Mapleton, Minn. -
Since last November Kiersten Welborn has been practicing her Jacobite Sword Dance every Saturday. Welborn has danced at the Burns celebration since first grade, but she still gets nervous right before going onstage. Welborn says, "Really nervous, but once you get out there the lighting blocks all the people."
The highland dancing, bagpipe music, and the crowning of this year's Miss Bonnie Lass, is all in celebration of the birth of Scottish poet Robert Burns. Mapleton has been honoring Robert Burns for more than 100 years making it one of Minnesota's oldest running celebrations. Emcee Jon Stevens says, "I think it's just a testament to our strong vibrant community."
Stevens says the Scottish immigrants that settled in Mapleton started this celebration as a way to tie them back to their homeland. Stevens says, "If you live in Mapleton or the surrounding area, you definitely feel like you're a little bit Scottish."
Now on it's 137th year, this tradition has tight ties within the town. Stevens says, "Well why does anybody care about tradition. It ties you back to how you grew up."
Welborn says she too has her own tradition she does before she dances. Welborn says, "usually do a pinky swear for good luck or whatever."
Welborn carrying on the custom is crucial.
