applecross broch community archaeology project · plate 1 sf236: antler comb end plate fragment 13...

Applecross Broch

Community

Archaeology Project

Applecross Broch

Community

Archaeology Project

Applecross Broch

Archaeology Project

APL09 Data Structure Report May 2010

1

Applecross Broch

Community Archaeology Project

Data Structure Report

Excavation Summary and Preliminary Finds Discussion

May 2010

Mary Peteranna

Cait McCullagh

With contributions from Cathy Dagg

The Applecross Broch Community Archaeology Project has been funded by:

Applecross Campsite

Applecross Historical Foundation

Aurelias Charitable Trust

Awards for All

The Highland Enterprise

Hugh Fraser Foundation

LEADER European Development Programme

North of Scotland Archaeology Society (NOSAS)

Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh Ward Forum


2

Table of Contents

Summary 5

Acknowledgements 5

Volunteers during the 2009 Season 6

1 Introduction

1.1 Background 7-9

1.1.1 Site location and geology

1.1.2 Archaeological and historical background

1.1.3 Time Team

1.1.4 Applecross Archaeology Society

1.2 Applecross Broch Community Archaeology Project 9

1.2.1 2006 Season

1.2.2 2007 Season

1.2.3 2008 Season

1.2.4 2009 Season

2 Objectives 10

2.1 Overall aims

2.2 Specific objectives

3 Methodology 11

3.1 Desk-based assessment

3.2 Excavation and recording

3.3 Sampling and finds processing

4 2009 fieldwork results 11

4.2 Trench 8 12

4.2.2 Courtyard 12

4.2.3 Intramural passage and staircase gallery 13

4.2.4 Intramural staircase 16

4.2.5 Intramural gallery (#3) 16

4.2.6 Inner broch wall 17

4.2.7 Outer broch wall 19

4.2.8 Possible pre-broch structures 21

4.2.9 External deposits 23

4.2.10 Sub-broch passage 23

4.3 Trench 9 25


3

4.4 Discussion

4.4.1 Pre-broch external structures 28

4.4.2 Main broch structures 29

4.4.3 Post-broch internal changes 29

4.4.4 Trench 9 30

5 Radiocarbon dating results 31

5.1 SUERC 26924

5.2 SUERC 26925

5.3 SUERC 26926

6 Summary of finds from the 2009 season

6.1 Introduction 32

6.2 Worked and utilised stone 32

6.2.1 Lithics

6.2.2 Pumice

6.2.3 Quartz

6.2.4 Other worked and utilised stone

6.3 Worked Antler 34

6.4 Worked and possibly worked oil shale 35

6.5 Pottery 36

6.6 Fired clay 37

6.7 Slag 38

6.8 Metalwork: Cu alloy 38

6.9 Modified bone 39

6.10 Conclusions 39

7 Recommendations for 2010 Season 40

8 Post-excavation analysis 40

9 Further work and reporting 41

10 Publication and presentation 41

11 Archiving and finds disposal 41

References 42


4

Appendices

Appendix 1 Index of Contexts 45

Appendix 2 Index of Features 55

Appendix 3 Index of Finds 56

Appendix 4 Index of Samples 63

Appendix 5 Index of Site Plans 66

Appendix 6 Index of Site Photographs 68

List of Figures

Figure 1 Map of the <orthwest Highlands 7

Figure 2 Applecross broch site location 8

Figure 3 C.0809 Intramural stairs and gallery, C.0803

Intramural passage (APL09 Plan 14) 15

Figure 4 Outer broch wall C.0837 in Trench 8 (Plan 10) 20

Figure 5 C.0851 wall face in sub-broch passage

(APL09 Section plan 3) 24

Figure 6 Recumbent slabs from Trench 9 (Plan 4) 25

Figure 7 Site plan, showing outline of site structures and

four outlying trenches 27

Figure 8 Radiocarbon plots for Samples 108, 118 and 138

from Applecross Broch 2009 31

List of Plates

Plate 1 SF236: Antler comb end plate fragment 13

Plate 2 Stair gallery, jaw bones and vertebrae from C.0844

and paved surface C.0845 15

Plate 3 Third intramural gallery 17

Plate 4 Inner broch wall face and stone setting 18

Plate 5 Outer broch wall ‘improvement’ C.0837 18

Plate 6 Trench 8 at the end of the 2009 season facing E-SE 22

Plate 7 South face of sub-broch passage 23

Plate 8 Trench 9 structure 26


5

Summary

This report presents a summary of the results of the excavation and preliminary analysis of finds

from the 2009 field season of Applecross Broch, Wester Ross, Highlands (National Grid Reference

NG 71183 44331), carried out during September 2009. Copyright of this report is held jointly by

Applecross Archaeology Society and the authors.

The Applecross broch site was first investigated in 2005 by Wessex Archaeology for presentation on

the television programme Time Team. This resulted in the formation of Applecross Archaeology

Society, who initiated the Applecross Broch Community Archaeology Project with local professional

archaeologists.

Previous seasons of fieldwork for the project took place in October 2006, April 2007, September

2007 and July 2008. The 2009 season was directed by Cathy Dagg, who was assisted by Cait

McCullagh and Mary Peteranna. A final season is scheduled in June 2010.

Acknowledgements

The volunteer excavators have been a vital part of the success and enthusiasm of the Applecross

Broch Community Archaeology Project. At the heart of the project are the community and the

educational and heritage value that the excavations represent to them.

The experience and commitment of members of �orth of Scotland Archaeological Society (�OSAS)

has been invaluable.

The directors of the project would like to thank the following people and organisations for their

assistance during 2009: Martin Wildgoose, Dr. Fraser Hunter of National Museums Scotland,

Historic Scotland, Dr. Jennifer Miller of Glasgow University Archaeological Research Division,

Owen Kilbride, Nick Goldthorpe, John and Trina Wombell, Kirsty Cameron of the Highland

Council Archaeology Unit and the Applecross Campsite.

Special thanks to Beverly Ballin-Smith for visiting the site on September 6, 2009 and for her helpful

review of the overall assemblage of ceramics.

Special thanks to Fraser Hunter and Tanya Romanciewicz for visiting the site on July 17, 2009.

APL09 Data Structure Report

Volunteers during the 2009 Season

Steven Birch

Liz Curtis

Brian Duff

Paul Dungey

Joyce Durham

Freida Dyson

Sam Easson

Marleen Forsyth

Allan Gilles

Jim Glazzard

Stephanie Glover

James Goldthorpe

Nick Goldthorpe

Jonie Guest

Richard Guest

Susanne Inman

Alistair Jupp

George Kozikowski

Allan MacKenzie

Meryl Marshall

Ella McDonagh

Gordon Sleight

Ann Wakeling

Heather Walker

Sue Walker

Anna Welti

Martin Wildgoose

Graham Wilson

John Wombell

Trina Wombell

6

eason

Cathy and volunteers digging in Trench 8, September 2009

Project team and volunteers at the end of the 2009 Season

May 2010

Cathy and volunteers digging in Trench 8, September 2009

Project team and volunteers at the end of the 2009 Season


7

1 Introduction

1.1 Background

1.1.1 Site location and geology

The village of Applecross is situated on the western coast of the Applecross Peninsula in the

northwest Highlands of Scotland. The small residential community is situated along a

natural harbour that opens into the Inner Sound of Skye and faces the Isle of Raasay and Isle

of Skye to the west. The Sound of Skye borders Applecross to the north and west, and

although Applecross is isolated from the adjoining mainland by mountainous terrain to east

and southeast, the situation of the site is an ideal location along prehistoric sea routes of

communication and transportation.

