Tarradale Through Time — Remarkable discoveries on the Black Isle

Dr. Eric Grant

Victoria Hall, Cromarty

Focused on the Muir of Ord area of the Black Isle, The Tarradale Through Time project investigated six archaeological sites dating from the mesolithic to the 18th and 19th centuries. Some significant sites were discovered, including the earliest occupation site in the Black Isle dating to 6500 BCE, as well as one of the largest Pictish cemetery sites known in Scotland. Along with some highly important material finds, the series of excavations has been crucial in informing our understanding of how the Black Isle was occupied and developed through time.

Dr Eric Grant lectured in archaeology and historical geography at university level for 20 years. He later undertook consultancy work and maintained an interest in the voluntary sector by chairing heritage organisations including museum trustees. Since moving to Ross‐shire in 2004 he has been investigating the archaeological potential of the Muir of Ord and Tarradale areas in the Black Isle. This led to a National Lottery Heritage Fund award for a series of six excavations — with some spectacular outcomes — under the aegis of Tarradale Through Time: community engagement with archaeology in the Highlands.

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