Tiree, Eilean Aird Nam Brathan, Loch Bhasapoll

NL94NE 11 9739 4704.

(NL 9739 4704) Eilean Aird na Brathan (NAT)

OS 1:10,000 map, (1977)

Crannogs, Loch Bhasapoll: There are two small islands on Bhasapoll, which appear to be wholly or partly artificial in origin. (See also NL94NE 10.)

Eilean Aird nam Brathan is situated near the E shore of the loch. The oval area visible above water on the date of visit measured approximately 20 m from E to W by 15 m transversely, much of it being obscured by a dense growth of reeds. Near the middle of both the N and S sides there are two isolated arcs of walling, which extend some way into the water, and a mass of tumbled stones lies sub- merged round the W perimeter. The island has been used for wild-fowl shooting in comparatively recent times (E Beveridge 1903, F O Blundell 1913) and it is possible that one or both of the lengths of walling may have been associated with that pursuit. This artificial island was in a similar condition to that described by the RCAHMS when seen in 1972. No trace was seen of any causeway to the mainland.

RCAHMS 1980, visited 1975; E Beveridge 1903; F O Blundell 1913.

NL 9739 4705 This site, identified by RCAHMS (1980) is located 41m off the mid-point of the E shore of Loch Bhasapol. The section of lochbed surrounding the site is composed of firm sand with a slight growth of vegetation. No trace of a causeway was found. The crannog is surrounded by water 1.0m to 1.3m in depth with the shallower water located between the site and shore. Immediately to the SW of the site the water deepens to over 2.5m.

This artificial island is an oval-shaped mound of small and medium sized stones which measures 29.2m by 41.5m at its base. The mound is capped by a fairly level, oval platform which measures 14.0m by 23.0m with the long axis running perpendicular to the shore. The surface of the islet is heavily overgrown with reeds, and peat is just beginning to encroach. large boulders were found to encircle the base of the site but were not placed in any coherent fashion suggestive of walling.

Five seperate sections of walling were found on the islet just below the water-line.

Several artefacts were found on the upper platform during the survey. Three sherds of pottery were found lying on the surface of the site near the E edge of the fifth section of walling. The largest sherd measures 1.5cm by 2.5cm and appears to be part of a rim. Two hammer-stones were found on the outside edge of the third section of walling.

Sponsors: Univ of Edinburgh Dept of Archaeology, Holley & Assoc.

M W Holley 1995.