Bàthadh Balaich Eòghainn

This is how Murchadh Caimbeul of Scalpay told the story to Comunn Gàidhlig Inbhir Nis on 21 March 1986.

They were lifting lobster creels along the shores of the Lewis Park — close to Rubha Bhàird, if I remember rightly. It was the young men who were drowned: the sons of Eòghann mac Chaluim.

Because their creels were out beyond the shelter of the headland, they were anxious about them. There is a proverb that says, “He who minds the ship will get a day to sail her.” In the same way, nets and all other gear are far too valuable to a fisherman; when bad weather threatens, he will do everything in his power to keep them safe.

That morning it was clear that the day would turn foul. The lads set out very early. Though they were capable, hardy men, skilled in the ways of weather and sea, that day it was not enough. The storm, the tide and the wind prevailed. The waves grew deadly.

The boat of Eòghann’s sons did not return. Neither bodies nor wreckage were ever found. Despite searching and ranging far and wide, nothing was recovered; the sea swallowed the boat and all who were in her.

When we were young, we knew Dòmhnall Eòghainn, who was not with his brothers Coinneach and Iain when they were lost.

Noted for his kindness and calmness, Dòmhnall was held in great esteem in Scalpay, where he is still fondly remembered. According to the island’s reputation, Coinneach and Iain were no less worthy.

As was natural, Dòmhnall Eòghainn had a fine singing voice. I was told many years ago by a kindly old woman who knew them all well that Dòmhnall never sang again after the death of his brothers.

It is Dòmhnall Eòghainn’s youngest son, Murchadh Moireasdan — whom you will hear on Dèanamaid Adhradh — who leads the tune in the Free Church (Scalpay).