X. The Dolerite Boss of Sithan-t-Sluain

Abstract

Introduction, Sithan-t-Sluain is the name given to a conspicuous eminence (500 ft.) above the general plateau level (1000 ft.) of that portion of the Highlands south of Loch Fyne, Argyllshire, Scotland. The name itself, associated as it is with many local traditions, proved an interesting little holiday study. “Sithan” translated from the Gaelic means “Fairy Hill” or “Green Hill,” while an annotated copy of Scott’s “The Lady of the Lake” gives “Sithan” as “Men of Peace” whence it was thought that the hill obtained its name because certain monks used it as a place of refuge when their monasteries were raided. It is more probable, however, that this hill was a landmark indicating the direction in which the Men of Peace resided. Some Gaelic dictionaries give “Sith” as meaning peace, spiritual, fairies, or green hill, while “Sluain” or “Sluaigh” means people. Tradition has it that this hill was so named out of regard for those gentle folk about whom all manner of strange tales are to be found in Celtic Folklore. Modern inability to appreciate the Gaelic sentiment has had the effect of stigmatising this 1500 ft. hill as the Fairy Knowe, a name I find convenient for use in this paper. General Description. The Fairy Knowe (Sithan-t-Sluain) is situated on the south side of Loch Fyne about two miles east of Newton Bay, directly south of the croft known as Stuckreach. The summit (1428 ft.) of the hill (plate ii) may be seen from almost any point in Upper This 250-word extract was created in the absence of an abstract