05/31/2026
In 2017, the Beaton Institute and Gael community lost a good friend and champion of Gaelic language and culture. John Alick MacPherson (Seonaidh Ailig Mac a’ Phearsain) was a Gaelic scholar, educator, and broadcaster who moved from North Uist to Cape Breton in 1972, to work for the Glace Bay Heavy Water Plant as communications director. His arrival in Cape Breton coincided with the efforts of An Comunn Gaidhlig Cheap Breatuinn focused on language revival, and revive connections between the Hebrides and Cape Breton. He also worked with Sister Margaret Beaton and staff of the Institute to assist with the preservation of Gaelic cultural collections. John Alick continued to complete translation work, collaborated on multiple publications, and brought joy and laughter to all who knew him. John's wife Helen has generously donated his library holdings to the Beaton Institute and Cape Breton University Library, which is a valuable and significant resource for future students and patrons.
As Mìos nan Gàidheal | Gaelic Nova Scotia Month comes to a close, we would like to share this audio recording of John Alick hosting a BBC Glasgow program exploring Gaelic culture and language throughout Cape Breton Island: https://www.beatoninstitute.com/t-311.
Image credit:
John Alick MacPherson (far left) with Sister Margaret Beaton (third from left) and others at Cape Bretoniana (now The Beaton Institute), Logue Building, Xavier Junior College, c. 1974. MG 12.46-F-1.1.
