The Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles

The Isle of Lewis is a beautiful island in the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles of Scotland. Throughout history the Isle of Lewis has featured strongly in the history of Scotland. Even when the island was not part of the nation of Scotland those that ruled the islands were considered a serious threat to the Scottish throne. The strength of character required to survive in the Hebrides hundreds, and even thousands, of years ago has led to a race of Hebridean folk who are strong of character, rather independent but ultimately kind and helpful, with a distinctive belief in right and wrong.

During the last century this distinctive Hebridean strength of character led to some very interesting events on the Isle of Lewis. One of the most important periods of Lewis history, which still resonates in today's society, was the time just after World War One when the soldiers returned to Lewis. Having been promised land of their own before they departed they expected the promise to be fulfilled. Eventually it was and many people were granted land of their own in the form of crofts but not after some conflict, and arguments with both the Scottish Government and the landowners. Today the Isle of Lewis is a land of peace and tranquillity, that is when it isn't blowing a gale.

During an earlier period if Lewis history many people found themselves traveling to distant far off lands to resettle. Some where removed by force while others made the decision to emigrate on purely economic grounds believing that they would have a much better quality of life in another country. Today many of the descendents of this Lewis folk still look to the Isle of Lewis as their homeland and many return for a vacation. While many visit to trace their family roots others have all the details they need to discover the village where their ancestors had once lived. Many of these villages still exist today but often all that remains is a small collection of ruined blackhouses (cottage like buildings). Many who visit the Isle of Lewis on this journey of discovery often find that the experience remains with them for the rest of their lives and all leave with a greater understanding of why their ancestors had found it so difficult to leave the islands when they did.

Leaving the islands of the Hebrides is always difficult. Just after World War I many families moved to America and Canada but after only a few years some chose to return. When you visit the Isle of Lewis today be prepared for you too will find the leaving of Lewis difficult and we are certain that you will, almost certainly, want to return some time later.