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Winter 2009
Number 74
The ARCHAEOLOGIST
This issue:
ARCHAEOLOGY
IN SCOTLAND
Battlefield
archaeology
p10
Scotland’s
rural past
p18
Excavating
prehistoric
rock carvings
on Ben Lawers
p34
Aerial
photography
by kite
p50
C O N T E N T S
1 Contents
2 Editorial
3 From the Finds Tray
4 A strategic statement for heritage in Wales Jenny Hall
5 IfA 2009 AGM and seminar Alex Llewellyn
6 SGIfA recession seminar Kenneth Aitchison
7 Scottish Archaeology Month Mags McCartney
8 The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland Simon Gilmour
10 Battlefield archaeology Iain Banks
page 16
12 Tree-rings and treasure: crannogs in south-west Scotland Anne Crone and Graeme Cavers
14 Fishy tales from a Scottish isle Kevin Colls and John Hunter
16 People past and present: the industries of Prestongrange Melanie Johnson, Mike Cressey and
Bridget Simpson
18 Scotland’s Rural Past Brian Wilkinson
20 Doors Open Days Abigail Daly
21 Logging the sites of Bute George Geddes
page 22
22 Airborne over Orkney – RCAHMS aerial survey in 2009 Dave Cowley
24 Defending the Past at Cape Wrath Laura Gutierrez
25 Discovering roots in Scotland’s forests Sarah Phillips
page 30
26 The Brough of Deerness, Orkney: research in a recession James Gerrard and James Barrett
28 The National Trust for Scotland: access, enjoyment and education Daniel Rhodes
30 Cold War conundrum: the case of St Kilda Robin Turner
32 The Scottish Archaeological Research Framework (ScARF) Jeff Sanders
34 Excavating prehistoric rock carvings on Ben Lawers Richard Bradley and Aaron Watson
36 Involving the public in Glasgow’s Industrial Archaeology: the M74 Dig Diana Morton
38 Amending Scottish heritage legislation Gordon J Barclay
page 34 40 Historic Scotland and archaeological projects: how we work Noel Fojut and Peter Yeoman
42 Glenmorangie and Early Historic Scotland Alice Blackwell and David Clarke
44 Maritime Archaeology in Scotland: a new era? Dan Atkinson
46 Padlocks and pots: a good year for finds at Headland Archaeology Julie Franklin
48 Archaeology on the (Edinburgh tram) line: reflections on a recording methodology Sorina Spanou
50 Aerial photography by kite Rosie Wells and John Wells
52 IfA Area and Special Interest Groups Kathryn Whittington and Geoff Morley
53 Special Interest Groups: The Diggers Forum Jez Taylor
54 Special Interest Groups: Information Managers Martin Newman and Kieron Niven; Proposed SIG for
London Rob Whytehead
55 New members
56 Members news: Ian Ralston, Malcolm Atkin
Winter 2009 Number 74 1
E d i t o r i a l
Archaeology in Scotland
Your editor was overwhelmed this autumn with find that they can learn more from local people than
F R O M T H E F I N D S T R AY
stories of wonderful Scottish discoveries and projects they can ever give back. In fact, archaeology’s move
and so it seemed best to leave archaeology in Wales into spheres of local history, using reminiscence to
to be covered properly in the next issue (TA 75) and inform interpretation on the ground, is itself an
to concentrate this time on archaeology north of the exciting aspect of the growth of our discipline, Archwilio: WATs online
border. Even at first sight the sheer range of proactive ranking alongside the scientific and technological The four Welsh Archaeological Trusts have just developed a joint web-based data management system for their regional Historic
projects was impressive. Many are generated by the advances that we also see featured in the stories of Environment Records (HERs) and are now building public access to this via a website called Archwilio – a verb commonly used in
national organisations, Historic Scotland, National TA 74. Welsh to mean explore. It also means to examine, audit, scrutinise, investigate, check, inspect or search – all activities facilitated by
Museums Scotland, National Trust for Scotland and, the new online record. Users will be able to explore records in each Trust area using a simple Google-style search that selects
above all, the Royal Commission on the Ancient and One reminder – IfA’s Annual Conference will be held records ranked in order of relevance. The underlying data management system uses open source software commissioned by the
Historical Monuments of Scotland (abbreviated to in Southport at the Southport Theatre and Convention Trusts and developed by Steve Smith, an independent IT consultant. This model will allow others to adopt and develop the system
RCAHMS throughout for obvious reasons and which Centre from 14 to 16 April 2010. Details of sessions for their own needs, or to work with the Trusts to develop the existing system.
we are proud to include among our IfA-Registered and how to book are already on the Conference page Emily Bateman
Organisations), but the projects are carried out by of the website, so start making your plans now. Pennaeth Rheolaeth Treftadaeth / Head of Heritage Management
and for local people. This distinctive approach is Gwynedd Archaeological Trust Battlefields protected in Scotland
paying off, especially in remote areas where to have emily@heneb.co.uk A new Inventory to protect Scotland’s historic battlefields
many trained eyes watching out for archaeology is a has been announced by Culture Minister Michael
huge bonus. Alison Taylor Scottish Archaeological Internet Reports
Russell. Compilation by Historic Scotland follows
Alison.taylor@archaeologists.net The newest publications of the Scottish Archaeological Internet
consultation on battlefields policy that generated more
Also impressive are the ways the most serious and Reports (SAIR) series are now out. SAIRs 33 and 35 look at the social
responses than any other issued by the heritage agency.
significant research fieldwork eprojects are so often histories of two different settlement types, and SAIR 34 at prehistoric
Work will now begin to identify eligible sites, based on
undertaken with public involvement in mind, and and medieval cist burials. SAIR is a joint publication venture between
research by the Battlefields Trust as part of the newly-
vice versa – community projects all have valuable the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland and Historic Scotland. More
revised Scottish Historic Environment Policy (p38).
research outcomes. This marriage is not easy to details can be found on the SAIR website, http://www.sair.org.uk/.
