TARTAN IN THE HIGHLANDS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIX, Issue 192, 16 August 1938, Page 8

TARTAN IN THE HIGHLANDS.

Nowadays tartan ie not seen, alae! eo frequently in Scotland as it might be; but there is an occasion in each district of the Highlands when, once a year, it comes into ite own. The occasion is that of the local Gathering. These gatherings are held during ithe latter part of the summer and in early autumn in all parts of the Highlands, and are essentially sporting meetings where local athletes strive together in friendly rivalry; but there is more to it than that. There is a rich background of tradition, and it ie for this reason that tartan is so much in evidence. All the competitors, and many of the spectators, wear the kilt. Moreover, many of the evente are peculiar to the Scottish Highlands. There is dancing. There is piping. Brawny fellows toes the c.Vber (a roughly-trimmed pine trunk) and throw the hammer. Imagine a level space cradled in encircling heather-clad hills. There is a tent or two, and there are benches for the spectators. As you approach, the skirl of the pipes strikes sweetly through the keen mountain air, and when you arrive your reward ie a scene of genuine rural gaiety that ie rare in these hustling modern times. —DOUGLAS G. RUSSELL.