A Strathaven woman who designed a commemorative tartan marking 250 years of American independence has formally handed it over in Washington DC. Created by Heriot-Watt University graduate Kaci McEwan, the tartan was officially handed over to the America250 organisation on Saturday, July 4, during the America250 Birthday Cake Celebration: A National Gift to the Nation.
Design and Symbolism
A woven textiles specialist with an MA in Fashion and Textile Design from the School of Textiles and Design in Galashiels, Kaci created the design that is now serving as an official symbol of the historical cultural ties between Scotland and the US. The tartan uses carefully structured thread counts and colour sequencing to tell the story of America's journey to independence. Every thread and shade marks a moment on the road to the Declaration of Independence, from the 13 colonies to key dates, with subtle nods to the Fourth of July.
Kaci, originally from Strathaven, said: “It feels incredibly surreal to be presenting my tartan on the very day America celebrates its independence. I feel honoured to represent Scotland in this way. Tartan is such a huge part of our culture and history, so I referenced the two Scottish-born signatories of the Declaration of Independence, James Wilson and John Witherspoon, within the design. I never imagined I would be part of a project with such a global reach. As a designer, there is nothing more fulfilling than knowing your work will be worn and appreciated by other people, and it’s exciting that my scarf will remind people of this momentous occasion for many years to come. To be on the tartan register at the very start of my career is an incredible achievement, and I’m proud to represent both myself and my university.”
Selection and Production
Students from Heriot-Watt University’s School of Textiles and Design were commissioned and funded by the Scottish Government to create a tartan for Independence Day. Kaci’s design was selected from five shortlisted entries by an expert panel that included the US Ambassador to the UK. An initial run of Kaci’s commemorative tartan scarves is being produced at Lovat Mill in the Scottish Borders.
Professor Fiona Grant, executive dean for the School of Textiles and Design at Heriot-Watt University, said: “For someone so early on in their career to achieve what Kaci has managed to do so far is nothing short of incredible. She has managed to create a thoughtful and compelling design to mark this special moment in history and we are all proud of her.”
Political and Diplomatic Significance
External Affairs Minister Stephen Gethins said: “Scots were at the heart of the United States’ emergence as an independent country. Ever since, those deep bonds of family and friendship have endured, with a diaspora of millions across the US. Marking 250 years of American independence with this tartan is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the lasting relationship between Scotland and the United States. These enduring connections honour our shared history whilst helping to shape a strong and collaborative future between our two proud nations. I warmly congratulate Kaci McEwan on this outstanding achievement. This tartan commemorates significant moments in US history, whilst highlighting Scotland’s creative drive to offer a modern symbol of the strong and evolving cultural ties between both countries.”
The handover ceremony took place in Washington DC, with Kaci presenting the tartan to the British Ambassador Sir Christian Turner and his wife Lady Turner. The event also featured Representative Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX) and Grace Pak, fine cake artist for America 250 celebrations.
