CASSOC Spring General Meeting - 2024
Tartans and the Colours of Culloden - Emily Redman, ScotlandShop
The Evolution of Tartans and Their Significance in Scottish History
Emily delved into the historical significance of tartans, tracing their evolution from ancient times to their modern-day associations with specific Scottish clans. She discussed the impact of the Battle of Quality on the development of clan tartans, as well as the emergence of stripe and checkered patterns from the 16th century. Emily also highlighted the discovery of the Glenafrich tartan, dating back to between 1500 and 1600 AD, and its significance as the oldest known tartan found in Scotland. She touched on the Disarming Act of 1746, which banned the wearing of Highland dress, including tartans, and the eventual lifting of the ban in 1782. Emily also discussed the success of William Wilson's family business in Bannockburn, which cornered the market for tartan in Southern Scotland and supplied the military. Lastly, she detailed the significant event of King George IV's visit to Scotland in 1822, which popularized the Highland outfit and marked the transformation of the Highland dress from being seen as primitive to becoming the national dress of Scotland.
Government Roles and Tartan History
Emily led a discussion about a list of individuals, focusing on their roles in the government site and the order of march. She also delved into the history and significance of various tartans, including the Jackfight and Jackabite tartans, and their cultural and historical importance. There were also discussions about the challenges of rediscovering the true colors of historical artifacts and the authenticity of tartans depicted in art. The group agreed on further collaboration to share information and address open questions.
Randall Stewart - Jacobit Artifacts and Stories
Randall's Jacobite Artifacts and History
Randall shared his extensive collection of Jacobite artifacts, which included rare books, historical documents, medals, and other items. He discussed their significance in relation to the Jacobite period, the Act of Union of the Crowns, and the 1745 rising. He also highlighted the symbolism behind certain artifacts, such as the withered oak tree on the Oak Society's medal and the Bravado Coin. Randall also touched on the history and authenticity of tartans associated with Scottish families, and he mentioned an army officer's failed attempt to capture Prince Charles during the rising.
Historical Items and Their Significance
Randall discussed various historical items and their significance, including a piece of Prince Charles Everett's tartan, Lady Macintosh's story, and Lord Luden's connection with George Washington. He also delved into the origins and symbolism of tartans, the use of Jacobite medals, and the revival of Jacobite glass. The discussion also touched upon the importance of preserving historical items and knowledge, with both Randall and the Chair emphasizing the need to keep such items accessible and avoid them being discarded. Lastly, Randall shared his role in managing a steward app and Facebook site, where he posted detailed information and pictures of his extensive collection.
Charles III's Life and Digital Catalog
Randall shared the story of Charles III's life, including his efforts to evade assassins, his recognition of his daughter Charlotte, and the controversy surrounding her descendants. Randall also mentioned Charles III's correspondence with the Duke of Tuscany and the tragic death of his grandson in a carriage accident in Scotland. The group then discussed the potential of creating a digital catalog for Randall's collection of articles, with the idea of involving a university student for assistance. Plans were made to explore funding opportunities and connections with the director of Scottish studies at the University of Guelph and Simon Fraser University.
Symposium Feedback and Future Plans
The Chair led a discussion and introduced a final poll to gather feedback for the next session of the Symposium for Growth and Success. The Chair also thanked Emily Redman and Randy Stewart for their contributions, and announced plans to share a video and additional information via email. The poll results indicated a strong interest in topics related to volunteers, improvements onboarding management, and burnout. The Chair reiterated the importance of feedback and suggestions for future sessions and thanked everyone for their attendance and participation.
Open Discussion - Randall and Emily's Personal Collections and Historical Artifacts (not on the video)
Randall and Emily shared their personal experiences with collecting items and their passion for historical artifacts. Randall expressed his desire to donate his extensive collection, which includes items from Chair and early Stewart books and documents, to a museum, but expressed reservations about losing control of his collection. He also shared stories of his family's possession of historical items, including a wedding ring and portrait miniature given by Chair to Alexander Kingsbury, and a broadsword dated between 1680 and 1710. The group also discussed the challenges of documenting and interpreting family histories, and Randall's concerns about the historical accuracy of some Scottish clan associations. The conversation ended with discussions on promoting upcoming events and the need for more information about Victoria Highland games and clan gatherings.
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