As a benefit for the Great Lakes Gathering, they auctioned off writing a new tune. Mark McKnight won the auction, and when we discussed what I would write, he didn't have any direct ideas, but instead discussed his family's history. The part that really caught my attention was that in the 19th century, the entire extended family had pooled their resources so that one couple could immigrate to America. But he also specified that his family was too happy for a sad song. Combining all those notions lead to this driven little reel.