The Brownie of Gigha and Cara

For centuries the tiny island of Cara, just off Gigha (Scottish Gaelic: Giogha), was part of the MacDonald Estate of Largie on the Kintyre peninsula (Scottish Gaelic: Cinn Tìre). Ownership of the island was in dispute for a long time, the MacDonald's main enemies being the Campbells and the MacNeills. Having recaptured Cara after several skirmishes, the heads of the Clans MacNeill and Campbell had a celebratory dinner in Cara house, while enjoying the fact that eight of the MacDonald clan were in the process of being hung outside. But the spirit of the MacDonalds lives on in the attic of the House, in the form of the Brownie (pronounced Broonie).

The Brownie is said to protect the island from any visiting Campbells and has the power to conjure storms. Near the southern tip of the island stands the 'Brownie's Chair' - a massive piece of whinstone in an excellent position - its occupant can see Ireland, the Kintyre coast and the hills of Knapdale; a good vantage point to sit and await rampaging Campbells.

A Brownie is a very little man dressed in brown with a long beard. Opinions vary as to how he looks. He can be stout with long flowing hair, or with wrinkles and curly hair. He sometimes carries a switch. Brownies usually live in the attics of rich people's houses. They demand respect, so if you meet the Brownie you must take off your hat and say 'Good Morning, Mr Brownie.'

They are usually loyal, but can get in a huff very easily. Hamish Haswell-Smith met a fisherman who told him that he and his son had pulled up their boat on Cara to get a drink of water from the Brownie's Well. When they got back to their boat, a bench seat was missing, but it turned up later in a different place!

Brownies have the power to conjure storms, but the best part of their character is their helpfulness, especially around the house.