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MHG58176 - Shielings, Ràrsaidh

Summary

Shielings (2), Ràrsaidh

Type and Period (2)

Protected Status

Full Description

Ràrsaidh
These sites were recorded by NOSAS in 2008/9 as part of an archaeological survey of outer Loch Hourn.

Ràrsaidh is a large area with a long and complex history. The present day Ràrsaidh Cottage lies within Rarsaybeg, and it appears as roofed on the OS 1st edition map of 1872. The 1st edition map also shows one roofed building close to the shore on Rarsay, along with several unroofed buildings. Ràrsaidh was apparently cleared in 1849 (English 2000, 287). Roy, in the mid 18th century, shows a small enclosed settlement of 5 buildings at Torr an Aoil, with rig and furrow on both sides of the Ràrsaidh Burn, though nothing where Ràrsaidh Cottage stands today. The 1808 map suggests a park close to the shore within Rarsay shieling, though no buildings are shown, as well as a small park close to the shore at Rarsaybeg with one building.

Site 1440. A complex 'figure of eight' shieling hut on the Allt Ràrsaidh, which consists of turf covered large boulders sunk in grass and now disappearing under bracken. The upper part measures 4m NE-SW x 1.5m NW-SE internally and contains a circular setting. The lower part measures 2m NE-SW x 1.2m NW-SE internally and there is a possible entrance in the SE arc.

Site 1441. A circular shieling, with a small outshot that may have been a dairy, on the Allt Ràrsaidh, located 10m from Site 1440. Only the moss covered boulders forming the footings are visible. It measures 2m N-S x 1.3m E-W internally, and has an entrance in the E arc. The outshot off the NE corner measures 0.75m in diameter. <1>

Note; Site not visible on AP’s so location approximate. (T Blackie 12/7/18)

Sources/Archives (1)

Map

Location

Grid reference	Centred NG 8282 1153 (18m by 18m) (2 map features)
Map sheet	NG81SW
Civil Parish	GLENELG
Geographical Area	LOCHABER

Finds (0)

Related Monuments/Buildings (0)

Related Investigations/Events (1)

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