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MHG30567 - Cultivation remains, Allt a Choire Reidh

Summary

Cultivation remains, Allt a Choire Reidh

Type and Period (2)

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Full Description

Allt a Choire Reidh
The Allt a Choire Reidh is one of the most substantial rivers flowing into Loch Hourn. It has a spectacular waterfall about 300m inland from the shoreline. Below the waterfall there is a huge area of boulder strewn outwash, masked by heavy bracken infestation. Branching off east from the main watercourse are 2 side valleys heading into steep cliffs, the latter frequented only by feral goats and deer. Nearer to the shoreline is a large enigmatic level grassy area, also infested by bracken, and today very wet. It is a difficult area to prospect and record, mainly due to the bracken and boulders on the outwash.

A considerable number of structures have been identified, possibly sheiling huts and their associated enclosures, and possibly some ploughed rig and furrow on the level ground near to the shore. These sites were recorded by NOSAS in 2002 as part of an archaeological survey of Inner Loch Hourn. The area is very exposed to the westerly winds coming straight down the loch. Some of the sites away from the shoreline, and outwith the main survey, were recorded briefly for general interest. As there is no evidence of any farmstead here, the area may have always been summer sheilings, possibly for the settlements at the head of the loch.

Site: 55, Cultivation remains comprised of 4 broad rigs, c 68m long and 6m wide. Rig height cl m. The associated photograph has the 4 surveyors standing in the furrows between the rigs to emphasise the form of these remains. It is possible that these rigs were hand dug, but it is also possible that a horse was walked over from Kinloch Hourn, and a plough brought in by boat. This plot is extremely exposed to westerlies and subject to salt spray, being adjacent to the shoreline. Not conducive to growing arable crops. No nearby buildings. <1>

NGR adjusted based on 1999-2001 APs <2>

Sources/Archives (2)

Map

Location

Grid reference	Centred NG 9348 0759 (60m by 63m) (2 map features)
Map sheet	NG90NW
Civil Parish	GLENELG
Geographical Area	LOCHABER

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Related Monuments/Buildings (1)

Related Investigations/Events (1)

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