Kinloch Castle

The Bulloughs were a 19th century successs story. It is said that James Bullough had the ideas, son John made the money and as Kinloch Castle demonstrates grandson George spent it.

Their astronomical wealth came from an industrial powerhouse manufacturing weaving spindles that surpassed the competition. At the height of their power they bought the Island of Rum and constructed Kinloch Castle starting in 1897 using architects more used to factories and churches. It took three years to build employing upwards of 300 craftsmen. including stonemasons, carpenters, woodcarvers, stained glass makers and many other specialist trades. All on an island with a population today of 40.

You are standing in the main entrance, with it's faded Edwardian grandeur, and a bronze Monkey Eagle - complete with monkeys.

In today's money the castle cost over £15M / $23M and came with many "machines" for its time. These included central heading (for house and stables, but not for servants), Air Conditioning for the Billiard / Smoking Room, its own hydro electricity plant (that still powers the island) and a full mechanical orchestra located literally under the stairs(called an Orchestrian - playing in the background).

The Bulloughs faded quicker than the castle and the whole island is now managed by Scottish Natural Heritage and a Community Cooperative.

Europe / UK-Scotland

Lat: 57° 0' 48.96" N
Long: 7° 17' 54.84" W

Elevation: 5m ASL

→ maps.google.com [EXT]

Precision is: High. Pinpoints the exact spot.

Nikon D60. Sigma 10-20mm, Nodal Ninja 3, PTGui, PSP.