Eriskay
The causeway between Eriskay and South Uist was built in 2001. It completion allowed continous travel through Uist and Benbecula by road from Berneray using similar fixed links to cross narrow seaways.
The reduction of isolation allowed islanders to seek work and use services in Uist. But it also worked against the small community when its small secondary school closed and pupils bussed to Lionicleit.
The Eriskay pony is Scotland's last breed of native horse. Although each is individually owned they graze in a herd on the open hill and roam around the village, Am Baile, over the winter.
Traditionally it hauled baskets of peat and seaweed and harrowed the ground but the advent of the tractor displaced the work pony. The breed was in serious danger of extinction and the Comann Each nan Eilean, Eriskay Pony Society, was established in 1972 to strive for its survival.