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Celebrating Doric Heritage: The Legacy of Cocky Hunter and Scottish Traditions

by Author 31 Oct 2024
At Cocky Hunter, we’re not just a marketplace – we’re rooted in history, family, and the cultural richness of the northeast of Scotland. Our very name, "Cocky Hunter," comes from our great grandfather, a proud Scotsman whose love for his homeland and Doric heritage shaped our values and spirit. In this post, we pay tribute to Cocky Hunter’s legacy and the vibrant Doric traditions he passed down through generations.

1. Doric Language: A Dialect Rich in History Our great grandfather, Cocky Hunter, was fluent in Doric – a dialect spoken in northeast Scotland, particularly around Aberdeen. Doric words like "fit like?" (how are you?) and "loon" (boy) filled our family gatherings with warmth and a sense of place. Far from being "just" a dialect, Doric is a linguistic marker of pride, identity, and heritage. Every year, Cocky would bring us together to share stories in Doric, reminding us of our family’s deep roots in Scottish soil. 

2. Hogmanay: A New Year’s Celebration Like No Other Hogmanay, or New Year’s Eve, was always a grand occasion for Cocky Hunter. In traditional Scottish style, Hogmanay wasn’t complete without "first-footing" – the custom of being the first visitor to step over someone’s threshold after midnight. Bringing gifts like coal, shortbread, or whisky, Cocky would enter our home with a booming laugh and well wishes, symbolizing luck for the year ahead. This tradition remains close to our hearts as a reminder of Cocky’s belief in community and goodwill.

3. Burns Night: Honoring Scotland’s Beloved Poet No Doric celebration would be complete without Burns Night. Cocky Hunter was a devoted admirer of Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns. Every January, he would gather friends and family to recite Burns’ poems, toast with whisky, and of course, serve haggis. Cocky’s Burns Nights were known for their lively renditions of "Address to a Haggis" and heartfelt readings of "Auld Lang Syne," making them a cherished part of our family’s cultural calendar.

4. Ceilidhs: Dancing, Music, and Merriment The ceilidh, a traditional Scottish social gathering with dancing and music, was one of Cocky’s favorite ways to bring people together. He believed in the power of laughter, music, and shared moments. At every ceilidh, he’d encourage everyone to join in, whether dancing to the sound of a lively fiddle or clapping along to classic tunes. These gatherings were filled with stories, laughter, and the joy of being together – a tradition we still carry on today in his honor.

5. Storytelling: Passing Down Tales of Doric Legends One of the most powerful ways Cocky Hunter kept Doric heritage alive was through storytelling. He’d tell our parents of the "broonies" (brownies), mischievous household spirits said to help with chores, or warn us of the "kelpies," mythical water creatures of Scottish folklore. Through these tales, he connected us with Scotland’s ancient legends, teaching us the importance of preserving and sharing our cultural heritage.

Cocky Hunter’s love for his Doric heritage was more than just tradition – it was a way of life. His passion for language, customs, and folklore has left a lasting mark on our family and, by extension, on Cocky Hunter as a brand. As we honour his legacy, we invite you to join us in celebrating Scotland’s Doric traditions, embracing the warmth, humor, and strength that defined him. Here’s to Cocky Hunter and the timeless spirit of the northeast of Scotland!

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