My wife, Peg, and I visited Scotland in the Spring of 1995. We traveled the countryside, mostly, but did spend time in the city of Edinburgh. One of the many places we visited was Edinburgh Castle. If you have never seen the beauties of Scotland, you are missing a wonderful experience. And if you love sheep, you'll certainly get your eyes full!

What is Tartan?

The story of tartan and the history of Scotland are intertwined like the pattern of tartan itself. Although the date of the origins of tartan is not known, the clan system in Scotland started around the 12th century. Tartan's complex design of interwoven patterns and the interplay of colors reflect the intricate nature of Celtic art. Different colors and varying patterns began to develop as the weavers in each clan developed their individual patterns and colors used depended on the dyes available in the area. So particular styles of tartan began to be associated with an area or clan. Following the disintegration of the clan system after the second Jacobite rising in 1745, the wearing of tartan became illegal, except in Highland Regiments. The old loyalties never died away and building on the honor achieved by the courageous fighting of the Highland Regiments, the wearing of tartan began to be endorsed by the Royal Court. This, combined with the dispersal of the Scots due to the Highland Clearances carried the story of Tartan to a global stage. The fascination with tartan now spans the world and is one of the most remarkable social phenomena.

My brother, Rob Lockwood, is an excellent piper. He is available for your private or public events in the eastern Virginia and northeast North Carolina area. He is a member of the Tidewater Pipes and Drums Band, and has been piping for about 20 years. Visit his web site at RobLockwood.com for more details.