This site gives information on the witnesses who gave evidence to the Napier Commission at its hearings in the Outer Hebrides The witnesses are grouped by location where they spoke.Each entry links to the relevant page on the transcription of the Napier Report, in the case of the Outer Hebrides on this link.
The information is mainly obtained from the Scottish censuses for the years 1841, '51, '61, '71, '81, '91 and 1901, as presented on Ancestry.co.uk. The death records were viewed on Scotland's People.
Sources for additional information are attributed in the relevant entries.
No claim for completeness or error-free presentation is made, and many of the witnesses could not reliably be traced in the censuses, due to the relative paucity of surnames and first names in this part of Scotland.
All constructive feedback and additional information welcome.
North Uist, Alexander Mackinnon
Alexander Mackinnon gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Locheport on 30 May 1883. Unfortunately, I have been unable to reliable pinpoint this witness in the North Uist censuses.
Alexander Mackinnon passed away on 17 March 1891 at the age of 82, suffering from the effects of dropsy. He was married to Catherine nee Macisaac and lived at Cladach Carinish in North Uist.
Alexander Mackinnon passed away on 17 March 1891 at the age of 82, suffering from the effects of dropsy. He was married to Catherine nee Macisaac and lived at Cladach Carinish in North Uist.
North Uist, Archibald Macdonald
Archibald Macdonald gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Locheport on 30 May 1883. We find him on the 1881 census as being married to Peggy with their 3 children Catherine M (12), Donald (9) and Angus (6). No other references can be found to this witness.
North Uist, Angus Fraser
Angus Fraser gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Locheport on 30 May 1883. We find him on the 1881 census as a crofter of 20 acres at Balemore. Aged 47, he is married to Cathrine (38) and has ten children, varying in ages from 6 months to 15 years. The same family also appears on the 1871 census, minus those offspring that were aged 9 or less in 1881.
Angus Fraser died on 19 June 1897 at the age of 64 of cancer and renal problems. He was the son of Archibald and Mary (nee Macaulay). Angus had been married twice, first to Catherine Macdiarmid and latterly to Catherine Macaulay.
Angus Fraser died on 19 June 1897 at the age of 64 of cancer and renal problems. He was the son of Archibald and Mary (nee Macaulay). Angus had been married twice, first to Catherine Macdiarmid and latterly to Catherine Macaulay.
North Uist, John Boyd
John Boyd gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Locheport on 30 May 1883. We find him on the 1881 aged 62, living with his wife Effy (58) and their sons William (24) and Donald John (19). Their granddaughter Effy Maclean (9) is present as well. The family of the witness John Boyd becomes clearer in the 1871 census, which shows their children Cathrine (23), Mary (21), Alexander (19), William (10) and Donald (8). A decade earlier, the family (at Houghary) consists of John and Effy (now aged 42 and 41) and six children. In 1901, John and Effie are 82 and 80 respectively, with their son William and his wife Kate present, as well as their children Effie (11) and John (11 months).
John Boyd passed away at Houghary on 26 April 1901, within four weeks of the census being taken, as a result of influenza. He was aged 82 and was married to Euphemia nee Macintosh. John was the son of John and Catherine (nee Macdonald). His wife Euphemia died seven years later, aged 88.
John Boyd passed away at Houghary on 26 April 1901, within four weeks of the census being taken, as a result of influenza. He was aged 82 and was married to Euphemia nee Macintosh. John was the son of John and Catherine (nee Macdonald). His wife Euphemia died seven years later, aged 88.
North Uist and Harris, John Macdonald
John Macdonald was the estate factor for North Uist and South Harris, who gave evidence to Lord Napier's Commission at Locheport and Obe on 30th and 31st May 1883 respectively.
We find him on the 1881 census, aged 55, as head of a household of 14 persons, which includes his sisters Margaret Macneil (59), Jane Macdonald (48) as well as 11 domestic and farm servants. The census returns states that John was born in N. Uist Gaelic, Edinburgh - a tad confusing.
The household (at Newton Farm) in 1871 is even larger, comprising of John Macdonald (45), his sister Margaret and no fewer than 23 domestic and farm servants. John is described as a farmer of 3000 acres.
Although John Macdonald states that he has been estate factor since 1855, I am not able to trace him on the North Uist censuses for 1861. Neither does he show up after 1881. Due to the large numbers of men named John Macdonald in these islands, it is well nigh impossible to locate his death record.
We find him on the 1881 census, aged 55, as head of a household of 14 persons, which includes his sisters Margaret Macneil (59), Jane Macdonald (48) as well as 11 domestic and farm servants. The census returns states that John was born in N. Uist Gaelic, Edinburgh - a tad confusing.
The household (at Newton Farm) in 1871 is even larger, comprising of John Macdonald (45), his sister Margaret and no fewer than 23 domestic and farm servants. John is described as a farmer of 3000 acres.
Although John Macdonald states that he has been estate factor since 1855, I am not able to trace him on the North Uist censuses for 1861. Neither does he show up after 1881. Due to the large numbers of men named John Macdonald in these islands, it is well nigh impossible to locate his death record.
