- Crann-nan-gad
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The 'Crann-nan-gad' was a kind of plough. It is not used now, but was at one time common enough in the Western Isles. The parish of Barvas in the Isle of Lewis was the only place it was being used in the early 20th century. It was usually drawn by one horse, although two could be used. From its construction it was especially suited to the stony ground of the crofts, and its gradual disappearance is a cause of great regret, as there is no other implement, equally convenient to take its place. It possessed a great advantage over the common iron plough, in that, as the point runs over the ground behind the horse, it serves the two-fold purpose of keeping the plough steady, and when the share comes in contact with a stone, by lifting the handle or làmh-chrann upwards like a lever, the share and sock can be lifted clear of the obstruction. The ploughman uses only one hand, and walks on the left hand side of the implement, instead of behind, as is usual in ploughing.
'This article incorporates text from "Dwelly's [Scottish] Gaelic Dictionary" (1911). (Crann-nan-gad) with minor edits and corrections)
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