Calling of the Clans
Honoring Family, Heritage, and Friendly Island Rivalry
Calling of the Clans is a community-centered fundraiser that connects Beaver Island’s historic families and the wider island diaspora to the ongoing work of the Beaver Island Irish Heritage Group (BIIHG).
Rooted in Irish tradition and island history, Calling of the Clans celebrates shared heritage while supporting BIIHG’s mission to recognize, showcase, and preserve Beaver Island’s unique Irish legacy, including its connection to Arranmore Island, County Donegal, Ireland.
At its heart, Calling of the Clans is about honoring family ties, strengthening community connections, and having a little fun along the way.
How It Works
Calling of the Clans is a fun, welcoming, and friendly competition among Beaver Island families and supporters. Individuals contribute in the name of a family clan, combining donations to show collective pride and support for Irish heritage on the island.
The competitive element is intentionally lighthearted. While clans enjoy friendly bragging rights, the true goal is shared generosity and sustaining the work of BIIHG for years to come.
In 2025, Calling of the Clans raised more than $20,000 from over 120 individual donors.
Participating clans have included: Boyle, Connaghan, Cull, Gallagher, Gillespie, Green/Greene, Martin, McCafferty, McCann, McCauley/Malloy, McDonough, and O’Donnell.
Each gift contributes to the long-term preservation of Irish culture and community life on Beaver Island. The challenge concludes at noon on Saturday, March 14, 2026, when the clan with the most cumulative donations will earn year-long bragging rights and the honor of showcasing their family history and heirlooms in the Féile’s Hearth Area. While gifts are welcome at any time, donations received by this deadline will count toward determining the 2026 Clan Winner.
Not Part of a Historic Clan?
You do not need to belong to one of Beaver Island’s historic clans to participate. Anyone with a meaningful connection to the island is welcome to create a new clan and join the friendly competition.
New clans represent the living evolution of Beaver Island’s Irish heritage. Participants are even encouraged to design their own Clan Crest. The Heller-Perdue Clan, established in 2023, is one example of how new traditions continue to grow.
Clan of the Year
Each year, the clan that raises the most support by a designated deadline earns the title of Clan of the Year. While the competition adds excitement, all clans contribute meaningfully to the mission.
2025 Clan of the Year: Greene/Green
Second Place: Cull
Third Place: Connaghan
The Clan of the Year receives special recognition during the festival, including the opportunity to decorate the Hearth Area with family photos and heirlooms.
All clans that raise $1,000 or more are recognized during the festival with a family crest flag displayed at Festival Headquarters at Holy Cross Hall. These flags celebrate generosity, heritage, and the friendly spirit that defines Calling of the Clans.
Holy Hour and Calling of the Clans Dinner
Calling of the Clans supporters are invited to kick off the festival weekend with a special Holy Hour and Dinner on Thursday, September 10.
Hosted by Jerry Early, this invitation-only gathering is inspired by the weekly social tradition at Early’s Pub on Arranmore Island and serves as a thank-you to those supporting the work of the Beaver Island Irish Heritage Group.
- $50 admission for one
- $100 admission for you and a guest