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051
Boar Stone, Barbachlaw, Armadale. |
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Description
The Boar Stone is a very large, low lying natural boulder
situated in an arable field just off the A89 west of Armadale.
The stone is massive and measures some 5.30m long x 4.00m wide.
As the boulder is partially buried into the crest of the
hillside, the actual depth is unknown although above ground
level the stone reaches about 1.00m high. The stone does not
bear any apparent symbols or inscriptions.
Directions
From Armadale, a few miles west of Bathgate, follow the A89 west.
The stone can be seen in a field to the south about half a mile
after the school.
Parking
Along street in Armadale.
Folklore
Tradition regarding this stone and the origin of the
name "Barbachlaw" states that it is connected with
a wild boar, brought to bay at this stone by a weaver, who
took off his left shoe buckle and fastened it to his hand
for protection, killing the animal with his sword. It is
evident that this is only a story invented to account for
the name, but the stone may no doubt have some connection
with the boar chase of ancient times.
Fieldnotes
While this is surely an impressive stone, the weather on the day
of my visit was dull, cold and grey and did nothing to life my
spirits. This was the same for the other stones I
"bagged" that day. Perhaps another visit, during
better weather might prove more enjoyable.
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