Based on the concentration of residents with Scottish or Scotch-Irish ancestry, Boone, North Carolina, stands out as a highly Scottish place in America.
Boone, the principal town of its micropolitan area, has the highest percentage of Scottish or Scotch-Irish residents among the documented areas, with 9.1% of its micropolitan area population identifying with this heritage. This high concentration makes it a significant hub for Scottish culture and ancestry in the United States.
Areas with High Scottish and Scotch-Irish Heritage
While Boone, NC, leads in percentage, several other metropolitan and micropolitan areas across the United States also show a strong presence of Scottish and Scotch-Irish ancestry. These regions often celebrate their unique heritage through various cultural events and traditions.
Here’s a look at some of the areas with the highest percentages of Scottish or Scotch-Irish residents:
| Area | State | Percentage of Population | Type of Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boone | NC | 9.1% | Micropolitan |
| Barre | VT | 8.3% | Micropolitan |
| Sevierville | TN | 8.3% | Micropolitan |
| Asheville | NC | 8.1% | Metropolitan |
| Marion | NC | 7.7% | Micropolitan |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | NC | 7.7% | Micropolitan |
| Jackson | WY | 7.0% | Micropolitan |
| Lebanon | NH | 7.0% | Micropolitan |
The Enduring Scottish Legacy in America
Scottish Americans represent a significant ethnic group with a rich history in the United States, influencing various aspects of American culture, from music and dance to architecture and education. Their descendants are found throughout the country, with notable concentrations in regions like the Appalachian Mountains, where many Scotch-Irish immigrants settled. These communities often maintain strong ties to their ancestral roots through:
- Festivals and Gatherings: Many towns and cities host Scottish Highland Games, Burns Suppers, and other cultural events that celebrate Scottish traditions, including bagpiping, Highland dancing, and clan gatherings.
- Genealogical Research: Individuals and societies actively engage in tracing their Scottish lineage, connecting with their heritage.
- Cultural Organizations: Numerous societies and clubs dedicated to preserving and promoting Scottish culture operate across the U.S.
The presence of a high percentage of Scottish or Scotch-Irish residents in places like Boone, NC, underscores the lasting impact of Scottish immigration on the demographic and cultural landscape of the United States. For more information on Scottish Americans, you can visit the Scottish Americans Wikipedia page.
