Pabaigh Mòr

Infobox Scottish island |


latitude=58.23
longitude=-6.94
GridReference=NB100380
celtic name=Pabaigh Mòr
norse name=pap-øy
meaning of name= island of the priest
area=101 ha
area rank=146
highest elevation= Beinn Mhòr 68 m
Population=0
population rank=
main settlement=
island group=Lewis and Harris
local authority=Na h-Eileanan Siar
references= [2001 UK Census per List of islands of Scotland] Haswell-Smith, Hamish. (2004) "The Scottish Islands". Edinburgh. Canongate.] [ [http://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/ Ordnance Survey] ] [ Anderson, Joseph (Ed.) (1893) "Orkneyinga Saga". Translated by Jón A. Hjaltalin & Gilbert Goudie. Edinburgh. James Thin and Mercat Press (1990 reprint). ISBN 0-901824-25-9]

Pabay Mòr or Pabaigh Mòr is an uninhabited island in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland.

History

The island's name comes from "papey", a Old Norse name meaning "Island of the "papar" or culdees". The remains of St Peter's Church and burial ground are in the south east around Loch na Teampall ("temple loch"), and to the south east of the loch itself is Cnoc na Cille ("hill of the monk's cell").

The island was connected to Clan MacLeod throughout much of its history.

Sergeant Evander MacIver was given the island on retirement from the Seaforth Regiment in 1800, in lieu of a pension. However, twenty seven years later, his family became victims of the Highland Clearances, and his descendants can be found in Valtos in neighbouring Lewis. It is said that the founder of Cunard was related to this family.

In WWI, it is suspected that a German U-boat landed here surreptitiously, and unloaded boxes of provisions, which were found later.

The current owner has restored a couple of black houses on the island, but it is uninhabited most of the time. Valtos crofters retain grazing rights on the island.

Geography and geology

Pabaigh Mòr lies off the west coast of Lewis in West Loch Roag, north of Vacsay. The island is Lewisian gneiss with a light soil. It has a number of caves, sea spouts, and natural arches. To the north, Pabay Beag is separated by a sheltered pool.

References