Archaeological Evaluation
Date 2001
Event ID 1001147
Category Recording
Type Archaeological Evaluation
Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/1001147
NT 2452 6303 A building survey and archaeological evaluation were undertaken in advance of a programme of works to consolidate and restore the Scheduled church (NMRS NT 26 SW 17).
The building comprises an original unicameral church, aligned E-W, with aisles subsequently added to N and S and a later tower at the W end. A preliminary reassessment of the documentary and structural evidence suggests the following sequence for the building:
Phase 1: Nave, pre-1665.
Phase 2: Addition of N and S aisles: ?1665.
Phase 3: Addition of present forestairs (replacing earlier,
narrower stairs?).
Phase 4: Insertion of circular window and
datestone: 1699.
Phase 5: Addition of W tower: ?1811.
Phase 6: Abandonment: after 1885. Used for burial.
The evaluation comprised four test pits within the building, identifying a complex sequence of stratified deposits including floors, walls and inhumations. Two phases of use were identified, with an intervening period of abandonment. No dating evidence was recovered for these events.
Full report lodged with the NMRS.
Sponsors: Mr and Mrs H McCaig.
T Holden 2001