In 1841, Handa, off the Sutherland coast, had a population of 65 on its 1.19 square miles. Within seven years, resident numbers started decreasing rapidly, owing mainly to a potato famine. Emigration took place, despite a social structure that included a daily parliament, similar to St Kilda's, and the elevation of the island's oldest widow to the status of 'Queen'. It is now administered by the Scottish Wildlife Trust.
Scottish Islands Explorer - rising numbers of subscribers
No comments:
Post a Comment