Visitors from the US and Canada as well as parts of the UK tuned in to hear more about the achievements of the John Rae Society at its online AGM

There was lively interest and an appetite to know more from those who joined the online AGM on December 8^th 2021, including from across the pond.

President Andrew Appleby and chair Liz MacInally shared some of the year’s highlights including well-attended open day events and birthday celebrations, grant awards, engagement work, the lecture series and progress on the plan to conserve the building and site.  

 The membership has grown to more than 400 including 64 from overseas.

There were requests from those who are unable to make it to Orkney to be able to hear more about developments being undertaken by the John Rae Society as it works towards the ambition to renovate the at-risk ‘A’ listed Hall of Clestrain at Orphir, the childhood home of Arctic explorer Dr John Rae, as an internationally renowned venue and Arctic centre.

John Rae Society President Andrew Appleby says: “It was heartening to welcome 25 people to the AGM, including those from across the pond, and to hear how engaged they are.”

It was agreed by trustees that the existing chair Liz MacInally will be joined by Norman Shearer to share the role for 2022. Three new trustees, Cheryl Chapman, Prof. Donna Heddle and Alasdair Marwick were also appointed.

If you are interested in becoming a Society member or joining as a Trustee please visit www.johnraesociety.com or email  secretary@johnraesociety.com.