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The
Island of Easdale lies off the south west end of the Island of
Seil south of Oban. Easdale is a tiny island that you can walk
round in about 20 minutes and yet it has a thriving community
and welcomes visitors particularly in the summer months. There
island not only thrives today but also has a an industrial
history as this wee island was a major source of slate to the
houses of the central belt of Scotland in the 1800s.
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The
Island, small as it is, has a community hall, pub, coffee
house and a folk museum. At present the harbour is the main
focus of regeneration for the island's trust which is
community run.
As you
might expect of such a small place the island is car free
and many people visit frequently to enjoy the views, watch
seals an often porpoises and dolphins. It is not uncommon to
see people relaxing with a book in their hand or an easel as
they paint what they see. |
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The
slate quarrying was at its height in the 19th century but in
fact slate was taken from the mid 18th century to the early 20th
century. At one time there was as many as seven working
quarries. Some of the photographs to be found at the island
museum are fascinating. In the later years of the 19th century
there was as many as 500 people living and working on the
island. However there was a huge storm in 1881 which flooded all
the working quarries. Work diminished thereafter and stopped in
1950
.Getting
to Easdale is quite simple, from Oban travel south until you see
the signs for Easdale Island, take that road nd you will first
cross the Atlantic Bridge (see Seil Island) and then a number of
miles later you will find the village of Easdale on Seil and
there you will get a ferry (5 minute crossing) to the island.
Unfortunately from time to time the Argyll and Bute council
consider whether they might be easier to put a causeway across
from Seil to the Island. This I am sure might be convenient for
some but is bound to take away some of the magic of the place if
it ever happens.
Every
year, usually at the end of September, the world stone
skimming championships are held on the island. Anyone of any age
or skill can take part. This is a great day out and enjoyed by
all ages, whether watching or taking part.
Easdale Island,
Isle of Seil, By Oban, Argyll Scotland |
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