Tartan Jack

I had been misinformed as to what "wool bunting" actually was (and never had the need/reason to look it up again). So, a wool bunting 1-2 ply would be best, with either a modern plain weave (or a light, loose weave cotton as a poorer substitute) as a visual substitute. They were also HUGE and I've seen listed as 20 by 30 as a "normal" large size with 3 by 5 as TINY in comparison. Also, more are squarer in shape than most would expect. (I have spent time looking up stuff in all sorts of books, and the web.) It also seems that stuff was painted on AND stuff was appliqued (patches sewn onto the main flag base. Sometimes, they were on one side and the main material was "cut out" underneath to make it 2 sided. Other times the patch was on both sides. The issue is weight vs. strength (you WANT light, but strong). I have NOT been able to find out about the paint actually used on historic flags (most citings just say "painted"). It seems like modern reproductions use artist paint (usually oil, but some use acrylic-> NOT historic, but looks good and easy to use) or enamel (I question if that would be too heavy or stiff, as all shirts I've gotten brushed model paint onto makes it REAL stiff). Anyone (like Foxe or GofF, for example) know more on both what paint types (and how different than modern paints) would be available aboard ship AND what would have been used on Landlubber bannners? This seems to ALWAYS be the hardest info for me to find or know anyone who knows about historic paints. ,

Since it come up . . . Caledonia-> the ROMAN name for the country From a southern (relatively) tribe called the Caledon that the Romans faced in battle (an who managed to keep the Romans at bay when Rome was seen as invincible. The OTHER group the Romans couldn't beat, the ones they called the Germani of Germania (named after the man now called "Herman the German," which is extremely redundant). The Germans called themselves the Deutch. What the celtic people themselves called what is now Scotland: ALBA (If watch Braveheart, which has a VERY large number of historical problems, the army says: "Alba Go Braugh") As for the Scot/Pict relations, the "traditional" view is that of either genocide or slavery. More recent scholarship argues that it was far more peaceful, citing the lack of pre-Viking wholesale slaughter evidence that would be involved with genocide. More likely it was by intermarriage and assimilation. One of the complexities is that culture often goes through maternal lines, yet the Pict culture is, for all intensive purposes, gone. Scholars have intense difficulty identifying ANY distinct Pictish culture (which leads to many, many anacronistic interpretations by ones who want to implant their own ideas, esp. about Druidism). One popular way to overcome this is to argue that all that is Scottich and not Irish, must be Pictish in origin. Among scholars of early Scottish history, the Scot-ization of Alba is one of the issues of HOT debate. I was hinting at it in my post by -"took"- without taking a whole aside to explain. But, since you brought it up . . . (Also, note my initial signature, "Kilted Pirate of the Caledonian Carolinas") Today, Scotland, Alba, and Caledonia are all used the Scots for their country. Some (a number of whom want to "stick it" to the English) also uses the French name "Ecosse." I think it is just good natured humor, for the most part. I use all 4, depending upon which best fits the situation. My favorite is Alba, as that is the most historic for what the peoples called it themselves. Random thought: In the ORGINAL "The Italian Job," WHY is the clearly Italian partner of Crocker called the very British name of Roger . . . and WHY does Crocker TALK to the film and get an appropriate answer? (Yes, I have opinions on all this, but am not sure if it was what was intended.)

Hi, My main interest (before spending to much time here) is Scottish history, with pirates as more of an interesting side. So, it seems most of ya'll have personas. I am beginning to feel like I need one now too. So here is the basic outline: Born 1695 in highlands of Scotland (location to be determined, possibly western isles or Argyle). Fought at 20 in Jacobite Rebellion of 1715 (still need to decide actual position, thinking-> made battle flags and served as color bearer and/or chaplain) After end, went to sea to avoid prosection as a rebel. Ended up in Charleston area, but HATED percieved English presence. Tried backcounty, but not to liking. SO, went to sea. Pressed into piracy (as flag/sailmaker/chaplain), but found to liking. Vision: Experinced tactician and moderate weapons (not expert) with a LOT of gall and deep hate for Hanover Government (and not a lot of respect for anything percieved as "English," though many friends and compatriots of English stock). Less experienced at sea, but wanting to learn EVERYTHING. Is experienced in stitching and some background in art and design (flag making). As for costume, mix of period highland wear (what already know) and sea wear. Maybe, tartan short coat and trousers/trews. I plan to mix with a belted plaid at times (own several and philabeg/early kilt), but not always nor when would be in the way. So what do ya think? (Yes, I am a BIG fan of Roberts, who probably influences my "vision" more than I would like to admit, though am trying to tone down)