The broch site is centred at Ordnance Survey NGR NG 71183 44331 on the raised beach site

where Applecross Campsite is located. It was constructed on the southeastern end of a low

ridge of glacially-formed material, sitting at about 40m OD and 200 metres from the present

coastline. Its location gives it on an outstanding vantage point with a viewshed arcing from

southwest to northeast1.

Figure 1 Map of the <orthwest Highlands (red arrow points to Applecross)

2

1 Peteranna and McCullagh, 2008.

2 Mapping reproduced courtesy of Landmark Information Group, RoCAS license #LIG1044.


8

Figure 2 Applecross broch site location

3

1.1.2 Archaeological and historical background

Applecross or Abercrossan, meaning mouth of River Crossan, has another ancient name,

Comrich or Comaraich—a Gaelic derivation meaning protection, implying that this was a

land on which one could seek immunity4. Applecross is well-known as being the centre for

the foundation of an early Christian Community in the early Medieval Period. In 673 AD,

St. Maelrubha is believed to have founded a monastery (NMRS #NG74NW1) at the eastern

end of Applecross Bay. It was later reported to have been raided by Vikings.

In the Old Statistical Account of 1792 (Vol. 3, 378-9), the site is referred to as a ‘dun’ by

Rev. J. MacQueen. The site location was at that time known as ‘Borrodale’, a Norse

derivation for ‘stronghold valley5.’ More recently, the site was recorded by the Ordnance

Survey and the Highland Council Archaeology Unit (NMRS #NG74SW 2, Highland HER#

MHG7680) and in 2005 it was proven to be a broch by Time Team archaeologists.

3 Mapping reproduced courtesy of Landmark Information Group, RoCAS license #LIG1044.

4 McQueen, J. Pp. 378.

5 Watson, W.J., 1904.


9

1.1.3 Time Team

The Applecross campsite manager, Nick Goldthorpe, first brought the site to the attention of

Time Team, who commissioned Wessex Archaeology to conduct excavations in 2005. The

aim of the 2005 Time Team excavation was to determine whether or not the rubble-covered

structure was an Iron Age broch, to establish the extent of the remains and to investigate

areas outside of the broch for other structures6.

Eight trenches were excavated by hand, three of which (Trench 1, Trench 3 and Trench 8)

located broch walling and features (including an intramural wall passage). Five trenches

were focused on outlying areas around the site, targeted mostly by using geophysical survey,

which suggested the outline of the broch structure and revealed a possible second stone

structure on the glacial ridge to the northwest of the site. One trench (Trench 2) revealed an

outer kerb interpreted as a causeway. Another trench 10m northeast (Trench 4) of the broch

revealed eroded midden material and another trench (Trench 7) showed structural rubble of a

possible separate structure. Two further trenches, Trench 5 and Trench 6, revealed no

archaeological deposits, features or finds7.

1.1.4 Applecross Archaeology Society

Subsequent to the Time Team excavation, Applecross Archaeology Society commissioned

professional archaeologists in October 2006 to lead a project with the aim of excavating the

site to reveal the final phase of occupation of Applecross Broch. Fundamental to this was

the local community’s full involvement, assisted by the archaeologists. The project was

designed to enable the widest possible inclusion of local people and to develop practical,

research, educational, social and economic benefits8. Upon completion, the intention of

Applecross Archaeology Society was to consolidate, interpret and present the site for the

community and visitors.

1.2 Applecross Broch Community Archaeology Project

1.2.1 2006 Season

The first season of excavations of the Applecross Broch Community Archaeology Project

took place over eight days in October 2006. Two opposing quadrants (Trench 1 to the south

and Trench 2 to the north) were uncovered, exposing significant portions of both inner and

outer walls and several redeposited contexts of interest that yielded prehistoric pottery sherds

and stone tools. At the end of the season there were clear indications that structural remains

extended deeper than previously thought and that there were post-broch structural changes9.

6 Wessex Archaeology. May 2006.

7 Wessex Archaeology, May 2006.

8 Wood, J. March 2008.



10

1.2.2 2007 Seasons

The second phase of excavations took place during one week in April 2007, with follow-up

work taking place during a further week in September 2007, with a focus on clearly defining

the broch structure and excavating the courtyard in Trench 1 and Trench 2.

Three slabbed features interpreted as purpose-built work spaces used during the post-broch

occupation were uncovered in the courtyard space of both trenches. In Trench 2, below the

outer broch wall to the north-northwest, three large slabs covered a possible souterrain

entrance and an extension of Trench 2 in September revealed the broch entrance. Two large

sandstone slab fragments with enigmatic incised markings were recovered while excavating

here. Initial analysis suggests that the incisions were made with a metal implement but there

is not yet an interpretation of the carvings10

.

1.2.3 2008 Season

A fourth season11

was held for two weeks in July 2008, focused on the revealing another

quarter of the site, Trench 4, and investigating the souterrain entrance in Trench 2. As well

as this, three trenches (Trench 5, Trench 6 and Trench 7) closely outlying the main structure

were excavated in an effort to establish the extent of the archaeology on site. The

excavations brought further clarification to the broch site and revealed a minimum of three

phases of occupation.

1.2.4 2009 Season

The fourth quadrant of Applecross Broch was uncovered during two weeks in September

2009. Trench 8 revealed the final quadrant of the broch which included two outside courses

of walling and Trench 1 was extended to link up external wall faces. The remains of the

intramural staircase and internal wall passage (first uncovered by Time Team) showed a

complex series of activities (industrial and ritual) and closure events. Excavation of a

fourth outlying trench, Trench 9, was targeted to investigate a feature of recumbent slabs

found along the edge of Trench 2 and appeared to be another sub-broch passage or drain.

The results of the 2009 season are the focus of this report.

2 Objectives

2.1 The overall aims12

of the archaeology programme are:

• To determine and record the character, extent, condition, date and significance of the

latest phase of occupation of the site

• To underpin proposals for site conservation, interpretation and presentation

• To encourage the widest possible inclusion of local people in the discovery,

discussion and outcome of the project, and to develop practical, research, educational,

social and economic benefits for the community as a whole 10 Pers comm., Richard Bradley.

11 Note: Trench 3 was a slot trench northwest of the broch structure. It was covered by a watching brief prior to

commencement of the 2008 season, the purpose of which was to relocate overhead electricity lines running above the

site. 12 Wood, J. 2006.


