After Event Report - Portland, OR

[RGRatSea]

Last night, Tuesday February 25th, saw our first attendance at the monthly gathering at the Horse Brass Pub in Portland. This proved to be a fine model of a gathering for the kilted and non-kilted aficionados of that remarkable bit of clothing which changes the social dynamic wherever it is worn. The pub was welcoming, lively and loud enough to allow the regular patrons and the kilt crew to go about their business in a comfortable setting with the bonus of a great brew list at good prices per pint.

My wife and I had driven from the east side of the state for various business appointments in a coincidentally timed week which encompassed the date of this gathering. Knowing we would be able to attend I had set out my best kilt and jacket so as to be properly attired - a noble effort stymied when we were some miles from our destination and my wife said, “where are your clothes?” It was as though I had been struck with a 2x4. They were, I realized, still hanging by the closet some 270 or so miles behind us. I had carefully packed the accessories but neglected to grab the essential hangers. I did have a double length of Stewart Hunting tartan and in the intervening days tried to wrap, gather and belt a sort of “Great Kilt’. While entertaining and instructional I concluded that despite my penchant for bold kilting I should pass on the wearing of this “Braveheart” model in public.

Not knowing the timing of this event we had a meal and hit the road, easily finding the pub. Once inside we saw nary a kilt so we took a seat at the bar and ordered, settling into the place. After a bit a couple walked past us and the gent was definitely kilted. I called a “Halloo” to he and his wife, Amy. A brief salutation and we were joined by a kilted Hawk. Now five we shifted to a table to get acquainted and to allow the newcomers to order. As it developed, the scheduled time was about 7:30 pm and within a short period another couple arrived. The well dressed Gent introduced himself as Rick, I too was a Rick (Ryc) and deemed him the well-dressed Rick. His wife was a lovely lady and added to his striking display of casual kilting.

It became evident that the group was to continue to grow and more table space would be needed so we grabbed our jackets, drinks, and new friends and shifted to a a larger area, pushing tables together and settling in as introductions were made and seating sorted. David arrived resplendent and several others joined in as the evening developed. Being our first time I lost track of the names for which I apologise and ask forgiveness from those not properly identified. I trust they will post their names to correct the omissions.

The real story is the great diversity in ages, characters and backgrounds this event brought together in a convivial setting with a great time had by all. Naturally there was a commonality in our kilted experiences that showed how the public reacts to a gent in a kilt: 1. “The Question”, 2. The wide variety of responses available, 3. The curiosity that opens the way to conversations you would never otherwise have, and 4. the pleasure of knowing you are one of the best dressed in any gathering no matter how your kilt is accessorized, from t-shirt to Prince Charlie.

In short, this was a fun evening with lovely people and could serve as a model for any other kilted folks in other cities. A chance to trot out the tartan in good company, see and be seen, and feel a part of a vibrant segment of the human race.

Ryc, From the Highlands of Eastern Oregon