Monument record MHG31363 - Tarrel Farm, Farmworkers Cottages

Late 18th century; with mid 20th century porches added. 2-storey, 9-bay row, comprising 3 pairs of mirrored narrow farmworkers cottages. Whitewashed rubble with sandstone dressings.

The cottages at Tarrel Farm are a good example of largely unaltered early farmworkers cottages. The 2-storey composition is highly unusual for the period and building type. The cottages were presumably built when George Mackenzie ("Farmer George") took up a 19 year lease at what was then called Meikle Tarrel in 1798. The New Statistical Account notes that the "lands were in a state of wretchedness, and their houses afforded accommodation for neither man nor beast" (p468). George Mackenzie was not only responsible for improving Meikle Tarrel, but also introduced the first methods of modern husbandry to this area. <1>

The site was visited by Highland Archaeology Services Ltd, in association with a water mains renewal scheme. The buildings have been modernised. Wooden extensions have been built to 2nd storey level onto the north facing exteriors of superstructural modern developments built above the footprint of the three structural remains. <2>