Quote Originally Posted by kiltimabar View Post
Since you mentioned your Civil War ancestors, I might mention there is a Federal Memorial tartan that is specifically designed to commemorate the service of those Boys in Blue who fought to preserve the Union. Matt Newsome made up a kilt for me from custom woven material sewn to the original design of the kilt of the 79th NY Cameron Highlanders, another celebrated Civil War regiment. It's not common, so when people ask what it is it gives you the opening to tell them about your ancestors and what they mean to you.
I will second kiltimabar's suggestion of the Federal Memorial tartan, since your ancestor actually served in in a Federal regiment during the War of the Rebellion. It's "tailor-made" for your wish to honour your ancestor.

Or, you could always go with the New York City tartan, since the 69th was a city regiment. One of the reasons why I chose the Iowa state tartan was in honour of my great-great grandfather, 1st. Lt. William Williamson, who served in the War of the Rebellion with F Coy., 11th Iowa Vol. Infantry.

Regards,

Todd

ps: moved thread to heraldry & tartans section, since we're discusing tartan symbolism & meaning.