NH Games - Lecture Series

[figheadair]

My speaking visit to the NH Games in Sept is confirmed. They've ask me to do,2 or 3 session each day, each of about an hour including questions, on subjects of my choice.

I've some ideas but would be interested to get your thoughts. Obviously there is likely to be a range of pre-knowledge, or lack there of, and I want to pitch this appropriately. I will have access to PowerPoint and so much of my research material. Some initial ideas are:

The development of clan tartans, the Highland Revival to Victoriana.

The use of tartan as a Jacobite Symbol (I've done this a couple of time before and it always goes down well).

Tartan Myths and the truth behind them.

The development of military tartans.

For those that might go, or would be interested in something similar at another time, what would you like to hear?

[OC Richard]

I would love to hear your lectures but unfortunately I'm at the other side of the Continent, further from New Hampshire than New Hampshire is from old Hampshire, I would guess.

But yes, it would be great to address the development of Clan tartans and military tartans (seems to me the topics are interrelated).

One topic that I think would fascinate people is the earliest surviving tartans and an overview of 18th century tartans. In part the fascination is due to the current popularity of Outlander... you might as well benefit from this increased interest in 18th century Highland Dress and tartan while it exists.

I would tread lightly on the topic of "tartan myths" which is a touchy subject to many Americans.

[Balaamsass51]

Figeadir, would that visit to America include a stop at Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina during July?

[figheadair]

Figeadir, would that visit to America include a stop at Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina during July?

Unfortunately not, not unless someone is going to invite me . Hopefully this will be the start of me getting back into visiting the US and Canada on a more regular basis.

[Garth]

All I can say is I wish I was sitting in on all the presentations.

[Baeau]

...I would love to hear your lectures but unfortunately I'm at the other side of the Continent, further from New Hampshire than New Hampshire is from old Hampshire, I would guess..........

Richarrd....that makes many of us on the West Coast. Perhaps we should 'make some calls, & pass the hat'. Have Peter out for Pleasanton?

[Tim Little]

Peter:

It’s been a few years since I’ve made my way north to take in the NHHG, but your presence and lecture series this year makes me think it’s time to revisit “auld acquaintances.”

As for presentation topics, I think any of those proposed would be fascinating. My sense is that the knowledge-base of your audience will be quite varied, with some better educated than others. Perhaps pairing a couple of general/foundational topics — such as tartan myths or the development of clan tartans or Jacobite connections — with topics of a more specific appeal (e.g., the maritime province connection, as suggested by Collin, or women’s dress, as you suggest) would be a useful approach?

With 2-3 lectures over the course of 3 days, you have quite a bit of room to let yourself roam.

Also, perhaps the popularity of “Outlander” on this side of the Atlantic could offer a useful framework for some of these discussions….

[CollinMacD]

Peter:

With 2-3 lectures over the course of 3 days, you have quite a bit of room to let yourself roam.

Also, perhaps the popularity of “Outlander” on this side of the Atlantic could offer a useful framework for some of these discussions….

Bring Sam with you and my wife will approve this trip in a heartbeat. Totally agree about the Outlander link, as in the States this still is a VERY POPULAR Series..... GOOD POINT.... Cheers

[figheadair]

Peter:

It’s been a few years since I’ve made my way north to take in the NHHG, but your presence and lecture series this year makes me think it’s time to revisit “auld acquaintances.”

Also, perhaps the popularity of “Outlander” on this side of the Atlantic could offer a useful framework for some of these discussions….

Tim, it would be very good to catch up after so many years.

As for Outlander, what an interesting idea. Outlander, and the real tartans of the mid-18th century. Or some such topic.

[figheadair]

I think I've managed to refine my ideas down to five topics which will be given in a series of seven lectures over three days. Not necessarily in this order:

• The Buchanan Tartans (in recognition of the new Chief being the Guest of Honour).
• Outlander and the Real Tartans of the ’45.
• The Origins and Growth of Clan Tartans
• The Use of Tartan as a Jacobite Symbol.
• The Arisaid and Other Female Highland Dress.

Thoughts?