North Uist, Rev John Alexander Macrae
Rev John Alexander Macrae was the minister for the Established Church in North Uist, who gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Locheport on 30 May 1883. We find him in the census of 1871 with a slightly cumbersome description of his address (Rd Public Or High Way Or The Parish Manse). He is aged 39 at the time, and lives with a number of domestic and farm servants.
No further references have been found of this witness.
No further references have been found of this witness.
North Uist, Rev Donald Maclean
Rev Donald Maclean is the Free Church minister for North Uist who gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Locheport on 30 May 1883. Unfortunately, I am unable to trace him in the census records.
North Uist, Angus Macdonald [Boreray]
Angus Macdonald gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Locheport on 30 May 1883, on behalf of the people of the island of Boreray. I can only reliably pinpoint an Angus Macdonald on Boreray in the 1851 census, by which time this man is aged 21. He lives with his sister Euphemia.
North Uist, Donald Macqueen
Donald Macqueen gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Locheport on 30 May 1883. Unfortunately, I have only been able to find a reference to a Donald Macqueen at Baleshare, which is some distance from Middle Quarter, in the 1861 census.
North Uist, Angus Macaulay
Angus Macaulay gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Locheport on 30 May 1883. We find him on the 1881 census in a large household of Macaulay's, who are not marked down as his relatives. The resident family has 10 children; Angus is a visitor, described as a farm servant. In the 1871 census, Angus, aged 17, is living with his brother, John Macaulay, .
The 1861 census shows Angus Macaulay on the island of Heisker, which lies 6 miles west of North Uist, as an 8-year old scholar living with his brother John, who is aged 21 at that time.
In 1891, Angus is one of a household of 17 people, half of them aged 18 or under, at Tigharry in North Uist. His relationship to the head of the household (Roderick Macaulay) is described as that of cousin.
Not until 1901 do we find a reference to Angus Macaulay at Middle Quarter in North Uist, married to Femmie [Euphemia?] and with two young sons, Angus John and William Angus.
Angus Macaulay succumbed to the effects of septicaemia on 29 April 1909 at the age of 54. He was the son of Angus and Christina Macaulay (nee Ferguson), and was married to Euphemia who survived him.
The 1861 census shows Angus Macaulay on the island of Heisker, which lies 6 miles west of North Uist, as an 8-year old scholar living with his brother John, who is aged 21 at that time.
In 1891, Angus is one of a household of 17 people, half of them aged 18 or under, at Tigharry in North Uist. His relationship to the head of the household (Roderick Macaulay) is described as that of cousin.
Not until 1901 do we find a reference to Angus Macaulay at Middle Quarter in North Uist, married to Femmie [Euphemia?] and with two young sons, Angus John and William Angus.
Angus Macaulay succumbed to the effects of septicaemia on 29 April 1909 at the age of 54. He was the son of Angus and Christina Macaulay (nee Ferguson), and was married to Euphemia who survived him.
North Uist, John Morrison
John Morrison gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Loch Eport on 30 May 1883.We find him as a crofter in North Uist in the 1881 census, married to Margaret (50) and with six children, varying in ages from 5 to 27. The 1871 census gives the same information (minus those children that were aged 10 or less in 1881), but the 1861 census names Margaret as Peggy. Only the eldest two children are present at that time. However, this census does specify their location as Lochefort (Locheport). I am not sure that the John Morrison, who is a shepherd at Sponish in 1851 is the same man, although the age corresponds.
Forward in time, the 1891 census is an update on the 1881 census return; John's name is mangled in the transcription on Ancestry, and North Uist is in part described as being in Ross-shire.
I have been unable to locate John Morrison's death record
Forward in time, the 1891 census is an update on the 1881 census return; John's name is mangled in the transcription on Ancestry, and North Uist is in part described as being in Ross-shire.
I have been unable to locate John Morrison's death record
North Uist, James Maccorquidale
James Maccorquidale gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Loch Eport on 30 May 1883. We find him on the North Uist census returns as a 76-year old crofter, living with his wife Mary (78) and daughters Flor (40), Catherine (37) and son Alexander (36). Alexander has his son James with him.
In 1851, we find James at Carinish in North Uist, where he is a farmer. Obviously 30 years younger, in the company of Mary and their children Malcolm (23), Flora (19), Ketty (16), Alexander (14), Allan (12), Mary (9) and Peggy (6).
In 1851, we find James at Carinish in North Uist, where he is a farmer. Obviously 30 years younger, in the company of Mary and their children Malcolm (23), Flora (19), Ketty (16), Alexander (14), Allan (12), Mary (9) and Peggy (6).
North Uist, Malcolm Mcinnes
Malcolm Macinnes gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Loch Eport on 30 May 1883. Unfortunately, I have been unable to trace him on any of the 19th century censuses.
Benbecula, John Macdonald
John Macdonald gave evidence to the Napier Commission for the people of Gramsdale in Benbecula on 29 May 1883. We find him in the 1881 census at Uachdar, which is just beside Gramsdale. He is aged 75 at the time and lives with his wife Flora as well as daughters Meron (18) and Ann (21), as well as Ann's husband Donald Maccormick. Grandson Donald (2) Macdonald is there is well, in addition to visitor Ketty Martin.
The 1861 census sheds a clearer light on John and Flora's family. We see six children, varying in ages from 4 to 20, namely: Ann (4), Niel (8), Donald (11), Catherine (14), Christy (16) and Mary (20).
John Macdonald passed away on 26 June 1895 at the age of 87, due to the effects of old age. He was the son of Niel and Mary Macdonald. Flora survived her husband, but I have been unable to trace her death record.
The 1861 census sheds a clearer light on John and Flora's family. We see six children, varying in ages from 4 to 20, namely: Ann (4), Niel (8), Donald (11), Catherine (14), Christy (16) and Mary (20).
John Macdonald passed away on 26 June 1895 at the age of 87, due to the effects of old age. He was the son of Niel and Mary Macdonald. Flora survived her husband, but I have been unable to trace her death record.
Benbecula, John Mackellag
John Mackellag gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Torlum on 29 May 1883. We find him on the 1871 census at Hacklet, Benbecula, aged 44. He is living with his sisters Effy and Ann and four cousins, varying in ages from 5 to 25.
I suspect that misspellings of John's surname may account for his apparent absence from other census records.
I suspect that misspellings of John's surname may account for his apparent absence from other census records.
Benbecula, John Mcleod
John Mcleod gave very brief evidence to the Napier Commission during its session at Torlum on 29 May 1883. He appears in the census of 1881 with his wife May at Buailedhu, Iochdar, with their children Angus (6), Margaret (12), Ann (15), Peter (17) and Norman (19) as well as John's brother Alexander. The 1891 census is an update of the 1881 one, but in 1901 we see John and Mary (aged 79 and 70 respectively), with their son Norman (39) and his wife Marrion (26) and their children Cathrine (2) and John (9 months).
John Mcleod passed away on 28 April 1916 at the age of 95 of supposed old age. He was the son of Norman and Ann Mcleod nee Macintyre.
John Mcleod passed away on 28 April 1916 at the age of 95 of supposed old age. He was the son of Norman and Ann Mcleod nee Macintyre.
Benbecula, Donald Maccoll
Rev Donald Maccoll gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Torlum on 29 May 1883. He was the Roman Catholic priest, resident at Ardkenneth House and Church, in the district of Howmore in South Uist. Donald was aged 45, and had 3 domestic and farm servants at the house. Donald Maccoll originated from Kilmalie in Argyll. As a result of that information, we find Donald as a 15-year old on the 1851 census, living at 11 Achfupil near Kilmallie in Argyll. His father's name is Hector, a crofter of 2 acres, who is helped around the house by his daughter Mary (28). Donald has two younger siblings, Charles (13) and John (8).
I have not been able to locate Donald Maccoll's death record.
I have not been able to locate Donald Maccoll's death record.
Benbecula, Angus Mackinnon
Angus Mackinnon gave evidence to the Napier Commission during its session at Torlum on 29 May 1883. We find him as a joiner at Rhubrach in Benbecula, aged 58. He is married to Margaret (61) and has a daughter, Mary (25). A decade earlier, the family had sons Lachlan (19) and Archibald (14), as well as daughters Mary (17) and Cathrine (12).
I have not been able to find references to this family after 1881, nor could I locate Angus's death record.
I have not been able to find references to this family after 1881, nor could I locate Angus's death record.
Barra and Benbecula, Ranald Macdonald
Ranald Macdonald was the estate factor and secretary to Lady Cathcart of Gordon, who gave evidence at the Napier Commission's hearings in Castlebay and Torlum.
He shows up in the 1881 census as living at 10 Albyn Terrace, Old Machar, Aberdeenshire, occupation Factor (Land Agent). He is aged 46, having been born in South Uist, and married to Clementina Macdonald. He has four of a family, Clara (18 [not 28 as shown on Ancestry]), Ronald R and Clementina (both aged 15), Jessie (12) and Emily C (7). There are also two domestic servants present.
The 1871 census has the family at Prospect Cottage in Cluny, Aberdeenshire, with the exception of Emily C, who was not born yet. Ranald also has his brothers Dugald C and Donald, as well as his sister Mary in the house. Please note that Ancestry has erroneously concatenated his record with another household's.
The 1891 census is basically an update on the 1881 record.
The 1901 census shows granddaughter Mary Esslemont (9) with daughter Katie. Ranald is by that time aged 66.
He shows up in the 1881 census as living at 10 Albyn Terrace, Old Machar, Aberdeenshire, occupation Factor (Land Agent). He is aged 46, having been born in South Uist, and married to Clementina Macdonald. He has four of a family, Clara (18 [not 28 as shown on Ancestry]), Ronald R and Clementina (both aged 15), Jessie (12) and Emily C (7). There are also two domestic servants present.
