The Wallace Homecoming - Lanark

[Mike1]

These images are a bit dated, but Scottish history was made on this day. I hope you'll not mind seeing them.

At the close of the Walk for Wallace, back in August 2005, the Spirit of Wallace coffin was taken to Lanark, where it will ultimately be interred at St. Kentigern's Kirk. At that time, I was a member of a Scottish nationalist organization that had provided support for the Walk.


The coffin was placed under a small tent, on the site of Marion Braidfute's home, where this plaque was dedicated, the weekend of the Homecoming.


I was honored and humbled to have been invited to stand watch over the coffin. Some pals were getting their picture taken, while I was (unsuccessfully) trying to dodge behind the canvas of the tent.


We then moved the coffin to a nearby park, where prayer was offered, David Ross said a few words and then Ted Christopher performed a very emotional I'm Coming home.


Ted was followed to the stage by Ronnie Browne, who led the crowd in singing Flower of Scotland. As Ronnie was performing, one of the organizers walked out onto the stage and started pointing up into the sky.


What could have been more fitting than a Saltire in the sky, to celebrate Sir William Wallace's return to Lanark?


There was then a huge procession, through the streets of Lanark, as the coffin was moved to St. Kentigern's Kirk.


Looking up the walk to St. Kentigern's, from the street


As the crowd waited at the street, the pall bearers and about 20 of us made our way to the kirkyard.


Where flares lit up the arches of the kirk, after the coffin had been placed there.


This was the view from the street.

This was certainly a day I will never forget. To have the honor of helping to see the Spirit of Sir William Wallace returned home was a special time indeed.

[Tattoo Bradley]

That must have been very humbling indeed. Thank you so much for sharing those.

[David Dalglish]

Great photo's Mike. May he rest in peace.

[Panache]

Very stirring pictures and record of the events.

Thanks for sharing



Cheers

[Riverkilt]

It stirs the blood Mike,

Thanks for posting the story and pics.

Ron

[PaulX608]

Wow. As moving as your photos and descriptions are, I'm sure that being there and taking part were absolutely life altering. Outstanding stuff, thanks for sharing this with us.

[GMan]

Dated or not, these pictures are very touching. We must always remember. Thank you.

[Warlock]

Thank You so much for reposting these! This is the first time that I've seen them.

[SnakeEyes]

This brought a tear to my eye, no jokes. That picture of the sky made me shiver. Thank you very much for sharing these with us.

[pdcorlis]

Very moving Mike - thanks for posting the photos.