Question for those who only wear tartans in their bloodline

[HenryT]

Duffy, I am a bit confused if you are just looking to wear a certain tartan or be "recognized" as a member of a clan by that clan.

As one response pointed out if your last name is a clan name (or sept of a clan) from Scotland and you trace your descent directly from Scotland; you are a de facto member of the Clan and not need be a member of that Clan Association. Just as Father Bill pointed out. One should be sure of your heritage if you follow this as you may be quizzed by the odd association member. If this is case (last name scenario) then I would wear that particular tartan. Some would say you should only wear that one tartan.

Many Clan Associations will let you join for just having an interest. In my clan, Lamont allows anyone to join if they have an interest. I am a Clan member by name and traceable descent. I consider associations and clans to be distinct two separate entities. I know a gent, a resident of Scotland, who belongs to three different associations because he likes and aids their charitable causes. The tartan he wears depends on the event or meeting he is attending. No one seems offended.

Looking at Clan Frasier of Lovat's website, the current Chief, says the following as to membership (this is just an example, and just from this particular clan), that there are clan members and others:

"I welcome those of Fraser descent, and those wishing to give allegiance to the clan. Non Frasers are welcomed as friends of the clan or "Bowl O'Meal" Frasers. The expression "Bowl O'Meal" derives from my ancestors the 11th Lord Lovat who strengthened the clan by exchanging oatmeal on the condition that men adopt the name Fraser and fight for the clan."

If you are just asking about tartan wearing, there are some very nice District, National, and Commercial Designer ones to chose from, or as some say on the forum, "just wear what you like",

Just some mumbling on my part, hope it helps, standard disclaimers apply, good luck, etc.

Henry



There