From staff reports
The Beaufort St. Andrews Society Lowcountry South Carolina will hold it’s fifth annual Service of Worship and Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans on Saturday, Nov. 18 at Old Sheldon Church in Yemassee.
According to legend, during the mid 1700’s, Scottish Highland clan members hid bits of tartan cloth, forbidden by the English, on their person while on the way to the “kirk,” or church. At a particular cue from the priest during the service, each Highlander touched his “bit o’ tartan,” and the priest spoke an innocent blessing, secretly blessing the symbol of each Scotsman’s national pride and family.
The custom today in reality is Scottish-American and began as a Presbyterian Church service in Washington, D.C. during World War II to raise funds for war relief. Peter Marshall of that church gave a sermon entitled “The Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans,” and the custom began.
The newly formed Sea Islands Pipes and Drums – you may have seen them at this year’s Veterans Day parade – will be part of the noon service, as will Pastor Steve Keeler of Sea Island Presbyterian and Bishop Alden Hathaway of St Helena’s Anglican.
Col. Harold Mills, USAF (Ret.), will give a brief history on “How the Scots-Irish Shaped America.” The public is welcome to bring a comfortable chair and a picnic lunch and sit in on the service. Afterward, attendees are welcome to mingle with the members and guests.
