The Secret Cemetery

By Ene-Karmen Forsyth

We moved to Westercraigs, Inverness two years ago from Boat of Garten. I thought that I knew Inverness well enough, but on one of my many new local walks with our dog, I discovered a secret cemetery in the forest. It's not too far from what is now a residential development, but used to be Craig Dunain Hospital; the local Psychiatric Hospital.

I discovered that being a patient there, in the nineteenth Century was shameful and taboo, and that many of the patients who died there were never reclaimed by their families or friends. Thanks to the kindness of several people in the area, a secret cemetery was created. There were so many spaces needed that the cemetery was only open for around thirty years.

One of the plots was taken up by a James Munro from Nigg, Ross-shire. He had been awarded the Victoria Cross, and had been badly wounded in battle. I can only assume that he was a patient there because of the continuous emotional trauma he must have suffered, together with physical pain from his wounds. He spent fourteen years at the hospital before finally finding peace. There's now a memorial to James at the front entrance to the cemetery.

It's a very peaceful and reflective place to visit; changing with the seasons and the birdsong. Mental illness has been brought to the forefront again during the Pandemic. How do we treat people who are living with emotional ill health these days? I'm a nurse, and this secret Highland cemetery has really made me think.

We Want to Hear From You!

Share your stories of your favourite areas in the Highlands and Islands

Stories are at the heart of what we do as a project and we are always looking to learn more about what the Highlands and Islands means to people who live, work, and visit here.

The intangible connections between people and place are vital to mindfulness, wellbeing and the feeling of rootedness and underline many of our stories, including this one. We would love to know, how do you think the 'Spirit of the Highlands and Islands' presents itself in your favourite place? Tell us below, we can't wait to hear from you!

Click here to share your story through our online story portal