Book

The Isle of Lewis and Harris: a study in British community

At the University PressEdinburgh • Published In 1955 • Pages:

By: Geddes, Arthur.

Abstract
Geddes presents a survey of the changing physical-environmental and cultural systems on the island of Lewis and Harris from the 17th century to 1952. Based upon clerical and documented histories (including census records), some scant archeological records (prior to the 17th century), and his own survey work between 1919 and 1952, Geddes describes and interprets the Gaelic economic, societal, political and religious organization, as well as the 'clan spirit' (an underlying theme), in terms of adaptation to a highly variable and rugged environment. Detailed descriptions of crofting (the tenant farming system of land tenure), small-scale fishing, fishing industries, kelp-making, home weaving and the tweed industry, the primary economic ativities on the island, are presented and compared through time for the several different overlordships that directed the community.
Subjects
Culture summary
Geography
History
Sociocultural trends
Fishing
Domesticated animals
Tillage
Dwellings
Settlement patterns
Real property
Exchange and transfers
Family
Community structure
Ecclesiastical organization
Religious intolerance and martyrs
culture
Highland Scots
HRAF PubDate
1995
Region
Europe
Sub Region
British Isles
Document Type
Book
Evaluation
Creator Type
Geographer
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Sarah T. Bridges
Field Date
1919-1952
Coverage Date
ca. 1700-1952
Coverage Place
Isle of Lewis and Harris, Outer Hebrides, Scotland
Notes
[by] Arthur Geddes
Includes bibliography and index
LCSH
Highlands (Scotland)