Actor Alastair Mackenzie

 Alastair Mackenzie is a Scottish actor and writer who is probably best known for his role as Laird Archie

MacDonald in Monarch of the Glenn.  Alastair and his partner Scottish actress Susan Vidler have two children.  Alastair is the brother of Oscar nominated director, writer David Mackenzie.  They also have a sister.  The brothers founded Sigma Films of Glasgow, Scotland.

I found it interesting that Alastair was in the TV series "The Crown" and during the series there's a scene between the characters Prince Charles and Queen Elizabeth discussing a tutor for Princess Diana.  They mentioned my cousin Sir Eric Anderson who actually did tutor Diana.  Sir Eric and Alastair are also cousins from the same Milroy side of our family.

Being a Star Wars fan I've recently enjoyed watching Alastair in the series "Andor" where he plays "Perrin Fertha".

Alastair and I are related through my maternal side and his paternal side of the Milroy family.  I have a double connection and he's both my 5th and 6th cousin.

IMDB Link

A Royal Connection?

When I was growing up, every once in a while, at family gatherings I would overhear mention of our

blue blood. One day I asked my mother what they were talking about.

It seems that in 1972 shortly after the death of the Duke of Windsor (Edward the VIII) a Milroy family monument appeared in a cemetery in Galt, Ontario, Canada. The inscription is as follows:

“Millicent A.M.M.M.P.St., daughter of James and Helen Milroy (1890 – ), wife of Edward VIII, Duke of Windsor (1894 – 1972)”.

She not only claimed to be a Princess of the Stuart line of Kings in Scotland but also the wife of the Duke of Windsor. At the time the news made the newspapers around the world.

The story is that they met during a visit by the Prince to Galt, fell in love and were secretly married in 1943. The Prince of Wales did spend a lot of time at his ranch in Alberta and apparently Millicent is to have spent some time teaching in Alberta. The rumor even goes so far as to claim there were two children, Edward and Andrew who went to live with their father in England. She always said that the truth would be known after her death. Then shortly after her death her home was broken into, and many items stolen. It’s believed by some that the break in was to remove all evidence of the Royal connection.

Dr. Kathleen Jean Wallace Wilson OBE: A Trailblazer in Education and Community Service

 Dr. Kathleen Jean Wallace Wilson OBE stands as a distinguished figure in the realms of education and community service, her career marked by a profound commitment to improving lives and fostering

positive change. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on both local and international communities, and her legacy continues to inspire those who seek to make a difference in the world.

Early Life and Education

Born into a family that valued learning and service, Kathleen Jean Wallace Wilson's early life was shaped by a deep respect for education and social justice. She pursued her education with a passion for understanding the complexities of human development and social dynamics, earning a degree in Education from the University of Edinburgh. Her academic journey did not stop there; she furthered her studies with postgraduate degrees, focusing on social policy and community development.

The Scottish Wickerman Festival: A Unique Blend of Tradition and Modern Celebration

Scotland, with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and mysticism, is home to some of the world’s most captivating festivals. Among them, the Wickerman Festival stands out as a unique celebration that blends ancient traditions with contemporary artistry. Held annually in the scenic town of Stewarton in

East Ayrshire, this festival is not just a local event but a beacon of cultural expression that attracts visitors from across the globe.

Origins and Evolution
The Wickerman Festival draws its name and inspiration from the ancient Celtic tradition of the Wicker Man, a large wickerwork effigy historically used in pagan rituals. While the exact origins of the Wicker Man are shrouded in mystery, it is often associated with the idea of ritualistic offerings to ensure bountiful harvests and community prosperity. The modern Wickerman Festival, however, is a far cry from ancient sacrificial rites.

Cakemuir Castle

Situated in Midlothian, Cakemuir Castle is a 16th century four storey tower house. The projecting stair tower is round and capped with a square watch chamber. This feature is common to Tolquhon and Crossraguel and may symbolise Protestant sympathy.

The castle was built on the site of an earlier castle by Adam Wauchope, who defended the Earl of Bothwell against the charge of murdering Lord Darnley. It was at Cakemuir that Mary, Queen of Scots, met up with Bothwell after fleeing from Borthwick in June 1567 and sought escape to Dunbar.

It is reassuring to see a fine property like Cakemuir being both conserved and developed further with an impressive pond and a large Orangerie (correct us if it is not!).

