An internationally renowned piper, Dunbar was born in Halkirk, Scotland. In 1886 he joined the British army, embarking upon a distinguished career as a military piper. During the Boer War, Dunbar was wounded while piping troops into battle. For his gallantry he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal. In 1911 he emigrated to Hamilton where he soon joined the 91st (later the Argyll and Sutherland) Highlanders. As pipe-major of the 19th Battalion, he saw action during the First World War. Widely respected for his devotion to duty and gentlemanly demeanor and acclaimed as a musician and bandsman, Dunbar received many honours. Unique among them was his appointment as lieutenant in 1917, the first pipe-major to become pipe-officer in the history of Canadian and British forces.

Location

At the entrance to the armoury of the 91st Highlanders, James Street North, Hamilton

Themes

• People
• War and conflict