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MHG31363 - Tarrel Farm, Farmworkers Cottages

Summary

Late 18th-century farm workers cottages. They have recently been modernised.

Type and Period (1)

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Full Description

Late 18th century; with mid 20th century porches added. 2-storey, 9-bay row, comprising 3 pairs of mirrored narrow farmworkers cottages. Whitewashed rubble with sandstone dressings.

The cottages at Tarrel Farm are a good example of largely unaltered early farmworkers cottages. The 2-storey composition is highly unusual for the period and building type. The cottages were presumably built when George Mackenzie ("Farmer George") took up a 19 year lease at what was then called Meikle Tarrel in 1798. The New Statistical Account notes that the "lands were in a state of wretchedness, and their houses afforded accommodation for neither man nor beast" (p468). George Mackenzie was not only responsible for improving Meikle Tarrel, but also introduced the first methods of modern husbandry to this area. <1>

The site was visited by Highland Archaeology Services Ltd, in association with a water mains renewal scheme. The buildings have been modernised. Wooden extensions have been built to 2nd storey level onto the north facing exteriors of superstructural modern developments built above the footprint of the three structural remains. <2>

Sources/Archives (2)

Map

Location

Grid reference	Centred NH 9007 8111 (31m by 27m)
Map sheet	NH98SW
Geographical Area	ROSS AND CROMARTY
Civil Parish	TARBAT

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