Kissing your Thumb Originally published May 2016 The oath traditionally given in court to “tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth” is believed to have originated in Old English and seems to have been a part of English trials as early as the 13th century. In spite of taking an oath[…]
What Did Scots Wear Before Kilts?
We’ve all seen the image of the highlander in what we consider the traditional kilt. But what did Scots wear before kilts? After all, we only begin to see references to kilts or “belted plaid” starting in the 1500s. We have a thorough history of the kilt here, if you’re interested. That’s right, the iconic[…]
Molly Maguires in Dresses
Molly Maguires in Dresses originally published April 2016 The Molly Maguires were a secret society that actually had roots in pre-famine Ireland. They are probably known to some as portrayed in the 1970 Sean Connory movie by that name. In the US and the movie the Mollys were fighting against the low wages and extremely[…]
The Ultimate Guide to Outlander
Raise your hand if you have been caught up in Outlander-mania? Trust us, our hands are up here. It’s hard not to fall in love with the characters and get swept away in their many adventures as they unfold throughout the world. Luckily for those of us who have been following the Fraser’s, the new[…]
Mortuary evidence of Early Christianity in Scotland
Unfortunately Scotland does not have the stories of conversion that we see in other parts for the British isles. The narratives of St Columba and St Ninian, the traditional ‘apostles’ of Scotland, describe the conversion of the Picts and Britons from an outside perspective. They are useful for studying the motives of their 7th and[…]
Scottish Wedding Traditions
Every culture has its own many and varied traditions. Every occasion has its own rituals and customs. No event is more riddled with traditions than a wedding. Scottish people are a wealth of traditions. Their heritage is full of pomp and circumstance. Weddings are no exception. Celtic weddings are special and beautiful, and each region[…]
How to Care for, Clean, and Press Your Kilt
Taking care of your kilt is a crucial task in helping it to look its best, but chances are it is something that rarely crosses your mind. For many of us, the stresses of everyday life mean that correct kilt maintenance sits at the bottom of our to-do list, and this can result in your[…]
In the News January 2020
Celtic history and archeology recently in the news Padlock among finds made at Lair of Glenshee Pictish homestead An early Medieval padlock was among the finds made by archaeologists at a Pictish settlement in Perthshire. More Irish family records become available online for free The Irish government made more Irish birth, death, and marriage certificates[…]
Hoodoo You?
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[…]