One of several tartan tributes to the memory of Flora MacDonald, this tartan was designed for Highland dancers competing at the Aboyne Highland Games in 1996, marking the 250th anniversary of her role in helping aid Charles Edward Stuart in his escape following the Battle of Culloden.

Disguised as an Irish maid named "Betty Burke," the Prince was ferried from Benbecula to Skye under Flora's protection, an act of courage that secured her place in Scottish history and folklore. Although she was later arrested and imprisoned in the Tower of London, she became widely admired for her loyalty, bravery, and compassion.

The connection with Highland dancing is particularly appropriate, as one of the best-known National dances is Flora MacDonald's Fancy. Despite its name, the dance appears to date from the late nineteenth century rather than Flora's own lifetime, but it remains a favourite among Highland dancers and helps keep her story alive.

The tartan was created for dancers at the famous Aboyne Highland Games, often called "The Traditional Highland Games." Founded in 1867, the gathering is renowned not only for its competitions but also for its influence on Highland dance costume. In the early 1950s, the Aboyne committee introduced a distinctive style of dress for female dancers, believing that women should have an outfit different from the kilt traditionally worn by men. The resulting combination of tartan skirt, velvet bodice, white blouse, and tartan sash became known as the Aboyne dress and remains the standard attire for National dances such as Flora MacDonald's Fancy, The Scottish Lilt, and Blue Bonnets. 💚 💙 🤍 ❤️ 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 🎶 🕺 💃