Vacsay facts for kids
| Norse name | bakkiey or vagr-øy |
|---|---|
| Meaning of name | peat bank or bay island |
| OS grid reference | NB115370 |
| Coordinates | 58°14′N 6°55′W / 58.23°N 6.91°W |
| Physical geography | |
| Island group | Lewis and Harris |
| Area | 41 hectares (0.16 sq mi) |
| Area rank | 217= |
| Highest elevation | 34 m (112 ft) |
| Administration | |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Country | Scotland |
| Council area | Outer Hebrides |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 0 |
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Vacsay (called Bhacsaigh in Scottish Gaelic) is a small island in Scotland. Its name comes from an old language, Old Norse, and means "peat bank island."
Vacsay is part of the Outer Hebrides, a group of islands off the west coast of Lewis. It is about 41 hectares (101 acres) in size. The highest point on the island is 34 meters (112 feet) above sea level.
Contents
Island History
Why Vacsay is Empty
Like many islands nearby, Vacsay has no people living on it today. People used to live there a long time ago. However, they were forced to leave during an event called the Highland Clearances. This happened on Vacsay in 1827.
The Highland Clearances were a sad time in Scottish history. Many people living in the Highlands and islands were made to move away from their homes. This was often so that landowners could use the land for sheep farming instead.
Who Owns Vacsay Now?
In 1993, a businessman from London named Sirdar Baron Iqbal Singh bought Vacsay. He also bought a special title, "Lord of Butley Manor."
He has said he wants to change the island's name. He would like to call it "Robert Burns' island" or "Eilean Burns." Robert Burns was a very famous Scottish poet. However, Burns never actually visited the Outer Hebrides islands.
Island Geography and Geology
What the Island is Made Of
Vacsay is made of a very old type of rock. This rock is called Lewisian gneiss. It is a strong, ancient rock found in this part of Scotland.
Vacsay's Coastline
The island has a very twisty and complex coastline. At low tide, when the sea goes out, Vacsay connects to several smaller islands. These include tiny islets like Trathasam and Liacam.
Where Vacsay is Located
Vacsay is found between two other islands. These are Vuia Mòr and Pabay Mòr. It is also located off the coast of a larger island called Great Bernera.
