Harris Tweed

Harris Tweed, famous throughout the world, originates from the Outer Hebrides. It is said to be the warmest and most hardwearing traditional cloth available. It is also the only commercially produced hand-woven tweed in the world. In Gaelic it is called Clo Mhor translating as the big cloth.

This type of cloth has been woven on the islands of Western Scotland for countless generations and is still an important cottage industry. Hundreds of Islanders still supplement their income at the loom if not make a full living from the tweed. The cloth really came to commercial prominence after 1846 when Countess Dunmore took samples down to her aristocratic friends in London. Not only were they impressed with the quality of the weave, they also saw its potential for the newly fashionable pursuits of shooting and fishing as it was very warm, hard wearing and water resistant. Over the years the methods of production were improved and it eventually gained an international reputation.

The industry is now tightly controlled and trademarked to ensure that the high standards are maintained. The 'Orb' mark signifies genuine Harris Tweed and to achieve this accreditation the cloth must be woven at home and by hand on one of the Outer Hebridean Islands, using only pure virgin wool. This wool must also be spun and dyed on the islands, although it may now be produced elsewhere in Scotland in order to meet demand.

Another indirect legacy of the Tweed industry on the islands are the great number of traditional Gaelic songs that have been passed down. These 'waulking' songs were developed to keep a rhythm going amongst a community group as they worked together in the processing of the cloth. It is this insistent, driving rhythm which has left many of these tunes great favourites long after the activity itself has faded into memory.