arrange, but the stories told here all seem to have
happy endings. This applies as much to commercial
archaeological organisations (Headland, EASE, Construction Code of Practice for the sustainable use of soils on
GUARD, CFA Archaeology, Birmingham Archaeology CANMORE: public input online construction sites
and Pre-construct Archaeology all feature here) as it This RCAHMS online database, with information and This Code, jointly published by Defra, the Department of Business,
does to publicly-funded bodies. Universities too images for more than 280,000 of Scotland’s buildings and Innovation and Skills (BIS) and the Waste Resources Action Plan
prove in the following pages that this dual role is a Ben Lawers: walking up to a Scottish site. built archaeology, became interactive this August. Anyone (WRAP), provides guidance to the construction sector which may be
spur to more exciting work and not a distraction, and © National Trust for Scotland can now add details to places of interest and upload relevant to archaeological projects on construction sites. The aim is to
photographs to share with other users, thanks to Heritage protect soil resources. At pre-construction stage the Code
Lottery funding. By mid-September there were already recommends a soil resource survey, with results incorporated into any
more than 540 images uploaded (by 85 contributors) and waste or material management plans. Different types of soil must be
187 pieces of text. Images range from details of stonework identified and stockpiles clearly marked. The Code can be accessed at
or carved stones to cityscapes, pillboxes, power stations http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/quality/land/soil/built-environ/
Notes to contributors Contributions and letter/emails are always welcome. TA is made EDITED by Alison Taylor, and houses, and include kite aerial shots (p50), and documents/code-of-practice.pdf.
digitally available through our website and if this raises copyright issues IfA, SHES, school and youth projects (Garnethill Synagogue, Elgin
Themes and deadlines with any authors, artists or photographers, please notify the editor. University of Reading, cathedral, Rough Castle). Owners of a cruck-framed
Spring: Archaeology in Wales Accessed digitally, web links are especially useful in articles, so do Whiteknights, PO Box 227 thatched cottage have placed interior and exterior views.
deadline: 10 January 2010 include these where relevant. Short articles (max. 1000 words) are READING RG6 6AB A woman placed pictures of her aunt’s old cottage and
preferred. They should be sent as an email attachment, which must other buildings she remembered but which have fallen
include captions and credits for illustrations. The editor will edit and DESIGNED and TYPESET into disrepair. Other photographs come from Shetland, the
shorten if necessary. Illustrations are very important. These can be by Sue Cawood Western Isles, Islay, Fife, Edinburgh and Glasgow. For
supplied as originals, on CD or as email atttachments, at a minimum images placed so far, see the Flickr host site:
resolution of 500 kb. More detailed Notes for contributors for each issue PRINTED by Duffield http://www.flickr.com/photos/rcahms/. Contributions can
are available from the editor. Opinions expressed in The Archaeologist Printers Ltd (Leeds) be added on http://canmore.rcahms.gov.uk/.
are those of the authors, and are not necessarily those of IfA.
2 The Archaeologist Winter 2009 Number 74 3
A S T R AT E G I C S TAT E M E N T
A Corporate member (Practitioner, Associate,
f o r H E R I TAG E I N WA L E S Jenny Hall IfA 2009 Member) must ensure that
a they carry out a minimum of 50 hours of
On 22 September the Heritage Minister, Alun
Ffred Jones, announced his strategic statement and
drawn up. Priorities in a period of tight funding
include
AGM and Continual Professional Development activity in
any two-year period
action plan for the Historic Environment b satisfactory evidence of such activity (which is
Glandwr Chapel,
Pembrokeshire, a
(www.cadw.wales.gov.uk). Alun Ffred Jones is a
minister in the Labour-Plaid coalition government
• identifying 20th-century assets of historic
importance
seminar expected to be in the form of Personal
Development Plans and CPD logs) is provided to
19th-century established in 2007 whose agreement includes a • consulting on a Battlefields Register the Institute on request and according to such
Methodist chapel commitment to celebrate and conserve Wales’s • developing a modern, clear, accountable system of procedures decided by the Council
with an Early- outstanding heritage and has key pledges on heritage protection and guidance Alex Llewellyn
Medieval inscribed extending free public access to heritage sites. He is • ensuring ongoing dialogue with all sector interests, The meeting voted that the monitoring of compliance
stone, Trehywel also directly responsible for Cadw, which is a including a further Treftadaeth conference in 2010 be run as a pilot scheme, reviewed by Council and
Stone, in its Directorate of the Welsh Assembly Government. His and a Heritage Summit in 2010 to discuss heritage reported to the 2010 AGM with any resolutions
graveyard, two strategic statement outlines specific targets for Cadw interpretation and the links between heritage and IfA’s 2009 AGM took place on 12 October at the required to reform the requirements or process. A
classic Welsh and its partners to achieve over the next two years, the Arts Society of Antiquaries of London. It was preceded by guide to the IfA CPD scheme can be downloaded from
heritage themes before the next Assembly elections. Eighteen • ensuring collaborative action to tackle access a discussion seminar at which Duncan McCallum, www.archaeologists.net/modules/icontent/index.php?
side by side objectives have been identified and action points barriers to heritage, and developing an all-Wales Policy Director, Policy and Communications Group, page=20.
Heritage Interpretation Plan English Heritage updated the room on the latest
• continuing collaboration on sustainable drafting of PPS 15 for England: Planning for the Thanks were given to retiring
regeneration of heritage sites and townscapes Historic Environment and accompanying guidance, Council members Beverley
• promoting the study of Welsh history and welcomed comments from IfA members. Peter Ballin Smith, Mike Bishop, Chris
• working with local communities to run events at Hinton and Tim Howard pressed for increased Clarke and John Sode
Setting standards for the study and
Cadw sites and to encourage local projects which reference to the existing IfA standards and guidance Woodhead. All then enjoyed a care of the historic environment
celebrate the Welsh language, place names, local in the PPS and practice guide, and for greater wine reception courtesy of the
Continuing
heritage and folklore encouragement of LPAs to recommend or require the Society of Antiquaries of
Professional
• discussions with the third sector on opportunities use of recognised professionals and IfA Registered London and Peter Barker
Development
for volunteering and skills development, and Organisations. These points and other issues were (Tiltridge Vineyard and A Guide
supporting creation of a heritage network expanded upon by IfA members present, and were Stratascan).