The family connection is through the current owners, the Robert Douglas-Miller family. Robert is my 5th & 6th cousin through my maternal grandmothers line (Milroy).

Bavelaw Castle

   

At first sight Bavelaw Castle appears to be a typical 17th century Lairds House but a 16th century origin is attested by the thickness of its walls, its vaulted basement and an array of gun loops. Located two miles south of Balerno, it has links with Mary Queen of Scots and James VI.

The family connection is through Robert Alexander Gavin Douglas-Miller former managing director of Jenners department store.
Robert, the current owner is a 4th cousin once removed to me from my maternal grandmother's family (Milroy).

Milroy home Houston, Texas

The Milroy House is not only a fine example of late-Victorian frame architecture, but is also significant

historically as one of the earliest houses in the town of Houston Heights and as the home of one of the men most influential in the development of that area. Built in 1898, the house was home to John Milroy until his death in 1918. Descendants of the Milroy family resided in the house until 1979. It remains the most impressive nineteenth century house on the street, with its original carriage house.

David William Kinloch Anderson, Baron Anderson of Ipswich: A Legal Luminary

David William Kinloch Anderson, better known as Baron Anderson of Ipswich, is a prominent figure in the legal and political spheres of the United Kingdom. With a distinguished career marked by expertise in law, national security, and human rights, Baron Anderson has left an indelible mark on the fabric of British society, earning widespread acclaim for his intellect, integrity, and commitment to justice.

Exploring the Creative Universe of Lisa Milroy RA: A Maestro of Contemporary Art

In the ever-evolving realm of contemporary art, there are artists whose work transcends boundaries and speaks to the human experience in profound and unexpected ways. Among these visionaries stands Lisa Milroy RA, a luminary whose vibrant and evocative creations have captivated audiences around the globe. With her distinctive style and unwavering commitment to experimentation, Milroy has established herself as a maestro of the modern art scene, pushing the boundaries of perception and inviting viewers to see the world through a new lens.

Born in Vancouver, Canada, and raised in England, Milroy's artistic journey began at an early age, fueled by a passion for creativity and a keen sense of curiosity about the world around her. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of sources, including everyday objects, nature, and the human form, she developed a unique visual language characterized by its simplicity, clarity, and depth.

One of the defining features of Milroy's work is her meticulous attention to detail, evident in her intricate compositions and precise brushwork. Whether depicting a still life arrangement of household objects or a bustling cityscape teeming with life, she approaches each subject with a keen eye for form, color, and texture, imbuing her paintings with a sense of vitality and dynamism that is truly captivating.

The Rape and Murder of Ann Milroy

 

Anna Milroy was born on Valentine's Day in 1927 to Helen and Lester Milroy.  A little analysis and speculation suggests that Ann was named for her fathers younger sister Ann who died in 1911 at the age of 15 when Lester was 12.  Three other daughters in that family died young, at ages 2, 20 and 23.

Anna Milroy was working on the farm of Dan Cronin, Jr. in the summer of 1943 anticipating her junior year at Sutton High.  She came to town that Saturday evening and was with her sister Wilma and friend Barbara Carl. The girls stopped at the Yost Service Station for gasoline when Anna excused

herself to go to the restroom. When she did not return, Wilma and Barbara searched the station but did not find her. They guessed that Anna had found another way home but when they discovered she was not at home on Sunday, they sounded the alarm.

Sir William Eric Kinloch Anderson KT, FRSE

Sir Eric Kinloch Anderson KT., FRSE  The son of William James Kinloch Anderson and Margaret Gouinlock Harper born in Edinburgh May 27 1936. Married to Lady Anne Elizabeth (Mason) Anderson or better known as Poppy the daughter of William Mattock Mason and Mary (Walls) Mason. They have two children both born in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Sir Eric was Master at Feltes College and named after the family hero, Eric Milroy, the Scotland Rugby captain who was killed during WWI on the Somme while serving in the Black Watch.

Sir Eric Anderson, Mentor and life long friend of Prince Charles retired (2009) from his role as Provost of Eton college. For 15 years he had previously held the position of headmaster. During his time at Eton Sir Eric was also headmaster to former British Prime Ministers Tony Blair and David Cameron.  Prince Andrew and William along with their father Prince Charles were all former students.