11

2.2 The specific objectives are:

• To expose the final phase ground plan of the broch

• To assess the presence and survival of later structures overlying the broch

• To provide an opportunity for local people to experience and obtain training in

archaeological techniques and the value of their local heritage

• To leave the broch as a visible and interpreted monument for the public and

community

• To ensure that the broch is not compromised by unnecessary excavation

3 Methodology

3.1 Desk-based assessment

An assessment of desk-based sources was undertaken. This included the records held by the

National Monuments Record of Scotland (NMRS), Highland Historic Environment Record

(HHER), historical mapping, statistical accounts and other literary and archival resources.

3.2 Excavation and recording

Open area excavation was conducted to reveal the fourth quadrant of the site. One trial

trench was opened as an extension to the first quadrant of the site in order to investigate a

targeted feature. All excavation was conducted by hand, based on standard stratigraphic

principles. As per the project objectives, primary archaeological deposits were left in situ.

Recording was undertaken using context record sheets, plan / section drawings, levelling

using a standard dumpy level and digital photography. All work was conducted in

accordance with the Institute for Archaeologists (IfA) Code of Conduct.

3.3 Sampling and finds processing

All finds and samples were recorded by trench number and context number. Samples were

taken of all archaeological deposits and have been indexed and stored for future specialist

analysis.

Artefacts were cleaned and indexed during the field season and have been stored for

specialist analysis. Provenance of special finds was recorded on plan drawing and using a

standard dumpy level.

4 2009 Fieldwork Results

&ote: the annotation ‘T’ followed by a number indicates a trench number; ‘C’ followed by a

number indicates a context number and ‘SF’ followed by a number indicates a find number.

4.1 The 2009 field season was conducted from 5-20 September 2009. The focus of the season

was the removal of the overburden from and excavation of the fourth / final quadrant of the

structure (Trench 8) and the excavation of a slot trench (Trench 9) to investigate of a feature

previously identified in Trench 1. It was also the first chance that the team had to remove

the terram overlying Time Team’s Trench 1, which contained an intramural passage and


12

remains of the intramural staircase. As well, excavation of a large quantity of redeposited

backfill in Trench 8 enabled removal of the base of an electricity pole, which revealed a

glimpse at the depth of deposits on the site and, surprisingly, two wall faces of a sub-broch

passage.

4.2 Trench 8

4.2.1 The removal of the overburden from Trench 8 (C.0801) was consistent with what has been

previously dug throughout the site. It is characterised by turf overlying mid brown sandy

loam and contained modern finds alongside redeposited ceramic, slag and stone artefacts.

Across the broch site, this context reflects the mixing of topsoil with redeposited material

from past site occupation.

4.2.2 Courtyard

Similarly to previous seasons, the courtyard deposits uncovered in Trench 8 were consistent

with the central deposits in the three adjoining quadrants, showing mixing and transitioning

between redeposited contexts. The initial underlying deposits, C.0802 and C.0819,

comprised of black, sticky soils yielding some period finds-hammerstones, pottery sherds,

antler toggles and antler comb fragment (SF236, Plate 1). The courtyard held water well in

comparison to other areas of the site, implying further depth of archaeological deposits and

surfaces.

A small stone slab setting (C.0834) was uncovered in the courtyard and appeared to relate to

similar hearth-like structures from Trench 1 and Trench 2. The setting had been partially

truncated prior to its discovery and is associated with post-broch use of the site.

A 1950s overhead electricity line pole was removed from the courtyard and the hand-dug cut

allowed for an informative glimpse into the depth of deposits on the broch. The redeposited

material in the cut (C.0829, C.0833) contained hammerstones, one antler toggle and a

deposit of clay.

Excavation of the courtyard overburden has not been completed in all four quadrants of the

site and will be a focus for the 2010 season, in order to achieve the goal of revealing the final

phase of site use.


13

Plate 1 SF236: Antler comb end plate fragment

4.2.3 Intramural passage and staircase gallery

C.0803, passage

A fourth intramural passage for the broch (C.0803) was identified during the 2005 Time

Team excavations. The team re-opened the passage during the 2009 season.

This fourth passage and the intramural staircase entrance gallery, into which it led, contained

a series of upper level slabbed surfaces overlying contexts pertaining to hearth-related

activity.

C.0807 / C.0816, slabbed surface

Initial excavation of the passage and gallery revealed a stone-slabbed surface (C.0807)

within the passage which sloped upward from the courtyard and adjoined slabs (C.0816) in

the staircase gallery. This area formed one continuous paved surface, which terminated

above the intramural stair, although it could have been partly truncated by the Time Team

excavations. It is associated with a phase of post-broch site restructuring and occupation

and, interestingly, opposes a similar surface uncovered in the third quadrant during 2008

fieldwork.


14

C.0842 / C.0845

Within the staircase gallery and intramural passage, the uppermost slabbed surface overlay

an earlier slabbed surface (C.0842). These slabs overlay a context of black, charcoal-rich

material (C.0844), which overlay a hearth surface comprised of compact charcoal-rich clay

and small slab-like stones (C.0845). A cache of bone containing deer mandible and other

assorted bone (Plate 2) was distinctly placed next to the W stair gallery wall and overlay the

C.0845 slabs. One radiocarbon date (SUERC 26925) from the site has dated C.0844, the

charcoal rich surface, to 1925 BP.

C.0849

Within the intramural passage (Figure 3), adjacent to the N passage face, the hearth surface

(C.0845) had been cut by a clay-lined linear pit (C.0849), interpreted as a flue that was

associated with another and later phase of hearth-related activity. The flue had been

backfilled with a deposit containing shell and bone (C.0848).

This series of activities suggests either large-scale processing of deer carcasses or a period of

ritual-based feasting and closure events to the gallery and passage where each context

appeared distinctly sealed by the next.


Plate 2 Stair gallery (Photo #CD165)

paved surface C.0845

Figure 3 C.0809 Intramural stairs and gallery,

C.0809

15

(Photo #CD165), jaw bones and vertebrae (inset Photo #CD134

Intramural stairs and gallery, C.0803 intramural passage (APL09 Plan 14)

C.0845

C.0849

May 2010

134) from C.0844 and

intramural passage (APL09 Plan 14)

C.0803


16

4.2.4 Intramural staircase

Four in situ stair slabs (C.0809) were exposed within the staircase gallery, accessed from the

broch courtyard by an intramural passage (C.0803). As described above, the slab steps were

incorporated into post-broch use of the structure, and appeared not to have been heavily

worn.

C.0808

A small subcircular setting of upright stones, interpreted as a post hole setting (C.0808), is

situated west of the uppermost slab. It has been loosely associated with another stone setting

(C.0826) located within the inner broch wall less than four metres to the east. One possible

interpretation for two post settings could be that the held a wooden screen or wind break for

shielding the activity within the staircase gallery and passage.

4.2.5 Intramural gallery #3

Half of the broch’s northwest intramural gallery (C.0821) was uncovered in Trench 8. The

northern half of this gallery had been excavated during 2006 fieldwork in Trench 2.

