The Kilted Coal Miners of Cape Breton: The Highlanders Who Dug Deep for a Living is a tribute to the courage and tenacity of my Scottish ancestors. Join me as I unravel the rich history of my family and the many others who came to Nova Scotia in search of a better life. From the coal mines of Cow Bay to the battlefields of Europe, we will trace the story of the Anderson family, their struggles and their triumphs."
"Andrew Anderson and Elizabeth, my 3rd great grandparents, embarked on a journey from Glasgow, Scotland to Nova Scotia in 1832. They were two of the many Scots forced to leave their homeland due to the Highland Clearances, a period of mass evictions that resulted in the displacement of thousands of people. Yet, they were determined to forge a new life in a new land, and with courage and determination, they set out on their adventure.
Upon arrival in Pictou, Nova Scotia, Andrew and Elizabeth encountered the harsh realities of life as Scottish immigrants in Canada. Despite this, they persevered and soon found work in the coal mines of Cow Bay. For Andrew, this was just the beginning of his journey, as he worked his way up from miner to mine manager, a testament to his unwavering spirit and hard work.
In this book, we will take a closer look at the lives of Andrew and Elizabeth as they navigated their new home and the challenges that came with it. We will witness the birth of their children, the struggles they faced, and the triumphs they achieved. Through their experiences, we will gain a unique perspective on the Highland Clearances and the lives of Scottish miners in 19th century Canada.
As we delve deeper into the story of Andrew and Elizabeth, we will also discover the legacy they left behind. Their great-grandson, my grandfather, is a perfect example of this legacy. He served his country in World War II, fighting in Italy , France and Holland to liberate those countries from oppression. Upon his return, he broke the chain of generations working in the mines, becoming the first of Andrew's descendants not to work in the mines. This was a reflection of the changing times and the opportunities that were available to the next generation.