Description

The monument is a farmstead of two phases, of the period before the agricultural improvements. The smaller, and probably later, phase of the monument comprises the remains of a three roomed cottage with which are associated an enclosure and a small outhouse, occupying the SW part of the site. This phase is typical of small crofts occupied in the area as late as 1770.

The larger unit, which is probably earlier, consists of a trapezoidal enclosure measuring overall c.35m E - W, by 30m transversely, surrounded by a bank which is accompanied on the N and E sides by an external ditch. No ditch and bank was required on the S side, where the burn provides the boundary. Within the enclosure are the remains of six buildings.

The largest measures c.10m by 7m and may be the remains of a large cottage or a tower. The area to be scheduled measures a maximum of 300m E-W by 150m transversely, the S boundary of the area being defined by the Witchcleuch Burn.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance as a well preserved farmstead of two phases, of the period before the agricultural improvements, which has the potential to enhance considerably our understanding of settlement and agriculture in the medieval and post medieval times.

It is of particular interest not only because of the extent, complexity and good state of preservation of the remains, but also because of the clear indications that the farmstead has at least two phases, and seems likely to have been occupied over a considerable period.

Taken with the rather different pre-improvement farmstead only 300m to the NE the monument has the potential to increase our knowledge of the organisation, development and use of the pre-improvement landscape.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

RCAHMS records the monument as NT 83 NW 39.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland