Quote Originally Posted by Bob C.
Bubba's not wrong about the result - pretty much anyone being admitted to a clan society - but I think he's being harsh about the motive.

I don't think it's as much about the cash as it is about the warm bodies. Groups of all sorts are having trouble holding onto members. They hesitate to send eager "recruits" away.

I'm wary of the connection of septs to clans, though. One clan society in the U.S. has long claimed my family as a sept, though the clan in the U.K does not and I have seen no evidence of a connection. That's why I chose a district tartan when I bought my tank, rather than blindly accept what was listed in "A Tartan for Me."

We're actually listed as an armigerous clan, though we have had no chief in few centuries. Where do I apply for the job? :grin:
Most folks who are knowledgeable about tartans and that ilk will worn folks to be very cautious when dealing with the sept system -- see Charles MacKinnon's "Scottish Highlanders" for a good basic look at the flaws behind it. Good genealogical research is always preferrable.

Bob, like you, I promote the idea of district tartans, even over sept lists at times -- a nice alternative, and a custom that is older than some wish to acknowledge.

It is difficult to retain members in any organization these days -- modern society has far too many distractions -- several organizations I belong are hurting. The loyal 20% will always be there, but it's not getting any easier.

T.