The Blasket Islands are famous for their writers, lore and unique location off the south-west tip of Ireland. This book is perfect for anyone who wants to explore the Great Blasket Island, learn its history and discover what has captivated visitors and residents in this special place.

A beautifully illustrated and compelling history of the life, traditions and customs of an isolated community that has now disappeared. The book traces the fate of the Blasket people and the slow erosion of their culture to that sad day in 1952 when the families were evacuated from the Great Blasket Island.

Introduction by Lorcán Ó Cinnéide p7

Preface 11

Part One: The People of the Blasket Islands

1. 'The like of us will never be again ...' 17
2. How Outsiders Saw the Islanders 39
3. Leaving the Island 59

Part Two: The History of the Blaskets

Part Three: The Built Environment on the Great Blasket Island

Part Four: Other Lives

Practical Information 219

Appendix 221

Acknowledgments 231

Notes 232

Illustration Sources 237