Tartan

Clan Barrett Tartan

The tradition of tartans, often associated with Scottish clans, doesn’t hold the same historical significance in Ireland. Most Irish clans, including Clan Barrett, did not historically have their own distinct tartan patterns. While there were some tartans linked to specific Irish family names or regions, like Connacht, the Barrett name did not have one of its own.

The concept of Irish tartans is a modern development, emerging only in the 1990s. Prior to this, unlike in Scotland, there was no tradition of wearing tartans or kilts in Ireland. The inaugural Irish tartans were created for the 32 historical Irish counties, and it’s only recently that tartan designs have started to be associated with certain Irish family names.

For members of Clan Barrett seeking to connect with their heritage through tartan, the most appropriate choices would be the tartans of County Cork or County Mayo, depending on which branch of the clan they descend from. These regional tartans serve as a contemporary way for Barretts to express their lineage and celebrate their Irish roots.