Blair Collection > Place names in Strathbogie, with notes historical, antiquarian and descriptive

72 Place Names in Strathbogie.
years ago it was much more complete than it is
now ; but the farmer who then became tenant
carried away several of the erect stones for build-
ing purposes, and others which had fallen over
were removed to allow of the cultivation of the
ground. This information I have from a resident
in the parish, who had it from the farmer himself.
The stones are ten in number, very unshapely,
and evidently in the natural state in which they
were found. Only four of them are standing ;
four have evidently been moved to clear the
ground, and now lie beside the stones still erect.
Other two lie where they have fallen. The circle
being thus broken, it appears at first sight
doubtful if these stones were brought there
by human hands, but considering the site, the
nature of the stones, and the general appearance
of the ground, I think there can be no question
about the matter. The circumference of the
circle may have been about 55 yards.
On this farm is a knoll called Thunderknowe,
because about 40 years ago, during a storm, a
man ploughing in the field was killed by light-
ning. This story, which I believe is true, may
suggest an explanation of such names as Thunder
Craigs, Thunderslap, Thunderton, and not a few
suchlike.
Near to Stoneyfield is the Forle Den (Sc.
foj-le or tvJiorle, a ' wheel or circle '), the name
being probably suggested by the bulges or bellies