Geology of Fearn and Tarbat

Abstract

1. The normal dip of the Old Red sandstone of Moray to the north-west is prolonged across the peninsula of Tarbat Ness. In Fearn and Lower Tarbat there are many exceptions. The dip at Geanies is to south-west, at Balintore Quarry to north, at Balaldie to north-west (slightly), at Cadboll to north-north-east, at Hilton to south-east. 2. The author describes a large cave at Torrel. The knoll over the cave is crowned with the remains of a circular earthen fort 8 yards diameter. The rampart is similar to that of the old hill forts of the country. The cave and its fort must have formed a strong defensive position. 3. Boulders of large grained red and gray granites, porphyrites, and large masses of gneiss and conglomerate occur profusely all over Easter Ross as well as in Fearn and Tarbat. At Tarbat Ness some of these were formed into small stone circles inclosing earthen mounds or ancient graves. The author thinks these boulders were derived from the West Highlands of Ross. 4. At Cadboll, 124 feet above sea-level, are found marine shells; also above the Old Red quarry at Balintore at 50 feet levels; also at Portmahomack, 84 feet. Fossil shells occur in the Old Red sandstone.