The 1871 census has the family at Prospect Cottage in Cluny, Aberdeenshire, with the exception of Emily C, who was not born yet. Ranald also has his brothers Dugald C and Donald, as well as his sister Mary in the house. Please note that Ancestry has erroneously concatenated his record with another household's.
The 1891 census is basically an update on the 1881 record.
The 1901 census shows granddaughter Mary Esslemont (9) with daughter Katie. Ranald is by that time aged 66.
Benbecula, Donald Macdonald
Donald Macdonald gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Torlum on 29 May 1883. He was aged 71 at the time. We find him on the 1881 census, aged 66, living at Liniclate with his wife Cath (60) and children Catherine (25), John (28) and Christina (30), as well as their granddaughters Flora (1) and Marrion (2).
The 1871 census shows the couple with children John and Cathrine present.
I have not been able to locate the death record for Donald Macdonald.
The 1871 census shows the couple with children John and Cathrine present.
I have not been able to locate the death record for Donald Macdonald.
Benbecula, Angus Macdonald
Angus Macdonald gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Torlum on 29 May 1883. He is a joiner and we find him in the 1871 census at Tom Suachrach in Benbecula, living with a family of MacRace (according to the census returns). I am very uncertain about this, as there is another Angus Macdonald on the 1861 census, who has a family at Liniclate.
Further information welcome.
Further information welcome.
Benbecula, Ranald Macdonald
Ranald Macdonald gave evidence for the Aird crofters in Benbecula, when he spoke at the Napier Commission's session at Torlum on 29 May 1883.
We find a Ronald Macdonald, crofter registrar, in Benbecula in the 1881 census, aged 60. This man is joined in his house by his sisters Ann (54) and Cathrine (67) as well as nephew John Mckenzie and relative Mary Lamont (11). No further references could be found in earlier censuses.
His location, Aird, is confirmed in the death record, which shows that Ranald passed away on 22 March 1890 at the age of 71 of the effects of influenza. He was the son of Donald and Penelope nee Macquarrie. His nephew John Mackenzie reported the death a week later.
We find a Ronald Macdonald, crofter registrar, in Benbecula in the 1881 census, aged 60. This man is joined in his house by his sisters Ann (54) and Cathrine (67) as well as nephew John Mckenzie and relative Mary Lamont (11). No further references could be found in earlier censuses.
His location, Aird, is confirmed in the death record, which shows that Ranald passed away on 22 March 1890 at the age of 71 of the effects of influenza. He was the son of Donald and Penelope nee Macquarrie. His nephew John Mackenzie reported the death a week later.
Benbecula, Donald Mackinnon
Donald Mackinnon gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Torlum, Benbecula, on 29 May 1883. We find him in the 1881 census as a joiner at Balvanich, aged 68. He is married to Sarah (52) and has five children, varying in ages from 6 to 28. Their names are John (28), Ketty (20), Alexander (14), Ranald (10) and Meron (6). The 1871 census misspells his first name as Donal, and shows three more sons, Donal and Neil (ages between John and Catherine (Ketty in 1881 census), as well as Ewen, who was younger than Catherine.
I have been unable to trace Donald's death record.
I have been unable to trace Donald's death record.
North Harris
Norman Mcdonald, crofter, Scarp
John Mcleod, cottar, Ardhassaig
John Mcdiarmid, former crofter, Scalpa
Murdo Morrison, crofter, Caolas-Scalpa
Rev Roderick Mackenzie, Free Church minister, Tarbert
Kenneth Macdonald, factor, North Harris
Angus Campbell, crofter, Plocropool
John Mcleod, cottar, Tarbert
Angus Ferguson, Taransay
Ronald Macdonald, Taransay
Donald Macdonald, crofter, Grosaway
Lachlan Campbell, crofter, Scadabay
John Mcleod, cottar, Ardhassaig
John Mcdiarmid, former crofter, Scalpa
Murdo Morrison, crofter, Caolas-Scalpa
Rev Roderick Mackenzie, Free Church minister, Tarbert
Kenneth Macdonald, factor, North Harris
Angus Campbell, crofter, Plocropool
John Mcleod, cottar, Tarbert
Angus Ferguson, Taransay
Ronald Macdonald, Taransay
Donald Macdonald, crofter, Grosaway
Lachlan Campbell, crofter, Scadabay
Lewis, Keose
