The Cornish Tartan

Cornish Kilts and tartan are thought to be a modern tradition, appearing in around 1901 at about the same time as the start in the revival of the Cornish language. The material for these kilts was plain black, and whilst other patterns followed, the intervention of two world wars arrested this development.

Whilst records of Kilt wearing in Cornwall prior to this time are hard to come by, it is well documented that a garment known as a bracca (a reddish checked tunic) was worn by Celtic people who inhabited the British Isles, the term indicating its appearance. The Welsh word brech means “checked” and the word bracca is derived from the Welsh or Cornish word brythen. This in English translates as ‘striped’ or ‘checked’.

Distinguished Cornish historian L. C. R. Duncombe-Jewell (1866-1947) attempted to prove that plain kilts were in use in Cornwall historically. Carvings of minstrels dressed in kilts and playing bagpipes on bench ends at Altarnun church, date from circa 1510 and John T Koch in his work Celtic Culture: A Historical

Encyclopaedia mentions a black kilt worn by the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry in combat. however, no historical reference is provided to support this claim.

The Cornish National

First created in 1963, the Cornish National tartan was designed by the poet E. E. Morton Nance, nephew of Robert Morton Nance (founder of the Old Cornwall Society).

Each colour of tartan has a special significance or meaning. Inspired by Padstow historian and author Donald Rawe, the white cross on a black background is from the banner of Saint Piran, the patron saint of Tin Miners (also used as the flag of Cornwall). Black and gold were the colours of the ancient Kings of Dumnonia; red for the legs and beak of the national bird, the Cornish chough, and blue for the sea surrounding Cornwall. STA reference 1567.

The Cornish Hunting

Designed and registered by Mrs Sandra Redwood in 1984, the Cornish Hunting Tartan was designed as a subdued version of the rather bright National tartan. The tartan incorporates all of the colours of the national tartan, but on a dark green background. In addition, the use of royal blue and gold is a reference to the standard of Cornish Wrestlers. STA reference 1568.

The St Piran dress Tartan

Designed and registered pre 1985 by the late Donald Rawe of Padstow, the St Piran tartan is the dress version of the ‘Cornish Flag’ tartan.

The white cross on the black background once again represents the Cornish flag and St Piran, the patron saint of tin miners, with the red representing the legs and beak of the Cornish Chough. STA reference 1685.

Further information of all registered tartans can be found on The Scottish Register of Tartans.