"We the undersigned consider it would be advantageous to have Highland Games in Crieff; and hereby request you to call a meeting of those favourable, to make arrangements for a gathering in August or September first. John Campbell, John Ironside, Lauchlan McPherson and fifty two others."
28th May 1870 Strathearn Herald - To Dr George Murray Porteus, Provost of Crieff.
Poster from the first Crieff Highland Gathering
The meeting accordingly took place two days later and the following citizens attended at 12 noon:
Provost George Murray Porteus, Bailies Campbell and Ramsay; John Ironside, Solicitor; James McLaren, Solicitor; J. E. Ross, Factor Abercairney; Lachlan Macpherson, Farmer, Laggan; William France, Hosh; William France Jnr., Accountant Commercial Bank; John Foster, China Merchant; Adam Stewart, Printer; David Dow, Tailor; David Phillips, Printer; James McNab, Bookseller; Robert Clement, Writer; Daniel Sinclair, Innkeeper; James McAinsh; John McEwan, Auctioneer; Robert M'Gregor, Flesher; Thomas Menzies, Student; Duncan McGregor, Plasterer; David Scrimgeour; Robert White, Tinsmith; James Miller, Broadley; Peter Wilson, Bogle House; Hugh Gillies, Tailor.
After discussion the Provost moved that an Association or Society be formed in Crieff for the purpose of Highland or Athletic Games which was seconded by Mr White and carried almost urranimously. A committee - 49 strong - was appointed and the sum of £30 was immediately subscribed. By 21 st June total subscriptions amounted to £60 and the first Games were arranged to be held in Academy Park on August 18th 1870.