Figure 1.--These Scottish boys from the Aberdeen area were photographed in the late 19th century. Notice their sporrans which are covered in fur, probably badger fur. The photographic mount shows that it could have been taken at two studios: Inverurie, Alford and Macduff, Turriff.

Sporran is the Scotts Galic term for purse or pouch. The sporran was worn on the belt at the front of a kilt as part of Highland costume. It had a practical purpose in that kilts did not have pockets. The purse was a place where coins and bills as well as other objects normally kept in pants pockets could be carried. The original sporrans were small undecorated leather pouches. There are many different styles for a complete range for dress, semi-formal or day wear. As part of modern decorative Highland costume and Scottish dress military uniforms they can be quire elaborate objects. The more fashionable sporrans might have silver or metal rims, and a heavy long backing of fur or at least horsehair. A sporran strap and chain is needed to hold the sporran in place. Boys' sporrans are esentially the same as adult sporrans, only smaller and usually less ornate. Another plain leather sporran were the ones issued to kilted British soldiers for use with field uniforms. Scottish and Irish regiments were still uniformed in kilts as late as World War I. A good example of a boy's sporran is one archived as part of a vintage Highland outfit. The new Scottish legislature is considering legislation to regulate animal fur being used in specialized areas, such as kilt sporrans and fishing flies. The legislation woulfd appliy to animals killed after 1994. Many sporrans were made using fur from animals like badgers and seals. Individuals wearing sporrans will have to prove that the animals involved were killed lawfully to obtain a licence. The BBC reports that the new conservation regulations were designed to close loopholes needed to bring Scotland into line with other EU members. ["Sporran wearers ..."] Many boys wear plain leather sporrans as part of school and Scout uniforms. Many sporrans made for elaborate Highland kilt outfits were heavily decorated in fur. The Aberdeen boys here are a good example.

Sources

"Sporran wearers may need licence," BBC News 24, June 24, 2007.

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Created: 5:30 AM 8/22/2004
Last updated: 8:34 PM 6/24/2007