The maximum internal width of this section of the gallery was 1.1 metres, narrowing to 0.6

metre at the south stop wall (C.0827). This stop wall would have been situated below the

base of the intramural staircase.

This gallery was accessed by an intramural passage first uncovered in T2 during 2006

fieldwork. In Trench 8, the gallery (Plate 3) was laid with an irregularly slabbed surface

(C.0831) that was partly underlain by compact clay surface (C.0832). A charcoal-rich

deposit containing bone and shell (C.0825), probably redeposited midden material, had

overlain the majority of the slabbed surface.


Plate 3 Third intramural gallery in

4.2.6 Inner Broch Wall

Only a small portion of the

Trench 8 in comparison to the res

inner wall face in the trench

northward for about one metre

into the wall. To the north side of this feature, only one metre of the inn

situ due to post broch disturbance and

C.0826

The stone setting (C.0826, approximately 0.5m

inner face (Plate 4), could

broch re-structuring of the

alongside the intramural stairs

17

d intramural gallery in Trench 8 (Photo #CD062)

inner face of the inner broch wall (C.0823) was

in comparison to the rest of the structure (see Figure 7). The so

in the trench starts with an intramural passage face (C.0803) and

northward for about one metre to where a semicircular stone setting (C.0826) had

into the wall. To the north side of this feature, only one metre of the inn

broch disturbance and the insertion of an overhead electricity line pole.

The stone setting (C.0826, approximately 0.5m wide), which had been cut into the inner wall

could indicate a niche, alcove or post hole. It is associated with post

structuring of the site and might be related to another post setting

the intramural stairs.

May 2010

nner broch wall (C.0823) was well-preserved in

). The south corner of the

face (C.0803) and runs

stone setting (C.0826) had been cut

into the wall. To the north side of this feature, only one metre of the inner face remains in

the insertion of an overhead electricity line pole.

cut into the inner wall

associated with post-

post setting (C.0808) found


Plate 4 Inner broch wall face and stone

Plate 5 Outer broch wall ‘improvement’

18

and stone setting to left (C.0826) indicated by arrow (Photo CD162)

‘improvement’ (C.0837, Photo CD172)

May 2010

arrow (Photo CD162)


19

4.2.7 Outer broch wall

Excavation outside of the broch outer wall face in Trench 8 showed that the structure did

survive to a much greater height than previously believed. The removal of a large amount of

mixed fill and redeposited material from the northwest side of the structure revealed a

continuous section of wall face over one metre in height. In contrast to this quadrant, the

other three quadrants of the structure (T1, T2 and T4) had gaps in sections of the broch outer

wall (see Figure 7).

An east-facing aerial photograph of the broch outer wall taken by John and Trina Wombell

(Plate 6) clearly shows the uppermost row of large stones forming the continuous arc of the

outer broch wall outer face (C.0422). However, this course of stone overlies another circular

outer wall face (C.0817) which branches off from the broch outer wall in T8 and encircles it

southward across Trench 1.

The battered southeast section of the outer wall from T8 across T1, starting from the location

of a strikingly visible triangular standing stone, was constructed on top of and inside of the

earlier wall. To the northwest of the triangular standing stone, the broch outer wall face and

the earlier outer wall face merge into one continuous face of walling (C.0837), which

appears to be an improvement on the earlier technique (Plate 5).

C.0837

This five-metre length of walling, forming the northwest outer face of the broch outer wall

was constructed in the style of spaced boulders infilled with smaller galleting slabs (see Plate

5 and Figure 4). This is the tallest surviving portion of the wall and seems to both reflect a

higher level of skilled workmanship and construction techniques at Dun Telve broch.

It appears that this portion of walling (C.0837) formed a structural transition between the

earlier structure and the new one built on top of it. It is possible that this distinct section of

walling coincides with a later episode of restructuring of the entire site, which could also

have included relocation of the main entrance. Improved quality of construction does appear

in other places on the structure, for example in the intramural passage in T1 (C.0437) and the

inner wall face in Trench 2, both of which are probably related to a later phase of the

structure.


Figure 4 Outer broch wall (C.0837)

20

uter broch wall (C.0837) in Trench 8 (APL09 Plan 10)

May 2010


21

4.2.8 Possible pre-broch structures

C.0817, an outer wall face

An outer face of walling (C.0817) comprised of large boulders and one triangular standing

stone was uncovered outside of and below the upper course of the outer broch wall, joining

the ‘improved’ outer wall face (C.0837) on the west side of the structure. This wall face

encircles the outside of the broch from Trench 8 across Trench 1 (identified as C.0423 in T1)

where it disappears within boulder rubble on the south corner of the site—where the outer

wall also disappears.

C.0843, an external structure

Another wall face (C.0843) beyond the early outer wall face (see Plate 6) was revealed in

Trench 8 and in the extension to Trench 1. This could relate to another early structure or

outbuilding of the broch. The area between the two portions of walling in T8 and T1 has not

been entirely uncovered. A further extension to the trenches in 2010 should clarify the

relationship.

C.0859, a possible entrance

Outside of the broch on the northwest side, a paved area (C.0860) within a line of boulders

(C.0859) abuts the broch outer wall. It is interpreted as an early structural entrance, part of a

blockhouse structure or even an original entrance to the broch which was later removed.

During excavation, the paved surface was overlain by a slag- and charcoal-rich deposit

(C.0838) that could pertain to its re-use as a work area. A radiocarbon date (SUERC 26924)

dated this deposit to 2125 BP.

C.0818

Outside of the broch outer wall to the northwest, a line of stones (C.0818) forms a possible

return from the south wall of the souterrain passage (C.0460). Although time did not allow

for further investigation of the context, this suggests that the souterrain passage structure at

one time extended further outside of the broch.

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

22

P

late

6

T

ren

ch 8

at

the

end

of

the

200

9 s

easo

n,

faci

ng

E-S

E (

Ph

oto

JW

00

1)

C.0

81

7

C.0

42

2

C.0

84

3

C.0

42

3

C.0

83

7


4.2.9 External deposits

The removal of overburden in Trench 8

uncovered a deep area of rich, redeposited fill

C.0810, uncovered southwest

fragment of I.A. pottery. This deposit

C.0836) which produced antle

4.2.10 Sub-broch passage

Eventual removal of the base of the

made visible two inner faces (C.0851 and C.0852) of a passage at the base of the pole ho

Four surviving courses of

approximately 0.5m wide by 0.6m high (N

facing section, Plate 7) in profile

truncated the S-facing wall face

orange gritty sand subsoil. The

from either the original backfill of the passage (C.0858) or from the deposit overlying the top

of the passage wall (C.0855/C.0857)

wall fill came out at 2100 BP

Plate 7 South face of sub

23

rden in Trench 8 on the northwest side of the

ea of rich, redeposited fills. The uppermost redeposited context

west of the souterrain passage, yielded one heavily

. This deposit overlay two other redeposited context

antler, iron, slag and stone finds.

