Who We Are
St. Andrew's Society of Modesto organized in 1980, with it's first meeting in 1981, was established to further GAELIC HERITAGE and CULTURE for the residents of Stanislaus and it's surrounding counties. Through its activities, the Society offers a brief glimpse of the history, pageantry and customs of the past which still live in the hearts of many today. All Gaelic cultures, Scottish, Irish and Welsh, are represented. Whether your interest is in the "swing of the kilt," the drone of the bagpipe or the eating of scones, shortbread, bangers or soda bread, you'll find it encouraged by this Society. You don't have to be a Scotsman, Irishman or Welshman to participate. The only requirement is an interest in this colorful and unique bit of living history. We are glad to see you at our gatherings and will welcome you as a member. If you would like to join the Saint Andrew's Society, please fill out the Membership Application and mail to: The American TartanThe tartan we used on this website is the American Tartan. The American Tartan was designed by John C. Cumming in 1975. It has an American copywright number GP121829 and the date of publication was 13 August 1975. It was presented in 1976 to the First Lady of the United States, Mrs. Betty Ford. Mr. J. C. Thompson F.S.T.S., a member of the Saint Andrew's Society of Washington, D.C., initiated the design of the American (St. Andrews) tartan. The design was modified by J. D. Scarlett F.S.T.S. and it too is dated 1975. It was conceived as a tartan for American St. Andrews and Caledonian Societies. The St. Andrews Society of Washington, DC voted to commission a tartan in 1975. There are two distinct and different tartans both based upon the colours of "Old Glory". The former is the official American tartan. Source: The Saltire Legend
According to legend, in 832 A.D. the the Picts and the Scots went to war against the Saxons. On the eve of battle, Óengus, the king of the Picts, vowed if given victory he would appoint Saint Andrew as the Patron Saint of Scotland. That night in a dream, Andrew appeared to Óengus, assuring him of victory. On the morning of battle white clouds, forming an X, appeared before him. In the first few minutes of battle, an arrow killed the Saxon leader, whose troops panicked and fled the field. The flag is based upon this legend. Throughout history, fabric production has used natural dyes from plants, including indigo from Woad. The color may vary according to soil type and climate, creating shade variations. Woad dye variations have resulted in the flag ranging from sky blue to navy blue. |