
Originally Posted by
figheadair
There is a great deal of controversy over what was worn by the original 78th and the fact is, we just don’t know. The traditional dye used for red in tartan, cochineal, was a very expensive. For that reason alone I don’t believe that the regiment would have been clothed in a red tartan and that a blue, green and black type sett, possibly the Government sett, decorated or plain was probably worn.
I've been following this topic for years and agree that the 78th probably wore either the government sett or something similar to it. Plus, figheadair has probably forgotten more about tartan than I will ever know so I bow to his greater knowledge on the subject.
I was once a member of the 78th in California and we wore the Fraser tartan in ancient colors (the general belief being the Fraser's would have worn the "clan" tartan and that the "ancient" colors were more correct for the 18th century - but that is another topic). I never felt this tartan was correct and always questioned it, however the unit was under the sanction of Lord Lovat and that is what he approved (or so I was told). When I left the unit I sold my plaid back to them (everyone else wore a modern kilt) as I didn't see me wearing it again, at least for reenactment purposes.
I'd like to make a new coat. Does anyone have a pattern source?
Virginia Commissioner, Elliot Clan Society, USA
Adjutant, 1745 Appin Stewart Regiment
Scottish-American Military Society
US Marine (1970-1999)
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