Picture: © Wessex Archaeology
included in the formal IfA response to the Introduction
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is the process by which
IfA Wales/Cymru has been invited to be a lead consultation draft. Council would like to take this individual archaeologists can develop their skills throughout their working
lives. Most professional institutions operate a CPD scheme. Some are
mandatory requirements of membership, others are issued as guidelines of
partner along with IHBC and ALGAO Cymru in opportunity to encourage good practice. The IfA’s CPD scheme is mandatory and requires members to
undertake at least 50 hours of CPD over a two year period. It is based on a
personal development plan (PDP) and a CPD log and will result in the
developing a strategic continuing professional Andrea Bradley spoke briefly about progress with members to use their vote in development of a portfolio of learning experiences.
Your personal development plan is where you record your aims and
development training programme and in events for drafting IfA’s Strategic Plan for 2011–2020, which future ballots and AGMs. We objectives and the means by which you plan to achieve them. Your CPD log is
used to record the learning activities you undertake and can be used as
evidence of your achievements. You can include any activities on your CPD
conservation professionals and heritage managers. had been posted for consultation on the IfA website. are lucky to have enthusiastic log which help you achieve the learning goals outlined in your plan. Learning
is not just about attending training courses or conferences; you can include Institute for Archaeologists
SHES, University of Reading
the time you spend learning new skills or developing existing ones during the
PO Box 227, Whiteknights
This will be undertaken in conjunction with IfA’s UK The timetable will see the final plan put to Council members who want to give their course of your work, time you spend researching or reading around new
subject areas or learning from colleagues. The key is to try and identify the
most appropriate ways of gaining the skills you need to achieve your goals.
Reading RG6 6AB
Tel: 0118 378 6446
Email: admin@archaeologists.net
officers. for adoption in April 2010. Kate Geary reminded all time to serve on the Council of This guide is designed to help members meet the requirements of the scheme.
The pack includes all you need to get started: guidance notes, pro formas,
information for employers and FAQs.
present about the Qualification in Archaeological the Institute, and as Corporate
IfA Wales/Cymru has also been nominated as the Practice and the need for more experienced (MIfA, AIfA and PIfA) members
lead body for Extending understanding of the Welsh professionals to train as assessors. Anyone interested you are able to elect the
Historic Environment, where the group will ‘Review in this should contact kate.geary@archaeologists.net. individuals you wish to run the Institute on your
and clarify priorities for the archaeological research behalf. This year we only receive 109 ballot papers
framework by the end of 2010’. IfA Wales/Cymru The AGM started with the announcement of eleven (less than 10% of the voting membership) and even
instigated the Research Framework in 2001 and it has newly elected candidates to Council: Dan Atkinson, fewer proxy forms. The changes affect how members
been an on-going commitment since then (for Peter Barker, Paul Belford, Virginia Dellino Musgrave, are expected to practise, for example the introduction
Research Framework see www.archaeoleg.org.uk). David Divers, Mark Newman, Martin Newman, of compulsory CPD (above), the expectation that all
The group is honoured by the recognition this gives Daniel Rhodes, Nick Shepherd, Gerry Wait and members (not just ROs) pay at least the IfA
to IfA Wales/Cymru and are now, along with the Roger White. recommended minima, and the proposed future
Research Framework Steering Group, planning a change to how members deal with the recovery of
national conference to carry this work forward. All five resolutions put forward to the AGM were artefacts for sale (out for consultation on the website).
successfully voted through, with some discussion
Jenny Hall about the annual accounts and CPD. Clause 1.4 of Alex Llewellyn
Chair, IfA Wales/Cymru Group the Code of conduct and the accompanying note Head of Administration, Institute for Archaeologists
jennyhall@lineone.net have now been altered to state alex.llewellyn@archaeologists.net
4 The Archaeologist Winter 2009 Number 74 5
Scottish Group IfA AGM S C OT T I S H ARCHAEOLOGY
and recession seminar Month Mags McCartney
Kenneth Aitchison and Carol Swanson
Scottish Archaeology Month (SAM) is one celebrate SAM. From trying out Iron Age recipes to
The Scottish Group of IfA held its AGM on 23 rejuvenated area, with real potential for of the public’s best loved initiatives. surveying their playground, Archaeology Scotland
October, followed by a seminar on the effects of the archaeologists to be employed in cross-over work to suggested activities that could be carried out with just
Through it we make archaeology
recession on Scottish archaeology. At the AGM John promote professional standards. Ian Ralston reviewed tape measures and squared paper, or a mixing bowl
Sode-Woodhead handed over the position of Chair to the position from the four Universities that deliver
accessible, with a programme of free
and a few ingredients.
Ellen McAdam, and Daniel Rhodes was elected Hon archaeology degrees in Scotland, and considered that events throughout Scotland every
Secretary. the recession has not yet had a full impact on Higher September. The first SAM took place in Every year more people are learning about Scotland’s
Education but austere times are on the horizon. Noel 1998 with just 38 events. The public archaeology through free exhibitions, lectures,
Following Kenneth Aitchison’s presentation, which Fojut’s review from the perspective of Historic response was overwhelming and the excavation open-days, re-enactments and workshops
included the latest figures on job losses, Alan Leslie Scotland recognised that delivery budgets for all in archaeological skills and ancient technologies.
popularity of the event has attracted ever
of GUARD gave an overview from the FAME Government agencies will be constrained for the Even more encouragingly, every year more people,
more event organisers. Now we have
perspective on how commercial archaeology is faring immediate future – which set the meeting up for the whether professional archaeologists or keen amateurs,
– put simply, not well. Unlike the situation in the most significant paper of the day, Carol Swanson’s around 24,000 visitors taking part in over participate by sharing their knowledge and
south, there have been no major infrastructure view from local government (below), with chilling 200 events. This year’s programme enthusiasm with the public.
projects in Scotland since the completion of the M74 reminders of what local government budget cuts are contained events as diverse as a guided
project. Development-led archaeology is in such a likely to mean. tour of Traprain Law by Fraser Hunter and Archaeology Scotland would like to thank all the
difficult position that SUAT, the oldest commercial a CSI-style workshop of hands-on activities event organisers who have contributed to SAM this
firm in Scottish archaeology (founded 1982), has Stephen Carter then led a vigorous debate before year and over the past ten years and looks forward to Hallmuir PoW Chapel,
in which Archaeology Scotland’s Education
ceased trading this year. participants adjourned to a neighbouring hotel for continued collaboration. built by Ukrainian PoWs
appropriate refreshments.
