By: Linda Clifford, Scottish & Irish Merchant

Firefighters Tartan

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-- Years ago, Linda Clifford, of Bethel, Maine’s Scottish & Irish Merchant company, designed a uniquespecifically woven for firemen. The tartan was woven in Scotland and is registered with the Scottish Tartans Authority as a “restricted”tartan - not allowed to be reproduced without permission. Each time a Firefighters Tartan is purchased from her shop, Linda Clifford makes a donation to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation The Scottish & Irish Merchant company specializes in Tartans, Kilts, Celtic Jewelry and other unique wares from Scotland & Ireland, but the Firefighters Tartan is special. “The idea was born after the September 11, 2001 tragedy. We wanted to give something back to those who had given so much,” says owner Linda Clifford. “Many Fire Departments have Bagpipe Bands that wear kilts and we thought the tartan would be a good way to raise awareness and help a good cause.”The colors of the tartan are red, white, black and gold, with each color having a specific meaning. The red is inspired by fire, white is for water and the black and gold are inspired by the Firemen’s turnout gear. “We are very proud to have several fire department pipe bands in the US & Canada who have adopted the tartan for the uniform kilt. We also expanded the offerings to scarves, neckties and sashes so friends and family could show their support as well.”The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation is located in Emmitsburg, MD and was created by Congress in 1992 not only to remember Firemen who have served and died on duty but also to support their families during their time of grief. The Foundation does its best to assist the survivors of these tragedies but isn’t always able to do it without the generosity of donors. The NFFF is a non-profit organization and appreciates every penny donated by Linda Clifford , as well as anyone else capable of lending a hand.The Firefighters Tartan produced by Linda Clifford will forever be an important piece for those serving and those who have served.If you are interested in purchasing the Firefighters Tartan and supporting the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, you can go to http://www.lindaclifford.com , call her toll free at (877)-607-7787, or reach her at her showroom Monday through Saturday from 10-5 at 91 Main Street, Bethel, ME 04217. If you would like to donate to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, follow the link to the website HERE