William Mackay, chamberlain to the Lews
John Smith, crofter, Balallan
John Mcleod, crofter, Kershader
George Mackenzie, crofter, Laxay
Murdo Mcmillan, crofter and fisherman, Gravir
Roderick Finlayson, crofter and fisherman, Maravaig
Kenneth Mcdonald, crofter and merchant, Leurbost
George Macrae, crofter and fisherman, Grimshader
Donald Mackenzie, crofter and fisherman,Crossbost
Roderick Ross, medical officer
Rev Ewen Campbell, minister of the Parish of Lochs
John Smith, crofter, Balallan
John Mcleod, crofter, Kershader
George Mackenzie, crofter, Laxay
Murdo Mcmillan, crofter and fisherman, Gravir
Roderick Finlayson, crofter and fisherman, Maravaig
Kenneth Mcdonald, crofter and merchant, Leurbost
George Macrae, crofter and fisherman, Grimshader
Donald Mackenzie, crofter and fisherman,Crossbost
Roderick Ross, medical officer
Rev Ewen Campbell, minister of the Parish of Lochs
Lewis, Stornoway
8 June 1883
Donald Campbell, crofter, South Tolsta
Roderick Mackenzie, crofter, Nether Coll
Donald Martin, crofter, Back
Angus Macleod, crofter, Aird
Alexander Mackenzie, crofter, Branahine
Torquil Mcleod, crofter, Knock
Kenneth Mcleod, crofter, Garabost
9 June 1883
John Stewart, crofter, Bayble
Roderick Mcleod, crofter, Upper Bayble
Rev Angus Mciver, minister, Meavaig (Uig)
Alexander Morrison, commission merchant, Stornoway
Roderick Mcsween, crofter, Steinish
11 June 1883
Napier Campbell, solicitor
Dr Charles Mackenzie Macrae
William Mackay, estate chamberlain
Rev James Greenfield, minister, Gaelic Free Church, Stornoway
Donald Smith, fish-curer
James Mccombie, fish-curer, Peterhead
Alexander Murray, merchant, Stornoway
Murdo Macleod, agent, British Linen Company's Bank
Duncan Mackenzie, crofter, Melbost
Angus Mcleod, crofter, Portnaguirin
Donald Mcaskill, crofter, Sheshader
Donald Macleod, crofter, Lower Bayble
Donald Campbell, crofter, South Tolsta
Roderick Mackenzie, crofter, Nether Coll
Donald Martin, crofter, Back
Angus Macleod, crofter, Aird
Alexander Mackenzie, crofter, Branahine
Torquil Mcleod, crofter, Knock
Kenneth Mcleod, crofter, Garabost
9 June 1883
John Stewart, crofter, Bayble
Roderick Mcleod, crofter, Upper Bayble
Rev Angus Mciver, minister, Meavaig (Uig)
Alexander Morrison, commission merchant, Stornoway
Roderick Mcsween, crofter, Steinish
11 June 1883
Napier Campbell, solicitor
Dr Charles Mackenzie Macrae
William Mackay, estate chamberlain
Rev James Greenfield, minister, Gaelic Free Church, Stornoway
Donald Smith, fish-curer
James Mccombie, fish-curer, Peterhead
Alexander Murray, merchant, Stornoway
Murdo Macleod, agent, British Linen Company's Bank
Duncan Mackenzie, crofter, Melbost
Angus Mcleod, crofter, Portnaguirin
Donald Mcaskill, crofter, Sheshader
Donald Macleod, crofter, Lower Bayble
Lewis, Ness
Malcolm Mclean, crofter, Swainbost
Finlay Mackenzie, crofter, Tabost
Murdo Mackay, crofter & weaver, Lionel
Murdo Morrison, crofter & constable, Lionel
Malcolm Mackenzie, crofter, Sgigersta
Donald Mciver, crofter & blacksmith, Cross of Ness
John Macdonald, crofter, South Dell
John Macdonald, crofter, Knockaird
John Munro, teacher, Lionel
John Macleod, boat-builder, Ness
Farquhar Murray, crofter, North Dell
Finlay Mackenzie, crofter, Tabost
Murdo Mackay, crofter & weaver, Lionel
Murdo Morrison, crofter & constable, Lionel
Malcolm Mackenzie, crofter, Sgigersta
Donald Mciver, crofter & blacksmith, Cross of Ness
John Macdonald, crofter, South Dell
John Macdonald, crofter, Knockaird
John Munro, teacher, Lionel
John Macleod, boat-builder, Ness
Farquhar Murray, crofter, North Dell
Lewis, Barvas
William Mackay , estate chamberlain
Malcolm Mcphail, crofter, South Shawbost
John Nicolson, crofter, New Shawbost
Donald Mcleod, crofter & estate constable, North Shawbost
John Matheson, crofter, Upper Barvas
Rev James Strachan, minister, Parish of Barvas
Duncan Macleod, crofter, Bragar
Norman Campbell, crofter, Arnol
Angus Campbell, crofter, North Bragar
Malcolm Mcphail, crofter, South Shawbost
John Nicolson, crofter, New Shawbost
Donald Mcleod, crofter & estate constable, North Shawbost
John Matheson, crofter, Upper Barvas
Rev James Strachan, minister, Parish of Barvas
Duncan Macleod, crofter, Bragar
Norman Campbell, crofter, Arnol
Angus Campbell, crofter, North Bragar
Lewis, Breasclete
Neil Maclennan, crofter, Breasclete Park
John Maciver, crofter, Breasclete
Donald Martin, crofter and mason, Tolsta