Officer, Meg Faragher, demonstrated the
and still used by their
Phil Richardson’s presentation was the one hopeful skills osteoarchaeologists use to ‘read Mags McCartney families, featured in Scottish
view of the day, talking about Archaeology Scotland’s Kenneth Aitchison bones’. Communications Officer Archaeology Month 2009’s
involvement with community archaeology as a kenneth.aitchison@archaeologists.net Archaeology Scotland Dumfries and Galloway
M.McCartney@archaeologyscotland.org.uk programme. Photograph:
Andrew Nicholson
One unusual event was hosted by Solway Heritage at
Hallmuir PoW Chapel near Lockerbie. This chapel
From a peak early in 2008, the number of planning ‘the size of the challenge could be in excess of 25%
was built by Ukrainian Prisoners of War who, in
applications seen by the West of Scotland … all our analysis suggests a perfect storm is brewing
1947, were sent from Italy to Scotland rather than
Archaeology Service (WoSAS) has been dropping and will hit local government in 2012–13.’
being handed over to the Russians and a potentially
steadily. The estimated numbers of applications that
terrifying future. The basic building is an army hut
WoSAS will scrutinise in October – December 2009 These cuts will happen across the UK regardless of
clad with painted corrugated asbestos cement sheet.
will be about 175, roughly half the number seen in which political parties are in control of the local
The chapel still presents an authentic Ukrainian
the first quarter of 2008. As a consequence, the council, of Holyrood or of Westminster – and the
interior, complete with tinsel chandelier, and is in use
number of archaeological watching briefs, excavation cuts are going to fall hardest on non-statutory
by the Ukrainian community who stayed in Lockerbie
and surveys undertaken in 2009 could be as few as services, such as provision of archaeological advice.
and Lochmaben, found work in the area, married
75, a third of the 2007 figure. This reduction is the If HERs have to cut back, there will be less advice for
locally and brought up their children to respect their
direct consequence of the economic situation on local councils that archaeological work needs to be
traditions.
developers, but the next wave of the crisis is about done, fewer briefs will be issued, and there will be
to hit local government directly. less development-led work for commercial
Scottish Archaeology Month was particularly special
archaeologists.
this year as Archaeology Scotland launched its new
The Local Government Chronicle reported on 17
SAM for Schools programme. In response to feedback
September that most council chief executives are Carol Swanson
from teachers we introduced a new Just for Schools
preparing for funding cuts of up to 20% over the next West of Scotland Archaeology Service
programme, highlighting events specifically targeted
five years, with PriceWaterhouseCoopers believing carol.swanson@wosas.glasgow.gov.uk
at school groups. We also, in partnership with
Learning Teaching Scotland (LTS), provided
suggestions and online resources to help classes
6 The Archaeologist Winter 2009 Number 74 7
THE SOCIETY OF ANTIQUARIES organisers, Archaeology Scotland, alternately take the
event to other areas of Scotland and concentrate on
research more local to the venue. We also host
OF SCOTLAND international conferences based on chronological
themes, two of which have already been published as
Simon Gilmour significant books, one on the Mesolithic and the
other on the Neolithic and Bronze Age. The most
recent conference on the Iron Age is in the process of
The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is publication, and further conferences are planned.
the oldest antiquarian society in Since 1874 lectures have included the prestigious
Scotland and second oldest in the UK, annual Rhind Lectures, six academic lectures by a
single expert over the course of a weekend. Support
founded in 1780 by David Steuart
for research and publication is available through
Erskine, 11th Earl of Buchan. It was grants and prizes, and the Council warmly welcomes
incorporated by Royal Charter in 1783 applications for these (see website for details). The
and its members, known as Fellows, number recent inception of the Scottish Archaeological
3000, spread across the world. Its purpose is set out in the first Research Framework (ScARF) (p32) project
consolidates our involvement in Scottish archaeology.
of its governing Laws: ‘... the study of the antiquities and history
of Scotland, more especially by means of archaeological ADVOCACY
Recent publications by the Society of Antiquaries
research.’ These aims are achieved through high-quality We also have a strong advocacy role, discussing and
of Scotland
publications, excursions, lectures, local, national and promoting relevant issues and responding to
Government and other consultations. We have made
international conferences, workshops and seminars, grants,
our views clear since the18th century when, in the
prizes and other awards. We are based in Edinburgh, with first volume of Transactions in 1792 there is a plea by
offices in the National Museums of Scotland, but also have a Mr John Williams for the creation of a Royal Forest of
thriving Aberdeen and North-East Section based in Aberdeen Oak in Scotland, a plea to which ‘the ferocious
attention of the Society and of the public’ was called
University (where our Edinburgh lectures are repeated).
by the supportive Baronet Sir Alexander Dick of
Prestonfield. The Society continues to direct its
attention to matters of relevance to the historic
David Steuart Erskine, 11th Earl environment of Scotland, although with varying
of Buchan, founder of the Society levels of ferocity.
of Antiquaries of Scotland
SERVICE ONLINE
Our online shop provides a range of high-quality and
well-illustrated books covering aspects of all periods
of Scotland’s history and archaeology. You can also
Seating plan of the original library
find tickets to upcoming Society events and a range
WRITING SCOTLAND’S PAST of Society merchandise on these pages; Fellows
The Society has been active in publication since the receive discounts on many products.
