All Things Scottish:

 Material Culture and the Scottish Revival in North America

Mail Order Catalogues

A second method of approach to the study of  Scottish emigrant material symbols  in North America might be to examine the catalogues of a variety of Scottish supply stores. Just a glance through the advertising for Scottish products in the monthly publication, The Scottish Banner, reveals the amazing range of things one can buy that have, or are purported to have, Scottish associations.

Bannockburn Chess Set

For instance, one classified ad announces the availability of Scottish basket hilt broadswords, Scottish claymores, ancient and dress dirks, staghorn and clan crest Sgian Dubhs, Scottish single-hand swords, battle maces, Scottish Flintlock pistols, Lochaber axes and targes. In addition to that there are videos, compact discs, sweaters, clan crests and a host of other paraphernalia for sale. An examination of the various catalogues might allow one to determine a taxonomy of the things available for purchase and it would also allow for an examination of  the way in which Scottish traditions are marketed and sold.

Any questions or comments? Feel free to e-mail me: rmaclean@chass.utoronto.ca.