Kilted fortnight holiday in scotland & france

**Mael Coluim** · 2nd September 09, 10:15 PM

Leaving Kilchurn Castle, Redshanks told me our next stop would be St. Conan’s Kirk on the other side of Loch Awe. From the castle we could see the vicinity of the Kirk. In the winter with no leaves on the trees I sure it could be seen.

Chris commented the church was built by Mrs. Campbell’s son Walter who was acting on his mother’s comment it was getting more difficult in her later years making her trip to church in Dalmally on Sundays. So the son would provide her a church near her home.

My thought that was a kind and thoughtful gesture didn’t prepare me for what I was about to see. Click here to learn about St. Conan’s Kirk.

Just before the road to the Kirk stands this Memorial.

**Mael Coluim** · 2nd September 09, 10:20 PM

It would be too easy to miss this church driving by.

We surveyed the cloister before going inside.

Notice the detail on the tin roof.

The wood beams of the roof and the wooden pillars were works of craftsmanship.

**Mael Coluim** · 2nd September 09, 10:21 PM

Chris points to the mason’s initials.

This is one stair way I would not wish to climb.

**Mael Coluim** · 2nd September 09, 10:24 PM

We next go in to the crypt of 2nd Lieutenant Ian Alastair Campbell.

Notice the detail of the fold of the pleats and the sgians dubh.

**Mael Coluim** · 2nd September 09, 10:28 PM

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Note the dirk.

Notice the buckle shoes.

Broach & plaid.

There is more to come of this intriguing church.

**BoldHighlander** · 2nd September 09, 10:35 PM

Once again a wonderful series of pictures Mael!

I really love the church photos....and the skillful details carved in stone (monuments) never cease to amaze me!

**Ancienne Alliance** · 2nd September 09, 11:09 PM

Simply amazing photos Ern !

Best,

Robert

**Phil** · 3rd September 09, 01:17 AM

Still more great photos and thanks for posting. The mausoleum shots were very interesting as a snapshot of kilt-wearing in 1899 with knife pleats and buckle brogues pretty much the same as we wear nowadays. I was particularly touched by the plaque's inscription "mortally wounded .... while giving water to a wounded foe" sounds like a truly compassionate act.

**JSFMACLJR** · 3rd September 09, 07:05 AM

Remarkable photos, as all of yours are! We spent some time in St. Conan's a couple of years ago. It's really amazing that such a kirk exists where it does!