Eventual removal of the base of the former overhead electricity line (OHL)

two inner faces (C.0851 and C.0852) of a passage at the base of the pole ho

sandstone and limestone slabs comprised

oximately 0.5m wide by 0.6m high (N-facing section) and 0.5m wide by

in profile sections at the base of the cut. The OHL pole hole partially

facing wall face (C.0852), revealing that it had been built

il. The wall slabs were intermixed with soil and charcoal that

either the original backfill of the passage (C.0858) or from the deposit overlying the top

of the passage wall (C.0855/C.0857). A radiocarbon date (SUERC 26926)

me out at 2100 BP.

sub-broch passage (Photo CD184)

May 2010

of the outer broch wall

The uppermost redeposited context,

one heavily abraded

two other redeposited contexts (C.0830 and

(OHL) pole in Trench 8

two inner faces (C.0851 and C.0852) of a passage at the base of the pole hole.

comprised opposing wall faces

g section) and 0.5m wide by 0.8m high (S-

OHL pole hole partially

built into the natural

soil and charcoal that came

either the original backfill of the passage (C.0858) or from the deposit overlying the top

(SUERC 26926) from the S-facing


Figure 5 Sub-broch wall S face (C.0851,

The passage underlies the broch structure although

probably backfill, between the broch and passage

the backfill and may have formed part of the passage roof. It

(C.0853) overlying the north wall face

radiocarbon dating.

Insertion of the OHL pole cut through the

material (C.0857) on the south

interpreted as a deliberate backfill of the passage pri

24

face (C.0851, APL09 Section 3)

nderlies the broch structure although there is an intermediate deposit (C.0855),

kfill, between the broch and passage (Figure 5). A possible

and may have formed part of the passage roof. It sealed an ashy deposit

overlying the north wall face, which contained material

L pole cut through the passage backfill exposed the remains of this

(C.0857) on the south passage wall and the natural on the north wall

a deliberate backfill of the passage prior to construction of the broch structure.

Broch wall core

May 2010

there is an intermediate deposit (C.0855),

. A possible lintel slab underlies

sealed an ashy deposit

which contained material sampled for future

ed the remains of this stony

wall and the natural on the north wall face. It is

or to construction of the broch structure.


4.3 Trench 9

Figure 6 Recumbent slabs from Trench 9 (Plan 4 from APL09)

Trench 9, a 2m long by 5m wide

investigating a feature of three recumbent slabs

overlying the souterrain entrance found in Trench 2

appeared to underlie broch rubble,

the outer broch wall in Trench 1

phase of broch construction

Five slabs (C.0905), which had been

counterbalance the larger, heavier slabs

extend further southward, outside of the trench edge

slab-covered structure that

excavated area southward

underlying cut (Plate 8) which contained

A hearth-like, charcoal-rich context

structure (C.0905/C.0446) and could be associated with the feature

25

Recumbent slabs from Trench 9 (Plan 4 from APL09)

long by 5m wide offshoot of the south side of Trench 1

three recumbent slabs (C.0446), which initially

overlying the souterrain entrance found in Trench 2 in 2007. The slabs

to underlie broch rubble, were situated outside of a line of large boulders beyond

rench 1. The feature could not be related definitel

phase of broch construction.

which had been held in place by sets of edge stones placed to

counterbalance the larger, heavier slabs, were revealed in the trench and mor

further southward, outside of the trench edge (see Figure 6). This

that extends below the broch rubble northward

excavated area southward. Excavation showed that one slab had

which contained sandy, charcoal-flecked silt.

rich context (C.0903) was also uncovered to either side

/C.0446) and could be associated with the feature.

May 2010

Trench 1, was aimed at

initially resembled the slabs

The slabs, which had initially

large boulders beyond

be related definitely to any one

held in place by sets of edge stones placed to

, were revealed in the trench and more slabs appear to

This would indicate a

extends below the broch rubble northward and beyond the

slab had collapsed into an

uncovered to either side of the slab

N


26

Plate 8 Trench 9 feature, collapsed slab in cut underlying slabs (Photo #CD149)

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

27

F

igu

re 7

S

ite

pla

n i

n n

ega

tiv

e, s

ho

win

g t

he

ma

in s

ite

stru

ctu

re a

nd

fo

ur

ou

tly

ing

tre

nch

es

Tre

nch

9

Tre

nch

5

Tre

nch

6

Tre

nch

8

Tre

nch

1

Tre

nch

4

Tre

nch

2

Tre

nch

7


28

4.4 Discussion

4.4.1 Possible pre-broch structures

It is possible that the circular wall (C.0817) underlying the broch outer wall is an earlier

roundhouse-type structure. On the surface, the wall looks like revetment for the broch. But

close examination of it merging with the broch outer wall face suggests that it was an earlier

building into which the broch was later incorporated. It could be that the broch was

positioned over the earlier structure, beside the steepest slope on the ridge to the east, whilst

at the same time exposing the outer wall faces of the earlier structure on the west side of the

site. This theory could make an interesting comparison to the oval building that predated

the broch at Clickihimin, Shetland13

.

Furthermore, the remains of a probable entrance (C.0859 and C.0860) to this structure

support the idea of an earlier building. The entrance, however, has been mostly removed

apart from the largest boulders and the paved surface (C.0860). One radiocarbon date came

from Context 0838, which overlaid the paved surface. This date, 2125 BP, is associated with

a later use of the paved surface, possibly a closure event of the structure.

The layer of stone chips that sealed this charcoal-rich context is interpreted as an episode of

stone working / dressing—possibly pertaining to the construction of a structure. The

radiocarbon date shows that the paved surface and entrance date to before 100 BC. Also,

this date corresponds with the date from the sub-broch passage at the base of the OHL pole.

The sub-broch passage walls (C.0851 and C.0852) were built into natural subsoil and

possibly roofed by lintels. The profile view of the deposits underlying the broch structure

showed a definite sequence of construction and backfilling. The passage was backfilled and

covered with a new surface in preparation for construction of the overlying broch.

As mentioned above, a radiocarbon date from the fill around the N face of the passage

implies that the passage dates to before 2100 BP since this material appears to have

originated from the passage backfilling. This suggests a relationship between the closure of

the entrance to the early broch structure and the closure of this passage. This evidence

strengthens the theory that an earlier structure below the broch was intentionally backfilled

around 2100 BP for the building of a new structure on top of it.

Finally, the subcircular wall of seven boulders (C.0843) further outside of the broch structure

appears to lead to a line of walling in Trench 1 (see Figure 7). It is possible that this

structure formed another earlier wall encircling the broch. It is also possible that this

outermost wall relates to an outbuilding of the broch.

13 MacSween, A, Pp.60.


29

4.4.2 Main Broch Structure

The 2009 season of excavation on the broch has shown a substantial depth of walling still

remaining for the site and that the structure contained the remains of three intramural

galleries and one intramural staircase gallery. Looking at the complete overall plan (see

Figure 7), this suggests that the structure was a ground-galleried broch, within which the

main living areas were situated on the ground floor14

.

