Historical Scotland

Scotland is a land of magic and mystery, and is a favorite setting for many historical romance novels. Historically, the Scots and the British were at war for many years before Scotland finally submitted to English rule.

St. Andrew became the patron saint of Scotland about a thousand years ago. His X shaped cross called The Saltire and is on the flag of Scotland. There are many legends about how Saint Andrew became the patron saint of Scotland. One is that St. Regulus, also known as St. Rule was told in a dream to take the relics of St Andrew to the 'ends of the earth'. St Rule traveled as far as he could go. HIs travels took him to Scotland which was at that time at the edge of the known world.

St Rule took a tooth, an arm bone, a kneecap and some fingers. He was shipwrecked where St Andrew’s is now sited. He built a church on the spot and preached to the heathen. Many stories about St Andrew abound and the truth as to how he became the patron saint of Scotland is lost in the mists of time. One thing is certain, St Andrew was a man of action who served the Lord with his whole being. He took the great commission literally and traveled all over the known world in his quest to preach the gospel to the whole world.

St Andrew's day is celebrated throughout Scotland with festivals and events for old and young alike. Celebrations usually last for a week. Many people throughout the world claim Scots descent and celebrate their heritage during St Andrew's Day as well as during Scotland Week.

April 3-10, 2010 is Scotland Week. During Scotland Week 2010 New York will host a series of events including the Harry Benson Exhibition, Tartan Day Parade, Scotland Run and Dressed to Kilt fashion show.

Check out Canadian Tartan Week on April 11th 2010 during Scotland Week.