American in Scotland

[Akilter]

This is actually much needed information for me, and I appreciate it.
"When in Rome, do as the Romans do". I totally agree.

Interestingly, if the 'Scots' and 'Americans' were compared to fine Scotch, I see that the Scottish would be more or less a single-malt and the Americans would be a blend. What I mean is that if you're from Scotland, perhaps you have a much better chance of a solitary traceable bloodline. We Americans are lucky if we can't find 15* or more [*exageration]. Hence the fact of why we might want to wear more than one Tartan.

Take me for instance...I have strong Scottish, German, French and English roots, however, the one that seems to be my calling card or my heart song, would be Scottish (it's in me blood). Furthermore, upon much study I have traced my bloodline to Shaw, MacIntosh, Boyd, Chattan, MacPherson, Forbes, MacDonald, and Johnstone.

As point of fact, I feel that we 'Americans' support *ALL* of our Clan relations with such passion as to be mauled by it. I, myself, hunger for any connection that I can find because it makes me feel alive and have a better understanding for why I do the things I do. Therefore, I tend to want to honor all of the Clans.

...again, I totally agree with your suggestion when in the Highlands.ith:

I identify completely with Shawhighlander. As an American, whatever that means, my heart is definitely from another place. My namesake ancestors were Borderers and I am the last male in my family line with this last name.

I have spent time in Scotland visiting a large part of it (although the last time was nearly 12 years ago now), and the Borders are my "spiritual home". On one of my trips I carried my kilt all around the country, but never put it on. Mostly not wanting to explain why. I just didn't have the nerve I guess.
I've actually only seen 2 "civilians" wearing one. One was a tour guide outside Waverly Station, and the other was a local chap in Portree on Skye.

As I said it's been awhile since my last visit, and I'm pleased to hear that wearing a kilt is becoming more popular. I'll bring mine back the next time I visit. I also understand and only wear my family tartan or one I have a true connection to, like the USMC. Although some are very handsome I'm not really interested in wearing another. Strange isn't it?

Dave Scott