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:

St. Andrews Society of Modesto
P. O. Box  578653
Modesto, CA 95357-8653

Our Tartans

The tartan shown on the background of this website is the American Saint Andrews Societies Tartan. Modified from the American Bi-Centennial tartan, which was designed in response to an idea put forward by Mr JC Thomson in 1974, that there should be an identifying tartan for American Saint Andrews and Caledonian societies, and to commemorate the American Bi-Centennial (1776-1976). Modification from the American Bi-Centennial Tartan to the American Saint Andrews Societies Tartan was done by Jamie Scarlett MBE. A sample of this tartan is available at the Scottish Tartans Authority collection in Scotland.

Other tartans that we can use as a society include the The American Tartan and the California State Tartan.

The American Tartan was designed by John C (Jack) Cumming who was born in Forfar, Angus and moved to the USA as an infant. The design is based on the colours of the American flag. This tartan was originally woven by Barbara Schaffer of Arizona on August 13, 1975, and presented to US First Lady Betty Ford in 1976. In addition to its registry in Scotland, it holds a United States copyright, GP121829.

The California State Tartan was designed by J Howard Standing of Tarzana, California, and Thomas Ferguson of Sydney, British Columbia. Adopted as the official California State tartan by the State Legislature on July 23, 2001 by California Governor Gray Davis. It is for general use by all those living in the State. It is closely based on the Muir tartan (STR ref #3039), after the famous botanist and environmentalist, John Muir, who lived in California.

Source: The Scottish Register of Tartans

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.