Highland Garrisons 1717–23: Bernera Barracks

Why did the Romans fail to conquer Scotland?

“…The size of the force based at each of these three forts was rather larger than that at a normal Roman auxiliary fort, but nevertheless is comparable to the size of establishments at larger forts such as Newstead. The garrison of one of the smaller posts, Ruthven Barracks, 120 men (Stell 1983), was similar to that of a Roman fortlet, while that of another, Corgarff Castle, was 45 (Maclvor 1986), perhaps the garrison of a smaller fortlet. Furthermore, it may be considered that there is some similarity between the relative nature of the forces on the two occasions, a better trained and disciplined standing army facing native tribes or clans.…”

Roads and bridges in the Scottish Highlands: the route between Dunkeld and Inverness 1725-1925

“…The first group which will be considered is the Military system of engineered roads, sometimes called 'built roads'. They were initially conceived for the overall strategic purpose of communication between the castles and barracks already in existence such as Ruthven (Stell 1973); they were designed for the practical function of moving troops and supply waggons; and were constructed with Government money and largely by military labour. It is necessary to divide them into two successive periods of building in the 18th century: those which were the responsibility of General George Wade and those of Major William Caulfeild.…”