Bill Lawson, co-founder of Western Isles genealogy resource “Co Leis Thu?,” was presented
with the British Empire Medal (BEM) at a recent event.
He received the accolade for his significant contribution to the Western Isles community
through his 60 years of genealogy and island culture research.
The ceremony took place in Hebrides People Visitor Centre in Northton which was launched
by Bill and his late wife Chris 25 years ago this summer.
Lord Lieutenant, Iain MacAulay, who presented the medal, highlighted Bill’s “expertise
and interests in volunteering, charitable work, and the cultural heritage of the
Hebrides reflecting the rich talent of our islands.”
Comhairle convenor, Kenny Macleod, emphasised the important work and friendships
that Bill has in the community followed with stories of Bill by Annie MacSween MBE
that caused much laughter.
Bill’s favourite Gaelic songs were sung a capella by Jayne Macdonald with a concluding
speech from Rebecca Hutton, chair of the Northton Heritage Trust.
Bill told the gather he was “delighted to receive this medal for the work of our
Hebrides People centre and community as it’s a deserved recognition of the importance
of local community and overseas genealogy and culture of the Western Isles.”
Bill Lawson was born in Stirling and grew up in Ayrshire. He studied law at Glasgow
University and trained as a chartered surveyor. He taught law in Paisley for eighteen
years spending the summers in Harris where his interest in the genealogies of the
Western Isles arose.
In 1981 he became the project leader of the Integrated Development Programme, a European-funded
programme for the Western Isles, relocating to the Western Isles. When the scheme
wound up he and his late wife, Chris who hailed from Sheshader in Lewis, took over
and coverted the former village school and schoolhouse into a family history tracing
centre.
Bill Lawson presented with British Empire Medal
19 May 2025