Cò Leis Thu?
From whom do you come?
This question is the island way of finding out exactly where and from whom, you come. A typical response might be… “Beathag Ceit Aonghais Beathaig”.
Beathag
Rebecca
daughter of
Ceit
Kate
daughter of
Aonghais
Angus
son of
Beathaig
Rebecca
It can be used to locate people with pinpoint accuracy! It is called a sloinneadh, or patronymic and the practice has been used for centuries.
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Visit Hebrides People
Pop into our visitor centre in Northton to find out more about the history of Harris and the people of the Hebrides.
We have a range of exhibitions, a well stocked bookshop and the kettle is always on! We are open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm.
Find your family
If you are looking for information about relatives from the Western Isles, we are here to help. We have an extensive online archive to search.
We also offer Genealogical services, where our archivists will work with you to uncover your family records and produce a family tree.
Discover our Croft Histories
Our detailed histories of island townships and crofts will bring your research to life
Explore the Shop
We have an extensive range of books related to the Western Isles as well as Gift Certificates. You can also buy credits to use in your searches!
A Short History of Emigration from the Western Isles
The Western Isles are among the most beautiful places in Scotland, but the various effects of climate, geography, and mistreatment by those in power, amongst other reasons, have meant that life here has often been difficult, and over the centuries many thousands of people have left the islands in search of a better life.
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