An Iodhlann: On the Ground

This project aims to make the extensive historical archives of Tiree, a small Hebridean island, available while walking, cycling or driving 'on the ground' of the island.  Through a mobile application, and pre- and post-trip planning and reminiscence, we will digitally break open the walls of the archives making the island a living historical landscape.

To achieve this An Iodhlann, (Gaelic for a stackyard) the historical centre on the island of Tiree, will be working with Community Information Technology Ltd., a community owned company, using local technology experts to create a location-based platform.  

A particular challenge, common to many rural areas, will be the lack of mobile coverage, requiring innovative design and technology solutions. 

An Iodhlann will create a mobile application allowing visitors and local historians to access geographically pertinent information, including old photographs, and interpretative maps/diagrams, while actually at sites of interest. This will largely use visitors' own devices such as smart phones and tablets. Maps will be central to the application, using both OS OpenData and bespoke local maps and sketches of historical sites.

As well as adding an extra service for those who already visit An Iodhlann, they hope that this will attract new users, especially younger tourists. In addition a 'data layer' using elements of semantic web technology will mean that the raw geo-coded information is available for third parties to mash-up and for digital humanities research.