Background to the Argyllshire Gathering and Oban Games

Argyll covers a large area stretching from Loch Lomond and Loch Long in the South to to Ballachulish and Loch Leven in the north. It also includes the islands of Mull, Coll, Tiree, Colonsay and Islay as well as the fertile lands of Kintyre. These are areas with strong clan ties and loyalties and indeed Argyll is home to several clans with the chiefs of the Campbells, the MacDougalls, the Malcolms, the MacLeans and the MacLachlans all having their seats in Argyll.

Living in such a huge county with many miles separating various clans and families and their kinsmen, the Gathering was born in 1871 to foster kindred spirits. The late 19th Century was also the period when highlanders became more confident in expressing their culture and when political intrigue between clans was much diminished. It was a period of British and Scottish confidence at home and abroad.

Oban is central within Argyll and, importantly, accessible from the islands, which is why it was chosen as the venue. The origin of Highland Games such as those held in Oban lies further in the past, in the era when neighbouring families would socialise through partying and competition – competitions of speed, dexterity, strength, music and dance. The rivalry was friendly but intense, with individual, district or clan honour at stake.

The Argyllshire Gathering has changed little over the years. You will see several events and competitions which are unique to this type of occasion – caber tossing, hammer throwing, a hill race, piping, high-land dancing and much more. Many of the competitions are for Locals from Argyll, many more attract the very finest competitors from all over the World.

It is this International dimension that differentiates the Games from yesteryear and is a welcome development. The members of the Argyllshire Gathering remain committed to keeping our heritage alive and hope that all will visit and participate in this wonderful event.