Quote Originally Posted by jhockin View Post
From the web page on the National Museums of Scotland:
"Targe, owned by Prince Charles Edward Stewart

A targe is a circular Highland battle shield made of wood and covered with leather. This example was presented to Prince Charles Edward Stewart in 1740 by James, 3rd Duke of Perth.

The targe is made in the traditional highland way, with overlapping wooden boards covered in pigskin. It is, however, much more elaborately decorated than most Highland targes and its silver mounts were probably added in London in 1740.

The targe was rescued from Culloden battlefield in 1746 by Jacobite colonel Ewan MacPherson of Cluny and remained in his family until the 20th century."

Which would follow along similar lines to the information laid out in "The Highlanders of Scotland", although the "Highlanders" notes claim that Charles gave it to MacPherson after Culloden and not that it was recovered from Culloden field.

In this case I'd probably believe the Cluny/MacPherson historian as the family was closer to events,
it would also make sense with the info about another identical piece that had been destroyed in the fire at Warwick Castle. (why would there be a 2nd identical one if this were Charles' personal targe?)

Also, the skeptic in me is more inclined to believe a story that says something WASN'T a famous person's SPECIFIC piece, but might have been one of several given out in recognition of loyalty/service.

ith: