Before Ruthven Barracks was built (the barracks were constructed after 1715 on the site of an older castle), the Ruthven area in Badenoch was a contested strategic point in 1690. Government forces attempting to establish control of Badenoch after Cromdale used the high ground near the old Ruthven Castle site as an observation and patrol base. MacPherson and MacDonald clansmen remaining in arms after Cromdale attacked government detachments at this position. The area's importance — commanding the Spey valley and the routes into the central Highlands — was recognised by both sides. The later construction of Ruthven Barracks on this exact site confirmed its strategic value.
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