Ron Schafer recounts being guided by a mysterious voice to a hidden location in the loft of an old barn in South Langley, B.C. Concealed behind a layer of wallpaper, Schafer discovered a sterling silver trophy delicately wrapped in disintegrating paper. After bringing it home, cleaning it, and placing it on a shelf for further investigation, 30 years have passed with intermittent progress due to life’s distractions.
On a determined mission now, Schafer aims to reunite the trophy with its rightful owners, whom he believes are in Manitoba. His primary goal is to locate a descendant of Lachlan Collie, to whom the cup rightfully belongs. Collie, a renowned bagpiper in Winnipeg’s early days, earned accolades, played for esteemed figures, and left a mark on the city’s history before passing away tragically in 1929.
Despite Schafer’s attempts to trace Collie’s relatives, his efforts have been fruitless. Fascinated by Collie’s legacy, Schafer expresses a strong desire to return the trophy to the family, envisioning it proudly displayed in their home as a cherished heirloom.
Schafer’s quest for the trophy’s origins led him to an unexpected encounter in the barn, where he felt compelled to investigate by an unseen force. Following an uncanny directive to “punch the wall,” Schafer stumbled upon the Athole Challenge Cup, engraved with Collie’s triumphs in 1911, 1912, and 1920. The discovery, coupled with eerie occurrences, has left Schafer convinced that Collie’s spirit guided him to the trophy.
In a bid to unravel the trophy’s history, Schafer sought assistance from CBC News to amplify his search efforts. Reflecting on the inexplicable events that led to the trophy’s unearthing, Schafer acknowledges the mystical undertones surrounding the discovery, attributing it to a higher power or Collie’s enduring presence.
As Schafer delves deeper into Collie’s past, uncovering his remarkable achievements and contributions to Winnipeg’s cultural fabric, he remains steadfast in his mission to honor Collie’s memory and legacy by returning the trophy to its rightful place. With the support of local organizations and a shared commitment to preserving Scottish heritage, the return of the Athole Cup to Collie’s family or a suitable institution remains a poignant tribute to a celebrated figure in Canadian history.