The Falkirk Wheel (Clack)

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 2s+4s set then set Advancing and dance RH across
9-12 1s+2L+4M also 3s+2M+4L dance LH across
13-16 2s+4s dance RH across while 1s and 3s chase anti-clockwise ½ way round (Ladies leading)
17-20 3s+2L+4M also 1s+2M+4L dance LH across to finish 2L+4M nearer hands joined facing 3s also 2M+4L nearer hands joined facing 1s
21-24 2L+4M set to 3s while 2M+4L set to 1s. 2L+4M also 2M+4L turn inward, changing hands and set to partners
25-28 2s+4s dance RH across and dance out to original places
29-32 All set to partner. All turn partner 2H. All in square formation. 3214
33-40 3s+1s set, 3s+1s set advancing and dance RH across
41-44 2s+1L+3M also 4s+1M+3L dance LH across
45-48 3s+1s dance RH across while 2s+4s chase anti-clockwise round the set (Ladies leading)
49-52 4s+1L+3M also 2s+1M+3L dance LH across to finish 1L+3M nearer hands joined facing 4s also 1M+3L nearer hands joined facing 2s
53-56 1L+3M set to 4s while 1M+3L set to 2s. 1L+3M also 1M+3L turn inward, changing hands and set to partners
57-60 3s+1s dance RH across and dance out to places (1s in 3rd place and 3s in 1st place). All in square formation. 3412
61-64 All circle left ½ way round to finish in original places

(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)

Dance Information

The Falkirk Wheel, situated in central Scotland, is a notable engineering structure designed to connect the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal.

Officially opened in 2002, it serves as a boat lift, replacing traditional locks to enable the seamless movement of vessels between the two canals.

This innovative structure is the world's only rotating boat lift, a remarkable feat of modern engineering. Its unique design allows it to lift boats vertically, rotating them between the two canals, thus eliminating the need for a series of conventional locks. The Falkirk Wheel represents a more efficient and visually striking alternative to traditional canal navigation systems.

With a height of 35 meters (115 feet) and a diameter of 35 meters (115 feet), the Falkirk Wheel consists of two large caissons, or water-filled chambers, which counterbalance each other as one ascends while the other descends. This rotational mechanism operates with minimal energy consumption, making it an environmentally sustainable solution for canal navigation.

Beyond its functional role, the Falkirk Wheel has become a prominent tourist attraction, drawing visitors from both near and far. Its unique design and operational concept contribute to its status as an iconic symbol of modern engineering.

Falkirk Millennium Wheel

Dance information licensed under this Creative Commons Licence 3.0.
Text from this original Falkirk Wheel article on Wikipedia.
Image copyright Sean Mack under this Creative Commons Licence 3.0.

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