Description

The monument consists of 2 prehistoric structures and several shielings on the E side of the Raffin Burn. The prehistoric structures include 2 mounds which contain 'wags'(galleried structures). That at ND08253680 is oval-shaped, about 24m N-S by 17m E-W and consists of numerous large stones which protrude through the turf. This building is most clearly defined on its E side where there are traces of a wall. This wall is formed of discontinuous boulders which define an inner face 8.4m long. At a distance of about 1m from this inner face there is a line of 4 upright stones which once formed roof supports. The mound that surrounds this building may incorporate one or more additional later structures.

The second 'wag' is at ND08303676 and consists of a mound with traces of a rectangular building at the SW end. This building was 22m long and about 4.2m wide. The inner wall survives to a height of about 1m on the NW but is less well preserved elsewhere. At least 10 upright stones which supported the roof can be distinguished. There are other rectilinear features, probably shielings, on the highest point of the mound. Low, boulder-faced walls form an enclosure in the area between the two mounds. A further wall of probable prehistoric date extends N from the N mound. To the S, at ND08333669, is a shieling mound about 11m E-W by 7m N-S with traces of a small subrectangular structure on top.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Statement of Scheduling

The monument is of national importance for its potential contribution to the understanding of prehistoric settlement. The site contains important information on the economy and domestic life of its inhabitants and the architecture of prehistoric houses. The shielings contain important information on post medieval agricultural systems.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland

Sources

Bibliography

The monument is RCAHMS number ND 03 NE 2.

Source: Historic Environment Scotland