Although there has been some discussion as to whether or not the site is in fact a typical

broch, the intramural steps leading from a galleried passage is a good indication that the

structure was once a concentric-walled building with intramural staircase that rose to some

height. It is possible, and there is evidence that rebuilding of internal and external walling

took place, that the building failed structurally and the broch never attained a typical tower

height. The walls and passages of the ‘broch’ may have formed a double-skinned building of

more modest height. Certainly, as shown at other broch sites, the inhabitants of Atlantic

roundhouses learned from experience and modified these circular, concentric-walled

structures over time15

. Perhaps Applecross Broch reflects one regional stage in this learning

process, where an attempt to perfect a taller broch-like structure failed.

4.4.3 Post-broch internal changes

Trench 8, the fourth and final quadrant to be excavated on the site provides consistent

evidence for a later, post-broch phase of restructuring and occupation.

The post-broch paved surface (C.0807 and C.0816) overlying the intramural staircase gallery

and passage is a similar feature to paved areas uncovered on the rest of the site and likely

formed a part of a much larger post-broch surface. A saddle quern, placed within the paved

surface C.0807, suggests a re-use of an object previously used during an earlier phase of

occupation. Also in Trench 8, the inner/outer wall was slabbed over and two possible post

settings (C.0808 and C.0826) either side of this indicate a functional use of the surface,

possibly where a screen or partition was inserted to define work or living areas.

The paved surfaces and internal partitioning and wall restructuring uncovered in the

Applecross site16

are consistent with what has been seen in later phases on other broch sites

such as the Broch of Burrian in Orkney17

.

Within the intramural stair gallery and passage, the sequence of slabbed surfaces and

deposits are indicative of a series of hearth-related activities and closure events. The earliest

slabbed surface, C.0845, was overlain by the charcoal-rich deposit (C.0844), which was

immediately sealed by another slabbed surface (C.0842). Another possible ‘feasting’ event

occurred in conjunction with when the clay-lined flue (C.0849) was cut through deposit

14 Armit, I. Pp.75.

15 Armit, 2003.


17 MacGregor, Pp. 65.


30

C.0844 and surface C.0845 and a cache of jaw bones and vertebrae were placed on the

surface.

The uncovering of the entire structure during the 2010 season should allow for greater

analysis of the post-broch paved surfaces and will hopefully assist interpretation of the

spatial organisation within the post-broch structure.

4.4.4 Trench 9

Three theories have been proposed for the structure type uncovered in Trench 9: a flag-

covered drain, a souterrain passage or a causeway.

As the Reverend John McQueen mentions in his 18th c. account of Applecross parish, ‘in the

district of Applecross are the remains of a subterranean house’ four feet wide and four feet

deep of considerable length, faced with stones and covered with flags. He says this structure

is located near a ‘Danish dun’ and mused that it could have been used for storing plundered

goods18

. This intriguing description could relate to the Trench 9 structure and, if so, the

structure probably extends much further outside of the broch structure. Reverend McQueen

could also be referring to the souterrain (C.0460) passage on the northwest side of the

broch19

.

Equally intriguing, a recent comparison to Skitten Broch, Caithness shows that the T9

structure bears a resemblance to a drain passage that underlay the broch entrance and

extended across the courtyard at Skitten20

. This is a possibility for the Applecross broch,

which suggests that the drain is situated in the location of the original broch entrance on the

S side of the broch and thus the entrance was later removed and rebuilt on the E-NE slope of

the site. Such a possibility is supported by the lack of a broch outer wall on this S slope, as

well as the presence of several restructured features in this location on the broch21

.

If the primary entrance to the broch was located on the S side of the site, this suggests that

the entrance to the structure as seen today constitutes a post-broch insertion. This possibility

was raised by the excavators22

, who noted the unusual location of the entrance on the

northeast side of the broch, the steepest side of the ridge. The construction of this entrance

and its situation does fit in well with post-broch paved surfaces and internal structural

changes.

18 McQueen, Rev. J. Pp. 378-379.


20 Calder, P.128, Figure 4.




31

5 Radiocarbon Dating Results

Three samples have been dated from Applecross Broch and place the site solidly within the

Iron Age.

5.1 SUERC 26924 2125 +- 30 BP

Context 0838

This context could pertain to the remains of a work area or a closure event. It overlay a

slabbed surface C.0859 outside of the broch outer wall.

Sample 108, Corylus roundwood

5.2 SUERC 26925 1925 +- 30 BP

Context 0844

This charcoal rich-surface is associated with the first event in a sequence of hearth-related

activities in the intramural staircase gallery.

Sample 118, Corylus roundwood

5.3 SUERC 26926 2100 +- 30 BP

Context 0852

This sample originated from the fill within the N face of the passage at the base of the OHL

pole hole.

Sample 138, Betula

Figure 8 Radiocarbon plots for Samples 108, 118 and 138 from Applecross Broch (APL09)

Atmospheric data from Reimer et al (2004);OxCal v3.10 Bronk Ramsey (2005); cub r:5 sd:12 prob usp[chron]

800CalBC 600CalBC 400CalBC 200CalBC CalBC/CalAD 200CalAD 400CalAD

Calibrated date

SUERC-26924 2125±30BP

SUERC-26925 1925±30BP

SUERC-26926 2100±30BP


32

6 Summary of finds from the 2009 season

(C. McCullagh)

6.1 Introduction

This summary aims to give an overview of the artefact groups that have been subject to a

primary assessment, so far, from the 2009 season of excavations. The total of small finds

attributed to anthropogenic activity was 58, including 18 worked stones; one fragment of

worked flint / chert, 6 pottery fragments; four worked antler fragments and objects; 11

fragments of Fe Slag and one plano-convex cake of slag and clinker, four fragments of

apparently worked shale, including one faceted jet bead and one possible Cu alloy pin in a

very degraded condition.

6.2 Worked and utilised stone

As mentioned in previous reports, the excavations at Applecross Broch have revealed a

number of whole and fragmentary worked stones that may prove to have originated as coarse

stone tools; the majority of these remain in situ. A number may in the course of future

investigations be characterised as quern-stone; grinding stone and hone fragments, being

reused in or redeposited into the construction, shoring and infilling of the contexts in which

they can now be found. Most of the stone tools have, indeed, been recovered from

secondary contexts and, as such, may elicit little in terms of a chronological narrative for this

assemblage.

6.2.1 Lithics

A single possible lithic was recovered during this last season. SF259, a flint or chert

fragment with possible wear, was found in rubble C.0811; the remains of a likely slabbed

surface at the exterior of the SW outer wall of the broch C.0423, in Trench 8, Quadrant 4.

This object requires further investigation to verify the proposed wear marks.

A chert flake, SF198, was recovered during the 2008 season, showing conchoidal pressure

fracturing on the dorsal surface and one evident serrated edge, now blunted, inferring that it

was worked and then used as a scraping tool. The chert for this flake may have been sourced

from known nodular deposits in the Durness Dolomite and Limestone outcrops in the

Broadford area of Skye, or even the nodules exposed in the valley of the Alt Stapaig,

Scalpay23

. One other possible source may be the known natural deposits on Staffin, Skye24

Whilst the presence of a variety of lithic artefacts recovered during each of the excavation

seasons may suggest the possibility of a precedent to the broch construction horizon, none

have been found in what might be considered primary contexts. Continued excavation of the

entire broch complex is necessary to ascertain the significance, or otherwise, of these finds

within a fuller understanding of the multi-phasing of the site.

