Chicago Scots is proud to announce a new heavy athletic competition that is exclusive to our Scottish Festival and Highland Games – The Georgeson War Hammer! Created by Scot Forge, the premiere forging company in the U.S., the new competition is a farmer’s carry contest of strength and endurance using the 260lb and 265lb hammers designed and hand-forged by Scot Forge.
Using a combination of industrial and traditional forging techniques, the Scot Forge team has created a pair of hammers that proudly reflect their traditions of precision forging and creative design.
The two hammers feature the distinct Buchanan tartan of Scot Forge and the Illinois Saint Andrew Society tartan, the official tartan of Illinois created by the Chicago Scots and adopted by the Illinois legislature in 2012.
The new contest highlights the longstanding ties between Scot Forge and Chicago Scots, a relationship that began in the 1980s. Atlas Forgings was founded in 1893 by four brothers from the Shetland Islands. A few years later, Peter Georgeson, a nephew of one of those original founders, purchased the business. Through hard work, grit, and a visionary outlook, Pete built the company into something enduring. When he retired, he didn’t sell the company to just anyone. Instead, he returned ownership to the people who made it strong: the employees. This pivotal moment marked the birth of Scot Forge, an employee-owned company with deep Scottish roots and a profound respect for strength in all its forms. At Chicago Scots, Peter also left an unmatched legacy of leadership and charitable service that spanned more than four decades.
Today, John Cain, CEO and Chairman of Scot Forge, continues the company’s commitment to Chicago Scots mission as an active member of the Board of Governors. The Georgeson War Hammer was the brainchild of Chicago Scots President, Gus Noble and John Cain. It was a collaborative effort between the Scot Forge design and production teams and Jason Clevenger, Chair of the Highland Games Heavy Athletics. The 260lb hammers are hand-forged and regulation quality.
“Creating The Georgeson War Hammer was a special opportunity to commemorate Peter Georgeson’s legacy at Chicago Scots,” said Gus Noble. “We know it will be enjoyed by Highland Games attendees for years to come.”
“We were delighted to be part of this project,” said John Cain. “It’s a wonderful way to recognize the important impact Peter had on both of organizations.”
The 2026 Games will include Women’s Competition Hammers made by Scot Forge. Jason Clevenger, Chair of Heavy Athletics said, “These hammers will attract Heavy Athletes to our Games to attempt The Georgeson War Hammers.”
See the winning carry by Eric Spence who carried the Georgeson War Hammers a total of 170 feet and 3 inches at the 2025 Highland Games!
Every year at our Scottish Festival & Highland Games, the Chicago Scots feature a family or an organization as our Honored Clan. This year, to recognize and celebrate its’ strong Scottish roots, our Honored Clan is Rotary International. We are proud to announce that Rotary International’s Scottish President, Gordon McInally has agreed to lead our Parade of Tartans at 12:30 p.m. Gordon will also receive the Salute to the Chieftain from the Massed Pipe Bands at approximately 6.30pm on Saturday, June 15, 2024.