Isn't "Scotti" and "Pirate" essentially the same meaning? The term "Scotti" is from a Roman name for the Irish, who immigrated and "took" the rest of the Picts in the 5th-10th C. It is -supposed- to mean "raider" (Some theorize that, like Pict, it may actualy be a Roman corruption of of a native gaelic name for the people themselves that is now lost). So, doesn't that make Scots pirates?

To defend myself: I AM an "a-hole counter" (with a degree in history, even-> I was picking on myself) As for Captain Blood and Black Swan . . . IT WASN'T FILMED FOR WIDESCREEN!!!!!!!! They are both in the film-ratio (no panavision, cropping, etc). It was 1942!!!!! Note-> nothing is chopped off sides, nor is anything "wasted" on the top and bottom (both caracteristics of making a widescreen film into TV aspect). To see how it was filmed, the "framing" either includes "stuff" off screen to left, right, or both (panavision) or has "empty space" at the top and bottom of the screen (when the film is physically cropped when projected). It is VERY evident if you know what you are looking for.

If Blackbeard was a blonde, brunnet, or redhead, What image would he have created for himself? Why the hell have most people never HEARD of Bart Roberts? Does a "death's head" mean teh skull only or the skull and bones together? How many of us wouldn't be scared crapless if we ever came across a REAL 18th C. pirate? (Now, be honest) Why can't history a-hole "counters" and ren "fairies" not seem to get along? Don't we line the same stuff in general? Why did so many historical famous pirates actually suck at piracy? Why does "hollywood" seem COMPELLED to replace great history with less interesting melodrama? Why do I WASTE so much time on the internet? Would pirates even use the internet, if it existed in 1718? Why were so many "pirate ships" names "Revenge"? Why is there a "preview" on The Black Swan warning "Piracy is a Crime" "Piracy is stealing" and "Piracy is illegal". Aren't we about to WATCH a movie ABOUT PIRATES??? Why is there a warning on my telephone not to use it in the shower, in a thunderstorm? WHY AM I STILL TYPING?

Without starting a new thread, . . . I am used to Scotch (blended and single malt). I actually had my FIRST "real" rum (not the clear crap) LAST NIGHT. Following the the advise from SOMEWHERE on the pub, I got Captain Morgan's Private Stock (and some Dewar's-> excellent Scotch for the price, though I prefer the singles more). I LOVE IT!!!! It is the only alcohol besides Scotch that actually tasted "good" to me (I can only barely drink beer). I'll definately be getting more. Bilgemonkey, I'll be looking to your chart and reviews QUITE a bit. For my next question, Which modern rum(s) are the most "authentic" for the GAoP? In the GAoP, wasn't the rum generally cut with a substantial amount of water? Any general "rum info" I NEED to know? (Remember, I am coming from the background of scotch and know LITTLE to NOTHING of rum.)

SHEEP LIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The posts for Brothers of the Carolina Coast are quite old and I emailed. As not reponse is forth coming, I am trying here too.

I live in Upstate, South Carolina and am interesting in finding a group interested in piratical reenactments. Is the Columbia group Pirates of the Carolina Coast still around? Anyone, anyone (Beuller, Beuller)?

(If hadn't read my "introduction" . . . I wear and make kilts. It was a kilt vs. pants joke.) My booty, my booty. My booty and me! I'm sorry, at one forum I frequent, Kilts are the norm and trousers are "The T Word" and pants are "women's clothing." BUT, trews (a form of tight fitting legged garments, for horse riding, made in tartan of tartan material- NOT the same thing-) are OK. I fear me kilt be looked up if ever venture in the rigging!

