The Order was created in 1687 and then re-established in 1703. It is the senior order of knighthood in Scotland.
The only two warrants I have seen are from mid-twentieth century. These warrants are hand written. Recently the Order has adopted a similar style of warrant to that used by the Order of the Garter.
Seal
Although the statutes of 1687 describe a Great Seal for the Order, it appears never to have been made. Documents are sealed using a signet which has been in existence since at least 1842, and probably much earlier. It is described as follows: An inch and a half in diameter, and contains a Shield with a Cross of St Andrew, Impaling the Royal Arms of King James the Second as King of Scotland, surrounded by the Collar of the Order, with Badge Appendant, within a circle of the Motto of the Order, circumscribed with the words: Sigill. Secret. Nobiliss, Ordinisi. Cardui.
Other Signatures
The office of Chancellor was not filled until 1913, after which he countersigned warrants.
Other Paperwork
The form of sounding letter used for Knights of the Thistle is a little more informal than those used for Orders with a wider circulation.
Insignia of the Order is returnable and Knights are asked to complete a covenant for the return.
This is the cover of the order of service for the installation of new knights.
Case Study – Donald Walter Cameron of Lochiel, CMG
Cameron was made a KT in 1934.
Case Study – David, Earl of Airlie, GCVO, MC
Airlie became a KT in 1942.
