Samson, Isles of Scilly

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A view of Samson from Tresco
A view of Samson from Tresco

Samson is the largest uninhabited island in the Isles of Scilly. It is 38 hectares (95 acres) in size. It is named after Samson of Dol.

The island was inhabited by one family in 1669; this had increased to 6 houses and 30 inhabitants in 1794. By 1829 there were 36 residents on Samson.

The island was inhabited until 1855, when Augustus Smith, Lord Proprietor of Scilly, decided to evict the last 10 residents who lived there and turn the island into a deer park. The deer did not like the habitat, and escaped.

The remains of the 19th-century houses may still be seen, as may the remains of prehistoric chamber tombs. The island has also been used for cattle grazing. You can go on the island and walk around it.[citation needed]

[edit] Population

  • 1669 one family
  • 1715 3 men fit to carry arms
  • 1751 2 households
  • 1794 6 households
  • 1816 40 people
  • 1822 7 households (34 persons)
  • 1850 3 or 4 households
  • 1855 depopulated

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[edit] External links

Coordinates: 49.93000° N 6.35326° W

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