Field Visit

Date 1999

Event ID 969624

Category Recording

Type Field Visit

Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/event/969624

South Uist to Eriskay Causeway Archaeological Survey

SU 45:

This turf built dyke, re-enforced in places with stone, runs generally from north to south. Entering the survey area at NF 78618 15058 it runs in a west south-westerly direction for 103 metres to NF 78522 15380 where it turns towards towards the south and runs for 175 metres to NF 78522 15165. At that point it turns to the west and runs for 80 metres to NF 78480 15139 where it again turns to the south running for a further 44 metres to NF 78482 15095. From there it runs to the west and south in a sweeping curve for 83 metres to NF 78460 15027 where its line is broken. This break is staggered presumably to allow access for stock through the dyke which then runs for a further 49 metres in a south-easterly direction to a second staggered break at NF 78491 14988.

Interpretation: This dyke has obviously been well maintained until relatively recently with frequent areas where patching and repair can be discerned. It marks the most western extent of the field system identified in the South Glen Dale valley, with no elements being identified to the west of its line. It is likely therefore that it marks the head dyke for the Bailes to the east and south, a boundary that appears to have been later used by the crofting communities established in the 1840s in the vicinity. The line of this dyke appears to demark boggier ground to the west.

(Babtie Group, 1999)