Emigration from the Nothern Isles

About the Book: 

In Emigration from the Northern Isles, Marjory Harper illuminates the rich tapestry of life for those who ventured beyond the shores of Scotland’s Northern Isles. For centuries, islanders have journeyed to far-flung corners of the globe, leaving indelible marks on communities from the Arctic to the Antipodes. Yet, until now, their collective narrative remained largely unexplored.

This study spans three centuries, beginning in the mid-1700s, and delves into the motives and experiences of these resilient emigrants. After over four decades of research into Scottish emigration, Harper reveals the hidden treasures of Orkney and Shetland’s archival collections, intertwining personal letters and diaries with captivating analysis.

As she listened to the voices of those who left, Harper became devoted to sharing their stories, rich with emotion and insight. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, her dedication led to a remarkable compilation of material, offering readers a unique perspective on the dreams and struggles of those who sought a new life.

Join Marjory Harper on this compelling journey, and gain a deeper understanding of the Northern Isles' legacy in the world. Embrace the past, and discover how it shapes our present.

About the Author:

MARJORY HARPER is a Professor of History at the University of Aberdeen and an Associate Professor at the University of the Highlands and Islands’ Centre for History. Her study of Scottish emigration in the nineteenth century, Adventurers and Exiles, won the Saltire Society Scottish History Book of the Year Prize in 2004. With Professor Stephen Constantine, she co-authored Migration and Empire (2010), a Companion volume in the Oxford History of the British Empire. She and her husband live in rural Aberdeenshire.