Salem-Scottish Ties Sealed With Official Letter Confirming Bond

SALEM, MA — More than a week of soccer revelry, partying and bonding that will last long beyond the end of the World Cup this past June included the prolific chants of "No Scotland, No Party!" throughout the streets of Boston, Charlestown and up the coast to Salem.

From the traffic cone adorning the head of the Bewitched statue in Lappin Park, to the sounds of bagpipes echoing in the Witch City nights, it was an unforgettable run for many who were part of it both on the American and Scottish traveling sides.

Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo said the whole experience prompted him to write a letter to the Scottish First Minister to express the city's appreciation for the sense of camaraderie and friendship the "Tartan Army" forged with residents.

He shared what he said was the "unexpected delight" of a response he received this week.

"I am delighted that the Tartan Army left such a positive impression on your city," Swinney said in a letter. "The friendship and hospitality shown by the people of Salem were greatly appreciated by all who visited.

"It is especially meaningful that these connections were forged at such an important moment in Salem's history as the city celebrates its quadricentennial. The friendships formed through the celebration of the FIFA World Cup remind us of the importance of people-to-people links, which have further strengthened the bonds between Scotland and the US."

Swinney concluded that he hopes "the connections will endure and that there will be many more opportunities to strengthen ties in the years ahead."

A photocopy of the letter can be found here.