Ideas for a Clan Booth

[macwilkin]

Hi everyone. I am doing my first clan tent for highland games. I have never been to any games before, and I would like to know what would you suggest I do. What I need to know is what kinds of books, papers, and other things I should have in the tent. I would also like to know if flying the Guidon of the chief is appropriate. And so you know this is for games in the state of Utah in the USA.

Check wi' your clan society -- most publish some sort of commissioner/convenor's handbook, as well as pamphlets, flyers, handouts, etc. for convenors to distribute at the games. I would talk to one of your society officers before setting up; you might be able to talk one into coming to the games with you to help out.

Also have a few folding chairs, an esky (cooler), some water and other refreshments for wearing clansmen and women. A saltire and US or state flag with poles to display, and some other Scottish "bric-a-brac" to round out the tent.

Never set the table accross the front of the tent, but over to the side, so there is not a barrier between you and the visitors. Invite them in to have a "wee dram"/cold drink and visit with them -- remember that hospitality was highly valued in the Highlands, so always make your guests feel welcome.

You might also have a few books on tartans and genealogy -- I would recommend:

Surnames of Scotland: Their Origin, Meaning and History by George Black

Scottish Clan & Family Encyclopedia by Way and Squire.

A handout with various Internet sites, such as the Tartans Museum, Matt Newsome's personal site, the Tartans Authority, the Lyon Court and your own clan's web site is also good.

The correct flag to fly is the pinsel -- here is what Lady Saltoun of the Clan Fraser has to say:

The Pinsel is a flag used to denote a person to whom the Chief has delegated authority to represent him on a particular occasion. It should be 4'6" long and 2' high.

-- http://www.fraserchief.co.uk/heraldry.html

The Scottish Heraldry Society also has a nice article on "flying heraldry and discusses both the guidon and the pinsel on this page:

http://www.heraldry-scotland.co.uk/flyingherald2.html

Notice that the author states:

The standard ia a long, narrow, tapering flag, granted by the Lord Lyon only to those who have a following, such as clan chiefs or chieftain. As a 'headquarters' flag, its principal use is to mark the gathering point or headquarters of the clan, family or following and does not necessarily denote the presence of the standard's owner as his personal banner does.

The guidon is similar to the standard. Of course, the key is there that you have the authority of the Chief to fly it. If you do not, then it's best not to. Again, talk to the Society President or another officer.

I hope this helps.

Regards,

Todd