Beul-aithris an Rois
'The isle is full of voices' (Shakespeare, the Tempest)
And the Ross of Mull is full of stories: romantic, ridiculous, sad, scary, sometimes seamy. There are true accounts that are part of local history and also tall tales - and sometimes a mixture of the two.
Much of this wealth of stories has been gathered by the School of Scottish Studies and preserved in the collection Tobar an Dualchais (Kist o' Riches), which can normally be accessed on line (www.tobarandualchais.co.uk). At the moment that website is being redesigned, so access is rather limited.
Meanwhile we will gradually be expanding this section of our own website, beginning with stories which were recorded half a century ago, of which transcriptions are in our archives. Preserving stories which are now in circulation is our present challenge, involving creating opportunities to listen (ceilidhing) enjoying the moment - as in our Remembering the Ross sessions, before Covid restrictions - but then, if possible keeping a record. We are committed to checking any written material before publication with the teller or their family, for accuracy and for the appropriateness of sharing any story.
That is because these stories, whether they are shared 'face-to-face and heart-to-heart', or in sound recordings, online or in print, are a precious community resource - to be preserved, shared and enjoyed.
The Ross of Mull is an extraordinary microcosm of all that draws visitors to the Hebridean Islands. The scenery, as you travel along the single-track road from the ferry at Craignure is breath-taking. You experience in the many walks in the area a true sense of wilderness; the secret bays with their beaches of silvery sand, the abundance of wildlife and the innumerable marks on the landscape of the lives of past generations and communities long gone. The Ross of Mull is a compelling place for anyone fascinated by history and the ancient way of life of the Gaelic people.
By Phone: 01681 700659 By Email: enquiries@romhc.org.uk
Our museum is now closed for the winter.
Reopening Spring 2025.
