History of St. Kilda

This classic 18th-century account of the remote Scottish archipelago is a “beautifully written . . . hugely important piece of social history” (Scottish Field).

As one of the most remote corners of the British Isles, the island archipelago of St Kilda has long held a fascination for travelers from mainland Britain and beyond. Its inhabitants’ unique culture and way of life has generated an enormous amount of literature for well over a century. Kenneth Macaulay's book, based on his visit to St. Kilda in 1763, is one of the most significant works ever written about the islands.

At the time of Macauley’s visit, St. Kilda’s population had dwindled to just eighty-eight. His vivid descriptions of the islanders offer rare insight into their living conditions. Macaulay also offers a wealth of information about the animals and birds found there. He writes about the sheep and cattle, and above all the wildfowl, which were used for numerous purposes, including oil, shoes and medicine, and food.