Mains?

[J11]

On old maps of Morayshire I keep coming across the "name" Mains next to a building - settlement.  At first I thought it was a name but it seems too frequent, so I wondered if it meant "manse" but it doesn't appear next to a church.  Any ideas, anyone?

Jenny

[andycand]

Hi

Mains usually means the main buildings of a farm. The link below has information

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mains_(Scotland)

Andy

[RJ_Paton]

The Scots language dictionary defines "Mains" as That part of an estate which is, or formerly was, farmed by the proprietor himself, as distinguished from the land set to tenants for rent and services; the demesne, the home farm.

[flst]

Well done Falkyrn,
That's a great description!
flst

[J11]

Thank you.  I knew someone would know!

Jenny