McMinnville Scottish Festival .. We’re putting the “Mac” back in McMinnville
McMinnville has grown to be an internationally recognized city in the heart of Willamette Valley known best for its small town main street, and its place in the rich Willamette Valley wine industry, early UFO sightings, and the resting place of the Hercules (Howard Hughes’ Spruce Goose).
With all this attention it seems few have pondered why it bears the name of McMinnville? Did anyone of importance in city history have that name? Are there Scottish or Irish roots?
As it turns out, no one in the city’s history was named McMinnville. The city’s founder William T. Newby (1820–1884), an early immigrant on the Oregon Trail, named the city after his hometown McMinnville, Tennessee. He must have cared for his home quite a bit to establish a city across the country with the same name.
McMinnville does indeed have Scottish roots; however, McMinnville, Tennessee was named after Governor Joseph McMinn (1758-1824). His grandfather, Robert McMinn (1690-1757) emigrated from his home in Perth, Scotland, to make a home in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
By importing the name of his hometown, William Newby intentionally, or unintentionally, brought a bit of Scotland to our city, McMinnville.
The Celtic Heritage Alliance builds on that Scottish connection and brings the “Mac” back in McMinnville with the McMinnville Scottish Festival! Join us October 7th and 8th, 2023 at the Yamhill County Fairgrounds.
Looking to lend a hand and experience the festival in a whole new way? Our volunteers love helping out at the McMinnville Scottish Festival, and a huge number returned to volunteer after their first year. You get to work alongside some great people, and there are some pretty great perks that go along with it! If you’re interested in volunteering for the festival, sign-ups will be available as 2023 gets under way. Keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for updates!
While we are getting ready for the 2023 festival, you might like to join us at our Burns Supper in January honoring the late poet, Robert Burns, on Saturday, January 28th, from 6PM – 9PM. Taking place in the historic McMinnville Grand Ballroom, located at 325 NE 3rd St, McMinnville, Oregon. The evening will be filled with fellowship and camaraderie, and will include a traditional Scottish 5-course dinner, poetry readings, music, and many toasts to celebrate the Bard. We will also have a no-host bar, raffle and dessert auction. You may purchase tickets a la carte, at $75/pp, or reserve whole tables (seating for 8), at $550 per table. If you are a member of the Celtic Heritage Alliance, check your email for a special member-only offer! Semi-formal/Formal attire encouraged but not required. Event is for 21+ only. This is certain to be a wonderful night, we hope that you can join us! Click button below to reserve a seat or a table!
