The Introduction of the ‘Gregory Clause’ and Ireland’s Great Famine

Abstract

This chapter explores the legacy of subsequent legislation in early-twentieth-century Scotland that gave the Government the power to establish small landholdings across Scotland. Following the re-designation of crofts in the Highlands and Islands, small landholdings as a form of land tenure fell into terminal decline with little to no legislative changes to improve the rights of small landholders. Following renewed attention in Scottish Parliament, this chapter explores the Grassmillees Scheme, Ayrshire, its establishment, evolution and explores the nascent formation of a landholding identity with ever-deepening historical roots. It scratches the surface of a rich vein of historical evidence that serves as a window to revealing landholding attitudes outwith the crofting counties.