Professor Alexander Thom
In the book "Sacred Sites of the Knights Templar" by John K. Young, PhD, a discussion of the megalithic site ''Carnac'', in Brittany, France, includes the following statement, "This megalithic site has been meticulously surveyed and studied by Alexander Thom, a Scottish civil engineer who took an interest in megalithic architecture and who has published numerous studies that have been well received by the scientific community".
The text goes on to discuss Professor Thom's widely accepted hypothesis that the builders of the site exhibited a definite interest in astronomy and, from the placement of stones around Carnac, had constructed what appear to be two lunar observatories in the area. Another item of interest in this same discussion is that the Carnac site includes "Le Grand Menhir", the largest single megalithic stone known in Europe, estimated to weigh 330 tons. (Menhir is the Breton word for standing stone).
Further discussion of Professor Thom's analysis of megalithic architecture may be found in the October 2009 and July 2010 issues of the former U.S. and Canadian Branch Newsletter.
Submitted by Rod Mooney
More about Professor Thom
Added 18/08/2011
A Thom in Esteemed Company
Many of us will be familiar with the World War Two saga of young Naval officer John F. Kennedy, as narrated in the book "PT-109". As commanding officer of the PT-109 which sank after being struck by a Japanese destroyer, the future President of the United States led his crew to the shore of a nearby island. He then swam into the hostile waters of Blackett Straits in an attempt to attract a rescue vessel. Eventually he and his crew were rescued by Solomon Islanders led by a British coast watcher. His friend and companion during this entire adventure was his executive officer, Leonard J. Thom (1917 - 1946).
More information
Added 30/09/2011
US National Anthem
It is possible than a Clan member was involved in the events that led up to the composing of the United States National Anthem.
During the conflict known in America as the War of 1812, and in Britain as the Seven Years War, the US National Anthem was penned by Francis Scott Key after a night spent observing the "rockets' red glare" during the siege of Fort McHenry in Baltimore harbor. The outcome of that siege was in large measure determined by two young citizens of Baltimore on the preceding day, in the approach to the Battle of North Point on 12th September 1814. Two Baltimore teenagers, Daniel Wells and Henry McComas are credited with mortally wounding British General Robert Ross. McComas was subsequently killed in the battle. The photograph shows the inscription on one face of a monument in Baltimore.
Rod Mooney
Added 26/03/2011
Sept Names
We often write about people with our Sept names. Have we ever thought about places with these names? One of our US and Canada branch officers has just returned from a visit to the coal camp at McComas in Mercer County, West Virginia. Looks interesting.
Please click here for further details.
Webmaster
Added 05/06/2010
This is true!
I heard the other day that one of those present at the 2008 AGM in Glenshee was so impressed by the way that the meeting was run that he asked our President if he would be prepared to become Chairman of his company. I understand that Finegand declined - citing lack of relevant experience.
Treasurer.
Added at Launch
Tartan for your dog!
We have found a website where you can buy Tartan collars, leads or kerchiefs (whatever they may be) for your favourite dog. And yes - they do MacThomas. Just use the link below:
www.bonbrightwoolens.com
Alternatively: www.theheelanhound.com
What will they think of next?
Webmaster.
Added at Launch
Note: Material in this area has been contributed by members and officers and must not be reproduced without their written permission. This can be obtained via the Webmaster.
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Last updated 26/3/2011