And a sporran IS a purse. It is thought that the original intention was to carry the day's rations, as kilts have no pockets. Then, some enterprising Scotsman discovered that if you dumped all the food out, it would hold a hip flask of his favorite beverage very nicely.

Now, I guess they hold credit cards, flashlights, car keys, business cards, iPods and cell phones.

Sigh. The olde days are long gone.

Sue