The Argyll Book

by Donald Omand (Editor)

Argyll, Dalriada or Earra-ghaidheal, 'the Coastland' or 'Boundary of the Gael', is one of the most beautiful and historically significant parts of Scotland. Before the local government reorganization of 1975, Argyll was also one of Scotland's biggest counties. Bounded by Inverness-shire to the north and stretching as far south as the Mull of Kintyre, it had a coastline measuring a staggering 2220 miles and took in ninety islands, including Mull, Iona Tiree, Lismore, Jura, Islay, Gigha and Colonsay. The story of Argyll is a staggering roll of great names, deeds and institutions, of places such as Dunadd, Iona and Islay, which played key roles in the political and religious development of the nation, as well as the of a Gaelic culture whose influence stretched throughout Scotland and beyond. This book consists of over twenty chapters by recognized experts, covering a huge range of topics, from geology and prehistory to stately homes, folklore and literature, which provide a lively and informed introduction to this fascinating part of Scotland.

320 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2004

Reviews

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not really an entertaining read, but full of good information if you're interested in Argyll. Individual chapters, written by various knowledgeable authors, cover archaeology, place names, early families, and different periods of history, as well as literature, architecture, industry, agriculture and several other aspects of Aryll's story - not only through the past but right up to the present day. The 13-page bibliography makes it easy to find further reading no matter which chapters are of particular interest.