Pabaigh Mòr

The island's name comes from papey, an Old Norse name meaning "Island of the papar or culdees". The island was connected to Clan MacLeod throughout much of its history. In 1800, Sergeant Evander MacIver was given the island on retirement from the Seaforth Regiment in lieu of a pension. However, 27 years later, his family became victims of the Highland Clearances, and his descendants can be found in Valtos in neighbouring Lewis. It is said that the founder of Cunard was related to this family. In World War I, it is suspected that a German U-boat landed surreptitiously at the island, and unloaded boxes of provisions, which were found later. The current owner has restored a couple of…