|
|
|
Placename Croit a' Gheamair |
 |
Translation the gamekeeper's croft. |
|
Description The last gamekeeper to be employed in the Staffin area was Eoighin Dòmhnallach the father of 'Aonghas a' Gheamair'. The crofts in Staffin vary in size according to the available land in each township. Some are more difficult than others to work due to the fertility of the land, their exposed locations and how much improvement work has been carried out. In recent years rushes and bracken have taken over crofts that haven't been ploughed for years and it is difficult to envisage these crofts ever coming back to their full potential. Years ago bracken was cut for bedding for cattle and this kept its creeping growth in control. Rushes were used for thatching and crofters used to walk miles to find a suitable source. Often they had to provide favours or carry out work for the land-lord before permission was given to cut and gather rushes. The rushes were used to thatch houses, outbuilding and corn/hay stacks. It was durable and due to its smooth texture provided an excellent barrier against water. The art of thatching did not come easily to all and like most skills required practice to get it right. |
|
Area Stenscholl |
|
OS Grid Ref 4830 6815 |