Built in 1619 this former parish church was in use until about 1814 when the present church was built (at NC 4042 6693). Although somewhat irregular in plan, it is generally typical of its period with a belfry on the east gable. The remains stand to the wall-head and the crow-stepped gables are intact. An aisle was added to the north in 1692 and some reconstruction occurred, including gables, 1727-28.
The oldest portion is aligned east-west in pre-reformation manner, apparently incorporating the ground plan of an earlier medieval church. The earliest reference to the Church occurs between 1223 and 1245 when it was assigned to find light and incense for the cathedral church in Dornoch. However, it is said to have been a Celtic foundation of St Maelrubba.
An old font known as the ‘Clach na sagart ruadh’ or ‘stone of the red priest’ lay in front of the door of Balnakeil House before 1867 but by 1874 it had been moved to within the church. The font stood within the church and was covered by the top half of a rotary quern. Unfortunately, the font has been removed by persons unknown in recent years. A holy water stoup, now cracked in half, lies immediately inside the church entrance on the south side.
There is also a memorial in the burial ground to renowned Gaelic poet Rob Donn, the “Burns of the North”.
Categories
Ecclesiastic
Contact Details
Strathnaver Museum
Opening Times
Always open
Location Information
Area: North Sutherland
OS Grid Reference: NC 3902 6858