Lochs, Ross and Cromarty, Scotland

Lochs # 87  Insular

Condition of Original Registers—
Index: For an index to these records, see the Scottish Church Records Index on computer at the Family History Library under “Databases on the Network.” Note: No records were kept prior to 1831. Source: Key to the Parochial Registers of Scotland, by V. Ben Bloxham, pub. 1970. British Book 941 K23b.

Established Church—Kirk Session Records
The extent of records is unknown.

Lochs Free Church
History— Robert Finlayson, minister of the parish "came out" in 1843, with his congregation following him. The church and manse were soon erected. The situation was unsuitable for many of the parishioners because the moors and arms of the sea made access difficult for them. Later a new church was erected at a more convenient site. The majority of the congregation declined to enter the Union in 1900. Membership: 1855, 700; 1900, 643. Source: Annals of the Free Church of Scotland, 1843–1900, ed. Rev. William Ewing, D.D., 2 vols. pub. 1914. Film #918572. More details may be given in the source, including ministers.

Records— The extent of records is unknown.

Carloway Free Church
History— With few exceptions, the people on the north side of the Isle of Lewis adhered to the Free Church in 1843. Before the Disruption, Carloway formed part of the congregation of Lochs, 30 miles away. In 1844, on petition from the residents, the charge of Carloway and Callernish was sanctioned. It continued, however, in charge of a catechist until 1858. The population of Carloway, Callernish, and Shawbost, numbered about 3000. In 1846 a church was erected on a central site at Knock, Carloway, the people contributing sand and stones for the building. A manse was built in 1859. In 1884 a new church was built on the old site, with the people again contributing sand and stones. Some families at Breasclet joined the Free Presbyterians in 1892. The majority of the congregation did not enter the Union in 1900. Membership: 1859, 550; 1900, 860. Source: Annals of the Free Church of Scotland, 1843–1900, ed. Rev. William Ewing, D.D., 2 vols. pub. 1914. Film #918572. More details may be given in the source, including ministers, including ministers.

Records— The extent of records is unknown.