Tartan talk

with tartan historian peter macdonald

On Saturday September 30th the SSO hosted a webinar entitles Tartan Talk where we heard from Tartan Historian Peter MacDonald online from his home in Edinburgh. It was a well-attended event with the room brimming with pride of heritage and intriguing stories of people’s family tartans and their evolution. We learned a lot - for example there are well over 12,000 tartans all over the world!

Also in attendance was local master kilt maker Shirley Stapely who measured up an “OttScot” member for a new kilt at the SSO Tartan Talk. He is wearing a MacLean of Duarte modern tartan, Shirley is wearing the Glen Affric modern tartan, which is a replica of a tartan that dates back to the 16th century in Scotland. Shirley, of Marshall Bespoke Kiltmaker of Ottawa demonstrated to participants how kilts are made and also responded to questions.

“… so much more than just a stylish pattern”. Over the years tartan has served as a symbol of resistance - and a badge of pride and loyalty within the Scottish clan system.

Thank you to all members who attended, and to Peter and Shirley for sharing your wisdom.