Like Leac Na Baan, Arichonan was built at the top of a hill, presumably because you could see any approaching ship coming up the Loch. The buildings are now in ruins and empty of people. A study of Arichonan has been one of my own major projects, and you can see the results of all that here, in KnapdalePeople.
When I visited Arichonan in 2002, there was a large plaque on site recounting the story of the Clearance that occurred here in 1848. This time, in 2010, there was no sign, except one warning against falling stones (!). Further, there is no longer any sign on the road indicating that up that hill there is a ruined township. We found the trail, though. It is still obvious and mowed. On the other hand, there is a modern house farther down the road to the south, with a sign identifying it as "Arichonan Farm". Since my 2010 visit, I have wondered if we are now meant to use that path up to the ruins?
1 comment:
When I was at Arichonon in 2007 it was as you described. The plaque had been removed and there were no signs. My wife and I stumbled around for an hour looking for the place, but finally found it. But, as you mentioned paths had been mowed to and around the place. I am so jealous of your trip. My folk, the Blues, hale from that corner of North Knapdale from farms such as Arichonan, and Lechnaban. I have been told, and it is my belief,that the location of Arichonan was dictated by the reliable spring located just up the hill from the hamlet.
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