Another Look at Archie Chisholm’s Photographs
I am continuing to research the photographic collection of Archie Chisholm described in my book The Photographs of Archie Chisholm: Life and Landscapes in the Outer Hebrides 1881-1913, published by Thirsty in 2018. I had previously posted (November 2022) on ‘new’ images discovered in a lantern slide collection acquired by Am Baile. So there is always scope for new insights on the topic.
As a geologist I decided to take a fresh look at the photographs and document how they could be used to depict the geology and geomorphology of the islands. I found enough suitable images to describe the major landform features, as controlled by the underlying Lewisian basement rocks and their modification during the ice age. Plus, the subsequent Neolithic and historical use of the landscape.
This selection made for a presentation which I gave to the Mole Valley Geological Society at their summer soiree in June. Quite a number of the audience had some knowledge of the Outer Hebrides and were keen to discuss geological thoughts and recollections of places visited. The summer tipple was enjoyed by all.
The presentation is on the MVGS YouTube channel:
Please take a look if you are interested.
Michael Cope.