The Clan Hunter Team
The Clan Hunter Team comprise a dedicated and diverse group of people who are passionate about the Clan Hunter history and their heritage. Having experience in different areas of work means we can pool our skills to contribute to the clan on a variety of levels.
Always brimming with ideas and no task too daunting, the Clan Hunter Teams operate like a well-oiled machine, collaborating to ensure our members have the finest experience during their visit, be it a castle tour or the biennial Clan Hunter International Gathering.
Meet the Clan Hunter Genealogy Team
Joan Hunter
I’m a hybrid. My mother was Hungarian, born in Romania, raised in Ontario, Canada. My father was born in Manitoba, Canada, of Scots-Irish and Cornish descent. They met in the RCAF during WWII. War is hell, but in this case, it enabled the births of me and my siblings.
I first developed an interest in genealogy 50 years ago when my daughter, Veronica, was born. Unfortunately, at the time I didn’t live anywhere near where records could be found, there was no internet, and I had no idea who to even write to. So, I asked questions of my living relatives…info was scarce and sometimes conflicting. I put my handwritten notes in a box and left it for the next 23 years.
Two grandchildren later and a trip to Cornwall, England, where I stood at the graves of my paternal grandmother’s ancestors, and I was again bitten by the bug. LDS was loading data on the internet, genealogy societies were cropping up all over where you could purchase hard copies of indices and floppy disks. We are now so fortunate to have so much available at our very fingertips.
I submitted my Dad’s DNA for y-testing back when Ancestry first dipped their toes in the gene pool. Through this I made a life-long friend in Georgia, USA, of a 4th Hunter cousin. His first cousin (and my 4th) was Neilia Hunter Biden (yes, Hunter’s mom). When autosomal DNA became available I tested myself and the rest of my immediate family. I’ve found lovely cousins all over the world.
Having been born in Canada, but living in Michigan and Indiana during my formative years, I wish I had known then how far and deep the bloodlines go. I have DNA matches to almost every surname in my high school graduating class. I wouldn’t have felt so foreign had I’d know this.
So, I’ve been working on my trees and DNA connections for the past 26 years. I’ve been to two Hunter Clan Gatherings, one in 2002 and the other in 2022. When Charles put out a call for help, I felt it was time to step up and do whatever I can to help promote this wonderful group.
Hi, I’m Treena Hunter —and no, it’s not short for Katrina (I know, everyone asks!). I’m a proud Kiwi from Auckland, New Zealand, where I live with my partner Gary and our two boys, Jayke and Kory.
My passion for genealogy began 15 years ago sparked by my brother’s search for a Hunter family name for his son. It didn’t take long for us to realise just how little we actually knew about our family history.
As a busy working mum, life is a constant juggle of work, kids, and the never-ending to-do list. But when I get a spare moment, you’ll usually find me happily immersed in ancestry research.
I’ve been fortunate that many of my Hunter ancestors had the middle name “Steen,” which made it easier to trace our roots back to Dunmurry, in Antrim and Down, Ireland. My research was also supported by the book Linen Houses of the Lagan Valley: The Story of Their Families by Kathleen Rankin, which documents this branch of the family.
As part of the Clan Hunter Genealogy Team, I’m excited to help bring the Hunter Genealogy Project to life and preserve and expand the Hunter family history for future generations.
Meet the Clan Hunter Tour Guides
Janet Martin is the owner and manager of THATco, a tour company. She is dedicated to creating connections between people and places. Janet coordinates tours and events that provide a taste of Ayrshire’s local history.
Joanna Spencer is a passionate horticulturist, gardener, and lavender cultivator. She takes pleasure in crafting period costumes. As an enthusiastic historian and family genealogist, she loves to impart her extensive knowledge to others.
Robin Spencer, a re-enactor and longbow archer, possesses a profound interest in history, travel, and foreign languages. In collaboration with Joanna, he has organized various historical-themed events, including medieval fairs and banquets.
Gillian Philips is an experienced tour guide and an exemplary host. She has a passion for storytelling, utilizing our vibrant history to ignite the imagination and animate the past. Additionally, Gillian conducts handfasting ceremonies and runs the Clan Hunter Shop.
