Scotland in Sarasota

An old portrait of Col. Gillespie, the famed leader of the group of Scots who first settled in Sarasota, and the City's first Mayor hangs in the Parish Hall of the Church of the Redeemer, which he founded,on Sarasota's waterfront.

A century later, Scottish heritage is still thriving in Sarasota. The Saint Andrew Society held its Annual General Meeting at the Church of the Redeemer on February 15th, followed by a solemn "kirkin o' the tartan" with bagpipes provided by Gary Reinstrom of the local Jacobites pipe band. In the photo,below, flanking Col. Gillespie's portrait are the Society's new President, David MacMillan, left, and Jim Martin. outgoing President. For information on the Society call (941)-966-0425

from Nick and Jean Catsakis