Island Lives

This exhibition looks at aspects of the history and day-to-day lives of the communities of Lewis and Harris from the time of the first human settlement on the islands perhaps as early as 9000 years ago until more recent times.

Cnoc Fhillibhir Bheag, Stone Circle, Calanais.

The first part of the exhibition traces the story of the islands' communities from the arrival of the first human settlers, perhaps as early as 9000 years, until the beginning of the 17th century when the islands were finally fully integrated into the Scottish kingdom. The exhibition is illustrated with original objects, many from recent archaeological excavations, reconstruction drawings and photographs.

Brooches and belt buckle from a Viking woman's grave, Valtos, Uig, 9th century AD.

Since 1613

In this part of the exhibition, we take up the story of island communities at the beginning of the 17th century and follow this through to more modern times. This is a time of great changes in the islands with the break-up of the old clan based society and the establishment of the crofting system.

Point Street and Francis Street, Stornoway, c. 1910

Through original objects, photographs and drawing, this section of the exhibition looks at such aspects of island life as people's homes and domestic economy, working the land and the development of the fishing industry. The history of Stornoway and its growth from a small settlement is also briefly explored.

Bringing home the peats, c.1900