Visitors taking part in a Tartan Day Dander through Galgorm may be surprised to discover just how much of the village’s tartan is produced locally. According to the official Register of Tartans, kept at Galgorm Orange Hall, more than 700 official Galgorm tartans are recorded.
The tradition of farming tartan sheep in the area is said to date back to around 1601. Several flocks can still be spotted grazing in the surrounding fields, providing a steady supply of the distinctive wool used in the village’s knitted goods.
Among the better-known local breeders is Wee Terry, a West Highland Terrier who has earned a reputation as a particularly diligent sheepdog and an authority on tartan wool.
Speaking to the Galgorm Knitted Press, (Wee) Terry explained that the care of his flock is a daily responsibility. Each afternoon, after lunch, he takes his sheep down to the Sheep Wash to ensure their tartan fleeces remain in the best possible condition.
Once a month, he also stages a display for local residents, giving visitors an opportunity to admire his finest wool.
Terry was keen to offer some advice to aspiring tartan sheep farmers. His view is that anyone attempting to manage a flock without a West Highland Terrier as their sheepdog is, quite simply, being a fool to themselves.
As well as tending his flock, Terry sells occasional lengths of tartan to visiting tourists. Buyers should be aware, however, that his prices are reported to be VERY high. Fortunately, he is known to enjoy a good haggle, so those prepared to negotiate may still come away with a bargain.