Siobhan Staples is a writer and avid reader with a keen interest in local heritage. She is an experienced tour guide and also organizes book and music festivals throughout Scotland.
Julia Coulthard is currently studying theatre production technology and management at the Royal Conservatoire in Glasgow. During her summer break, she becomes part of the tour guide team at Hunterston Castle.
Will Galloway has a background in financial services. Working as a payment consultant, he installed a card reader in the shop, became enamored with the castle, and as the saying goes, the rest is history.
Meet the Clan Hunter Team U.S.A.
Jamie Hunter Casiano and Wendy Hunter Johnson
My name is Jamie Hunter Casiano, and I reside in South Texas. I am blessed with an amazing husband and two wonderful children.
A few years ago, I embarked on a journey to become part of Clan Hunter, driven by a desire to uncover as much information as possible about my ancestry. Like many before me, I discovered our clan and realized that we are part of something far greater than I had ever imagined. The deeper I delved, the more thrilling the journey became. Each session at my computer, researching and learning about our history, was like unwrapping a gift filled with knowledge for which I was immensely thankful.
The urgency to preserve and share our narrative grew, not just for the sake of collective memory, but also for deeply personal reasons. Understanding the challenges and triumphs of our ancestors provides a beacon, guiding my way forward.
I am currently enrolled in cybersecurity courses to advance my career in the security field. Previously, I served with the Federal Protective Service, Department of Homeland Security, before relocating to Florida to be closer to my family and accepting a role in the security department at Walt Disney World in Orlando. It was there that I met my husband. Years later, we moved to South Texas, where he now serves as an Officer for Customs and Border Protection, alongside his K9 partner, Lola.
Working at Walt Disney World stands out as the most distinctive and fulfilling experience in my career. Every day was shrouded in mystery, with no two days ever being identical. I witnessed the full spectrum of human behavior, from the very best to the very worst. Yet, it was this role that empowered me to serve and, as the saying goes, “protect the magic.”
During my time at WDW, I received recognition from the Magic Kingdom’s Duty Manager for my handling of a domestic violence incident. While the details must remain confidential, it suffices to say that the princess learned she didn’t need a prince to save her.
On the weekend you can usually find me exploring the outdoors with my family, fishing with my daughter or if the weather is unbearably hot, inside working on a new quilt. I am also a fan of American Muscle cars and martial arts. I have won several medals competing in Hapkido events, including the World Championships in 2010 where I won the gold medal for Women’s Self Defense Division 1.
I am honored to contribute to the promotion and preservation of Clan Hunter as the Tartan Sales Coordinator. In this role, I will manage the supply and distribution of our clan’s tartan and flags. Should you have any inquiries, please contact me at clanhuntergear@gmail.com. I eagerly anticipate seeing everyone adorned in our distinguished Clan Hunter tartan!
Wendy Hunter Johnson
I’m Wendy Hunter Johnson, a lifelong Indiana resident. My interest in genealogy was sparked by the novel “Outlander,” which led me to discover our Scottish family ties and contribute to our Clan Hunter Facebook group.
My hobbies include archery—I had the pleasure of shooting with the Ancient Society of Kilwinning Archers at the 2022 International Clan Hunter Gathering—reading historical books and fiction, and pursuing genealogical research with the aim of joining the DAR in 2025. I also take pleasure in gardening, finding joy in plants similar to those in Hunterston Castle’s walled garden, fabric artistry, attending NFL games with my husband Gino (cheering for the Indianapolis Colts!), and cherishing moments with friends.
Previously, I served as the Director of the Make It Personal Drive in my hometown. We fundraised and gathered personal care items for our local Township Trustees’ food pantry to assist those in need. Additionally, I supported my husband, Gino, in the Miracle Ride, which raised funds for our local children’s hospital, Riley Hospital for Children, amassing over $7 million.
