Topographic Survey at Loch Achilty Crannog

A topographical survey at Loch Achilty Crannog was undertaken. A tape and offset survey from a baseline along the surface of the crannog was undertaken. Offsets extended underwater to the base of the crannog on the loch bed. Samples taken from timbers, for radiocarbon dating. A scale plan was produced and radiocarbon dates obtained. Achilty crannog is confirmed as an artificial construction of stone with some embedded timber. It sits in a water depth of 1.25m to 3.10m, on the edge of an underwater shelf which slopes rapidly into deeper water. Timbers embedded in the construction date from the mediaeval period. Due to the position of timber 2 at the very base of the crannog, it is concluded that the construction of the stone mound cannot be any earlier than the age of this timber. Further examination of photographs showing the underwater timbers which were thought to have been trees fallen into the water has revealed that some of these too may be partially covered by stones so may be older than was first thought. There is no evidence on the surface of any buildings.