23 Wickham-Jones, 1978

24 Pers. comm., Steven Birch


33

6.2.2 Pumice

Although not showing any obvious signs of wear, or of having been faceted to create a flat

surface, SF230, a pumice stone fragment, found in the topsoil and rubble fill clean back in

the courtyard interior C.0801, may have been curated as an ideal burnishing material. A

number of the ceramic fragments found throughout the excavations of Applecross Broch site

show evidence of burnished or rubbed surfaces created by the action of smoothing the pots

once they had dried to a leather-hard state. It has been shown that pumice fragments have

been used to achieve such ‘polish’ on a number of other Iron Age settlement sites, including

comparative examples in the Northern Isles25

.

Additionally, this fragment may have been used in grading protruding processes on bone and

antler artefacts or for polishing the same26

.

6.2.3 Quartz

Found in the re-deposited fill of the electricity pole hole C.0829, in close association with a

possibly incised antler tine, sawn off from main beam (SF245), SF246 is a small worked

quartz pebble, showing percussion pitting at the conical end. SF252, a quartz pebble of a

similar size and form, shows percussion marks at both ends. Recovered in the deposit

underlying C.0813, C.0830, it was found in close association with other worked stone

artefacts, worked antler and a slag fragment.

6.2.4 Other worked and utilised stone

Eleven stone tools were found during the 2009 season, including one whetstone fragment,

broken in section (SF285), one polisher / smoother (SF2814) and nine hammerstones or

composite rubber / hammerstones or composite anvil / hammerstones (SF238, SF242,

SF244, SF247, SF252, SF275 and SF241 and SF268 and SF276, respectively).

SF276, a composite anvil / hammerstone, was recovered from between three lintel slabs (one

in situ, two collapsed) in Trench 9 C.0905. This location may be considered a secondary

deposition or it may infer that the tool was last employed during in situ stone dressing. Such

suggests that attention must be given to percussion evidence on associated structural remains

at tool find spots and also to the recovery of associated stone chippings in these vicinities.

Three possible stone pot lids (SF 234, SF250 and SF256) were recovered during the 2009

season. These recoveries are compelling given the range and quantity of everted rim sherds

that have been covered throughout the excavations at this site.

Their recovery from non-secure contexts means that the rotary quern fragments (SF248 and

Micaceous Schist, upper wheel fragment, unreg.) found during 2009, cannot entirely be seen

possible indices of the ‘quern transition’ – one of the five elements of dating evidence

relevant to the Scottish Atlantic Iron age, as posited by Armit (1991)27

. However, it is worth

noting that any definition and evaluation of a sequence of structural and artefactual

25 GUARD. 2007.; Calder, C S T. 1939

26 Hallen, Y. 1994

27 Armit, I., 1991


34

developments, as indicated by such finds, may also include the recovery and analysis of

economic evidence indicating developments in agricultural technology and / or pursuant

wealth display.

A significant representation of horse bones in the bone assemblage, indicating the

domestication of a herd, might be one such example. Further analysis of the entire

assemblage and investigation of the secure occupation layers will be necessary in order to

understand the potential significance of the rotary quern fragments in the phasing of this

settlement site.

Whilst not strictly to be interpreted as a worked stone, the recovery of a possibly painted

pebble from C.0844, the dark brown / black humic material that constitutes part of the fill of

the intramural staircase passage, SW broch ; eventually interpreted as a fireplace / cooking

pit, may infer structured deposition (Cunliffe, B. 1992, pp.69 - 8328

; Clarke, S. 2001, pp.76 –

8229

). Such artefacts are known from other Iron Age sites and are believed by some

researchers to have been used as charms or amulets30

. Only further interpretation of the

characteristics of the contexts and their sequence in the narrative of construction, destruction

and / or abandonment can offer a compelling argument for this reading.

Four fragments of vitrified stone (SF249, SF278a and SF278b, and SF283), were recovered

in 2009. These appear to relate to the evidence for iron metal-working scattered throughout

the site; most specifically the evidence for smelting as represented by a number of tap slag

fragments and the plano-convex cake of ferrous material and associated detritus (SF225)

recovered from the topsoil clean back C.0801.

6.3 Worked antler

Plate fragment

The antler comb end-plate fragment (see Plate 1), SF236, measuring 1.9cm x 2.5cm, which

was recovered from a silty loam deposit layer in the inner courtyard area C.0819, may be

diagnostic of a period of re-use of the broch site. With its distinctive dot and ring decoration,

on both faces, and its graduated teeth, this plate fragment is recognisable as an element of a

double sided composite comb of the types produced in Scotland in the 7th – 9th centuries31

.

It is one of up to possibly three toothed plates that would have been fixed, with iron rivets,

along a horizontal brace plate.

Whilst it has been suggested by some researchers that the ring and dot decorations that

proliferate on such plate fragments may have been crafted using a knife tip, MacGregor

(1985) suggests that the symmetrical characteristics of these decorations infers the use of a

specifically designed tool32

.

28 Cunliffe, B. 1992

29 Clarke, S. 2001

30 Ritchie, A. 1972

31 Foxon, A. 1991; Hallen, Y. 1994

32 MacGregor, A.1985


35

The preferential use of antler over bone for Iron Age and later comb production is testament

to the material resilience of the density and compaction of cancellous tissue in the former33

.

Tines

SF245, an antler tine sawn off from main beam appears to have been incised with cross

marks along one face at intervals.

Hallen (1994) proposes that sawn off tines are an essential index to artefact manufacture,

highlighting that for most antler objects, the removal of the tines laid bare the beam structure

which could then be sewn into reasonably sized segments of the necessary length34

.

However, Fraser Hunter suggests that caution should be taken when interpreting shed antler

remains as indicative of tool manufacture utilising either the tines or beams (Hunter, F.

2007a, p.82

35). Both this tine and similar finds recorded as antler artefacts from previous

seasons will merit future specialist analysis.

Annular cored antler sections

Both SF239 and SF240 are small cut sections of antler with the cancellous tissue cored out.

The latter was broken into three segments. Neither of these finds shows any evidence of

polishing or shaping on the exterior surface and no attenuation or decoration has been

identified on either. Such may infer that unlike similar antler artefacts, often identified as

toggles (Knight, S. 2002, pp.378 -38036

, Ritchie, A. 200337

), the Applecross examples may

have been utilised as tool components, possibly as part of a rope / twine management or

tightening system.

The shock-absorbing qualities of antler are known38

and Foxon (1991) certainly suggests that

the hollowing out of antler beams and tines suggests their use as sockets, ideal formations as

part of a composite knife handle39

. However, it is worth noting that such may actually be

counter-intuitive. A blade with a circular-sectioned tang, such as those known from the

excavations of Iron Age settlement structures at Sollas, North Uist40

, would very likely

swivel and rotate in a similarly circular socket. Specialist analysis, focused upon examining

the annular, cored sections for traces of Fe corrosion would be a recommended course of

action towards determining the intended use of these artefacts.