18th century. Our first transactions were published as
Archaeologia Scotica, between 1792 and 1890, and Our website is regularly updated and allows you to
in 1851 we began the Proceedings of the Society of keep in touch with other Fellows around the world
Antiquaries of Scotland, still the primary journal for through our online Forum. There are also News Simon Gilmour
archaeology, architectural history and the study of pages, Society images and further background, a full Director
historical artefacts of Scotland in its wider British and list of our publications, programme of events, Society of Antiquaries of Scotland
European context. In addition to the Proceedings we information on the ScARF project and on becoming a c/o National Museums Scotland
publish a series of peer-reviewed papers, Scottish Fellow. For Fellows there are further secure pages to Chambers Street
Archaeological Internet Reports (SAIR), which are keep up to date with Society news. Edinburgh EH1 1JF
freely available online, as is our Proceedings with a
five-year hiatus, and many of our out-of-print books. If you have an interest in Scotland’s past we would be info@socantscot.org
These can be accessed through our website. happy to welcome your application as a Fellow of www.socantscot.org
the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. Applicants are
RESEARCH AND REPORTING put forward for election at the Anniversary Meeting
Our biennial Archaeological Research in Progress each year on Andrews Day – further details are on Society of Antiquaries of Scotland
conference draws papers from across Scotland. Co- our website.
8 The Archaeologist Winter 2009 Number 74 9
the input of metal detectorists. While there are still Scotland’s Global
many unresolved issues between the two groups, Impact. Culloden:
messages about recording and context are being Tony Pollard leads a
appreciated by some at least within the metal guided tour of the
detector community. Culloden battlefield
as part of the
■ Battlefields at risk Scotland’s Global
Although there are positive aspects to the Impact conference.
archaeology/metal detector relationship as mediated Photograph:
through battlefields, metal detectors pose an Natasha Ferguson
enormous threat to the sites as well. Battlefields
survive largely as the distribution of artefacts in
topsoil and are thus at risk from unstructured, examines the ways in which memories and national
unregulated collecting. When threats from mythologies are constructed and expressed. It looks
development are added to the situation, it is plain at very specific events on the micro-scale of the
that there are major cultural resource management individual within very tightly delimited time frames.
issues to be faced. The response has been to bring
battlefields into the planning process, thus requiring Battlefields represent great opportunities on so many
consideration in determining applications. In levels that it will be a major failure of archaeology
Battlefield Archaeology England, the 1995 Battlefield Register was a response
to development pressure on the sites of historic
battles. Currently, Headland Archaeology are working
not to ensure that our generation’s stewardship will
pass on historic battlefields to the future. There is
plenty more on this topic on our website
Iain Banks on a battlefield register for Ireland, while in Scotland http://www.gla.ac.uk/departments/battlefieldar- The shaft of a First
GUARD’s Centre for Battlefield Archaeology has been chaeology/. World War Vampire
working with Historic Scotland to produce a non- dugout near Ypres in
statutory Battlefield Inventory. While this will not Iain Banks Flanders, excavated
Musket and
Battlefield archaeology has been newsworthy Battlefield Archaeology has been founded, alongside provide legal protection to sites, and it still focuses Director, GUARD by the Centre for
cannon - Cannon of late and has attracted wide media other activities of the Centre. Glasgow was also the on battles considered to be of national importance, Executive Director, Centre for Battlefield Archaeology battlefield
used in ballistic attention. Yet for many archaeologists it is scene of the inaugural Fields of Conflict conference in the inventory will ensure that planning decisions take i.banks@archaeology.arts.gla.ac.uk Archaeology in
experiments by 2000, a biannual event that brings together the work the presence of battlefields into account, requiring 2007. Its ladder is
still the preserve of rather odd individuals Pollard, T 2009 Culloden: The History and
the Centre for of battlefield archaeologists from across the world. protection or mitigation as appropriate. still preserved.
with too great a fondness for the Commando Archaeology of the Last Clan Battle. Pen & Sword
Photograph: Tony
Battlefield Books Ltd
comics they read as boys (the caricature ■ Public Engagement ■ Stewardship and commemoration Pollard
Archaeology to
help with
identifies battlefield archaeologists as One major aspect of battlefield archaeology is the Why bother? If the location is known, what case is
archaeological exclusively male). The truth is very different: way it encourages engagement with the public. there for preservation? There is nothing for people to
interpretation battlefield and conflict archaeology is a lively Battles are dramatic events, encompassing tragedy, see, so how can this possibly be included in an
heroism, loyalty and betrayal, lost causes and other already crowded series of constraints and
and exciting sub-discipline of archaeology,
elements that make a good story, and many will complications faced by developers? One immediate
where the rules are still being written and
already know about the conflict itself, so it is not answer is that this is hallowed ground, where people
the landscape is wide open. difficult to gain the public’s attention. In telling the fought and died, and it requires stewardship and the
stories of battles and meshing traditional histories commemoration of their sacrifices. A more
■ Scottish engagement with the results of archaeological investigation, we economically-driven answer is that battlefields are an
Since the start of this millennium there has been a can address issues of ethnicity, creation of national exploitable resource that relate to the tourism and
great deal of activity relating to battlefield identities and mythologies, of memorialisation and heritage industries, and destroying battlefields is
archaeology in Scotland. A comprehensive study of commemoration and of the relevance of archaeology wasting an important resource. Many of Scotland’s
the archaeology of the Battle of Culloden has resulted to the modern world. We can take the results of visitors come for historically driven reasons.
