We are delighted to invite you to mark John Rae’s 211th Birthday at two events in Kirkwall on Monday September 30, 2024.
At noon we will be gathering at St Magnus Cathedral’s Graveyard gates to make a piped procession to John Rae’s graveside for our annual ceremony, at which former Orkney Islands Council Convener Harvey Johnston will give a speech in celebration of the Arctic Explorer’s life and a whisky toast will be made.
At 6.30pm you are invited to join us at Orkney Distilling in Ayre Road, for an evening of fun and fundraising, with the launch of the John Rae inspired Northwest Passage Arctic Explorer Gin from Orkney Distilling and a stunning silver jewellery collection from Karen Duncan.
Enjoy cocktails, music, entertainment and a mega raffle, with the chance to hear more about these quality crafted products and how they will support the John Rae Society.
This special gin edition is rich in flavour, steeped in history and brimming with adventure. Following in Rae’s footsteps, Orkney Distilling’s award-winning distiller has expertly distilled a gin from rare botanicals found on the Hudson Bay shores, using the same water source that supplied Arctic-bound trade ships.
While Karen’s specially designed silver pendant and earing collection takes its inspiration from the snow shoes Rae relied on to make his epic treks across the ice and snow.
If you would like to join us for the Gin and Jewellery launch please RSVP to info@johnraesociety.com so we can know numbers.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Unable to be with you on 30th unfortunately, quick question will the items be available to buy online?
Have just traversed the NW Passage, paid homage at the plaque on De La Guiche point in the Rae Strsit!
Hi Sue,
Yes once launched you will be able to buy these items online.
Sadly won’t be in Orkney at this time but best wishes for the clebration
I will not be in Orkney to celebrate his birthday but I wish that you all have a great time celebrating. I hope the weather cooperates !