Strathcarron

Strathcarron and nearby Lochcarron take their names from the Carron River. There are several rivers called Carron in Scotland. There have been various theories over the years as to its origin but is now agreed that the name means 'stony river' and the root 'car' goes back to the ancient pre-Gaelic language.

Settlements on the banks of the Carron River go back to pre-history and Achintee is also a very old agricultural settlement. There were 'corries' at the head of the Loch in previous times. These were stone walls with inlets for the tide which trapped fish as the tide receded.

The River Carron was difficult to ford when in flood, before the bridge was built, and it could be hazardous to cross on horseback or with animals when the tide was out due to the formation of quicksands with the incoming tide.

The estate called NEW KELSO adjoins Strathcarron. Shortly after the battle of Culloden in 1746, there was an attempt, with the aid of Government Grants, with a gentleman called Ninian Jeffreys from Kelso in the Scottish Borders in charge of the undertaking. The fertile land adjoining the road when you cross the Carron was too marshy to cultivate until Ninian Jeffreys used the then new and modern draining techniques to drain the area with the help of the Army. This was, presumably, connected with the Barracks at Glenelg. The linen industry couldn't pay its own way wit the removal of the grants and the linen industry foundered within a few years although the Kelso estate persists.

For more information on the history of the area visit the Smithy Heritage Centre at Strathcarron which is housed in the restored Smithy and Forge. It has a local history Video, old photographs and booklets. It's open April - October 10.00am - 5.30 pm.

For details of places to stay or visit and things to see and do in Strathcarron click here

Updated 22.8.99