UNUSUAL HOUSE MARKINGS

A few years ago I visited one of my ancestral homes. It is known as "Rock Cottage" and it is in the Townland of Clare, Parish Kildress, in County Tyrone, near a feature known locally as "Clare Rock",

The house has been there since the early 1800's - or before.

High up on the front wall, just under the eaves, is a small sign with the characters "HFM" and figures which look like 1729.

I append some photos of the sign, and the house showing where the sign is (under the red dots I have added). Family records say that the house roof was once thatched.

Does anyone have any idea of what this sign means? Is it a custom to have such signs? 

I'm curious for answers!