Ironically, the closest thing in Scottish history to the Kirkin' service originated in the Lowlands, and not the Highlands -- outlawed Scottish Presbyterians known as Covenanters, supporters of the National Covenant and the Solemn League & Covenant, which basically stated that Scotland was a Presbyterian, Protestant nation, held secret outdoor services known as conventicles, with armed sentries patroling the perimeter for government dragoons.
The Cameronian Regiment, the only British Army regiment to be raised on religious principles (named for Covenanter leader Richard Cameron's sect) would post sentries at the four corners of the Kirk for Sunday church parade, and the Padre could not begin the service until an officer gave the "All Clear!"
As Matt said, most of the story of the Kirkin' that you hear in the US is pure myth. The real story, that of Rev. Marshall, is far more impressive, INMHO, and as Bob said, traditions have to begin somewhere -- why not make it a "Scottish-American Church Parade" rather than trying to drag Culloden and the '45 into it, when there is no such evidence for it?
Cheers,
Todd
Originally Posted by cajunscot
Ironically, the closest thing in Scottish history to the Kirkin' service originated in the Lowlands, and not the Highlands -- outlawed Scottish Presbyterians known as Covenanters, supporters of the National Covenant and the Solemn League & Covenant, which basically stated that Scotland was a Presbyterian, Protestant nation, held secret outdoor services known as conventicles, with armed sentries patroling the perimeter for government dragoons.
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