The Evolution of Scottish Tartans

Introduction

The rich and vibrant history of Scottish tartans is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Scottish Highlanders, the remnants of the great Celtic race. Untouched by Roman, Saxon, and Danish invasions, the Highlanders developed a distinct cultural identity, with tartan playing a central role. This blog post explores the origins, evolution, and cultural significance of Scottish tartans, tracing their journey from ancient times to modern-day Scotland.

Early Beginnings

The exact origins of tartans and clanship are shrouded in mystery, with their introduction predating recorded history. The earliest mention of tartan dates back to 1471, as noted by Logan in his work Scottish Gael. The records of John, Bishop of Glasgow, Treasurer to King James III, include entries for tartan fabric used to line garments and for making accessories, indicating that tartan was already an established fabric by the late 15th century.