Five decades ago, a quiet revolution took root across the Western Isles.
In 1975, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar was born — a local authority shaped by the people, for the people, and firmly rooted in island life.
Now, fifty years on, that story is being celebrated in style.
The first of three commemorative events will take place on Friday 16 May in Stornoway Town Hall, bringing together a roomful of invited guests to honour the Comhairle’s golden anniversary.
Two more gatherings will follow in June, open to the wider community — one at Barra Heritage Centre on Wednesday 11 June, and another at Sgoil Lionacleit on Thursday 12 June.
At the heart of the celebrations is a new book, 50 Years of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar — a deeply thoughtful, beautifully assembled tribute to the work, spirit and resilience of the islands’ local authority.
Across 17 chapters, the book paints a vivid picture of how the Comhairle has shaped island life, from education and infrastructure to language and cultural identity.
It dives into themes such as “On-Island Learning”, “Gàidhlig: an Integral Asset”, “National and International Dimensions”, and even the more difficult bits, under “Challenges and Controversies”.
The tone is honest and proud — never self-congratulatory, but always rooted in real lives and real impact.
In their joint foreword, Cllr Paul Steele, Leader of the Comhairle, and Cllr Kenny Macleod, the Convener, write with quiet conviction:
“As we approach the 50th anniversary of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar it is right that we mark some of its achievements and milestones, to reflect on the highs and the lows, the difference which the Comhairle has made to people’s lives in contrast with what went before, and to ponder future challenges.
“We hope you enjoy sharing in the journey.”
That sense of journey rings through every page.
From the earliest days of uncertainty and promise, through decades of policy, protest, progress and partnership, the Comhairle has stood as a cornerstone of island life.
This anniversary is not just about a council.
It’s about a community that has worked, endured and grown together — in wind, rain and sunshine.
After its initial launch at the Stornoway event, the book will be available to the public from Monday 26 May in selected local shops and Comhairle premises.
It’s more than a souvenir.
It’s a story worth telling — and one we’re all part of.
