Results are confidential and the form takes only 1-2 minutes. Form will be online through February 18, 2000. This information is provided as a courtesy to researchers who are researching in the Shetland Islands. I apologize for any incorrect links or misinformation posted on this website - please email me at the address above with any corrections or additions. The archipelago consists of about 100 rugged islands and islets, of which only 19 are inhabited.
Mainland is the largest of the group.
Other important islands are Yell, Unst, Fetlar, Whalsay, Bressay, Muckle Roe, and Fair Isle. Lerwick, on Mainland, is the administrative center and the largest town. The chief industry is fishing, and the islanders also raise cattle and sheep and cultivate crops for their own use. Principal exports are the famous Shetland ponies and the wool, knitwear, and hosiery that is manufactured by the women. In the 8th and 9th centuries the Shetland Islands were invaded by the Vikings, who ruled them until 1472, when they were added to the domains of the kings of Scotland.