Cincinnati Caledonian Pipes & Drums was established around 1912, making it one of the oldest pipe bands in the United States. It was founded by Scottish immigrant William Lorne Nimmo, a Cincinnati police lieutenant, with support from members of the Caledonian Society. Early accounts say the band began with around 20 members and soon became active in civic events, parades and wartime morale efforts.

After the First World War, veterans connected with the Seaforth Highlanders joined the band, helping shape its identity. The band adopted the Mackenzie tartan and the stag’s-head badge with the motto “Cuidich n’Righ”. Through the 20th century, it remained a regular presence at Cincinnati Scottish events, St Patrick’s Day parades, Highland games and community performances.

Today, Cincinnati Caledonian Pipes & Drums continues to promote traditional Scottish piping and drumming in Ohio through performance, teaching and competition. A proper long-runner then: over a century of pipes, drums, tartan and Cincinnati pavement taking a rhythmic battering.