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Charles
Inglis Clark Memorial Hut (CIC), Ben Nevis
This
hut was erected by Dr and Mrs Inglis Clark in memory of their
son Charles Inglis Clark who was killed in action in the 1914-1918
War. It is situated on the north side of Ben Nevis by the
Allt a'Mhuilinn at G.R. NN 167 722. Access to the hut by
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the Allt a'Mhuilinn is permitted by Alcan Smelting & Power
UK.
It is probably uniquely the only genuine alpine hut in the
country, as opposed to being a short stroll from road access.
The illustration opposite is taken from an SMC Dinner Menu.
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The
three gentlemen opposite represent over 30 years of custodianship
at the CIC Hut; from right to left we have:
Gerry
Peet (1967-80)
Bob
Richardson (1980-95)
Robin
Clothier (1995 to date)
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The Clark
family, of Edinburgh, are worth a book to themselves; all of them
were very competent mountaineers. The hut was built as a wooden internal
construction with a stone outer shell, there being an air space between
the two. At night the mice use this space for nocturnal foraging,
so keep your food in the baskets provided on shelves.
Originally
a coal stove was used, fuel being taken up by pony. Now propane
gas cylinders are helicoptered in every two years. Recently, new
technology has allowed several low-voltage electric lights to be
installed, using a battery charged by both wind power and a solar
panel. Completed in 1929, the CIC hut is very popular throughout
the winter season. For a fuller story, see Chapter Five in 'Ben
Nevis.'
There
is accommodation in the CIC Hut for 18 persons. Six places are reserved
each weekend for Members and their guests. Cooking, heating and
main lighting are by propane gas. There is a very efficient drying
room. The outside chemical toilet blew away in a January gale and
has not been replaced. The Club has done much research into the
appropriate technology for the difficult conditions which exist,
viz., thin, stony ground, long winter season, low average temperatures,
and has just about finalised plans for a new and appropriately eco-friendly
disposal system.
However,
the SMC would like to hear the views of all mountaineers regarding
the immediate environment of the CIC Hut; there is a special page on this site which presents
the problem, and some solutions. Please take some time to read it
and if you have an opinion, let us know!
Applications
to stay at the hut should be addressed to the Honorary Custodian:
Mr R. Clothier
35 Broompark Drive
Newton Mearns
Glasgow
G77 5DZ
Bookings
from other clubs will only be considered for parties of more than
two but less than nine persons.
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