in an award-winning visitor centre that explicitly fieldwork into schools and give children an early Currently, there is little that does anything to service
promotes the results of the archaeological fieldwork, understanding of the importance of archaeology in their interests. Where are the heritage trails and
a conference on the battle, and a book drawing understanding history and society. information that turn a green field or hill slope into
together its archaeology and history (Pollard 2009). an encounter with the Jacobite or the Covenanter
There have been excavations at Fort William and The process of investigating a battlefield brings past? Visitors will come from all over the world to see
Leith and investigations at Killiecrankie, Inchkeith, another form of public engagement; a mutually the fields where Bruce fought Edward II at
Sherrifmuir, Bothwell Bridge, Pinkie and Prestonpans. beneficial relationship between archaeologists and Bannockburn, but will they bother when those fields
The world’s first centre for the study of the metal detectorists. The most productive battlefield are housing estates? Battlefield archaeology mixes
archaeology of conflict and battles has been projects have been the result of such collaboration: historical analysis with an understanding of
established – the Centre for Battlefield Archaeology at Little Bighorn, Marston Moor, Towton, Culloden, landscape and terrain, knowledge of artefacts with an
the University of Glasgow – and the Journal of Bosworth and Prestonpans have all benefited from understanding of the properties of materials, and it
10 The Archaeologist Winter 2009 Number 74 11
Tree-rings and treasure: evidence impedes closer resolution. Now
dendrochronological analysis of floor timbers has
demonstrated that they were felled sometime
Anne Crone and Graeme Cavers
AOC Archaeology Group
Edgefield Industrial Estate
crannogs in south-west Scotland between 153 and 122 BC. This range gives a more
human perspective to the chronology and
Edgefield Rd
Loanhead, Midlothian EH20 9SY
demonstrates that construction in the 2nd century BC
was quite distinct from deposition of the Roman Anne.Crone@aocarchaeology.com
glass. Thus, vexed issues such as the relationship Graeme.Cavers@aocarchaeology.com
between Roman and native come into clearer focus. www.aocarchaeology.com
Votive ard Henderson, JC, Cavers, MG, & Crone, BA 2006 ‘The south-west crannog
A single dendro-dated site will not transform later survey: recent work on the lake dwellings of Dumfries & Galloway’,
prehistoric settlement studies but a crannog in Cults TDGNHAS 80, 29-51
Loch has also produced large quantities of oak
timbers, so we should soon have two neighbouring Crone, BA & Clarke, C 2005 ‘A programme for wetland archaeology in
Cults Loch, Stranraer, with the crannog in the centre of the loch
dendro-dated crannogs and can then examine Scotland in the twenty-first century’, Proc Soc Antiq Scot 135, 5-17
and the promontory excavation in the foreground
relationships between them. Excavation at Cults Loch
3, which survives as a promontory projecting into the
loch, has shown that the site is entirely artificial and
Anne Crone and Graeme Cavers is encircled by a 4 – 5 m wide swathe of stakes, thus
Structural timbers during excavation at Cults Loch
forming in effect a crannog, albeit very close to the
Research into Scotland’s wetland archaeology is taking a Wetland sites shore. Radiocarbon dates from the stakes indicate
Since 2002 the Scottish Wetland Archaeology that the structure was built between 700 and 400 BC.
major step forward thanks to the first prehistoric Programme (SWAP) has been pursuing a targeted Within the interior are several circular spreads of
programme of survey and excavation in wetland areas sandy gravel, one covered with a square framework
dendrochronological dates in Scotland, those for timber
across the country. The principal aim is to bring of timbers and surrounded by a thick spread of
excavated on crannogs. From these we are already able to Scotland’s wetland sites into the mainstream of compacted and highly laminated plant litter. The
archaeological research, focusing on their role within current interpretation is that the gravel spread and
shed new light on the northern Iron Age. wider physical, social and political landscapes. South- timber framework formed the base for a central
west Scotland is particularly rich in crannogs. After hearth, with an outer floor of plant litter which was
survey and evaluation of candidate sites work has now frequently renewed.
S
concentrated on Cults Loch, Castle Kennedy, near
cotland’s crannogs are a major archaeological Stranraer, where a small loch containing two crannogs The nature of the superstructure is not clear, although
asset, their well-preserved organic remains is surrounded by a landscape rich in cropmark sites. the jumble of timbers across the interior includes
holding promise of fine chronological large collapsed stakes with forked tips, giving some
resolution. Recent excavations at two crannogs in Another candidate site was Dorman’s Island in clues about the upper parts of the building. Lying
south-west Scotland are beginning to make good that Whitefield Loch. Excavation was limited because under the floor was a complete ard-share of oak,
promise, with results which resolve dating issues that water levels were so high that at times the entire around which a few small stakes had been driven
have bedevilled later prehistoric studies in Scotland. surface of the crannog was submerged. Nonetheless, and chopped off at ground level; its position under
deposits and timbers exposed during the excavation the floor, where it had apparently been pinned down,
seem to lie within the interior of a structure and suggests votive deposition and finds resonances on
include a floor of large oak timbers, surfaces of many Iron Age sites. This is the ‘treasure’ of the title;
Dorman’s Island during excavation The ard-share beneath floor layers on Cults Loch crannog
prepared blue-grey clay some 300mm in depth, it is only the second securely-contexted ard-share of
lightweight vertical stakes and a ruinous stone wall. Iron Age date found in Scotland, the other coming
from an identical context, under the floor of Milton
Tighter chronology Loch crannog, also in south-west Scotland.
Prior to dendro-dating of oak timbers dating relied on
eight radiocarbon dates from waterlogged wood, We are confident that dendrochronological analysis of
charcoal and carbonised cereal grain, all of which, the Cults Loch oak timbers (which begins next year)
when calibrated, indicate occupation in the latter half will produce a strong site chronology, and together
of the 1st millennium BC. Fragments of a blue-yellow with the Dorman’s Island data we will have the first
cable glass bracelet broadly datable to the Roman building blocks in the development of a robust tree-
Iron Age and of a Roman vessel glass were found in ring chronology for the Iron Age of Scotland.