Donald Macdonald, crofter and fisherman, Dun of Carloway
Murdo Macdonald, crofter and fisherman, Tobson, Berneray
John Mackenzie, crofter, Callernish
George Smith, crofter, Callernish
Murdo Macleod, crofter and fisherman, Borrowston
Norman Mcarthur, crofter and fisherman, Borrowston
Norman Macphail, crofter, Upper Carloway
Norman Morrison, crofter, Knock, Carloway
Angus Paterson, crofter, Kirvig
John Maciver, crofter, Breasclete
Donald Martin, crofter and mason, Tolsta
Donald Macdonald, crofter and fisherman, Dun of Carloway
Murdo Macdonald, crofter and fisherman, Tobson, Berneray
John Mackenzie, crofter, Callernish
George Smith, crofter, Callernish
Murdo Macleod, crofter and fisherman, Borrowston
Norman Mcarthur, crofter and fisherman, Borrowston
Norman Macphail, crofter, Upper Carloway
Norman Morrison, crofter, Knock, Carloway
Angus Paterson, crofter, Kirvig
Lewis, Meavaig
Murdo Mclean, crofter, Valtos
Donald Mathieson, Kneep
Norman Morrison, crofter, Breanish
William Mackay, estate chamberlain
Angus Macarthur, crofter, Kirkibost (Bernera)
George Macaulay, crofter, Hacleit (Bernera)
Rev Angus Maciver, minister of the Established Church
John Mathieson, crofter, Aird
John Ferguson, crofter, Carishader
Alexander Macdonald, crofter, Crowlista
Donald Mathieson, Kneep
Norman Morrison, crofter, Breanish
William Mackay, estate chamberlain
Angus Macarthur, crofter, Kirkibost (Bernera)
George Macaulay, crofter, Hacleit (Bernera)
Rev Angus Maciver, minister of the Established Church
John Mathieson, crofter, Aird
John Ferguson, crofter, Carishader
Alexander Macdonald, crofter, Crowlista
South Harris
Rev Alexander Davidson, minister, Free Church
Malcolm Mcleod, cottar, Bernera [Berneray]
Lachlan Munro, crofter, Bernera [Berneray]
Roderick Ross, crofter, Geocrab
Donald Morrison, crofter, Geocrab
Hugh Morrison, crofter, Finsbay
John Macdonald, farmer & factor, Newton, North Uist
Kenneth Macdonald, farmer, Scaristavore
Thomas Brydone, factor
Duncan Morrison, cottar, Finsbay
Malcolm Mcleod, cottar, Bernera [Berneray]
Lachlan Munro, crofter, Bernera [Berneray]
Roderick Ross, crofter, Geocrab
Donald Morrison, crofter, Geocrab
Hugh Morrison, crofter, Finsbay
John Macdonald, farmer & factor, Newton, North Uist
Kenneth Macdonald, farmer, Scaristavore
Thomas Brydone, factor
Duncan Morrison, cottar, Finsbay
North Uist
Malcolm Mcinnes, crofter, Tigharry
James Mccorquidale, crofter, Carinish
John Morrison, crofter, Loch Eport
Angus Macaulay, Middle Quarter
Donald Mcqueen, crofter, Middle Quarter
Angus Macdonald, crofter, Island of Boreray
Rev Donald Mclean, minister, Free Church (Carinish)
Rev John Alexander Macrae, minister, Parish of North Uist
John Macdonald, estate factor North Uist, Newton
John Boyd, crofter, Houghgarry
Angus Fraser, crofter, Balemore
Archibald Macdonald, crofter, Knockline
Alexander Mackinnon, crofter, Cladach Carinish
James Mccorquidale, crofter, Carinish
John Morrison, crofter, Loch Eport
Angus Macaulay, Middle Quarter
Donald Mcqueen, crofter, Middle Quarter
Angus Macdonald, crofter, Island of Boreray
Rev Donald Mclean, minister, Free Church (Carinish)
Rev John Alexander Macrae, minister, Parish of North Uist
John Macdonald, estate factor North Uist, Newton
John Boyd, crofter, Houghgarry
Angus Fraser, crofter, Balemore
Archibald Macdonald, crofter, Knockline
Alexander Mackinnon, crofter, Cladach Carinish
Benbecula
Angus Mcfie. crofter, Island of Flodda
Donald Mckinnon, crofter, Balvannich
Ranald Macdonald, crofter, Aird
Angus Macdonald, crofter & joiner, Griminish
Donald Mcdonald, crofter, Torlum
Ranald Macdonald, estate factor
Angus Mckinnon, crofter, Linicleit
Rev Donald Mccoll, Roman Catholic priest, Iochdar (South Uist)
John Mcleod, crofter, Iochdar (South Uist)
John Mckellag, crofter, Hacleit
John Mcdonald, Gramisdale
Donald Mckinnon, crofter, Balvannich
Ranald Macdonald, crofter, Aird
Angus Macdonald, crofter & joiner, Griminish
Donald Mcdonald, crofter, Torlum
Ranald Macdonald, estate factor
Angus Mckinnon, crofter, Linicleit
Rev Donald Mccoll, Roman Catholic priest, Iochdar (South Uist)
John Mcleod, crofter, Iochdar (South Uist)
John Mckellag, crofter, Hacleit
John Mcdonald, Gramisdale
South Uist
Donald O'Henley, crofter, North Loch Boisdale
Donald Mackinnon, crofter, Garraheille
John Mackay, crofter, Kilphedar
John Walker, crofter, North Boisdale
