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AUTHOR COFFEE MORNING

TRADING FATE

THE LITTLE COMPANY THAT SAVED BRITISH COLUMBIA

Monday, 18th May

Talk begins at 10:30


 
 
 
 
Club Member Graeme Menzies provides a uniquely west coast perspective on the Canadian origin story – explore the event that prevented British Columbia from becoming an American State.
 
 

TIME & LOCATION



Date and time: Monday 18th May 2026 from 10:30 – 12:00

Location: The Douglas Room, 29-31 Abercromby Place, EH3 6QE
Ticket type
Price

Club Member
£5.00
General Admission
£8.00



 
 

ABOUT THE BOOK

Trading Fate provides a uniquely west coast perspective on the Canadian origin story, and reveals the details of a remarkable, true, yet little-known event that prevented British Columbia from becoming an American State.

Heritage House Review

“With clear, engaging prose, author Graeme Menzies lays out the setting, intrigue, and dynamic cast of characters that ultimately determined Canada’s geographical fate. Released at a time when imperialism, sovereignty, and national identity are more relevant than ever, this book asks us to ponder the events that shaped a nation and established a relationship between neighbouring countries that has once again become precarious.”

 
 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Graeme Menzies is a Vancouver-based writer, researcher, storyteller, and international marketing and communications professional with a natural curiosity that informs his writing and fuels his passion for sharing stories. He is the author of the historical biography Bones: The Life and Adventures of Doctor Archibald Menzies and co-author (with Dave Doroghy) of several guide books. He is an Associate Fellow of the Royal Historical Society.

Graeme’s professional career includes work in international trade and diplomacy, culture, sport, and higher education. He was an officer in the Canadian Armed Forces’ Cadet Instructor Cadre, and currently volunteers with the Army Cadet League of Canada, and is a member of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada’s Regimental Association. In 2025 he received the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of contributions to Canada.

 

JOIN US

FOR LUNCH

Enjoy a post-event lunch in the Abercromby Dining Room from our seasonal lunch menu.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

05
Jun

The Captain’s Table

The Captain’s Table is a regular Royal Scots Club lunch where members and their guests can get together and enjoy good food, good conversation and meet new people.

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06
Jun

Beating Retreat

A classic and beloved event at The Royal Scots Club featuring welcome drinks in the Club’s Abercromby Dining and Douglas Rooms facing the beautiful Queen Street Gardens East.

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11
Jun

Great Kilt Demonstration with Scotland Shop

Enjoy an evening of immersion into the world of tartan, a presentation on clans along with a demonstration of how to style and wear a great kilt!


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18
Jun

Members Drinks

A rallying call! Gather with your friends and fellow social members in the cocktail bar for an evening drink and a chinwag on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Guests welcome. Food available for purchase. Attendance is free – all food and drinks can be

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19
Jun

G.L.O.W. Gal’s Lunch

Gathering Ladies of Wit. A Royal Scots Club monthly lunch for our ladies and their guests in the Abercromby Dining room.

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22
Jun

Evening Lecture: The House of War

The House of War is a sweeping narrative of over 1000 years of confrontation and conflict between the armies of Christendom and those of the Caliphate.


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03
Jul

Soldiers’ Long Lunch

The lunch takes place in Edinburgh’s most glamorous 5* hotel, Prestonfield House, on Friday 3rd July 2026, starting at 1p.m. Enjoy a glass of champagne on arrival, taking in the spectacular setting in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat. A three-course dinner


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23
Oct

Trafalgar Night Dinner

Join us at the Royal Scots Club on Friday 23rd October for our Trafalgar Night Dinner held in support of The Royal Marines Charity.


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