1740 CE - Black Watch, Scotland

by Iain MacAnTsaoir

In 1740, the independent military companies of Scotland became a formal regiment, and a formal tartan was created for them. This was quite problematic as they had to choose a tartan which wouldn't insult certain clanns, or seem to favor others. Finally, a new tartan was developed which has ever since been known as the Black Watch Tartan. The Black Watch Tartan was the first documented tartan to be known by an official name and possesses the authenticity of a full pedigree. From this tartan have been derived all of the Highland regimental tartan designs and many of the hunting setts worn by other clanns.

After the rising of 1715, the Government found the need to enforce stricter policing of the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands. A number of independent companies were formed to curtail the various small uprisings and other disturbances which occurred frequently. One of the features that distinguished their recruits were the large number of highland gentlemen that enlisted and chose to serve in the private ranks. Many an English officer was surprised to see these Scottish privates attended by personal servants who carried their food, clothing, and weapons. From the time they were first raised, these independent regiments became known as the Black Watch, in reference to the darkly colored tartans they were known to wear. One of the more famous tales of these Highland companies is told about King George, who had never seen a Highland warrior. Three privates were chosen and sent to London to be presented to the King. The King was so impressed with the skill with which they wielded their broad swords and lochaber axes that he presented them each with a guinea. This was quite insulting to a Highland gentleman, but they could not refuse the gift. They accepted the gift as good manners dictated, but as they left they each flipped it in disgust to the porter as they passed the palace gates.

For more information on National Dress of Gaelic peoples, see Cultural/National Dress, by Searles O'Dubhain and Iain MacAnTsaoir.

Sources:

Encyclopedia Brittanica Vol. 15

Scottish Gaelic Studies, Vol V, part II, Chadwick, Nora K.,

Old Irish and Highland Dress, Henry Foster McClintock, 1947

prepared by Iain MacAnTsaoir

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