well-entrenched in the American Scot’s soul and, on that account, esteemed by other peoples: there is

no distinction between the Scot born in Scotland, and the Scot whose native land is America; for in point of fact there is very little difference between them —— the American Scot being frequently of the two, if possible, the more intensely national....And this deep feeling, this glowing sentiment, wins the sympathy and commands the respect of the men of other countries and races among whom Scotchmen are thrown.27

The St. Andrew’s Day dinner that year was highlighted by a lecture given by the Rev. Dr. MacDonald on his travels in Scotland and on “The Early History of Scotland and Its Conversion to Christianity.”“ This is, probably, the first public lecture ever sponsored by the Caledonian Club — perhaps a precedent for the Debating Society and the Literary Society, both begun in 1884.

In August of 1876, the club expanded its interests to include drama, but this seemed little more than a fling for the members. The society hosted a day of plays — “Caledonia Day” -—— put on by Charlottetown Amateur Dramatic Club in Market Hall. The two major performances were: “Wallace! The Hero of Scotland,” a three-act historical drama, and “Barney the Baron,” a farce.29 This “Caledonia Day” seemed to be not only the first instance of such a project, but the only one that could be found in the newspapers. The papers did not even report on the Day’s outcome, but it was held in conjunction with the Highland Games and, by all accounts, the games were a roaring success.

The guests present at the 1876 games received high praise from Patriot editor Henry Lawson for their respectable conduct during the events:

The order that was kept on the grounds was admirable and in every way creditable to the people of the province. Policemen were present, but as far as we could see, they had nothing to do but enjoy themselves. 3°

Temperance feelings were running high in the 18705. The Caledonian Club continued to support the movement, at least officially, although wine did creep into St. Andrew’s Day dinners on occasion.

Many club members joined temperance groups. One such group, a division of the Sons of Temperance called Caledonia No. 105, would be

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