Legend of the Kirkin' o' the Tartan

The Kirkin' o' the Tartan tradition is an old Highland one. After the defeat of the Scots by the English in 1746, the wearing of the tartan and the keeping of any Highland ways or culture was forbidden in hopes this would forever subdue the rebellious Scottish spirit. However, as the Scots were fervent Christians, and canny as well, they clung to their ancient traditions by putting them underground.

The Kirkin' was an important part of this in that one Sunday a year, the populace went to church wearing a concealed piece of the tartan and, at a certain moment set aside in the service, the tartan was touched while the minister pronounced a blessing on all tartans and the Scots once more pledged their loyalty and respect for their old traditions. Read More...

Farewell to Arms

Heritage and Culture

Heritage & Culture newsletter:
Farewell to arms


The Royal Scots Regiment


HERITAGE and the changing of the guard are in the news this week.

Tears of sadness mixed with drops from the sky on a chilly, wet day in Edinburgh — a day that evoked a wave of emotion as the city and the nation said good-bye to the Royal Scots Regiment. Hundreds of troops joined veterans from across Scotland to pay respects at the farewell ceremony.

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