Description

The monument comprises an island dun in Loch Scaridh on the W side of North Uist. The monument was first scheduled in 1991 but an inadequate area was included to protect all of the archaeological remains associated with the dun: the present rescheduling rectifies this.

On the turf-covered island (around 1.2m high) are the remains of a later, sub-rectangular building. A stone causeway, partly submerged, links the island with the mainland. On the mainland side, on either side of the causeway, are lines of stones at the water's edge, and, to the S, projecting into the water. These are best interpreted as measures to protect the entrance to the site. There is no dating evidence from the site, which is most probably dates from the later prehistoric period (around 2000 years ago).

The area to be scheduled is a rectangle 92m from E-W by 44m transversely, to include the dun, causeway, associated structures and an area around in which evidence relating to their construction and use may survive, as marked in red on the accompanying map extract.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance because it is a well-preserved island dun and causeway with unusual associated structures at the point of access on the mainland. Presumed to be later prehistoric in date, with a long (although not necessarily continuous) occupation, the monument has high archaeological potential for the recovery of evidence relating to the construction and use of the site.

This would inform our understanding of later prehistoric society in the Western Isles and how this relates and compares to life elsewhere at this time. Significant waterlogged deposits are likely to survive within and around the visible remains, with the potential for the recovery of organic artefacts and structures, as well as high quality information relating to the past economy and the environment.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as NF 77 SW 8.

Reference:

Beveridge E 1911, North Uist: Its Archaeology and Topography, with notes upon the early history of the Outer Hebrides, 190, Edinburgh.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland