Argyll Buttons

**Zardoz** · 26th February 09, 10:00 PM

Originally Posted by Kerr the Walker

It wouldn't be that hard to remove the bright buttons and replace them with some of your choosing.

I'll second the question: Anyone done it?

I have, I recently replaced the shiny square chrome buttons on my black argyll with some nice tasteful round Irish harp jobs. It was both easier and harder than I thought. I will present a thrilling photo essay on the process soon.

**Bugbear** · 26th February 09, 11:44 PM

Guess if you have removable buttons, you could switch between different types and designs...

I think I would prefer round buttons.

**IRISH** · 27th February 09, 08:17 AM

Originally Posted by cavscout

http://www.threefeatherspewter.com/Buttons%20Celtic.htm

http://www.faireware.com/button1.html

great links, steve. thanks.

**MacMillan of Rathdown** · 27th February 09, 09:29 AM

Originally Posted by JSFMACLJR

Tsk, tsk, my friend! You ought to know that Maclean of Duart also wears salmon buttons, just like Argyll!

Duart:

Argyll:

Hmmm... they look awfully like sardines. But I'll take your word for it they are salmon. Thanks for adding to the greater Duart knowledge!

**Spc. Scott** · 27th February 09, 09:32 AM

Argyll:

[/quote]

Now that is one heck of a doublet on my clan chief! I could never pull it off but I have to admit it would be neat to have one just to show it off.

I like that sporran as well.

**JSFMACLJR** · 27th February 09, 09:36 AM

Campbell of Airds wrote, in his wonderful article on West Highland Heraldry:
"Even today, the salmon is a Royal Fish and Salmon fishing rights are retained by and dispensed by The Crown
Clearly it is a powerful symbol. To my mind there is a pagan feel to it; I do not think it is the txoua of early Christianity and wonder if it is not a reference to the Old Religion of the Celts, or more accurately, to a person or family connected with it.
On a different note, I have been told by Professor Per Andraesson that although the salmon is a rarity in Norse heraldry he has seen a coin dating back to Jutland in the 8th century which has both a salmon and a galley on it. And even today its use is clearly important to status. When MacCailein Mor goes to the Oban Ball he is clad in a doublet decorated with silver salmon as is Maclean of Duart.

**Kerr the Walker** · 27th February 09, 09:44 AM

Originally Posted by Ted Crocker

Guess if you have removable buttons, you could switch between different types and designs...

Now there is an outstanding idea. I remember there being a how-to thread on removable buttons a while back. I guess I'll have to dig it up and give it a go...

**MacMillan of Rathdown** · 27th February 09, 09:49 AM

Here's something to think about. Simple, flat, silver buttons can be had for a few dollars each. Engraving one's monogram adds a few dollars more to the cost. So, say that your buttons have cost you $15 each, all in. There are what--14-- large buttons on a Prince Charlie coatee? Plus another 5 buttons if you add in the waistcoat (3) and epaulettes (2). So, for something around $300 (less than a buck a day) you can have custom silver buttons on your jacket.

A gentleman would have it no other way.

**JSFMACLJR** · 27th February 09, 10:04 AM

Originally Posted by MacMillan of Rathdown

Here's something to think about. Simple, flat, silver buttons can be had for a few dollars each. Engraving one's monogram adds a few dollars more to the cost. So, say that your buttons have cost you $15 each, all in. There are what--14-- large buttons on a Prince Charlie coatee? Plus another 5 buttons if you add in the waistcoat (3) and epaulettes (2). So, for something around $300 (less than a buck a day) you can have custom silver buttons on your jacket.

A gentleman would have it no other way.

These buttons then can become heirlooms, to be passed on to one's progeny.