Saoghal Mòr Farsaing Emigration Conference

Emigration has played an important part in the history of the Outer Hebrides. Over the last 250 years or so people have left the islands for a number of reasons, whether through forced clearances, in hope of improving their prospects or to join family members who had emigrated previously. This affected demographics and resulted in families being dispersed across the globe.

A three-day conference, organised by Museum & Tasglann nan Eilean, is being held at Lews Castle, Stornoway, from 30th September to 2nd October 2025. The conference will consider the theme of emigration from a range of perspectives. There will be a mix of in-person and online speakers. Delegates can attend either in person or virtually.

Days 1 and 2 will consist of presentations, interspersed with Q & A sessions, while Day 3 will offer the opportunity for delegates to visit community heritage venues and historical sites on Lewis. There…