Of course it is important.
My attachment to the Kilt is one of an attachment to the history of the people of Scotland, whos history is similar to the Nation God had blessed me to be born in. Fighting for Independence and Freedom and existence. For me, If my name does not trace to Scotland, then it makes me a mir allie of Scotland and the Kilt just another article of clothing. Whatever the tartans, Clans, and "septs" have morphed in the last thousand years is redundant to me. What is not, is knowing weather I share a blood link with a kindred people who have not only survived for a thousand years, but flourished, and because of ties to the Country and treasures like the tartans, Clans and "septs".
I have relatives who today reside in Manchester, England, I am sure that from 1066 to before the beginning of the 16th century, at one point, my bloodline would have migrated or sought adventure in the Highlands or lowlands of Scotland.
And we Gilberts are ALL English, French, and German......as well as American, Dutch, Belgian, and every other nation we walked, rode, floated, or flew to. Including Scotland. For as long as the name has been around, it has changed little or not at all.
I will continue to follow the family tree, and hope to be here again and rightfully claim, without a doubt to me, My connection to My Clan and stand beside them, rather than behind them.
I Thank you all for your insight and the renewed fire you have kindled in me with this thread.