Islay Cultural Database - Disclaimer

I would like to thank all those who have contributed to the Islay Cultural Database. Most of the contributers are in fact "children of Islay" or descendants. Their contributions were in many cases "anecdotal" and that once a researcher moves away from the established sources such as Parish Records and Census returns even the Rentals of Islay, information becomes very scarce and it often takes the form of family letters or passed down stories or hearsay. To the "purist" this is dangerous ground but I decided that I would include such information in the belief that if enough pieces however obscure are gathered then a picture could be created. This policy will always be suspect but with a standing invite to researchers to correct or add to such data then perhaps progress can be made.

From 11th April 2008 I have decided that such data as I cannot attribute to a recognised source will have the symbol (?) at the end.

This will indicate that this data entry should be treated with caution and does not come from a recognized source.

After years of reading gravestones on Islay and transcribing Census returns and Parish records I firmly believe there are no or very few absolutes. Data is often conflicting and ages a wonderment of imagination for whatever purpose, but I believe a lot of data has become confused in the process of "Gael to Anglo" or "Lost in translation".

Please find the ICD a search tool created to help those who wish to understand a little about the Peoples and Places of Islay and its History.

If you have problems or wish to add data to the ICD please Email ICDManager@finlaggan.com.

Regards Roger McWee (ICD Manager)