I have also supported our local Humane Society by gathering items from their wish list during chili parties. Last month, I upheld this tradition at our neighborhood Fall Party, where we amassed over 100 items for the animals under their care. Annually, I assist in distributing backpacks and supplies to underprivileged children in Canton, Ohio, in collaboration with the Professional Football’s Ultimate Fan Association (PFUFA) during the National Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Week, where my passion for community service and American football merge.
Today, as a dedicated member of Clan Hunter, I am thrilled to assume the position of Clan Hunter Games and Events Coordinator. In this capacity, I will manage event packets, assist individuals with their ideas, and ensure consistency in our public image. If anyone is keen on contributing to a game or event, I am eager to guide you through the initiation process.
Events Pack Update May 2025
Thank you for everyone that has reached out to me and received a games package. We’d love for you to share pictures of your setup for the September Clan Hunter International Newsletter.
Clan Hunter will be represented with our official gear at the following games this year. If you are representing Clan Hunter at a game or event and DO NOT see your game or event listed, please follow-up with me so we can get you set up with the official gear.
Madam Pauline has requested that all public displays promoting Clan Hunter should use these approved designs of banners externally. All funds are paid directly to Clan Hunter USA, a not-for-profit organization.
If you are unable to host, but would like to volunteer, then reach out to me as well and I’ll connect you. If you are hosting and would like volunteers to help you set up/tear down/take breaks, let me know and I’ll reach out.
Here are the Games and Events around North America and Canada 2025 that will be represented with our Clan Hunter official gear:
- May 17-18, Victoria Highland Games, Vancouver Island, Canada
- June 8th, Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games, Hiawassee, Georgia
- June 13-15, Utah Scottish Festival, Salt Lake City, Utah
- June 28th The James Hunter III Family 100th reunion, Deer Creek, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- July 10-13, Grandfather Mountain Games, Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina
- July 11-12, Payson Scottish Festival, Payson, Utah
- July 19th, Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival, Look Park, Northampton, Massachusetts
- August 8-10, Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games, Ontario, Canada
- August 30-31, Pleasanton Scottish Highland Gathering and Games, Pleasanton, California
- October 11th, Indianapolis Scottish Highland Games and Festival, Indianapolis, Indiana
- October 17-18, Stone Mountain Highland Games, Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain, Georgia
- December 31st, Scottish Walk, Portsmouth, Virginia every New Years Eve
And here below is the list of Highland Games around North America and Canada 2025 where Clan Hunter will be represented without our official gear:
- February 8th, Tallahassee Highland Games, Tallahassee, Florida
- May 3rd,Rocket City Scottish Festival and Highland Games, Huntsville, Alabama
- May 17-18,Victoria Highland Games, Vancouver Island, Canada
- June 8th,Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games, Hiawassee, Georgia
- June 13-15,Utah Scottish Festival, Salt Lake City, Utah
- June 27-28,Ohio Scottish Games & Celtic Festival, Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, Middleburgh Heights, OH
- June 28thThe James Hunter III Family 100th reunion, Deer Creek, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- July, Flagstaff Celtic Festival, Flagstaff, AZ
- July 10-13,Grandfather Mountain Games, Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina
- July 11-12,Payson Scottish Festival, Payson, Utah
- July 19th,Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival, Look Park, Northampton, Massachusetts
- July 26-28,Seattle Scottish Highland Games, Enumclaw, WA
- August 8-10, Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games, Ontario, Canada
- August 30-31, Pleasanton Scottish Highland Gathering and Games, Pleasanton, California
- August 30-September 1, Ohio Renaissance Festival, Wanesville, OH
- September 27-28, Prescott Highland Games & Celtic Faire, ‘Loch Watson’ (Watson Lake Park) in Prescott,
- AZ
- October 11th, Indianapolis Scottish Highland Games and Festival, Indianapolis, Indiana
- October 17-18, Stone Mountain Highland Games, Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain,Georgia
- October 24-26, Tucson Celtic Festival and Scottish Highland Games, Tucson, AZ
- December 7th, Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade, VA
- December 31st, Scottish Walk, Portsmouth, Virginia every New Years Eve
- 2026, Phoenix Scottish Games
Yours Aye,
Wendy Hunter Johnson
Clan Hunter
Games and Public Event Coordinator
