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Cornish tartan is a relatively new tradition, having emerged only in the 20th century. Folks created it in response to Cornwall’s unique culture and heritage.
Unlike traditional Scottish tartans, Cornish tartan employs many colours that each have their own significance. Cleve’s seven designs each link the wearer, in their own way, to Cornwall’s history and natural environment.
This combination makes the tartan a contrasting symbol of Cornishness. It is proudly worn by people at cultural events and at parties.
Today, the Cornish tartan is worn with local pride. It marries history with a contemporary edge.
Not only a marker of cultural heritage, but also a means to show that one has an actual connection to Cornwall’s unique practices.
Origins and Symbolism of the Cornish Tartan
Historical Background of Cornish Tartans
The Cornish National tartan was designed in 1963 by the Cornish poet and cultural activist E. E. Morton Nance. He was a relative of Robert Morton Nance, one of the figures in the revival of Cornish culture.
Nance is interested in giving Cornwall its very own outlandish design, like the ones you see in Scotland, Ireland and Wales. Before this, people showed their Cornish identity using flags or language: tartan wasn’t on the scene.
His novel outfit was a response to complaints that Cornish patriots were wearing only plain black kilts.
He wanted to introduce colour and meaning that would closely reflect the people of Cornwall and its history.
Meaning of the Patterns and Colours
Each colour in the Cornish National tartan means something tied to Cornwall’s landscape and symbols:
White and Black: From the white cross on a black background on Saint Piran’s flag. Saint Piran is the patron saint of tin miners, and his banner is a big Cornish emblem.
Gold: Stands for Cornwall’s famous golden beaches.
Red: Symbolises the red beak and legs of the Cornish chough, a rare bird that’s a Cornish symbol.
Blue: Represents the sea surrounding Cornwall on three sides.
The pattern pulls these colours together into a bold design. It honours Cornwall’s natural beauty and cultural history.
Connection to Cornwall’s Identity
The Cornish tartan is more than mere fabric; it’s a symbol that has become inextricably connected with Cornwall’s cultural identity. It pays tribute to people and nature that are unique to the area, including Saint Piran and the Cornish chough.
Cornwall has its own language, culture and history that is distinct from the rest of England. The tartan offers a means for people to demonstrate pride in that difference.
Weddings, cultural events and revivals are typical occasions where people wear the tartan to demonstrate their link with Cornwall and its traditions.
Notable Cornish Tartans and Cultural Expression
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Cornish National Tartan and Its Significance
The Cornish National Tartan received its official registration in 1963 and was created to represent the culture and history of Cornwall. It features black and white for St Piran’s flag, with gold representing the beaches, red symbolising the chough, and blue representing the sea.
This tartan marries Cornwall to the Celtic heritage of Scotland, Ireland and Wales. It is what people wear at weddings and cultural events to rejoice in their local identity.
The colours and design are so evocative of Cornwall’s landscape and heritage.
Cornish Kilts: Distinctive Features and Usage
Cornish kilts were first worn in the 20th century and initially were plain black to match the traditional Cornish colours. Tartans like the Cornish National and Cornish Hunting Tartan increased the choice later.
This is added to by the Hunting Tartan, reintroduced during the 1980s, another style associated with hunting and country life. People wear Cornish kilts with pride at formal events and gigs, sometimes accompanied by bagpipes.
Makers like Sandra Redwood have helped popularise these kilts, offering tailored, sturdy options.
Cornish kilts stand out from Scottish ones because of their design origins and local symbols like the St Piran dress tartan and the classic black kilt.
Frequently Asked Questions
How and why was the Cornish tartan developed?
The Cornish tartan was finally officialised in 1963 by E.E. Morton Nance. Its colours echo the area’s symbols, such as St Piran’s flag and local wildlife.
This tartan is a modern one, although by centuries, not millennia, coming from the old Scottish.
What is the traditional way to wear the Cornish tartan?
Tartan is mainly worn as kilts, waistcoats, ties and brooches. It’s a comfortable, stylish garment, and you’ll see it at formal events in traditional settings.
It’s something that someone with, say, Cornish roots, or who wanted to celebrate Cornwall’s culture, might wear.
Are there other patterns that go with the Cornish tartan?
Yes, there are several Cornish tartans, the national pattern created in the 1950s and others subsequently registered for families or other groups. These designs are diverse but have common core colours and Cornish symbolism.
When should the Cornish tartan be worn?
They wear the tartan at weddings, cultural events and other special occasions. It’s a way of honouring Cornwall’s identity and traditions, to express pride in the region and its ways.