McNab.

Clint MacNeil teaches history, geography, and world religion at St.
Charles College in Sudbury, Ontario.

Highland Chief Archibald McNab helped 115 Scots emigrate and settle in Upper Canada in 1825. His altruistic actions later turned into ulterior opportunities. Mulholland presents a fictitious account of the chief’s real-life failed attempt to establish a flourishing Highland township along the Ottawa River. By placing his imaginary characters in historical context and providing them with authentic sounding dialogue, he adds a unique dimension of realism to his work.

The story of McNab is keenly observed through the eyes of his piper, Malcolm Kenneth MacGregor. According to MacGregor, McNab was forced to abandon his estates and debts and flee to Upper Canada. Dire circumstances resulting from the infamous Highland Clearances and fear of losing stalwart crofters to the rebellious colonies made settlement of McNab Township both viable and vital to the Empire.

Title to 100 acres of land was promised once all debts and terms were met within seven years. McNab expected quit-rent or feudal dues for “[his] heirs and successors forever.” He intended to maintain Highland social traditions. His obstinate desire to control all aspects of McNab Township contributed to his downfall.

He was a poor administrator. He was arrogant and demanded respect. When he furiously proclaimed that “[he was] Chief of Clan McNab; tis my township; the settlers are my children; they are in my charge,” it did little to foster genuine clan loyalty. He appeared desperate to maintain clan traditions in a modern society and feared losing his land for a second time.

Life in McNab was anything but a ceilidh for the settlers. McNab spent more time in litigation against settlers instead of improving the township. They were arrested for leaving the township and selling timber illegally, and were even accused of conspiracy. When rumour spread that he was not the lawful owner of McNab (an investigation that eventually proved correct), he threatened to punish the entire township. Near the end, MacGregor admits that “[he] no longer fe[lt] close to [his] Chief” and that McNab became a laughing stock.

Mulholland creatively captures McNab’s endeavours and MacGregor’s romantic follies. His keen understanding of the past and attention to the subtle nuances of Highland life make his novel believable and an enjoyable read.