Scachláin

Scachláin is a term used in Irish to describe temporary shelters or lean-tos. Historically, these structures were often constructed from readily available materials such as branches, sod, and thatch. They served various purposes, including providing temporary accommodation for travelers, farmers during fieldwork, or as rudimentary shelters for livestock. The design and construction of scachláin could vary greatly depending on the region, the available resources, and the specific needs of the user.

In some rural areas, scachláin might have been built as a simple windbreak or a sunshade. In others, they could be more substantial, offering protection from rain and cold for short periods. The term itself is derived from the Irish word "scáth," meaning shadow or shelter. While the prevalence of scachláin has diminished with the advent of more permanent housing and modern agricultural practices, the concept of simple, temporary shelters persists in various forms. The term is occasionally used metaphorically to describe any makeshift or insubstantial dwelling. The construction of a scachlán typically involved leaning branches against a bank or a larger structure, then covering them with smaller branches, leaves, or turf to create a roof and walls.