‘Buaile bheag do na laoigh' (a wee fold for the calves) Historical cattle management for milk production

Abstract

This article explores experiences of pastoralism in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland in their historical contexts, focussing on the oral and material cultural traditions around milking. Past studies have examined how these traditions are reflected in songs. However little has been written previously about the practical management of cattle. This article considers its significance in the social, agricultural, cultural and economic systems of the Gaelic speaking areas.