| Q: |
Are St Columba's Footprints genuine ? |
| A: |
There are two footprints carved in the rock, one of which was carved in 1856 by a local stonemason; the second is much older and may have been used as part of the inauguration ceremonies for new kings. There is a similar one on Dunadd Hill north of Lochgilphead. |
| Q: |
What is the history of the two large ruined buildings in Southend ? |
| A: |
The older ruin is of Keil School for the 'sons of Argyll' founded by a wealthy business man, Sir William Mackinnon. It was destroyed by fire and the school moved to Dumbarton. The modern concrete ruin was built as a hotel immediately before World War Two. It became a naval hospital during the war and reverted to a hotel thereafter. It subsequently fell on hard times and closed. |
