In the early days of the island’s human habitation, Islay (pronounced "eye-la" in English) was the centre of a Norse Kingdom  where the Norse Kings and the MacDonald Lords of the Isles vowed allegiance to the King of Norway and later to the Scottish Crown. In 1493, Islay was integrated into the Kingdom of Scotland and was handed over to the Campbells of Cawdor in 1615. Due to a mix of misfortune and extravagance, the clan was eventually forced to sell the island to the Campbells of Shawfield in 1726. Although they transformed the island into an almost model society, this clan suffered their own misfortunes and went bankrupt in 1848. Several attempts were then made to sell Islay on behalf of the islands trustees and creditors and it was eventually sold in 1853 to a privaye buyer for £451,000. Later, parts of the island were sold off to wealthy landowners and in more recent times, some landowners have been replaced by local government. Today, Islay is a peaceful place. The ghosts of battles fought in its early days have long ago been put to rest. With a population of approximately 3,500, it is a place with a strong community. Farming, fishing and, of course, whisky are the main sources of employment for the islanders, along with some tourism. The island is well worth a visit for its scenery, seven whisky distilleries and the friendly locals. Come and see us at the Bowmore Distillery in the island's capital.