Fyrish Monument

By Anne Thackray

Fyrish Monument Journey Stone
Image provided by Anne Thackray

The Fyrish Monument is sited above the town of Evanton near Alness. It was ordered by General Sir Hector Munro of Novar and was completed over a period of 3 years 1782 - 85 by 360 workers. It was inspired by the gate of Negapatam near Madras in India as Hector Munro had captured Madras for the British in 1781. It was a scheme by him to help the local unemployed and the men were paid in food and drink. Rumour has it that at night he had some of the work taken down and the stones rolled down the hill, so the project would keep the men employed for longer.

Many thanks to Anne Thackray for sharing with us the story behind her journey stone, created as part of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands.

WHAT IS A JOURNEY STONE?

Prior to the beginning of the stitching of each tapestry panel, each stitcher of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands was tasked with telling their interpretation of the 'Spirit of the Highlands and Islands' within a blank outline of a stone. The possibilities were truly endless - is it represented in the land? The people? A historical site? A favourite memory?

In any case, each journey stone represents the connection between of each individual stitcher, their story, and their own sense, or 'spirit', of place. Discover more of the stories behind the journey stones of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands here.