Warband of Clan Fraser of Lovat

Castle Leod, home of the Chief of Clan Fraser...

The Warband does not have a particular requirement to represent a specific social class for those wishing to participate. As such, the clothing and equipment requirements are somewhat “open”.

Men, and those portraying men, should have clothing and equipment appropriate for civilian wear that is consistent with the period just prior to mid-century Great Britain. Those who wish to wear Highland clothing are encouraged to do so, but it is not necessary. Highland clothing should consist of either a great plaid or kilt, of any mid-18th century sett (there was no clan or family association tartan until the later 19th century), along with short jackets and waistcoats. Sporrans should be plain leather bags, and shoulder brooches for great plaids should not have jewel stones. Kilt pins to hold the plaid or kilt apron closed will not be worn. Bag hose (non-knitted stockings made of woven cloth cut and sewn to the shape of the leg, often of tartan wool) are encouraged but not required. Shoes may be standard buckled 18th century, laced ghillie brogues, or rawhide currans. Guns should be any mid-century or earlier appropriate flintlock musket, and accoutrements should be appropriate mid-century or earlier European military or civilian type. Bayonets are acceptable, but not required. Broadswords, targes (round shields), dirks, Lochaber Axes, and “sharpened farm implements” are encouraged, but not required (all 1745 events do not allow use of steel weapons for hand to hand combat on the field, so wooden replica weapons are acceptable for use on the field). Headwear shall consist of either a Highland or Lowland bonnet of any appropriate solid color (shade of blue was most common), upon which will be fixed a white ribbon cockade. Additionally, a sprig of French or wild strawberry, with or without a white, 5-lobed flower, may also be affixed to the bonnet (this is the plant badge of Clan Fraser of Lovat). Those wishing to spend the time may create an artificial sprig or badge of period appropriate materials and methods (no plastic plants please). Clothing and equipment should consistently represent the wealth of the wearer, which means that the higher the social standing and wealth, the more war equipment is carried (and the more tartan clothing would be displayed).

Women may wear any mid-18th century appropriate clothing, but “working dress” is most appropriate for those who would be attached to the Jacobite army, as women of upper social strata did not typically accompany their husbands in the Prince’s forces, unlike other armies of later time periods. Tartan accessories may be worn with women’s clothing (from a simple sash to an arisaid), but great plaids and kilts should not be worn by those portraying women.

Children may wear any period-appropriate clothing consistent with their social standing, but again, upper social class children would not be accompanying their fathers into the field with the Jacobite army.

As always, the goal of this is to have fun and a good time, without breaking the bank, while adding another level of potential participation and learning for our members and the spectators. Any questions about any of this may be directed to me, and I will do my best to assist!

Long live the King Over the Water!

I remain your humble servant,

The War Chief

Greetings from Clan Fraser of Lovat, an affiliate of the King’s American Regiment, representing Jacobite troops of the Clan fighting for Bonnie Prince Charlie during the ‘45!

The goal of this unit is to provide the opportunity for organized participation in Jacobite Rebellion events in North America, and expand the promotion of reenacting this interesting period in the history of Great Britain, when the deposed House of Stuart gave its last breath to replace the House of Hanover on the throne ruling the Three Kingdoms.