Known as the Immortal Bard of Scotland, Robert Burns is widely recognized as the nation’s poet and continues to be honored across the world. He was born on January 25th, 1759, in Alloway, Ayrshire, Scotland. Burns possessed a deep sense of empathy, often embracing the struggles of others as if they were his own. His poetry and songs are marked by a distinctive clarity and emotional depth, capturing the hardships and hopes of ordinary people. These qualities give his words a lasting resonance that remains relevant today.
His enduring works include Auld Lang Syne, To a Mouse, Tam o’ Shanter, A Fond Kiss, Afton Water, Red, Red Rose, Scots Wha Hae, A Man’s a Man for A’, Coming Thro the Rye, Selkirk Grace, and Address to Haggis.
Burns is best remembered for writing in both the Scots language and English, as well as for using a more approachable Scots dialect that allowed his work to reach audiences far beyond Scotland. He passed away on July 21, 1796. The Robert Burns Society of Charleston honors his life, lasting influence, and body of work by supporting Scottish arts throughout the year. The Society is also a member of the Robert Burns World Federation Ltd.
The Robert Burns Society of Charleston Inc. is recognized as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to celebrating and sustaining Scottish-American heritage in the South Carolina Lowcountry. This commitment includes the promotion of historical awareness, cultural expression, and military traditions associated with Scotland. The Society fulfills its mission by hosting educational and cultural activities, supporting the mastery of traditional Scottish arts—such as Highland Bagpiping, Highland Dance, Scottish Fiddle, Scottish Harp (Clàrsach), and the Scots Gaelic language—and by providing grants and scholarships that support academic advancement within the Scottish-American community.
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