Order of the Thistle

Order of the Thistle. The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle is a British order of chivalry associated with Scotland. Its origins are traditionally traced to the 8th century, but it was formally revived by King James VII in 1687. The Order is dedicated to Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, and its membership is the Sovereign's personal gift.

History

The legendary foundation is often linked to Achaius, King of the Picts, or to the 8th-century Battle of Athelstaneford. Historical records indicate an earlier order existed under King James III, who used the thistle emblem. The modern institution dates to 1687 when James VII, exercising the Royal prerogative, issued letters patent to revive the Order, though his exile during the Glorious Revolution interrupted its establishment. It was officially revived and firmly constituted by Queen Anne in 1703, with its statutes confirmed by King George I. The Order's continuity was affirmed by subsequent sovereigns including George IV, who held a grand installation at Holyrood Abbey in 1822, and Elizabeth II, who presided over numerous services at its chapel.

Composition

The Order consists of the Sovereign and sixteen Knights and Ladies Companion. Membership is exceptionally limited, making it one of the most exclusive orders in the world. The Sovereign alone grants appointments, which are typically announced on St Andrew's Day. The officers of the Order include the Dean of the Thistle, the Lord Lyon King of Arms, the Usher of the Green Rod, and the Secretary and Registrar. Extra Knights, such as members of the British Royal Family or foreign monarchs like Harald V of Norway, may be appointed beyond the statutory limit.

Insignia and robes

The primary emblem is a golden enameled thistle surrounded by rue and a collar of alternating thistles and sprigs of rue. The star features the Cross of St. Andrew with a central thistle. The motto, Nemo me impune lacessit, appears on the insignia. For formal occasions, members wear elaborate vestments including a green velvet mantle lined with white taffeta and the collar over a satin surcoat. The hat is of black velvet adorned with ostrich and heron feathers, while the Badge of the Order is suspended from a green ribbon worn over the left shoulder.

Chapel

The Order's spiritual home is the Thistle Chapel, located within St Giles' Cathedral on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Consecrated in 1911 during the reign of George V, this magnificent Gothic Revival building was designed by Robert Lorimer. It houses intricately carved stalls for each Knight and Lady, complete with unique heraldic stall plates. The chapel is the site for the Order's principal religious service, held biennially, often coinciding with the monarch's presence in Scotland for events like the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo or the opening of the Scottish Parliament.

Members

The current Sovereign is Charles III. Notable historical members include prime ministers like Sir Alec Douglas-Home and military figures such as Field Marshal The Duke of Wellington. Distinguished Scots from various fields have been appointed, including poet Rudyard Kipling, physicist Lord Kelvin, and novelist Sir Walter Scott. Living members encompass senior royals like The Princess Royal, former First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond, and eminent judges like Lord Hope of Craighead. Appointments recognize significant public service or major contributions to Scottish life and culture.