What do the different Scottish tartan patterns represent?
Today, the colours identify religion as red and green tartans represent Catholics and the blue represents Protestants. The divide is important in Scotland as one can identify people’s religion by what colour tartan is worn.
How do I know what Scottish clan I belong to?
To learn more about clan organizations in the United States, check out the Council of Scottish Clans and Associations. And to learn more about your Scottish ancestors, look for The Family Tree Scottish Genealogy Guide. Inside, you’ll find great information on Scottish clans, history, geography, names and more.
What does a black kilt mean?
Known as an ‘open tartan’‚ a Black Watch plaid kilt is perfectly acceptable for all to wear at Highland Clan gatherings‚ regardless of Clan affiliation. Worn by state leaders, military heroes, highland athletes, and people who just love the look. The Black Watch tartan is a universal symbol of bravery and tradition.
What is the oldest tartan in Scotland?
The earliest documented tartan in Britain, known as the “Falkirk” tartan, dates from the 3rd century AD. It was uncovered at Falkirk in Stirlingshire, Scotland, near the Antonine Wall.
How do I find my tartan name?
Use the ‘Tartan Index’, to find the unique reference number of the pattern, then just enter the reference number in place of the name in the search box. Only the first fifteen letters of the name of the tartan are accepted and used to access the database.
Which tartan should I wear?
Q – Which tartan should I wear? A – Traditionally people wear the tartan (if any) which relates to their surname. If there is no appropriate name tartan, look for a district tartan connected to the area where your ancestors lived.
Does every Scottish family have a tartan?
Not every Scottish surname will have a tartan, so often people wear the tartan of their mother’s maiden name or the tartan of a Scottish district. Tartans have become popular for sporting teams and businesses too. There are many books on the subject of surnames and tartans in NLS collections.
What tartan do I wear?