I thought I would start with a relatively new acquisition, which was entrusted to our care in July 2011. We were fortunate enough to receive four pieces of traditional Scottish Highland dress that originally belonged to John Alexander Cameron, a pioneer of 1861. He was born 25 December 1818 in Barcholl, Argyll, Scotland. He came to Utah in 1861, and died 8 October 1903. For more biographical information on John Alexander Cameron, click here.
 |
| John Alexander Cameron, wearing full Highland dress, including the kilt and sporran now at the Pioneer Memorial Museum |
We received his pleated wool plaid kilt, the leather belt, a spectacular sporran with silver thistle detail, and one argyle sock. It is a rare treat to see so many pieces of a Scottish outfit survive in one place.
The kilt dates back to 1830-45 and was probably made at the weaving firm William Wilson & Sons of Bannockburn. The tartan is Cameron of Erracht, and the main part of the kilt is one large piece of fabric. The pleats are sewn into a tan waistband, and it has a small coin purse incorporated on the inside.
 |
| John Alexander Cameron kilt c. 1845 |
 |
The donation also included one argyle pattern sock. The toe area suffers from loss, and the heel has been darned. There is a number printed at the top of the sock, 3036. The belt is dark brown leather with a silver buckle.
All of these items, which were given through the generosity of Beverly B. Reed, are on display on the main floor of the Pioneer Memorial Museum in case 52.
