The history of tartan is as old as the Scots themselves, and it remains today as a potent symbol of national identity.

The distinctive patterns of individual tartans evolved as a means of identifying with district, regiment or family, but today people of Scots descent worldwide, and visitors to Scotland alike, regard tartan as a means through which they can express association with the culture of our country.

Originally the colours in the design of a tartan would have come from natural local sources, and thus indicated the "district" of the wearer rather than their family name. In due course "corporate" tartans were introduced to include associations and institutions.

John Muir	Queen of Scots	Rosslyn Chapel	US Navy