Inchcross, near Bathgate, West Lothian, Scotland, EH48

Inchcross farm was formerly a small village nestled in the heart of West Lothian. Today, it’s Once again a small village on the edge of Bathgate. It boasts a rich and captivating history that dates back centuries. This quaint settlement, with its picturesque landscapes and charming architecture, has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, leaving behind a tapestry of stories waiting to be unravelled.

Inchcross

The Island

In prehistoric times, some 340 Million Years ago, Bathgate sat perched on the side of a huge loch. This loch covered all of the area which is now the new village of Wester Inch. Known to geologists and archaeologists as ‘Lake Cadell’, this was a shallow, like a tropical plain, but fairly expansive. It would have stretched all the way to Dechmont in the East to the Torbane Hill and Boghead on the West side.

The land of Inchcross at this time was actually an Island in the Loch, close to the shore which would have been around about where the Kirkton Churchyard now is and possibly as far up at the Steelyard in Bathgate. Of course, as the time went on, this prehistoric loch gradually drained. By the Medieval period, what had previously been fresh water had now become Marshy bogland. But Inchcross held out as an Island of firm and sturdy land amongst the quagmire. A little reserve of agriculturally beneficial terrain.

The origins of Inchcross can be traced back to the medieval period, when it served as a vital hub for trade and commerce in the region. Its strategic location along key transportation routes made it a bustling centre of activity, attracting merchants, craftsmen, and travellers from far and wide.

An Agrarian Estate

Before all the industrial stuff kicked in, Inchcross was buzzing with farming activity, with vast fields of wheat, barley, and oats. Being right by the River Forth made it super easy for farmers to water their crops, which led to bountiful harvests year after year. Animal farming was a big deal in Inchcross too. Folks raised sheep, cattle, and pigs on the lush pastures, providing the village with meat, milk, and wool. Fun events like sheep shearing and cattle fairs drew everyone in, letting farmers showcase their skills and trade with buyers.

The farming ways in Inchcross were all about tradition, with families passing down their knowledge and expertise from generation to generation. The tight-knit community worked together to take care of the land and animals, keeping their way of life thriving. As the 1800s rolled around and the Industrial Revolution shook things up in Scotland, Inchcross faced some new challenges and opportunities. Yet, the village’s strong ties to its farming roots have continued to shape its identity and community vibe for many years.

The Ranken Family

According to Land registry records from the 18th and 19th century, the Ranken family held the Farm and Land at Inchcross. Thee estate was described as being roughly 100 Acres of land tat Inchcross for many generations. Here , theyd have sewn crops as well as keeping sheep..il at least 1865

John Ranken died January 1819.

Industrial Boom

As the 19th century unfolded, the village witnessed the establishment of coal mines, which provided employment for many local residents. The extraction of this vital resource fuelled the growth of nearby towns and cities, contributing to the rapid urbanization that characterized the era. The mines, with their towering chimneys and bustling workforce, became a defining feature of Inchcross, shaping the village’s economy and social fabric.

Simultaneously, the Industrial Revolution brought the rise of textile manufacturing to the region. Factories sprang up, transforming the landscape and providing new opportunities for employment. The rhythmic clatter of looms and the hum of machinery became the soundtrack of daily life, as villagers adapted to the demands of this new industrialized economy.

Despite the challenges and hardships that accompanied this rapid change, the Industrial Revolution also brought about significant advancements in infrastructure, education, and living standards. Inchcross, once a quiet agricultural community, emerged as a vibrant, industrious village, forever shaped by the forces of industrialization that swept across West Lothian during this transformative period.

Mineral Wealth

Like a lot of the lands neighbouring Inchcross, its infrastructure was very rich in minerals. An 1860 Rout in Edinburgh listed a whole load of Minerals under the Inchcross land. These minerals were;

• Common Coal
• ‘Gas’ or ‘Parrot’ Coal
• Iron
• Fireclay
• Shale
• Limestone

Later, In 1885, there was a public Auction In Edinburgh for the mineral under Inchcross. The starting bid was £1500.

Durhamtoun Chemical works

Coltness Railway

Residential Rebirth

Today, Inchcross stands as a living testament to the rich tapestry of West Lothian’s history, inviting visitors and locals alike to explore its captivating past and immerse themselves in the stories that have shaped this remarkable village.

Inchcross park

In 1991, the construction and development of a housing project at Inchcross named ‘Inchcross Park’ was proposed. However, these plans were shelved until later in 2008 when the proposal was raised again. But, It wasn’t until 2018 that the Go Ahead for Inchcross Park was granted and the luxurious houses there were built.

The planning permission for this development didnt come easy and had its own saga of Trial and Tribulation in getting the Go ahead’ or the houses.

An Investigation of these Three Highlights First had to be carried out;

1. Risk Assessment – to establish whether or not the site is safe to build on given Its coal and Shale mining history.
2. Impact assessment – in consideration to the nearby A89
3. Strict Biodiversity plan – To Ensure the natural habitat and Wildlife is protected and Undisrupted.

A New Era for Inchcross

As the years passed, Inchcross evolved, adapting to the changing needs and aspirations of its inhabitants. The village became a focal point for agricultural endeavours, with fertile lands nurturing bountiful harvests that sustained the local community.

Throughout its history, Inchcross has been shaped by the resilience and ingenuity of its people. From the construction of iconic landmarks to the preservation of cultural traditions, the village has remained a testament to the enduring spirit of its residents.