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1. Who started the Wheeling Celtic Society and why?
The Wheeling Celtic Society was founded in 1996 by Art McCrobie East and Diane Davis-Darnley in an effort to preserve and promote Celtic heritage.
2. What does the Wheeling Celtic Society do?
The Wheeling Celtic Society's main purpose is exposing the Ohio Valley and the surrounding communities to it's rich Celtic roots through information, education and entertainment.
3. What types of events does the Wheeling Celtic Society hold or sponsor and how can I get involved?
The Wheeling Celtic Society holds monthly meetings on different subjects pertaining to Celtic culture. The WCS also holds various events throughout the year, including a summer picnic, spring and fall bonfires, Christmas party, language classes, and a musician group on a regular basis for novice and veteran alike. Some members have also participated in group trips to the Celtic nations. In addition to the yearly activities, a Celtic Celebration is held every year during the first weekend in March. Since the WCS is purely a non-profit volunteer group, anyone who wishes to participate is welcome.
4. Do I have to be Celtic to join the Wheeling Celtic Society?
No, anyone is welcome. The Wheeling Celtic Society does not discriminate against any race or creed and will gladly educate those interested in Celtic culture.
5. How much does it cost to join the Wheeling Celtic Society?
The yearly amount is $25.00 for an individual membership and $35.00 for a family membership (family consisting of parents and immediate children) If you wish to join just click on the "Become A Member" link at the bottom of the main page.
6. Where and when are meetings held and who can attend?
Wheeling Celtic Society meetings are held on the last Thursday of every month at our meeting house at 1801 School Ave in Wheeling, WV. The meetings begin at 7:00 PM and are open to the public. Please call Patrick Coughlan at 304-242-2633 or e-mail us for directions.
7. Which is correct--Celtic with a soft "C" ("s" sound) or Celtic with a hard "C" ('k" sound)?
The original pronounciation is with a hard "C" and comes from the Greek word "Keltoi" meaning stranger or outsider. The soft "C" is the anglicized version and is used often today. Both are acceptable.
8. What country are Celtic people from and what language do they speak?
Celtic people originate from a small group of countries made up of Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Britany, Cornwall, Isle of Man and Galacia. The official language of these countries is Celtic, All are recognized as Celtic countries with the exception of Galacia, where the original dialect was Spanish.
9. Does the Wheeling Celtic Society have a tartan? What are the colors? What do they stand for?
Yes, the Wheeling Celtic Society does have an officially recognized tartan. The colors and their meanings are as follows: Kelly Green--Ireland, Navy Blue--Scotland/St Andrews, Red--Wales, Red/Gold--Isle of Man, Black--Britney, Black--Cornwall, Blue/Gold--State Colors of West Virginia.
10. Is there anyone in the Wheeling, WV area who teaches Gaelic language? Bagpiping? Celtic dancing?
Language courses in Scotish Gaelic, Irish-Gaelic and Welsh are held a few times per year by the Wheeling Celtic Society according to interest. Also , there are several musicians in the area who are willing to teach. Please call Patrick Coughlan at 304-242-2633 for more information. At the present time, the closest courses in Celtic dancing are held in the Pittsburgh, PA area.
11. What is a sporran?
A sporran is simply a purse....some may call it the original "fannypack"! Since kilts don't have pockets, sporrans are used to carry everything from food to personal effects....anything the individual would need for everyday life.