Drambeg: dram beag, a small dram or drink
Ewen Bain first thought up the character of Angus Og after an editor at The Bulletin suggested he come up with an idea for a cartoon strip. Ewen, who described himself as a ‘Skye-man from Maryhill’ says in Gàire, Acair 1990, that he was inspired by some of the characters he met in the Isle of Skye, older men who still lived with their mothers who treated them as if they were still adolescents! He thought probably you saw similar characters in other islands and with that idea Angus Og was born!
Wisely, Ewen decided not to set the adventures of Angus Og in Skye and realised that a new, fictional island, possibly inspired by several real-life islands, would allow him more artistic freedom. The Island of Drambeg is (usually) situated off the west coast of Scotland in the Utter Hebrides. It is, most likely, a composite of all the Hebrides but elements of this fictional island are undoubtedly inspired by Skye; you take the ferry to Drambeg from Kyle, there is a ridge of hills that run across the island that are reminiscent of the Cuillins or the Trotternish Ridge and which feature a distinctive pinnacle of rock called the Old Man of Ben Oovi and just as they did in Skye in 1880s the British Government sends troops to quash the revolting crofters!
Ewen captures island life with a real warmth and understanding. Drambeg is home to a vibrant community of islanders who are joined by a cast of visitors throughout the adventures of Angus Og. Have a peek at the photos hanging on Mrs Og’s wall below for an introduction to some of these regular characters.
Ewen Bain had great fun naming his characters, often giving a clue as to their occupation or personality. As you explore Drambeg you may meet Mr McFee, lawyer, Miss McJotter, school teacher, Pipe Major McDrone or Mr MacKerell, fish-merchant!
Who were your favourite characters from Drambeg? Tell us on the Share Your Stories page or email.
