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Archaeology Notes
Event ID 698918
Category Descriptive Accounts
Type Archaeology Notes
Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/698918
NS27NW 5 24078 77856
(NS 24077785) Kempock Stone (NR)
OS 1:1250 map (1965)
The Kempock Stone, a monolith of mica-schist about 6ft high and 2ft in diameter, stands at the top of the cliff overlooking Kempock Point. "Because of its faint resemblance to a mantled figure with a shrouded head, it is more popularly known as "Granny Kempock" (TSA 1962).
Sailors and fishermen used to perform propitiatory rites round it, seeking favourable omens; local marriages were not regarded as lucky unless the wedded pair passed round the stone. In 1662, Mary Lamont, who was burned as a witch confessed to having attended a meeting when it was intended to throw the stone into the sea.
T G Snoddy 1950; F H Groome 1903
The stone is of the dimensions given above and is protected by railings. It is known locally as "Granny Kempock's Stone".
Visited by OS (JD) 23 July 1955
