I haven't done any DNA testing or worked very far up the family tree; my connection to the kilt is mostly through family lore. Emphasis was always put on the family name, and therefore the patrilineal heritage, though I have the blood of various European nations running through my veins.

My father's line came to Canada from Ireland. I was told, however, that going further back we were also part of a Highland clan. The most ancient origins of my surname appear to be from Ulva. My dad played the bagpipes in his youth and wore the kilt, though no-one else in the family did.

On my mother's side, I have an aunt who was actually born in Scotland but moved to Canada at a very young age. We are not blood related though, as she was married to my mother's brother. Some of the men in her family are kilt wearers and supported my interest.