Place Name

Stack of the Graves, Shetland, Scotland

Where the Rocks Rest in Peace and the Jokes Never Cease!

Introduction:

Ah, Stack of the Graves. A name that sounds like it was invented during a particularly competitive game of Scrabble. You might think it is just a quirky label, but this place has layers, much like a well worn onion or a stubborn Scottish shortbread. The name raises eyebrows, questions and the occasional snort of laughter. Is it a graveyard for rocks? A resting place for weary souls who have had one dram too many? Or simply a dramatic flourish added by a local with a flair for the theatrical?

Legend has it that ancient burial mounds once dotted the area, giving rise tae the name. Though one cannae help but wonder if a gravedigger with a sense of humour decided that Stack of the Graves sounded far more intriguing than something sensible like “That Bunch of Rocks Over There”.

Whatever the truth, Stack of the Graves is a must see for anyone wanting tae add a sprinkle of the absurd tae their Shetland wanderings.

Toponymy:

Let’s break down this name:

Stack   A stack is a steep, isolated rock formation that juts out of the sea. Think of it as nature’s way of sticking two fingers up at erosion. Here, it perfectly describes the jagged cliffs and towering shapes that define this coastal landmark.

Graves   This adds a touch of the macabre, hinting at ancient burial sites and the Norse and Pictish folk who once roamed these lands. Tales of long lost warriors and dramatic send offs may or may not have been exaggerated after a few ales.

Together, they form a name that makes visitors pause before saying it aloud, often leading tae a chuckle or a raised eyebrow. It is as if the rocks themselves are in on the joke.

Historical Context:

The earliest known usage of Stack of the Graves drifts through folklore like the mist that blankets the cliffs. Some say it was once a burial ground for ancient chieftains. Others claim the name came from the practice of stacking stones over graves, creating dramatic cairns for those who enjoyed a good view in the afterlife.

Regardless, Stack of the Graves ensures travellers arrive ready tae speculate on whether logic was ever involved. Was it a mistake? A tradition? Or simply a whimsical choice made after a spirited evening of storytelling? The truth is likely lost tae time or perhaps tae the bottom of a pint glass.

Points of Interest:

If you are in the area, be sure tae check out:

• SaxaVord Spaceport – The UK’s first spaceport, where dreams of space travel meet Shetland’s rugged coastline. Launching rockets has never looked so scenic.

• Unst Heritage Centre – A treasure trove of local history, showcasing Viking artefacts, traditional crafts and stories that bring the island’s past tae life.

• Norwick Beach – Golden sands and stunning views, perfect for a stroll or a picnic. Just watch out for the seagulls. They are bold.

• Muckle Flugga Lighthouse – Perched at the northernmost point of the UK, offering breathtaking views and the feeling that you are standing at the edge of the world.

• Valley of the Giants – A dramatic natural feature with towering cliffs and sweeping landscapes. Wear sturdy shoes. History lies underfoot.

Notable Figures:

Famous folk linked tae Stack of the Graves or Shetland include:

• Thomas Stewart Traill – A pioneering physician and author from Shetland who contributed greatly tae medical education in Scotland.

• J. A. C. Chalmers – A local storyteller whose yarns about the Shetland seas kept the spirit of island folklore alive.

• Hugh MacDiarmid – A renowned Scottish poet who spent time in Shetland, capturing the islands’ rugged beauty in his work.

• Roderick Mackenzie – A local artist known for breathtaking landscapes that capture the essence of Shetland’s wild coastlines.

• Tommy McKenzie – A modern Shetland musician bringing traditional island music tae wider audiences and keeping the culture vibrant.

Conclusion:

So next time you find yourself at Stack of the Graves, take a moment tae admire how geography refuses tae follow common sense while you ponder whether history ever meant for this name tae stick. It is a place where the rocks have stories and the locals have humour sharper than a Shetland knife.

And if you find yourself chuckling at the name, wander over tae www.strangeplacenames.com   After all, in a world full of ordinary, why not embrace the wonderfully weird.

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