Pàdraig Aonghais Sìne | Pàdraig Aonghais Iain 'ic Dhòmhnaill 'ic Phàdraig Bhàin 'ic Raghnaill

Patrick MacEachern was an exceptional storyteller and tradition bearer of Arisaig descent, deeply rooted in the Gaelic culture of Glendale, Inverness County, where he lived his entire life in the family home. Born to March 15, 1917 to Donald Angus MacEachern of Glendale and Isabel (Bella) MacEachern of Maple Brook, Patrick was the sole surviving child of his parents, his only sibling having died in infancy.

Patrick’s considerable repertoire included local histories, prayers, beliefs, and rare folktales. His maternal grandmother, Isabel O’Handley, was a primary source of his storytelling inspiration. She passed down tales from her grandfather, Roderick (Ruairidh Mór) O’Handley, a settler from South Uist. Patrick’s paternal ancestors hailed from Arisaig, bringing with them legends from the Scottish mainland. This blend of South Uist and Arisaig traditions enriched Patrick’s storytelling and connected his narratives to the broader Gaelic world.

Known for his captivating recitations, Patrick’s storytelling often took place in his kitchen, where he would recline in a rocking chair by the stove. Among his most treasured tales was a rare version of a Finn Cycle story involving Oisean, Oscor, and Fionn. This particular tale, linked to medieval Gaelic and Norse traditions, is of immense value to folklore specialists.Patrick’s storytelling extended beyond heroic legends. His repertoire included accounts of buried treasure, fairy lore, apparitions, cures, divination, and beliefs about the afterlife. His tales reflected the rich oral tradition of Glendale during his lifetime, a community alive with Gaelic song, music, and stories.

A founding member of The Glendale Gaelic and Historical Society |Comunn Eachdraidh 's Gàidhlig a' Bhràighe, Patrick was instrumental in preserving and promoting the area’s Gaelic heritage. He was admired for his intellectual acuity, strong faith, and generosity as a neighbour and friend.