[QUOTE=OC Richard;949315][B]About the "tradition" of kilt pins: ...

Note that in The Highlanders Of Scotland very few men are wearing kilt pins at all, and none of the kilt pins resemble the sword or sword & targe etc kilt pins that evolved in the 20th century. The 1860s kilt pins seen in THOS are plain open circlets or ovals, or Clan Crest badges. ...

QUOTE]

Surprised no one has repeated the oft-heard and I think true story that kilt pins originated when Queen Victoria witnessed a squaddie's kilt apron blowing up in the wind and handed him a pin to preserve his modesty (or hers). Like the unbuttoned vest or waistcoat button, the Royal precedent set the fashion.