the upper, disturbed layers of the crannog, smearing
the possible chronological range into the early For more information about the project, see
centuries AD. Activity on the crannog is thus likely to http://www.aocarchaeology.com/discoveries/news/
be multi-period but the broad range of the dating cults_loch_continues.htm
12 The Archaeologist Winter 2009 Number 74 13
Fishy tales from a Scottish isle
Fire-branding and evil spirits
Interviews with retired fishermen produced a wealth
of information on the practicalities of fishing. This
Kevin Colls and John Hunter was seasonal and dovetailed with other crofting
activities such as crop planting, harvesting, peat
cutting, tweed weaving etc. The boats used were
An opportunity to run a multi-disciplinary, community-led project of the soil’, Scalpay was settled in the 1840s after folk developed over the centuries according to the fishing
to record evidence for post-medieval fishing on the Isle of Harris in were cleared from Pabbay, Uist and Harris by the methods employed. Men were usually away all week,
the Western Isles was irresistible. It allowed us to draw together landowner. The 1841 census shows a mere 31 so food was cooked on board, Bible readings took
archaeological field survey, place-name research, local fishing history, inhabitants; by 1881 the number had reached 540. place and when vessels were anchored the combined
archives and reminiscences to provide a record of fishing activities in The only resource was the sea, and a Scalpay man crews would climb aboard one boat in order to read
the recent past and its impact upon the present landscape. Our novel began curing herring in 1856. By 1900 the Scalpachs together. Superstitions included fire-branding
project team included islanders, fisherman and maritime specialists were adept fishermen and the island had nine curing (carrying a fire-flame around the boat to drive out
alongside archaeologists from Birmingham and place-name stations and plentiful employment opportunities. evil spirits) and avoidance by the crew on their way
specialists from Edinburgh University. The initial work was completed to the boat of certain ‘marked’ elderly ladies who The lighthouse at
on the island of Scalpay (connected to Harris by bridge). The value of Coastline survey were deemed to have second sight and to bring bad and coastal locations (Rubha (na) Trilleachan – Oyster- Eilean Glas is in the
an interdisciplinary approach for this particular fishy tale can be seen During our coastline survey over 150 maritime or luck. Green was an unlucky colour, even green catcher headland), hazards (Sgeir Ghobhainn – Rock care of Historic
from the results. fishing-related sites were identified on Scalpay alone. socks, or anything coloured by the natural crotal dye, of the Blacksmith) and navigational markers. Scotland and
Some of these were obvious, notably at the eastern as were certain animals such as deer and rabbits. represents a
tip of the island where the lighthouse at Eilean Glas Swans were so unlucky there are tales of crewmen We can already see the potentials for many new monumental
The last three centuries have witnessed represents a monumental complex of construction throwing overboard a box of Swan Vesta matches for avenues of research investigating recent histories and complex of
unprecedented changes in exploitation of marine and engineering, or the abandoned collier Cretetree. that very reason. Packs of cards often received similar oral traditions in conjunction with archaeological construction and
resources on Harris. Social development, fishing Most sites are less obtrusive, often only identifiable at treatment, as works of the devil. fieldwork and characterisation of historic landscapes. Of engineering
technology and economic forces have all progressed low tide, such as jetties, slipways, quays and nausts primary importance has been the role of the local
significantly and have left behind local traditions of (safe havens). Others have been revamped or rebuilt Fishy names community – not only helping carry out the project, but
which there is currently little record. Many of the and maintained, with several phases of change. It became quickly apparent that many Gaelic place also reminiscing about life experiences of a bygone way
physical remains are now vulnerable to coastal Elsewhere there are traps for fish, usually built with names associated with fishing existed in oral tradition of life on a small island off the west coast of Scotland.
The Cretetree, a erosion or development, and other parts of this low walls at the end of inlets or deliberately- only. Other names on the 1857 Admiralty chart no
collier built of resource survive only in human memory. deepened small bays, where fish became trapped and longer appear on modern examples. Reminiscence Special thanks go to the Carol Knott and the Harris
concrete, registered easily picked out by hand as the tide ebbed. Lobster and fishing history studies identified around 150 such Archaeology Group, Harris Development Limited, and
shortly after the First Scalpay ponds were constructed using stone walls, an early ‘lost’ names. These included inland lochs, headlands, the local maritime and linguistic specialists. For further
World War and now Described by one modern author as ‘an inhospitable form of fish farming, where lobsters caught in creels cliffs, bays and natural harbours; places where boats details visit http://fishingheritage.info/.
abandoned lump’ where ‘the Ice Ages [had] scraped away most could be released into an area of defined captivity. could be moored, catches landed or nets mended, and
rocks, reefs and channels. Some names were only used Kevin Colls and John Hunter
whilst at sea, and to use them from the shore was Birmingham Archaeology
sometimes considered bad luck. Many will pass from Institute of Archaeology and Antiquity
recollection in the next decade. Some are personal, University of Birmingham
referring to people long since gone (eg Croit Eachain Edgbaston
Hiorteach - Hector from St Kilda’s croft). Purely Birmingham B15 2TT
topographical names predominate and identify inland k.s.colls@bham.ac.uk
Scalpay illustrating key sites and ‘lost’ place names
Fishermen
working on
the nets
14 The Archaeologist Winter 2009 Number 74 15
People past Melanie Johnson, Mike Cressey
and Bridget Simpson
and present:
the industries of The site of Prestongrange Museum, on the coast and early 19th centuries this Haven made a
substantial contribution to industrial development in
between Musselburgh and Prestonpans, has
Prestongrange major importance in the story of Scotland’s
the area and was from the outset intended to be a
significant commercial venture that could challenge
Industrial Revolution. It was the location of a the local dominance of Leith. The harbour master
here recorded great quantities of pottery, salt, flint,
13th-century monastic grange, used for coal coal, wood for pit props and clay coming into and
exploitation and salt panning, a 16th-century leaving the harbour. The national significance of
Morrison’s Haven had never been truly realised nor
harbour at Morrison’s Haven, a 17th- and 18th-
appreciated until this project. Sadly it was the
century glassworks, 18th- and 19th-century development of the Prestongrange Colliery railway
potteries producing wares that were exported that saw the abandonment and eventual demise of
the harbour. Recording the standing remains of glassworks at Prestongrange. © Chiaroscuro Productions
across Europe, and a colliery and brick works
of the 19th and 20th century. Remnants of these • Community project
Work on this site has been undertaken by the
industries can still be seen, and intact structures
Prestongrange Community Archaeology Project with More information about the project can be found
include the rare Hoffman Kiln (built 1937) and professional support by CFA Archaeology Ltd (CFA). at www.prestongrange.org/pcap.
the Cornish Beam Engine. The Project has been studying the archaeology,
history and people of Prestongrange since 2004, and Melanie Johnson
was developed by the East Lothian Council Mike Cressey
Archaeological Service and Museums Service, grant CFA Archaeology Ltd
• Glassworks and pottery kilns
aided by the Heritage Lottery Fund. CFA was
Excavations at the site of the former glassworks and
commissioned to manage the fieldwork and to Bridget Simpson
pottery identified upstanding remains of an
provide professional support to the volunteers. The East Lothian Council Heritage Officer
underground vaulted structure, an air flue for the
main aims were to explore and investigate the pre-
glassworks. The kiln itself has not been discovered.
