The Discovery of Aoineadh Mòr

The discovery of the abandoned town of Aoineadh Mòr in the Scottish Highlands is an exciting archaeological find. This once-thriving community was forcibly evicted in 1824 to make way for sheep farming and was all but forgotten until its rediscovery in the late 20th century.

The first mention of Aoineadh Mòr in modern times came in the late 1980s, when local historians and archaeologists stumbled upon references to the deserted town in old records and documents. This sparked a renewed interest in the area and in 1991, a team of archaeologists from the University of Edinburgh set out to survey the site.

What they found was truly remarkable. Despite the passage of nearly two centuries, many of the buildings and structures at Aoineadh Mòr were still standing, buried under a layer of earth and vegetation. The team meticulously excavated the site, revealing a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived there before the forced evictions.

The findings at Aoineadh Mòr provide a unique insight into the daily lives of the Scottish Highlanders in the early 19th century. The excavated structures, such as run-rigs for growing crops, grazing fields for cattle, and corn-drying kilns, showed the self-sufficient nature of the town. The team also found evidence of a strong community spirit, with shared spaces like kail-yards and winnowing barns.

In addition to the structures, the team also uncovered a wealth of artefacts, such as pottery, tools, and clothing. These objects paint a vivid picture of the town and its people, providing a rare and valuable window into Scotland’s past.

The discovery of Aoineadh Mòr is a testament to the tenacity of the human spirit and the endurance of history. Despite being buried and forgotten for nearly two centuries, the town and its people have been brought back to life through the work of dedicated archaeologists. Today, the site is protected and maintained by the Forestry Commission, and visitors can explore the well-marked paths and learn about the history of this once-thriving community