The storm has come and gone with little impact on Eriskay that I can discern. Learned that the causeway from North Uist to Benbecula was closed yesterday because of flooding and wind! The sun came out today at times so I went in search of the ponies and found them over the hill not far from my cottage. I just hung out around them and observed and photographed. A couple of them were curious and came over to greet me, one of the young ones (the darker color ones) came over a few times to be petted! She was so cute! These ponies are among the last surviving remnants of the original native ponies of the Western Isles of Scotland. You can read about them and support them here https://www.eriskaypony.scot/each I am hoping to connect with some of the people who manage and own them before I leave. I have lots of questions!
Eriskay itself is a beautiful little island. The population of the island has fluctuated over time. In 2011, the population was 143, but in 2021 it was 134. My cottage overlooks the sea which is the color of a Caribbean ocean! Bonnie Prince Charlie is said to have landed on Eriskay before proceeding to Glenfinnan where he made his first attempt at taking the crown. The infamous Flora MacDonald, who aided Bonnie Prince Charlie in his escape after his defeat at the battle of Culloden was born on South Uist and was visiting Benbecula when he arrived. She aided him in escaping to Skye. More information.