Donald Macdonald, crofter, South Boisdale
Rev Alexander Mackintosh, Roman Catholic priest, South Uist
Rev Roderick Macdonald, minister, Parish of South Uist
Donald Black
John Mcaskill, crofter, Eriskay
Donald Mclellan, crofter, Garra-na-mony
Alexander Mcneil, crofter, Smercleit
Donald Currie, crofter, South Loch Boisdale
Donald Gillies, crofter, Caolas an eilean
Donald Macfie, crofter, South Boisdale
John Mckinnon, cottar, Kilphedar
Donald Mackinnon, crofter, Garraheille
John Mackay, crofter, Kilphedar
John Walker, crofter, North Boisdale
Donald Macdonald, crofter, South Boisdale
Rev Alexander Mackintosh, Roman Catholic priest, South Uist
Rev Roderick Macdonald, minister, Parish of South Uist
Donald Black
John Mcaskill, crofter, Eriskay
Donald Mclellan, crofter, Garra-na-mony
Alexander Mcneil, crofter, Smercleit
Donald Currie, crofter, South Loch Boisdale
Donald Gillies, crofter, Caolas an eilean
Donald Macfie, crofter, South Boisdale
John Mckinnon, cottar, Kilphedar
Barra
Michael Buchanan, crofter, Borv
Donald Campbell, crofter, Cregston
John Mackinnon, cottar, Glen (formerly crofter at Tangasdale)
John Macpherson, cottar, Kentangaval
Thomas Ross, fish-curer, Burghead
Thomas Jenkins, fish-curer, Burghead
Dr D.W. McGillivray, surgeon & farmer, Eoligary
Allan McIntyre, cottar, Castle Bay & Glen
Murdoch Mckinnon, Earsary
Farquhar Mcneill, crofter, Bravaig
Ranald Macdonald, factor and secretary to Lady Gordon Cathcart
Rev James Chisholm, Roman Catholic priest, Barra
Norman Mclean, Free Church catechist, Barra
Donald Campbell, crofter, Cregston
John Mackinnon, cottar, Glen (formerly crofter at Tangasdale)
John Macpherson, cottar, Kentangaval
Thomas Ross, fish-curer, Burghead
Thomas Jenkins, fish-curer, Burghead
Dr D.W. McGillivray, surgeon & farmer, Eoligary
Allan McIntyre, cottar, Castle Bay & Glen
Murdoch Mckinnon, Earsary
Farquhar Mcneill, crofter, Bravaig
Ranald Macdonald, factor and secretary to Lady Gordon Cathcart
Rev James Chisholm, Roman Catholic priest, Barra
Norman Mclean, Free Church catechist, Barra
South Uist, John Mackinnon
John Mackinnon was the witness for Kilpheder who spoke at Lord Napier's Commission in Lochboisdale on 28 May 1883. We find him, aged 45, at Kilpheder with his wife Flora (40) and children Alexander (8), John (6), Flora (4) and Colin (1), as well as Flora's mother Cathrin Mcintyre (78). She is referred to as an annuitant.
By 1891, the family is quoted as being at 1 South Lochboisdale; Cathrin Mcintyre has turned into Catherine Campbell, aged 99. A decade later, the family is back at Kilpheder. John is 62, Flora is aged 60, and their children are named as Alexander (27), Colin (20) and Christy (16).
The 1861 census displays John as living with his parents Alexander (70) and Mary (52) at Kilpheder. He is aged 20 by then.
John Mackinnon passed away on 18 September 1911 at the age of 77. He was suffering from stomach cancer and heart disease. John's parents were Alexander and Mary (nee Walker). His death was reported by his son John.
By 1891, the family is quoted as being at 1 South Lochboisdale; Cathrin Mcintyre has turned into Catherine Campbell, aged 99. A decade later, the family is back at Kilpheder. John is 62, Flora is aged 60, and their children are named as Alexander (27), Colin (20) and Christy (16).
The 1861 census displays John as living with his parents Alexander (70) and Mary (52) at Kilpheder. He is aged 20 by then.
John Mackinnon passed away on 18 September 1911 at the age of 77. He was suffering from stomach cancer and heart disease. John's parents were Alexander and Mary (nee Walker). His death was reported by his son John.
South Uist, Donald Macfie
Donald Macfie (Macphee) gave evidence to Lord Napier's Commission at Lochboisdale on 28 May 1883. He appears in the 1881 census at 46 South Boisdale, aged 40, with his wife Mary (36). That is the only reference I have been able to find in the censuses.
South Uist, Donald Gillies
Donald Gillies was the witness for Caolas an Eilean, and resident at 3 South Lochboisdale when he gave evidence to Lord Napier's Commission at Lochboisdale on 28 May 1883. He was aged 35, as was his wife Penelope, and they had five children: Mary (7), Ann (6), Donald (4), Mary (2) and Angus (5 months). The family appears in the 1901 census, although their ages are askew in comparison with the 1881 census.
