Jeannie Campbell was able to identify this maker through a publication of the Bacchus Marsh Express, February 18, 1899. R W Morrison was identified as Pipe Major of the Scottish Volunteers (Melbourne) and a bagpipe maker. According to the owner of the bagpipe shown here, Morrison’s great great granddaughter says that he left Mull in 1888 and died in Melbourne in 1927. The instrument is said to be very “Hendersonesque” in its sound and behavior. It is stamped “R. MORRISON MELB” on the blowpipe and chanter. Apparently, he used Myall wood from New South Wales.
I am pleased to provide a recent picture of the bagpipe after restoration and hope to provide more soon.
