I first wore hose length socks with garters and flashes when I was in the Boy Scouts back in the 60's and 70's. The summer uniform included shorts and knee socks with garters and tab (or flashes). We wore them on the outside of the calf, which is how I wear mine now.

But, again, I started this thread as a quest for knowledge, so this is all good. Carry on with the comments.

Larry