Monument record MHG28397 - Swordale Steading, threshing machine

NH56NE 53.01 5743 6566

Swordale steading, threshing machine
This roller-feed, fixed-barn threshing machine, was made by R C Morton of Errol, Scotland, possibly around turn of 20th century. The existing threshing machine probably replaces an earlier one as the design is not in keeping with the age of the farm buildings. Originally powered by steam, then oil and latterly by a 20HP electric motor, it was last used in early 1970s. The steam engine house still exists (see DC 33210, item 3) and this also housed the oil engine and electric motor. This part of the steading now houses the grain dryer fan and heater unit. The chimney has been taken down and only the base remains. The date for the demolition of the chimney is unknown, as are the dates for the changes in the types of threshing machine drive.
The quality of the threshing machine workmanship, both for the wood-work and iron-work, is of the highest standard. The machine has a maker?s transfer, which bears a Gaelic inscription, ?IS ?E DIA MOCHARRAIC? (?God is my Rock?). This was the only example of an inscription on a threshing machine known to the investigator at the date of survey.

See MS/744/154 and DC 33211-13 for details of the threshing machine.

Visited by RCAHMS (GJD) 1986/1987.