Royal Highlanders of Aurora: Cloaked in mystery, hard work

Organization founded 124 years ago, seen at museum

  • The charter organization of Douglas Castle No.1, in Aurora. This flash-light picture was taken after the official organization of the Royal Highlanders on Aug. 11, 1896. Photo courtesy of the Plainsman Museum
    The charter organization of Douglas Castle No.1, in Aurora. This flash-light picture was taken after the official organization of the Royal Highlanders on Aug. 11, 1896. Photo courtesy of the Plainsman Museum
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  • At left: The Royal Highlanders building, known also as Doulgas Castle or more modernly as the Fidelity Building, was the headquarters for the organization. This building was modeled after an actual castle in Scotland. Seen on the balcony is Royal Highlanders co-founder Frank Sharp. Above: This uniform, likely a female version of those worn at Douglas Castle, was donated to the Plainsman by Miss Claribell Burt of Aurora.
    At left: The Royal Highlanders building, known also as Doulgas Castle or more modernly as the Fidelity Building, was the headquarters for the organization. This building was modeled after an actual castle in Scotland. Seen on the balcony is Royal Highlanders co-founder Frank Sharp. Above: This uniform, likely a female version of those worn at Douglas Castle, was donated to the Plainsman by Miss Claribell Burt of Aurora.
    One who is not familiar with local history or the Plainsman Museum might be surprised to find a display case within its walls that seems just a tad out of place for a rural Nebraska community. Behind thin glass lay kilts, shoe buckles, plaid hats, and old metal knight-like helmets, a spear and large shiny shield. What is Scottish Highlander regalia doing in Aurora? One parti...

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