A Conversation With John Pirie about Skerryvore

John Pirie is the son of a Lighthose Keeper and, himself, a retired Lighthouse Engineer who has a deep and passionate knowledge of lighthouses, their building and the culture surrounding them.

I was lucky enough to be working on Tiree teaching poetry and film in Gaelic with the Primary and Secondary a couple of weeks ago. Whenever I get to Tiree I try to find people to talk to for What We Do in the Winter. The newly established Hynish Trust approached me to speak with John, as I happened to be on the island while he was holidaying there with his family.
Dr John Holliday [Doc] of the Hynish Trust and myself sat with John after my work one day and managed to record these recollections at An Iodhlann, Tiree’s wonderful historical centre.

I think there’s definitely more to be found out about Lighthosues and lighthouse culture, so I’m looking to see if there’s a project to be made here as time goes by.

I’m putting this out as a side episode of What We Do in the Winter, so there’s no introduction or music.

Thank you to Jen, John and Trudy from the Hynish Trust, I can’t wait to see what all you come up with as you grow and develop! Thank you especially to John Pirie, also of the Trust, for his time and sincere reflections, it was such a pleasure to spend time with the Doc and yourself.

Happy listening! Thanks for tuning in.