Monument record MHG22361 - Strontian House

This building originated in the 18th century, when it was known as Horsey (or Horsley) Hall after Col. Samuel Horsey/Horsley, governor of the York Buildings Company who operated the mines in Strontian. (RCAHMS, 1980, 254) It was alternatively known as “the Governor’s House”. The original 18th century house was later enveloped by a series of extensions until only the gable end was visible (see photo below). In the mid-19th century it was the mansion of Riddell of Ardnamurchan and its last use was as the Loch Sunart Hotel. Mr. George Fox, Sunart Archives photographed the exterior and interior, including possibly original wooden panelling from a room (? the Governor’s Room) in the 18th century part of the house.

After a fire on New Year’s Eve 1998, the hotel was demolished. The process was observed and photographed by Mr. George Fox. Removal of the 19th century West wing revealed the façade of an earlier extension with blocked up windows and original harling. In another extension, the lintel over a fireplace had been reinforced with a brick arch, using bricks, which have been identified by George Fox as having been recycled from the Kilcamb smelter (SMR NM86SW0052). Finally a wall of the 18th century house was revealed, possibly with its original harling.
Field Verification Project (West Lochaber) - J Robertson, 03/2004
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NMRS don't have any text descriptions or building plans, only some photos on the basis of which Clare Sorenson in the NMRS architectural side suggests that the central block was early to mid 18th century with later wings.
Checked by JW with RCAHMS 17.10.03.


Peter
Fire destroyed this building on New Years Eve, 1998. Remainder was demolished and nothing remains of this hotel.
A M Fox, Highland Council, 06.03.02