One of the great joys of family history research is when relatives from across the ocean come for a visit. The Cappie family’s trip in 1982 from Scotland to Scranton was one such memorable occasion. The Cappies consisted of George, his wife Anne (my mother’s first cousin), and their daughter Carolanne. Their visit bridged generations, rekindled old ties, and reminded everyone of the bonds that time and distance can never erase. (Unfortunately, I was not able to come home from Maine to meet the Cappies while they were in Scranton).
After the Cappies returned home, my mother summarized their visit on the local newspaper social page:
- “Mr. and Mrs. George Cappie and their daughter, Carolanne, returned home to the Kingdom of Fife, Scotland, after spending three wonderful weeks visiting family and friends in our area. Mrs. Cappie is the former Ann Gaughan, reconnecting with members of the Holmes, Donlan, and Gaughan families during their stay.
- The Cappies were warmly entertained by cousins Hugh and Peg Holmes Donlan of Sloan Street; Patrick and Kay Donlan McHale, Mrs. Anna Wedlock, and Bill and Liz Gaughan of Watson Avenue; Jane Gaughan of Lake Sheridan; Lenny and Patricia Donlan Krieger of Sloan Street; and Bridget Rogers of Pond Avenue.
- They also visited the homes of Terry and Marion Holmes in Moosic, James Kenny and Mrs. Sara Frazier of Elk Lake, and returned again to visit Bridget Rogers on Pond Avenue.”
A Family Gathering to Remember
One of the highlights of the visit was a lively gathering at my sister Kay’s, and brother-in-law Pat McHale’s home. More than thirty relatives and friends came together to welcome the Cappies. They reminisced about shared family stories. These stories span both sides of the Atlantic.
Each photo captures not only faces. It also reveals the deep-rooted connections between families. Though separated by continents, these families share the same stories, laughter, and love.
The Lake Sheridan Picnic
Our Gaughan cousins hosted a memorable picnic at Lake Sheridan in honor of the Cappies. It was a sunny, joy-filled day alongside family and friends. One that truly embodied the spirit of togetherness.
These gatherings showed just how closely the roots of our Irish and Scottish families intertwine. We are connected across generations by shared memories, hospitality, and the enduring pull of family heritage.
Visiting the Cappies in Fife
In 2017 I traveled to Scotland with several of my cousins. During this trip, I was able to meet up with the Cappies in Burntisland. It was great to meet them 35 years after they had visited Scranton.
And In 2019, I had the pleasure of visiting the Cappies once again with my girlfriend Deborah. This time, it was at their home in Crosshill, Fife. The Scottish countryside was as warm and welcoming as the Cappies themselves. Our time together was another reminder that family ties, no matter how far they stretch, remain strong and meaningful. (We left in the darkness and almost forgot to get a picture together!)
In 2023, Deborah and I made our way to the Cappies house to say hello again. Sadly, Anne had passed since our last visit. But George and Carolanne welcomed us warmly.
Reflection on Visits with the Cappies
Moments like these are the heart of family history. They bring our ancestors’ stories to life. Not as distant records or names on paper, but as living connections shared across oceans. The Cappies’ visit and my visits to the Cappies celebrated more than a reunion. They reaffirmed the living legacy of our Scottish roots.
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