19th-century industries at the site through fieldwork,
The flue consisted of a narrow stone-built passage
survey and historical research, and to document local
with a vaulted roof still surviving over half its length
people’s stories and associations with the site through
(partly converted into a Second World War air raid
oral reminiscence work.
shelter). Buildings identified close to the flue, some Volunteers excavating the glassworks at Prestongrange. © Chiaroscuro Productions
contemporary and some later, may represent
A central aim of the project was to involve local
workshops or stores. Although no trace of the pottery
members of the community who have a keen interest
was found, dumps of material within the flue
in archaeology. Training in all aspects of
contained two assemblages of late 18th-century
archaeological excavation and recording, standing
locally-made pottery, as yet unparalleled in Scotland.
building survey, topographic survey, finds processing,
Both the flue and the pottery assemblages are
palaeography and oral reminiscence interviewing
considered to be of national importance and
(with thanks to colleagues at University of Stirling)
demonstrate that the Prestongrange site was a well-
and more was provided. The fieldwork is now over
established and significant industrial centre.
and the team is currently working on different ways
of presenting the results to the public, including
• Busy port
films, website material, popular and academic
We also worked at Morrison’s Haven, an infilled
articles and a project booklet. Opening of the new
harbour which was a busy port until the 1930s.
interpretation facilities is planned for spring 2010.
Historical research showed that during the late 18th
Already East Lothian Council and Archaeology
Scotland have co-ordinated the first community
archaeology conference in Scotland, in May 2009 at
Musselburgh, which showcased the many and varied
The interior of a glass flue converted into an air raid shelter. types of community archaeology projects happening
© CFA Archaeology Ltd across Scotland.
16 The Archaeologist Winter 2009 Number 74 17Sponsors
S c o t l a n d ’s
the SRP team enables local groups to focus on Training is available to everyone, regardless of their SRP has initiated many partnerships
recording sites of interest to them, researching the age, existing skills or experience. It overcomes within communities; including Heritage Lottery Fund
history of their areas and the lives of past rural barriers people may have about their own capabilities participation of local museums and National Trust for Scotland
communities. or about the complexity of techniques, and ensures landowners. A partnership between a Historic Scotland
R u ra l Pa s t
people appreciate that their work makes a valuable group of artists with learning Highlands and Islands Enterprise
Simple sur vey contribution to our understanding of the rural difficulties and an established group
Field survey training provides SRP volunteers with a heritage. SRP also provides support and extended the reach of SRP project Host organisation
range of techniques, from drawing a basic sketch encouragement. The website, annual conference and beyond the usual expectations of field Royal Commission on the
Brian Wilkinson plan and plotting a grid reference with handheld GPS other activities provide opportunities for sharing recording, leading to an exhibition of Ancient and Historical Monuments
to measured survey with plane table and alidade, results and ideas. A new online recording form makes art at the Project Ability gallery in of Scotland
creating detailed written site descriptions and site results readily available and can be used for submitting Glasgow as well as more intangible
Scotland’s Rural Past (SRP) is a five-year, nationwide project photography. These methods are simple to understand records to RCAHMS. Data are validated by the SRP benefits.
hosted by RCAHMS. The SRP team works with local and volunteers learn them over a two-day course at team, submitted to the national database and made
communities, schools and organisations across Scotland to an abandoned rural settlement. A comprehensive accessible to all via Canmore, RCAHMS’ online Communities have come together for a common
research, record and raise awareness of the rural heritage. field survey manual helps volunteers master the archive (http://www.rcahms.gov.uk/canmore.html). cause, and those in isolated areas have found their
techniques while working on their own projects. projects are of much wider interest. A good example
Deserted rural settlements and field systems are still a
Thirty survey training courses have so far been Creative results of such new-found value is the High Morlaggan
significant feature of the Scottish landscape, most typically
completed in different parts of Scotland for over 600 SRP also works with schools and young people to project at Arrochar in Argyll, where volunteers have
represented by sites abandoned or cleared in the wake of volunteers. These participants are now cascading the foster awareness of the rural heritage, wherever researched and recorded an abandoned farmstead,
the wide-ranging and dramatic changes in land training down within their own communities. possible linking them with local projects. Fourteen worked with the local school, and created a trail and
management and farming from the mid-18th until the late schools are now involved, their creative results interpretive leaflet to explain the site to visitors. With
19th century, during the Agricultural Improvements. Historical documents ranging from poems and prose in English and Gaelic funding from the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs
Six historical document training courses have also to scale models of byre dwellings and a play National Park Authority they have excavated parts of
been completed, with around a hundred participants. performed at the township of Auchindrain, which is the site in partnership with Kilmartin House Museum.
Volunteers learn how to research the wider landscape now managed as a folk museum. Teachers’ resources
Abandoned settlements and historical contexts within which their sites are have been created to develop archaeological skills in SRP participants across Scotland share overwhelming
Thousands of these derelict settlements are to be situated and are introduced to historic maps, vertical interpretation, linked to the latest developments in enthusiasm and capability. SRP has provided them
seen across rural Scotland, yet few have been and oblique aerial photography, census reports, the Scottish school curriculum, ‘A Curriculum for with the skills and means to turn these into research
comprehensively recorded or researched. These rentals, valuations and taxation records, and how to Excellence’ and encouraging ongoing participation. for wider public benefit.
remains represent an invaluable record of Scottish access these resources locally, nationally and online. Other forms of learning include online videos
rural life at a time of significant social change, a Such training enables our volunteers to complement investigating and reconstructing life in a township, For more information, please see
valuable asset and a tangible link to our own recent their fieldwork with historical understanding of and interactive teaching through the GLOW network www.scotlandsruralpast.org.uk.
past and way of life. Through programmes of changing land use and agricultural improvement, and (the Scottish Executive’s school intranet) linking
archaeological field survey and historical document to comprehend the factors which influenced remote schools to presentations and live tours of rural Brian Wilkinson
training, and continuing professional support, development, phasing and abandonment of their site. sites via a webcam. Brian.Wilkinson@rcahms.gov.uk
Recording township remains at Baliscate, Tobermory, Isle of Mull. © RCAHMS Making a simple sketch plan of township remains. © RCAHMS SRP volunteers undertake field survey training at Aintuim, Isle of Mull. © RCAHMS
18 The Archaeologist Winter 2009 Number 74 19You can also read
