Scottish Highlands Towns and Villages

Strontian, This Highland village on the A861 at the head of Loch Sunart has given its name to the element strontium.

In 1787 this was discovered in the local lead mines and it was isolated by Humphrey Davy in 1808. It is hard, yet ductile and is used in the manufacture of fireworks, since it burns with a brilliant crimson flame.

Lead was mined here from the 17th century until about 1904. The old workings are still to be seen and are a memorial to an industrial aspect not often associated with the Highlands.