109417: Dun an Sticir, Newton Ferry

Dùn an Sticir

Dùn an Sticir, otherwise Dun an Sticer, is a broch dating from the late Iron Age. It lies on a small islet, reached by causeway from a slightly larger island, Eilean na Mi-Chomhairle, the island of Bad Council, which is accessible by two other causeways linking to the mainland. The broch is described by Beveridge as being 60 feet in diameter, with walls 10 feet thick and an inner courtyard 40 feet across. A gallery existed 6 feet above floor level. 

Dùn an Sticir was probably abandoned during the Viking period, but later became the centre of a more substantial medieval building, with a rectangular hall built inside the old broch. Other buildings were built close by and the causeways were modified.

In 1581 it was the stronghold of the infamous Hugh MacDonald, Uisdean MacGhilleasbuig Chleirich, who was intent on murdering the four sons of Donald MacVicar, Am Piocair Mòr. Having killed the eldest, he lured the three younger brothers, Angus, Hector and John, to Dùn an Sticir, promising friendship. There, at a banquet, they were put to their deaths. 

It was some 20 years later that treacherous Hugh, seeking refuge from the clan chief, his uncle Donald Gorm Mòr MacDonald, was discovered at Dùn an Sticir, disguised as a woman. He was captured by the clan warrior Donald MacDonald, mac Iain mhic Sheumais, and taken to Skye where he met a thirsty end.

Further information about this archaeological site can be found on the Canmore database.