Strathconon

NH 22890 85450 (centre) A walkover survey was carried out on 13 May 2021 in advance of a forestry planting scheme near Strathanmore, Strathconon. The aim of the survey was to record the location, extent, and condition of any archaeological sites to provide baseline data in advance of the proposed development. The area was extensively surveyed by North of Scotland Archaeological Society (NOSAS) in 2008–2009, who identified the remains of a township (Druimfearn) and several outlying shielings in the vicinity of the planting area. The survey area was located on open hillside between the Allt an t-Srathain Mhoir and the existing woodland next to Carnoch Church on the W side of the road leading through Strathanmore.

Druimfearn township, previously surveyed by NOSAS, was visited and the overall extent of the site location was surveyed. The township survives as a series of heavily degraded turf structures and banks, standing to a maximum of 0.4m high, with some evidence of stone within the construction. The survey showed the extent of the township to be much the same as the original survey, though it is possible that its condition has become more degraded. NOSAS site 1129, was also located, where the remains of three stone structures were identified. The structures, interpreted as shielings, were each aligned NE/SW and constructed with rough natural stones and large boulders, which survived as low walls up to 0.8m wide and up to 0.7m high. Internally they measured 1.5–2m wide and 5–6m long.

NOSAS site 1122 was also visited; however, remains of a site matching the 2009 survey description could not be identified. A possible turf and stone pen or structure, along with a much- degraded short section of turf bank and possible U-shaped structure were identified near the main road. It was not clear whether these were associated with the township or whether they were a result of road construction activities

Archive: NRHE (intended) Funder: Bidwells LLP

Lindsey Stirling – AOC Archaeology Group

(Source: DES Vol 22)