Place-names of six parishes in Caithness, Scotland
Abstract
This thesis seeks to examine the place-names of six parishes in
Caithness as recorded on the 611 Ordnance Survey maps of the region.
The parishes in question are Reay, Thurso, Olrig, Dunnet, Canisbay and
Wick.
The two opening chapters contain a commentary on the settlement
history of Caithness as seen through its place-names and an evaluation
of the role of the local informant in a study of Caithness names.
Chapter Three provides distribution maps which illustrate points made
in the opening chapters.
The ensuing chapters contain detailed comments on each individual
place-name, quoting early references to the name where available and,
when possible, suggesting a derivation. Local pronunciation is
recorded if the name is still in use and it is frequently of great
assistance in interpreting the name.
To facilitate reference the place-names are listed alphabetically
by parish under the headings "Settlement Names" and "Topographical
Names" and an alphabetical index of all names is provided at the end
of the thesis.
This close examination of individual names has led to various
conclusions regarding the naming practices and settlement patterns
of the linguistic groups who have inhabited Caithness and have left
evidence of their presence in the place-names.