Pants???? What are pants????? Oh, those are those uncomfortable things that are worn between the legs!!!! (and in the rigging) I call them trews! Now, to get some loose trews . . .

Hi, I was in a discussion in another forum on the "1715" Jacobite Rebellion. At the death of Queen Anne, a bunch of Scots got VERY unhappy at the nomination of kingship to George, Elector of Saxony. So, they rose up in rebellion under the cause of the exiled "James the Pretender," son of James II of England and James VII of Scotland. I KNOW that Queen Anne's War (War of Spanish Succession-> correct?) had a MAJOR impact on piracy. So, was there any preceivable impact of the Jabobite Rebellion of 1715? (Remember, I am coming from a background more focused on Scottish events than Carribean, so I am asking those who know more about this area than myself. THAT means MOST of YOU :) )

As for kilt jokes, . . . I wonder if I'll hear some I don't already know. I am better at writing jokes than telling them. My three favorite: A Man wearing a cling wrap kilt walks into a psyciatrist's office. The psychiatrist looks at him and says: I can CLEARLY see your NUTS!!!! A highlander with one sheep is a shepherd A highlander with two sheep is an entrapaneaur (breeding and so forth) A highlander with three sheep is a PIMP!!! And to end: "SHEEP LIE!!!!!!!!!!!"

Past cars: 85 Audi 5000 Dark Gray-> Spectre (killed by my grandmother when she wrecked it, taking a Geo and a Rolls Royce with it. All drivers were fine.) 87 VW Vanagon Wolfram (dark metalic) gray-> Ghost/Spectre II (lost it in a parking lot more than once, surprising for something 6 feet high, 12 feet long, and 5 ot 6 feet wide. It blended in with a dark parking lot. One friend looking for it WALKED INTO IT to find it ) Traded for Miata 97 Ford Tarus-> named Blue Oval (it was blue and had the oval motif ALL OVER IT!!!!! Besides, that is Ford's nickname.) Sold to a friend when we bought Queen Anna's Revenge. Flying Ocra was originally named Droopy (Anna thought it looked like Droopy Dog), then dubbed Flying Ocra. Briefly, I renamed it Timex, bit it didn't take, so it reverted to Flying Ocra. It was hit twice, replaced its tranny twice (under warrenty), had a tornado form and pass DIRECTLY OVER IT (pelting it with baseball size hail, with us inside) and HAD A TREE FALL ON IT last winter (the tree went through a deck and landed with a branch was holding up the tree THROUGH THE SUSPENSION AND ENGINE BLOCK, we just had to replace the hood and repaint the roof)!!! Yet, it just keeps going and WON'T DIE.

In a forum like this, I am VERY curious . . . In honor of the great ships of the seas, which would NEVER set sail unnamed, How many of you name your daily 4-wheeled transportation? We have 3 cars: Fenix-> MX-5 Miata (it has been reborn and brought back from the dead more than once) Flying Ocra-> green sedan (long story originating with my wife in college) Queen Anna's Revenge-> minivan, named by my wife Anna (I'm SURE ya'll get THAT one) Anyone else want to share? (or am I the lone nut)

I am actually working on an real skunk sporran. I have a pelt and the rest of the stuff, but am trying to finish a few other "projects" first. The "bad experince" could best be summed as "spam hate mail" by a PARTICULAR person. I latter found out that my compatriots on that forum HATED her and (as they were moderators), I should have "reported" her (providing an excuse to boot her). They kicked her off later for something else. I don't really expect problems here. Thanks for the welcomes. I will try to keep which subforum is for which topic. Though, I will probably be in Captain Twill and Plunder most of the time. I am interested in reenactment, IF I can find a group/rabble/gang close enough that I can ACTUALLY BE involved. If anyone from the Columbia, SC group is on here, PM ME PLEASE!!!!! Thanks,

