Skip to main content

Transcription notebook of Alexander Carmichael, 1865-1886

 Series
Identifier: Coll-97/CW7

Scope and Contents

Transcription notebook belonging to Alexander Carmichael containing mainly Fenian songs and cattle charms. Most of the charms relate to cattle and working in the dairy and so are recited for the protection and healing of cattle, although there are some charms for protecting and healing people as well. A number of the charms include the use of medicinal plants, for which there is additional vocabulary. Carmichael also includes charms and customs for predicting marriage partners. Almost all of the material appears to have come from Uibhist/Uist, Barraigh/Barra and Na Hearadh/Isle of Harris. A large proportion of the contents were published in Carmina Gadelica, volumes I and II and editing work is evident in the transcriptions. The text on the flyleaf reads 'M.S. No 4. Alexander Archibald Carmichael Killeandraist Lismore 12th Nov[embe]r 1870 Transcribed at Trumsgearry N. Uist' [Cill Anndrais/Killandrist, Lios Mòr/Lismore and Trumaisgearraidh/Trumisgarry, Uibhist a Tuath/North Uist].

Dates

  • Creation: 1865-1886

Language of Materials

Gaelic,English

Conditions Governing Access

This material is unrestricted.

Extent

39 folios ; 26.3 x 22.1 cm