New Saltire Monument
The Saltire – Scotland's national flag – is more than a symbol. It's a beacon of unity, welcome, and pride for Scots everywhere, at home and abroad. Born from a miraculous vision during a pivotal battle in Athelstaneford in 832 AD, it is a symbol which is recognised all over the world
But after 60 years, the original memorial in Athelstaneford is in serious decline. The concrete structure that has stood as a testament to our flag's origins needs urgent replacement. The Flag Trust aims to create a new dignified monument – one that honors our past and inspires future generations.
Your donation today will ensure the Saltire's story endures. Whether you're a Scot by birth, by choice, or through family roots, this is your chance to rally behind our national emblem. Every contribution, large or small, brings us closer to a lasting legacy.
Preserve the Birthplace of Scotland’s Saltire
Join the Legacy: Donate Today to Build a New Monument
The Saltire – Scotland's national flag – is more than a symbol. It's a beacon of unity, welcome, and pride for Scots everywhere, at home and abroad. Born from a miraculous vision during a pivotal battle in Athelstaneford in 832 AD, it represents our shared history, values, and global kinship.
But after 60 years, the original Saltire Memorial in Athelstaneford is in serious decline. The concrete structure, built in the 1960s, that has stood as a testament to our flag's origins needs urgent replacement. The new Saltire Appeal will raise funds for a new, dignified monument – one that honors our past and inspires future generations.
Your donation today will ensure the Saltire's story endures. Whether you're a Scot by birth, by choice, or through family roots, this is your chance to rally behind our national emblem. Every contribution, large or small, brings us closer to a lasting legacy.
The Story of the Saltire: From Battlefield to National Icon
In 832 AD, near the village of Athelstaneford in East Lothian, King Angus mac Fergus led a joint army of Picts and Scots against a larger Northumbrian force. Facing defeat, he prayed for deliverance – and was granted a vision: a white cross against the blue sky, the Saltire, spurring his troops to victory.
This event birthed one of Europe's oldest flags, a symbol adopted in Scotland and cherished worldwide. In 1965, exactly 60 years ago, the original memorial was unveiled on St. Andrew’s Day following an international fundraising appeal.
Today, the Scottish Flag Trust – with patronage from HRH The Princess Royal – is calling on all who love Scotland to replace the aging structure. The new Saltire Monument has been designed by award-winning architects Simpson & Brown, artist Tim Chalk, with landscape architects Paul Hogarth and Company.
Voices of Support: United Behind the Saltire
Civic, faith, and political leaders across Scotland have united in an open letter backing the appeal. Here's what they're saying:
"It is essential that there be a fitting and lasting memorial to the origins of Scotland's national flag. I therefore warmly commend this fundraising campaign to Scots both at home and abroad and indeed to all who have a love of Scotland." – Professor Emeritus Sir Tom Devine, Patron, The Scottish Flag Trust
"St Andrew’s Day is a time to celebrate everything that makes the fabric of modern Scotland – our history and traditions, our values, our rich diversity of communities and cultures... I welcome the Scottish Flag Trust’s work to promote the Saltire as a symbol of peace, welcome and unity." – First Minister John Swinney
"Athelstaneford holds a special place in Scotland’s story as the birthplace of the Saltire... I welcome the work of the Scottish Flag Trust and the local community in preserving this important site and in ensuring that the Saltire remains a symbol of welcome and belonging for all." – Douglas Alexander MP, for Lothian East
"We are most grateful to HRH The Princess Royal who has agreed to be the patron of the Trust’s appeal. The Saltire has a special place in the heart of all Scots, including the diaspora, and the Trustees very much hope people... will rally to the cause." – Dave Williamson, Trust Convener