'Why is the Mainland of Orkney called Pomona?'
Etymology, Toponymy, Manuscript
Orkney; Scotland; UK
Medieval, Post-Medieval
Abstract
A note from Professor Peter Andreas Munch, an Honorary Member of the Society, that was read out loud at the meeting on December 8, 1851. It describes the Professor's investigations into how the mainland of Orkney came to be called Pomona by George Buchanan when it's name in Old Norse was Hrossey. He traces the misnomer back to a line in Solinus. Professor Munch is challenged by another fellow, who believes Solinus is describing Zetland rather than the mainland of Orkney. Munch accepts the criticisms, but holds that his view gives the best solution considering all the facts.