Comann Eachdraidh Eirisgeidh has now completed the purchase of the former school on Eriskay
Abigail Taylor
Comann Eachdraidh Eirisgeidhwas founded in 2010 to collect, preserve and display artefacts, photographs and historic information connected to Eriskay.
Since its formation, the historical society has hosted numerous exhibitions and developed its collection, which is now a treasure trove on the island famed for its connection to the sunken cargo ship SS Politician.
Comann Eachdraidh Eirisgeidhhas now moved to create a permanent base for its activities, with the purchase of the former Eriskay School.
Committee members Morag MacKinnon, Marie MacMillan and Iain Ruairidh MacInnes explained the process to Am Pàipear.
“In 2013 the school closed and we decided it would be a worthwhile project to pursue the buying of the school as a base to develop Comann Eachdraidh Eirisgeidh on a more formal basis,” said Iain Ruairidh.
Scottish Land Fund support allowed the historical society to create a business plan with the help of an architect. Following a successful application to phase two of the Scottish Land Fund, the society was able to complete the sale of Eriskay School.
“It has been a long year because of the pandemic. It came right down to the wire with getting the funding and we know that whilst the country is in recovery it will be even more difficult to get more funding to continue the project from where we are now,” explained Morag.
It has taken the historical society eight years to finalise the purchase and plans for the future are still being drawn up.
“The school is in such bad condition, so basically we are going to take the buildings down to the original school building and school house. We are going to renovate and then construct additional buildings, for example a cafeteria area and offices with public toilets. It’s in the very early stages of planning,” said Iain Ruairidh.
Keeping the community at the heart of the project, Comann Eachdraidh Eirisgeidh are keen to continue collaborations with the local hall and shop, Co-chomunn Eirisgeidh.
“Like all small communities you have to work together with the resources you have. We want to work with the hall, Am Politician, the shop, we have to work with the community.
“Locals and those who have moved away from the island have shown their support for the society as the school was the heart of the community before the hall was built. It’s nice to see something being made from it,” said Marie.
