Introducing the 2023 Alaskan Scottish Highland Games Official Design
Contributed by Clint White and Jeni McDaniel
Scotland is one of a handful of countries around the world whose national animal is one of myths and legends. The unicorn has been the national animal of Scotland since the 15th century and while most around the world think of the unicorn as just a horse with a mono-horn out of its head, to Scotland and her people, the unicorn is far more than that.
In Celtic mythology, the unicorn was revered for its white coat representing purity and innocence, the singular horn not present on other animals making them noble, and large equine stature and musculature showing their power and strength. Some folklore suggests that unicorns were the strongest of all animals and untamable except by the purity and innocence of a virgin maiden.
In Scottish heraldry, the unicorn makes its first appearance on the coat of arms of the King of Scots in the late 12th century under King William I. In that coat of arms, is a pair of unicorns flying the Banner of Arms (rampant lion) and the Saltire (St Andrew’s Cross) while supporting the Royal of Arms. The unicorns themselves feature a few interesting attributes, such as, cloven hooves similar to that of the highland coo, long tufted tails similar to that of the lion, each collared by a crown connected to a chain and standing atop a field of thistles; the latter of which is possibly the most significant. Legend says that the crown collars and chains represent the Kings of Scotland possessing the prowess to wrangle and tame the immensely powerful and untamable unicorn.
The unicorn officially became the national animal of Scotland sometime in the 15th century under King James III and is prevalent all across Scotland, from large statues atop structures, architectural features in buildings and subtle appearances everywhere. Beginning in 2015, the unicorn is celebrated worldwide on National Unicorn Day, the 9th of April. In short, the unicorn is not a cute cuddly little rainbow farting horsey but is a reflection of the unyielding voracity and gall of the Scottish people that has been driving fear into her enemies since before the 1st century.
Thank you once again to the amazingly talented Pam Clifton for once again coming up with an amazing Design for the 2023 ASHG. Pam said “He was fun to render.” She just loved spotting them out in England for my granddaughter. She was unaware of the history of the unicorn being Scotland's symbol (chains and all) before her trip. She was intrigued and found out more while there. This design will be featured on our event poster along with Merch available at the games!