I was going to let this thread die, but this was to good to pass up. In Kenneth W. Maulder's "Piracy: Days of Long Ago" (Tampa Bay, Florida: Mulder Enterprises, 1998, second ed.) on page 77, this is listed under "Other Infamous Pirates:" "Red Legs Greaves was a Scottish captain who wore a kilt exposing his bare legs even in cold weather." Also: "French pirate Captain Borgne-Fesse, which means Captain Half-Ass- history did not explain his deformity further." More internet on Greaves is: (116 Google hits on his name) http://www.ancientworlds.net/aw/Post/423739 and http://blindkat.hegewisch.net/pirates/whosgreaves.html He is also meantioned here (among Blackbeard and Roberts) on http://romancereaderatheart.com/pirate/Trivia.html Captain "Red Legs" Greaves (1670-1680 - Island of Margarita of Venezuela) Greaves got his nickname "Red Legs" from his heritage. The kilt wearing Scots were known for going bare legged in any weather and this lifestyle led to "red legs" in the Caribbean sun. As his reputation spread throughout the Caribbean "Red Leg" Greaves became known for his humanity and morality. He never tortured his prisoners, robbed the poor, or maltreated women. After Greaves became a legally free and pardoned man he once again retired to a plantation becoming well known for being a charitable and kindly man who gave generously to many public institutions. Greaves died of old age, universally respected and missed by all in his community. Is this guy even real? One commentator thinks not: http://www.thepirateking.com/forum/viewtop...0a08c50e379ccbd At least one can see WHY the argument seems to go round and round without many "facts" ACTUALLY coming out on kilted pirates.

I spent HOURS today looking at old threads (and trying to get used to this site "search" engine). A decent thread worth noting: http://pyracy.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=337&hl= Also, Foxe had a number of good comments in the last couple years. I am looking forward to his book (or at least an expanded version of his site). I'd LOVE to see more of the 100 or so ones he has found described. As for patterns, this one was interesting: http://pyracy.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=6177&hl= Also interesting: http://pyracy.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=5539&hl=

I know there is a thread on here SOMEWHERE on the Blackbeard movie done by the BBC. BUT, I can't seem to find it by search (not used to this engine). Anyone able to help me?

I just HAD to revive this thread when I found it!!! As for the MacNeils: In Charles MacKinnon of Dunakin's "Scottish Highlanders: A Personal View" (Barnes and Noble: New York, 1984; reprint 1992), I found this interesting: "The Barra MacNeils were picturesque pirates, and Kisimul Castle was well known as acorsair lair from which the MacNeil galleys set out on swift, successful raids. They were almost impregnable on Barra, and certainly safe from all attack at Kisimul, which rises sheer from the sea on a small island and which could not in those days be assaultes by land. During the Lordship of the Isles, the MacNeils generally supported the MacDonalds. Roderick Og MacNeil of Barra was celebrated for his bravery. He was one of the chiefs who accompanied the Earl of Argyle on his expedition against the Catholic Earls, which ended disasterously for Argyle. Roderick Og fell at the Battle of Glenlivet in 1594. His son was a splendid character called Roderick 'the Turbulent', one of the greatest sea-rovers of a clanwhich had the sea in its blood. Queen Elizabeth of England complained of his piracy, and he was peremptorially summoned to appear before the Privy Council in Edinburgh. Natually he ignored the summons, and eventually he was captured by a trick, being invited aboard the ship of a friendly MacKenzie, where he and his henchmen were got drunk and then secured while the boat made off with them. When he arrived in Edinburgh, he took a high tone. He explained that he had made war on English ships because he was honor bound to avenge the murder of the King's mother (Mary, Queen of Scots) by Elizabeth, and he had assumed that the King would be pleased by what he had done. He feels he deserves the pardon which he then recieved." (MacKinnon, 211-212) I'm not actually sure if the MacNiels wore kilts shipboard, but it is interesting. The are Highlander Pirates for sure. MacNeil, through the Neel family (on mother's side),

Thanks for the help. I am planning to make several. One of them will be paint on canvas. I am planning on using artist acrylic (reinforced by the post on the POTC movie flags in the thread showing personal ensigns). Does anyone know what kind of paint they would/could have used in GAoP (I have a knowledge gap on that point)? Another will be white wool hand sewn on black wool. I "think" this may be more historically correct, but there really is no proof either way. I am only concerned it will not "flutter" well. Yet another will be a design on a tartan base (not historical, but will look cool at highland games this year). I am not sure of the material yet, but probably white canvas or wool on a Carolina tartan base (in 100% cotton twill). Let's say I have a large number of flags floating around in my head. I'll post a pic when I have the tartan one at a games. Thanks again,

