FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions, and our Answers!

What is the Scottish St. Andrew Society? 

We are a non-profit 501c(3), non-sectarian cultural organization whose mission is promoting Scottish heritage in the St. Louis region through educational projects, philanthropic deeds, and various social events. Founded in 1973, the society is dedicated to providing a unique cultural experience for everyone and give them a chance to be Scottish!

Families of all kinds can join us for a grand Scottish experience!

What does the society do throughout the year?

We sponsor a variety of social and educational events aimed at providing people with a unique cultural experience and highlight the facets of Scottish heritage. These events range from informal social gatherings, school presentations, and celebrating Scottish holidays. Social and formal events take place all year, including our famous Burns Dinner, Tartan Day, and St. Andrew's Day celebrations. Some events are ticketed, others are free, but we welcome everyone to our events. Visit our Events page and follow us on Facebook and join us at our next gathering!

What kind of community projects does the society sponsor?

Education and cultural work are priorities in our organization; so we take the time to volunteer at schools, host educational events, and sponsor issues that promote the importance of Scots and their Scottish-American descendants. We regularly partner with related groups such as the Scottish Partnership in Arts and Education (SPAE), the Drones Club, and the St. Louis Curling Club sharing their missions and goals.

The society is a proud sponsor of the St. Louis Scottish Games and Cultural Festival. This is a premier regional event that attracts Highland athletes from across the country and brings people together in a grand Scottish community! Over the course to two days, you'll encounter bagpipers, artisans, vendors, historians, genealogists, musicians, and many more who proud wear their Scottish heritage on their sleeve and on their kilt. We're there every year to greet visitors and share our knowledge with everyone!

Society member Brendan Adams in full Highland warrior fashion tells visitors about the many different ways to defeat your enemies with a claymore

A snapshot of our recent accomplishments includes starting a speaker series focusing on the role of Scots and influence of Scottish culture in the Midwest, participating in cultural fairs and history days at local schools and museums, and helping the Missouri State Legislature in establishing the official Missouri state tartan!

If you'd like to volunteer at our events or have a project idea, contact us and we'll get in touch!

How do I become a member?

We offer four (4) types of memberships: single, family, senior-single, and senior-family. These fit every budget, whether you're a college student, a family with three children, or a retired couple. Every membership is good for one year and now with our new website, you can choose to auto-renew so you won't lose track of your membership status.  You can also pick up a paper application at any of our events and join then. Visit the Membership page to sign up today!

What are the benefits of a membership?

Members enjoy an assortment of perks! These include discounted event tickets, quarterly newsletter, reciprocity with other Scottish groups in St. Louis, a welcome package of new membership information, and much more. Message us for more information about benefits!

Do I have to be Scottish to join?

Not at all! Even though we're a Scottish organization, you don't have to be Scottish to join; an applicant must be someone of good moral character who shares our mission.

Who do I contact for more information?

For general inquiries, submit a message on the Contact page and we'll get back to you soon after. For more specific questions about programs or upcoming events, you can email a board member at their web address, which can be found on the 'Board of Directors' page. For questions about our society newsletter, the Thistle Times, email us at ssas.thistle.times@gmail.com. If you're savvy with social media, follow us on Twitter and Facebook!

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