I have been unable to determine Donald's exact date of death, but it is likely to have been in the early 1930s.
I have been unable to determine Donald's exact date of death, but it is likely to have been in the early 1930s.
South Uist, Donald Currie
Donald Currie was the crofter from South Lochboisdale who gave evidence to Lord Napier's Commission at Lochboisdale on 28 May 1883. Unfortunately, it is not possible, using the evidence in hand, to determine which of the two men named Donald Currie at South Lochboisdale in the 1881 census was the township representative. One lived at no 14, the other at no 24.The Donald Currie at 24 South Lochboisdale was born in 1837, which broadly tallies with the age of the witness. The other man, at no 14, was born in 1832. Although the indications are pretty strong towards the former, I would not like to pin my colours to the mast on either of them.
South Uist, Alexander Macneil
80-year old Alexander Macneil gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Lochboisdale on 28 May 1883. We duly find him in 1881 at 25 Smerc(u)late, married to Catherine and with their children Mary (32), Angus (30) and Mary (24) and 9-year old grandson Alexander. The 1871 census names him as the ferryman to Barra, living at 27 Smerclate. Present in their house are their children Chirsty (28), Angus (18) and Mary (12).
Alexander Macneil died on 14 January 1889 at the age of 85, of old age and natural causes. He left behind his wife Catherine (nee Macmillan), who followed him into death six years later, at the age of 83.
Alexander Macneil died on 14 January 1889 at the age of 85, of old age and natural causes. He left behind his wife Catherine (nee Macmillan), who followed him into death six years later, at the age of 83.
South Uist, Donald Maclellan
Donald Maclellan gave evidence to the Napier Commission on behalf of Garynamonie, in the far south of South Uist. We find him in the 1861 census, with the name of his township mutilated in the entry. He is aged 27 at the time, married to Mary (34). The couple have two young children, Donald (3) and another Donald (1 month old). The youngest died in 1868 at the age of 7.
In 1871, a Donald and Mary Maclellan can be found at 17 Garrehalli, which lies just north of Daliburgh, with by then five children, varying in ages between 1 and 12. The youngest is called Donald. I cannot be certain that these are the same family as the one located in 1861. Garryhalli is a few miles north of Garynamonie, and the evidence by Donald specifies him as the spokesperson for latter village.
In 1871, a Donald and Mary Maclellan can be found at 17 Garrehalli, which lies just north of Daliburgh, with by then five children, varying in ages between 1 and 12. The youngest is called Donald. I cannot be certain that these are the same family as the one located in 1861. Garryhalli is a few miles north of Garynamonie, and the evidence by Donald specifies him as the spokesperson for latter village.
South Uist, Rev Alexander Macintosh
He is recorded in the 1881 census at Haven, South Uist, as a visitor staying with a family of Johnstons. His occupation is mentioned as R. C. priest at St Peters in Daliburgh. Alexander's place of birth is given as Arisaig, which ties in with his evidence that he is a native of Lochaber. Father Mackintosh remained in charge at Daliburgh until 1884.
Information and portrait courtesy RC Diocese Argyll & The Isles
South Uist, Donald Mckinnon
Donald Mckinnon from Garraheille gave evidence to Lord Napier's Commission at Lochboisdale on 28 May 1883. Garraheille [Gearraidh Sheleidh] lies a few hundred yards north of Dalabrog, and Donald's evidence was related to Dalabrog.
I have been unable to locate Donald in the censuses as yet.
I have been unable to locate Donald in the censuses as yet.
South Uist, John Mcaskill
John Mcaskill gave evidence to Lord Napier's Commission at Lochboisdale on 28 May 1883. He was the representative for Eriskay, and we duly find him on the census records for 1881 at Bun a'Mhuillin, which is in the north of Eriskay. He is aged 35 and lives with his wife Betsey (33) and his young children Hugh (6), Alexander (4) and Kate (3). A decade before, John is living with his parents Alexander (67) and Effy (51, nee Macinnes), and his younger siblings Effy (24), Peggy (22) and Donald (18).
In 1891, John's children numbered seven, including Euphemia (7), Cath (9), Mary (5) and Donald (3). A decade later, they are all still there, except for Hugh and the younger Cath.
John Macaskill passed away on 29 April 1930 at his home in Eriskay at the age of 87. He had suffered senile decay. His grandson Archie registered the death at Boisdale some 10 days later. His wife Betsy (nee Macintyre) died in 1946 at the age of 98.
In 1891, John's children numbered seven, including Euphemia (7), Cath (9), Mary (5) and Donald (3). A decade later, they are all still there, except for Hugh and the younger Cath.
John Macaskill passed away on 29 April 1930 at his home in Eriskay at the age of 87. He had suffered senile decay. His grandson Archie registered the death at Boisdale some 10 days later. His wife Betsy (nee Macintyre) died in 1946 at the age of 98.
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