OK, I'll ACTUALLY introduce myself. Yes, Wages REALLY is my last name. We do not know where it came from. The line we think we related (there is a gap about 1800, but there are reason for assuming a link to a certain family that does go back further) goes back to a William Wages that came to Virginia in 1691 with 8 other people with Scottish names. There are some theories, but they are still postulations. I do have a degree in history, but the focus has been more on Scottish and religious subjects. My interest in pirates goes back decades, but I have a relatively small collection of book (growing thanks to the actual history books now available in either new print, reprint, or used thanks to POTC). Some of my questions may seen odd, but I am probably coming from a different background than most here. I am not currently involved in any reenactment groups, though I would like to be (I am not sure about the amount of time I could provide, but i would love to try). I live in upstate South Carolina (US). One of my main interests is the contrast and comparison of legends/myths to reality, then to see how they are related and how/why the reality either gave birth or developed into the legend. In this regard, pirates are one of the most facinating (as is Scottish history-> just look at William Wallace, MacBeth, or a number of the Scottish history books). I had a very bad experience on a forum a while back and only recently reentered forums (this is only the 3rd I've joined since I got back on them). I liked the level of depth and the amount of people who seem to know what they are talking about here. I entered with a bit of a "pirate persona" and probably sounded like a bit of an arrogant prick. I'm sorry about that. I am a MUCH better historian than I am a storyteller, I PROMISE!!! Part of my background is also with the arts, especially graphic and industrial design. So, I am interested in the "visual" around pirates, as well as the stories and artifacts. That is also what flags facinate me so much. They are pictoral representations of the ideas held dear to those that create, fly, and honor them. Flags are esentially pieces of cloth, really nothing more. Yet, they draw out SUCH emotion and meaning. Flag bearers will charge head long into battle, without arms, carrying the colors. If they die, others grap the flag and drop their own arms to lift it up. Hence, two of my earliest threads. I am also interested in models. I mess with O-Guage trains, die cast cars, real cars, and many other things. Two of my "current" projects are the conversion of 2 "ships." One is the Lindburg "Jolly Roger" into a 1/48 scale sloop and a 1/96 scale Revell USS Constitution into a 1/48 scale pirate ship (I am as of yet undecided as to the rigging or if I will make it 2 or 3 masted). So,m I will probably be looking and asking a fair amount about the actual "pirate ships" and issues such as colors, and the like. Yes, I actually do make kilts and balmorals, and am thinking of making it an actual side business. I have had plenty of interest in it from others before it even crossed my mind. I'll tell and reveal more as I see fit and appropriate. I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know all ya'll. Til later,

This seems to be the place to ask this question . . . I know many of you have made your own pirate flags. So, what is the "best" way to do it? (I want a plethora of opinions on this one) What is a way to make it "period"? What works best "day-to-day," regardless of period correctness. What is "easy"? What materials have you tried and what works well? Awful? Works but is a PITA? What "flutters well"? What stands up well" What about fading? I make a lot of my own stuff already, but would like opinions on flag making. I have started (but not finished) a flag based on modern "flag material." It DOES NOT look "right" to me, so I quit before I got even half way done. What "looks good" to ya'll? (I'm a southerner, if you don't like it, GO SIT ON A THISTLE!!!!! or SLEEP ON A BED OF KUDZU!!!!!) :)

Down in the hull, lurking as others keep their distance. A Man like no other. A dirk in one hand and a basket hilted cutlass at his side. A tankard in his other. Dressed in a kilt and a bonnet, but don't DARE call it a skirt (or ye be DEAD)! He leads the Thistle, a ship of dubious distintion. His loyalties to 2, MacBubba, MacNeil, and Wallace. Let none challenge them. A Bat, his pet. A skunk picked up on land, now his sporran, it crossed him once. It is . . . Tartan John Wages The Kilted Pyraete of the Caledonian Carolinas!