Hoodoo You? The term “Hoodoo” is often associated with folk magic, and although there certainly may be some overlap in some places, it is often confused with Louisiana, or Haitian Voodoo. Modern practioners seem to use terms for it like “root work,” “conjure work”, or “root doctoring” as synonyms for which seems to suggest[…]
Why do Men Wear Kilts?
With more and more people discovering their Irish and Scottish heritage, kilt-wearing has become a growing and modern trend. Kilts are conversation pieces, so we want to arm you with best kilt lore and functionality, lest you get deluged with awkward questions when you boldly display your tartan pride. The Celtic Croft proudly offers authentic[…]
King Arthur’s Origins
Arthur Originally Published February 2016 I’m in the middle of re-reading The Crystal Cave the first book of author Mary Stewart’s Arthurian saga, so I thought I’d do something quick about King Arthur’s origins since I’m running late this month. The earliest dated reference to Arthur seems to be a Welsh chronicle the Historia Brittonum[…]
Braveheart, William Wallace, and the Kilt
When it comes to classic Celtic attire, the Braveheart kilt may be amongst the most distinctive of all the items of clothing! As much a character as any of the actors, this is a kilt that is instantly recognizable, immediately identifiable, and more than likely entirely historically inaccurate. Yep, hate to break it to you,[…]
The Glencoe Massacre
The Glencoe Massacre After William III took the throne of England, Scotland and Ireland the government offered an indemnity In August 1691 to all Highland chiefs who would take an oath of allegiance before January 1, 1692. Many Scottish clans remained loyal to King James II had been replaced by William III. Therefore, anticipating of[…]
Why Wear a Tartan Sash, and How?
Scottish and Irish dress is both beautiful and confusing. There are so many rules, some widely known and some that are a little more subjective. For the novice, it can be a bit overwhelming. Wearing tartan shouldn’t be scary. It is a fun way to show off your heritage and look stylish while doing it. […]
The Lost Barony of Culbin
The Lost Barony of Culbin Originally published January 2016 Legend has it that in the seventeenth century Laird Alexander Kinnard was playing cards on a Saturday night in his house on the southern coast of the Firth of Moray. At midnight he threw down his cards in frustration at a losing streak and vowed that[…]
Why Was the Kilt Banned?
The kilt is a Scottish icon. Ask a random person on the street what image comes to mind when they hear the word “Scotland.” Go ahead; we’ll wait. What did the random person say when you asked them to free-associate with the word “Scotland”? Was their answer kilts? If their answer wasn’t kilts, it was[…]
What is the History of the Kilt?
We are all familiar with the article of clothing known as the kilt. What we are probably less familiar with, on the other hand, is the origin and history of the kilt. Part of the reason for this is no one truly knows the exact source of this distinct clothing style. Ultimately, it depends on[…]
Wren Day Traditions
Wren Day Originally Published December 2015 The wren, the wren, the king of all birds, On St. Stephen’s Day was caught in the furze, Although he is little his family is great, I pray you, good landlady, give us a treat… The day after Christmas, or St. Stephen’s Day, is also “Wren Day”, or “Hunt[…]