldwell

✓The Hated Scotsman: The Man & The Myth

Ranger
Lamar Ledford

✓Fraser's Highlanders: The 71st Highland Regiment In The British Army

Justin Cherry

✓Clay Oven Baking: Celtic Bread Forms Of The 18th Century

Sophie Dare Dentiste

✓Paint Your Own Fraser's Ridge

Cameron Hogg

✓"Come What May" Outlander Season 6 Discussion Group

Nancy Gaines

✓Words of Greeting, Friendship, and Love: Simple Gaelic Phrases

Christine Parker

✓How To Sew An 18th Century Scottish Pocket

Kim Picton

✓Early Awakening Ritual
✓How To Make Homemade Lavender And Heather Oil & 9 Ways To Use Them

Barb Saul

✓Potatoes In The Highlands, Ye Say?

Steve York

✓The Brahan Seer

Judi Fleming

✓Making A Gourd Shekeree

Workshop Descriptions

POTATOES IN THE HIGHLANDS, YE SAY?

  • INSTRUCTOR: Barb Saul
  • LOCATION: Hendrix Cabin Picnic Shelter
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 10 participants
  • CLASS LENGTH: 45 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: $15 with a portion of the cost going to Eagle’s Wings—a food pantry assisting families in North Carolina for over 30 years.(www.eagles-wings.org). 
  • DAYS OFFERED: Thursday, Friday & Saturday
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Claire explains herself in Outlander, chapter 33 & S1 E14 The Search: “They’re a root crop that will keep for a long time, and the yield is better than wheat. […] There’s going to be a famine, a bad one, in two years.”

    Claire is thinking about the fact that after the coming Rising, the English victors would burn Highland crops and seize their livestock (as well as commit other atrocities), leading to a food shortage, i.e. a famine. Claire is hoping to positively affect her family’s livelihood in the short term, and planting a sturdier crop would do that.

    Participants will get a wee bit “down & dirty” in this workshop as they learn how to provide their own sturdy wee “crop” for their families! Participants will have a general knowledge of the historical significance of potatoes in the Highlands as well as a “hands on” experience learning about preparing soil, growing and harvesting a yield of 10 lbs from 1lb of seed in a 6ftx 3ft home garden in ground with straw or potted in planters indoors or outside. Participants will be able to take home their own potted potato to cultivate at home! Participants will also be able to take home THREE simple yet delicious traditional Scottish potato recipes including a vegan option.

    Each participant will take their potted potato home which will allow for the participants to view the growth of their potatoes underground! Fliers or electronic copies of growing tips and the recipes will also be provided to each registered participant.

WORDS OF GREETING, FRIENDSHIP & LOVE: SIMPLE GAELIC PHRASES

  • INSTRUCTOR: Nancy Gaines
  • LOCATION: Barn Breezeway Tent
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 15 participants
  • CLASS LENGTH: 60 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: $15
  • DAYS OFFERED: Thursday, Friday & Saturday
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Ceud mìle failte a-huile duine! Gaelic phrases scattered throughout the Outlander books and series add to the charm and mystery of the story. In this workshop we’ll look at the history of the Gaelic language in Scotland and we’ll learn some simple phrases you can use to express friendship and love and maybe a few other things. We will barely dip our toe into the language, but information about other resources for learning the language will be shared.

TARTAN HISTORY & DESIGN

  • INSRUCTOR: Nancy Gaines
  • LOCATION: Barn Breezeway Tent
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 8 participants
  • CLASS LENGTH: 90 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: $35 PERSON
  • DAYS OFFERED: Thursday, Friday & Saturday
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Nothing says Scotland like a piece of tartan cloth. Join this class to learn some of the history of tartan as a fabric and as an emblem of Scotland. We will also learn about the process of designing and weaving tartan. Finally we’ll use what you’ve learned to design your on personal small piece of tartan for use as a mug rug. Each participant will receive a small frame loom, a weaving needle, graph paper, and three mini skeins of wool yarn in different colors. Together we’ll design the tartan, warp the loom, and produce a small piece of tartan cloth you can put under your coffee mug. Colors will be packed in the kits randomly, but don’t worry, everyone will have more than enough so you can barter with your neighbor for different colors.

EARTH AWAKENING RITUAL

  • INSTRUCTOR: Kim Picton
  • LOCATION: Leatherwood Campground On The Creekbank
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 20 people
  • CLASS LENGTH: 45 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: $25
  • DAYS OFFERED:  Friday & Saturday
  • DESCRIPTION:

A relaxing and gentle way to begin your busy and exciting day. Down by the Creek (at Campground), attendees will enjoy a gentle stretch flow in a grassy area. After stretching, attendees will walk into the creek slowly, holding a crystal gemstone which they get to keep, while following the instructor’s guidance into Earth’s awakening. You will return back to land for a quiet closing to the ritual. Must bring a towel and/or yoga mat and water shoes.

