Information Bulletin
29 June 2006
Shetland Hamefarin 2010
Shetlanders are planning to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the first Hamefarin to the islands in 1960, when hundreds of exiles and family members returned to the islands to celebrate their unique family links. Sandy Cluness, Convener of Shetland Islands Council, said today that he was sure the Council would give its full support to the proposal as it had been hoped that the Homecoming would complement the return of the Tall Ships Race.”Unfortunately our bid has not been successful on this occasion" said Mr Cluness, " and while this is disappointing, the prospect of another Hamefarin on the lines of the first and twenty-fifth is very exciting. I know that many thousands of people around the world can trace their forebearers back to Shetland. It is important that the ties which still exist with families and friends in the islands are strengthened and that as many as possible come back to see us in the 21st century. We now have considerable experience in organising large events such as the Island Games, and the current Johnsmas Foy. Like the Games and the Foy, the benefits of this event can be extended to many parts of Shetland, and not just Lerwick."
The Convener said that he had been approached by a number of people who had expressed an interest in the idea, and that he would be calling a meeting soon to form a committee to take the project forward. "2010 might seem a long way off, " said Mr Cluness, " but there is a huge amount of planning which has to be done if we are to ensure that the 2010 Hamefarin is as successful as it predecessors. Of course, with the knowledge and experience of the Family History Society, and the availability of modern technology, we should be able to spread the invitation pretty widely and speedily, in contrast to the first Hamefarin when all correspondence was by letter! "
The convener said that he was sure that there would be support for the 21st Century Hamefarin throughout the islands. Those interested should initially contact Douglas Irvine on 01595 744932 or by e-mail at douglas.irvine@shetland.gov.uk.
ENDS