CLAY OVEN BAKING: CELTIC BREAD FORMS OF THE 18TH CENTURY

  • INSTRUCTOR: Justin Cherry, Halfcrown Bakehouse
  • LOCATION: Vendor Courtyard
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 25 participants
  • CLASS LENGTH: 90 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: $25
  • DAYS OFFERED: Thursday, Friday & Saturday
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Participants of this class will learn and explore 3 types of bread forms from the 18th century popular in both Scotland and Colonial North Carolina. Discussion of the authentic grains will be reinforced with hands-on making of these items! After the discussion and the making comes the baking and eating! Participants will be able to taste history in the making! Adapted recipes will be provided to take home and try in the comfort of your own home. All materials will be provided.

HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE LAVENDER AND HEATHER OIL PLUS 9 WAYS TO USE THEM

  • INSTRUCTOR: Kim Picton
  • LOCATION: Hemlock Stage Picnic Area
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 20 people
  • CLASS LENGTH: 60 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: $40
  • DAYS OFFERED: Saturday only
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Make your own Lavender and Heather oil. Each attendee will leave with an 8 oz. jar of oil to take home and will learn nine different uses for this amazing oil once it is infused. Jar, carrier oil and herbs provided.

HOW TO SEW AN 18TH CENTURY SCOTTISH POCKET

  • INSTRUCTOR: Christine Parker, Sew Sew Obsessed
  • LOCATION: Hemlock Stage Picnic Area
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 20 people
  • CLASS LENGTH: 60 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: $25
  • DAYS OFFERED: Friday & Saturday
  • DESCRIPTION:

    In this hands-on class, Christine will discuss how pockets were used/worn, different styles of pockets and of course, you’ll be taught how to sew your own pocket that you can wear under your petticoat or gown. Each participant will be provided with all of the materials necessary to make a cotton tartan pocket to tie around your waist, as well as a muslin pattern for making more pockets when they get home. You will also receive detailed step-by-step instructions on sewing your pockets. No need to bring anything except perhaps a chair to sit in. Basic hand sewing experience is recommended though Christine will be happy to show you basic stitching if needed.

THAT HATED SCOTSMAN: THE MAN & THE MYTH OF PATRICK FERGUSON

  • INSTRUCTOR: National Park Service Ranger William Caldwell
  • LOCATION: Hendrix Cabin Front Room
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 30 people
  • CLASS LENGTH: 60 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE.  Donations may be mailed to “NPS, 338 New Pleasant Road, Gaffney, SC 29341.”
  • DAYS OFFERED: Friday only
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Few Scottish Highlanders are as noted in the early history of the Carolinas as Patrick Ferguson. This British Army officer is remembered for being a haughty braggart who insulted the American cause and lies today buried on the 1780 battlefield of Kings Mountain. But how much of this legend is true? What can we learn from the earlier life of Patrick Ferguson, what can we find in his writings, and who really was the man behind the myth of Patrick Ferguson? Join Ranger William from the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail to dive into this study of one of the most famous (or infamous) Highlanders in Carolina history. Special guest appearance by members of the Overmountain Victory Trail Association.

PAINTING YOUR OWN FRASER’S RIDGE

  • INSTRUCTOR: Sophie Dare, Sophie Dare Designs
  • LOCATION: Hemlock Stage Picnic Area
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 18 people
  • CLASS LENGTH: 90 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: $45
  • DAYS OFFERED: Saturday only
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Each attendee will take home their own 16×20 painting of a serene Fraser’s Ridge landscape. Image will be pre-sketched onto canvas and paints are provided, as well as guidance from instructor, Sophie Dare.

FRASER’S HIGHLANDERS: THE 71ST HIGHLAND REGIMENT IN THE BRITISH ARMY

  • INSTRUCTOR: National Park Service  Ranger Lamar Ledford
  • LOCATION: Hendrix Cabin Front Room
    CLASS SIZE: No more than 30 people
  • CLASS LENGTH: 60 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE.  Donations may be mailed to “NPS, 338 New Pleasant Road, Gaffney, SC 29341.”
  • DAYS OFFERED: Friday only
  • DESCRIPTION:

    One of the largest groups of Scottish Highlanders to be raised for service in the American Revolution was the 71st Regiment under Colonel Simon Fraser. These Highlanders would see service throughout the American colonies during the American Revolution; half ending their war being captured at Cowpens, and the other half at Yorktown. Join Ranger Lamar from Cowpens National Battlefield for a detailed look at the history and service of these brave Highland laddies who fought for their king.

“COME WHAT MAY”: OUTLANDER SEASON 6 DISCUSSION GROUP

  • MODERATOR: Cameron Hogg
  • LOCATION: Hendrix Cabin Front Room
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 30 people
  • CLASS LENGTH: 60 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE 
  • DAYS OFFERED: Thursday, Friday & Saturday
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Join Cameron Hogg in a riveting discussion about the Season 6, “Come What May” Outlander Series. Diana has said this season is her favorite after the very first season. Talk about how you feel about that, who you liked or disliked, how the story line may have differed from the book and anything else that comes to mind. Have fun discussing the show and characters we all know and love…or love to hate!

THE BRAHAN SEER

  • INSTRUCTOR: Steve York
  • LOCATION: Hendrix Cabin Front Room
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 30 people
  • CLASS LENGTH: 60 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE 
  • DAYS OFFERED: Thusday only
  • DESCRIPTION:

    The Brahan Seer, a.k.a. “the Nostradamus of Scotland”, is both an actual historical figure and an integral part of the Outlander storyline.  His significance within Outlander regards The Fraser Prophecy; predictions which relate to the fate of Brianna Fraser.  The Seer and his prophecy first show up in Season 3/Episode 12—”The Bakra”—of the TV series and in Voyager of Diana Gabaldon’s novels. They play an essential role in the maniacal endeavors of Geillis Duncan to assure a future Scottish King. The historical Brahan Seer was Kenneth MacKenzie—or Coinneach Odhar in Scottish Gaelic—which translates as “Dark Kenneth”…someone gifted in “second sight”, a prophet who dealt in “the dark arts”.  His predictions are legendary in Scottish lore.

MAKING A GOURD SHEKERE

  • INSTRUCTOR: Judi Fleming
  • LOCATION: Vendor Courtyard
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 10 people
  • CLASS LENGTH: 90 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: $65
  • DAYS OFFERED: Thursday, Friday & Saturday
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Learn how to make a simple musical instrument from a cleaned, cut and prepared gourd, beads and thread. ALL the supplies are included, but please bring an apron along to protect your clothes. If you don’t have one, I do bring a whole bag of aprons for people who forget theirs too!

HIGHLAND DANCE DEMO & LEGENDS BEHIND THE DANCE

  • INSTRUCTOR: Highland Echoes
  • LOCATION: Covered Pavilion
  • CLASS SIZE: Unlimited
  • CLASS LENGTH: 60 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE 
  • DAYS OFFERED: Friday only
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Most Highland dances have movements that tell a story. Learn more about the meanings behind some of the most popular Scottish dances while the dancers break down the steps to show how the movements match the story.

SCOTS GAELIC SONG STYLES & HISTORY

  • INSTRUCTOR: Highland Echoes
  • LOCATION: Covered Pavilion
  • CLASS SIZE: Unlimited
  • CLASS LENGTH: 30 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE 
  • DAYS OFFERED: Thursday only
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Most traditional Scots Gaelic songs had a specific purpose and intention for singing. Learn about the various styles and why they are an important part of life of the preservation of Scottish history.

EXPLORE THE PIPES

  • INSTRUCTOR: Highland Echoes
  • LOCATION: Covered Pavilion
  • CLASS SIZE: Unlimited
  • CLASS LENGTH: 45 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE
  • DAYS OFFERED: Friday & Saturday 
  • DESCRIPTION:

    The Scottish Highland Bagpipe is a complex instrument. Learn more about the way the bagpipes work and what purpose they held in history.

SCOTS GAELIC MOUTH MUSIC

  • INSTRUCTOR: Highland Echoes
  • LOCATION: Covered Pavilion
  • CLASS SIZE: Unlimited
  • CLASS LENGTH: 45 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE
  • DAYS OFFERED: Friday & Saturday 
  • DESCRIPTION:

    The Scottish Gaelic term Puirt à beul refers to a tune from the mouth and therefore often called Mouth Music. Many times this is used for dancing with pipes or when other instruments weren’t an option. Join us in the workshop to hear more about the song style and learn to sing a mouth music tune.

SCOTTISH CEILIDH DANCE

  • INSTRUCTOR: Highland Echoes
  • LOCATION: Covered Pavilion
  • CLASS SIZE: Unlimited
  • CLASS LENGTH: 60 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE 
  • DAYS OFFERED: Friday & Saturday
  • DESCRIPTION:

    To prepare for dancing together, join us in this workshop where you will learn some of the most popular ceilidh dances from Scotland. These are still done today all around the world and they are lots of fun. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for this!

STEP DANCE

  • INSTRUCTOR: Highland Echoes
  • LOCATION: Covered Pavilion
  • CLASS SIZE: Unlimited
  • CLASS LENGTH: 45 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE 
  • DAYS OFFERED: Saturday only
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Cape Breton Step dancing is a style of step dance from Scotland which was preserved by those who migrated from Scotland to the outer islands of Canada. Learn a few steps in this workshop!

APPALACHIAN SCOTTISH MUSIC CONNECTION

  • INSTRUCTOR: Highland Echoes
  • LOCATION: Covered Pavilion
  • CLASS SIZE: Unlimited
  • CLASS LENGTH: 45 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE
  • DAYS OFFERED: Saturday only 
  • DESCRIPTION:

    There is an undeniable musical connection between Appalachian song and Scottish song. Discover more about this connection in this exploration of songs during this workshop.

SCOTS GAELIC WAULKING SONGS

  • INSTRUCTOR: Highland Echoes
  • LOCATION: Hendrix Cabin Front Room
  • CLASS SIZE: No more than 20 people
  • CLASS LENGTH: 45 minutes
  • CLASS PRICE PER PERSON: FREE 
  • DAYS OFFERED: Saturday only
  • DESCRIPTION:

    Waulking songs are a type of work song sung mostly by women from the Highlands. Learn more about this tradition and take part in the waulking singing tradition in this workshop.