6.4 Worked and possibly worked oil shale

Shale fragments

That all possible shale fragments recovered at this site merit particular attention and

specialist analysis for signs of wear is given enormous emphasis following the recovery in

33 Ibid.

34 Hallen, Y. 1994

35 Hunter, F. 2007, “Antler.”

36 Knight, S. 2002

37 Ritchie, A. 2003

38 Hallen, Y. 1994

39 Foxon, A. 1991

40 Campbell, E. 1992


36

2008, from the dark brown redeposited loam fill of Trench 5 [0503], of a shale bangle

fragment (SF187). This artefact, alone, infers a significant index to Iron Age horizons on the

site (Hunter, F. 2007b, p.81

41).

Two possibly worked fragments, SF229 and SF233, were recovered during the 2009 season.

Whilst the material nature of SF229 remains indeterminate, requiring further research, the

recovery of SF233 within the same context C.0813 as SF235, the multi-faceted shale

(possibly jet) bead mentioned below is intriguing.

Shale Bead; fully perforated and multi-faceted

As of yet this find is undated. Although the use of jet and jet-like beads and other decorative

artefacts increases throughout Scotland from the third millennium BC42

, this find bears no

resemblance, other than material type, to the disc and spacer beads known from other pre-

historic contexts in the Highlands and Islands. It may be analogous to a similarly faceted

bead recovered from Phase Five of the Norse royal farm site at The Biggings, Papa Stour,

Shetland43

. Further investigation is necessary here.

Whilst shale deposits and manufacturing sites are well known on eastern coasts44

, thus

inferring a possible trade and exchange route from coast-to-coast for the Applecross shale

artefacts, it is also necessary to consider the intra-regional links suggested by the assemblage

of shale bangles and associated working debris recovered from Uamh An Ard Achadh (High

Pasture Cave), Skye45

. Future specialist analysis and subsequent characterisation of the shale

assemblage from the Applecross Broch site may reveal whether the raw material originates

from the same source as the Skye examples; possibly one of the known lignite occurrences

on the island.

6.5 Pottery

Prehistoric pottery

Six sherds of prehistoric coarseware were found during the 2009 season. All of the wares

represent a variety of fabric colours and temper, which, as mentioned in previous reports,

may not, necessarily be interpreted as signifying a multiplicity of wares. Certainly, studies

of the more widely considered assemblages from sites in the Western and Northern Isles

(Laing, L. 2003, pp. 48 - 4946

) have suggested that variability in the bedrock and firing

conditions is as likely to produce similar diversity (Campbell, E. 2002, p.13947

; MacSween,

A. 2002, p.15248

).

All of the recoveries from the 2009 season constitute undecorated body sherds (SF255,

SF264, SF267, SF269, SF270 and SF284), meriting further specialist analysis in order to

41 Hunter, F. 2007, “Oil Shale and Cannel Coal

42 Sheridan, A. and Davis, M. 2002: 293

43 Crawford, B. E. and Ballin Smith, B. 1999

44 Pers. Comms. Alan Braby and Fraser Hunter

45 Birch, S. 2008

46 Laing, L. 2003: 48- 49

47 Campbell, E. 2002: 139 - 144

48 MacSween, A. 2002


37

determine diagnostic features. It is notable that both SF267 and SF284 also evidence fine

grit inclusions, a feature suggestive of Iron Age manufacturing techniques (Brown, L. D.

200249

, p.53).

The recovery of a greyware body sherd (SF284) from Feature 4, in the vicinity of the

possible interior continuation of the souterrain passage identified in a previous season,

provides an interesting subject for typological comparison. Whilst there must be

reservations placed on devising a narrative of the construction of the posited souterrain from

a singular sherd, when it is considered alongside examples recovered during the 2008

excavations, further desk-based research, exploring comparisons with pottery typologies

from dateable souterrain contexts within the region may provide useful insights.

Three sherds (SF267, SF269 and SF270) were recovered from C.0844, part of the fill of the

intra-mural gallery believed to have been re-used as a hearth / cooking pit. The notable

inclusion of ground quartz, as temper, in the fabric of the fine body sherd, SF267, is

interesting when considered that this artefact was found in close association to the in situ

mortar stone to the W of this SW passage. It is possible that the mortar identifies a temper

processing area, where quartz and other rock materials were ground for inclusion in pottery

clays.

As with many of the prehistoric ceramics recovered during excavations at the Applecross

Broch site, SF264, a dark orange sherd with a black inner fabric, shows evidence of burning

and may hold residues indicative of environmental and economic information of the period.

Further specialist analysis of this and all of the prehistoric pottery assemblage will be

necessary to determine the nature and import of such residues.

6.6 Fired clay

Fired clay fragments

One fragment of fired clay (SF225) was found during the clean back of Trench 8 in C.0801.

Found in association with Fe, stone and gravel fragments, this fragment comprises the

characteristics of part of a furnace interior. Despite the fact that this fragment may only

indicate redeposition of primary material spreads, specialist analysis of the material sampled

from Trench 6 during the 2008 season, when considered alongside the slag finds and the

charcoal samples in this vicinity, may provide evidence for a primary structure, a furnace or

a kiln, and a discreet area of industrial activity at that part of the site.

SF251, recovered from the fill of the Overhead Line Pole hole trench C.0833 appears

oxidised, with the characteristic red-orange outer surfaces and grey inner that may indicate it

as a constituent of either a furnace or kiln50

.

Both fragments merit further specialist analysis.

49 Brown, L. D. 2002

50 English Heritage. 2001


38

6.7 Slag

A total of five fragments of Slag (SF 257, SF258, SF260, SF261 and SF271) were recovered

as small finds during the 2009 season.

SF279 (like SF207 recovered during 2008) is a slag and stone composite; a fire-cracked

stone onto which slag has poured.

The morphology of slag fragments can be extremely diverse in response to variations in

temperature, duration of process, chemistry of the fuel used, the material of the hearth lining

and the alloys used in the processes (Heald, A. 2007, p. 8151

). The material found during the

2009 season reflects a diversity of slag types, including tap slag. However, only full

specialist analysis will elicit those forms that may prove to be diagnostic.

The recovery of SF225, a plano-convex cake of ferrous material (tap slag) and associated

detritus, measuring 11cm in diameter, and with a posited dating of 16th century onwards ,

certainly points towards a more diagnostic material type– i.e. tap slags and smithing hearth

bottoms (after Heald, 200752

).

Possibly formed by a run-off of tap slag collecting in a circular pit close to a smelting

furnace, this find infers iron being smelted in a furnace heated to above 1000 degrees

centigrade. It is likely that such excessive temperatures were not achieved by native Iron

Age metal-workers and are more likely to indicate, at the earliest, 16th century metalworking

on the site. Whilst only further specialist analysis can confirm the chronology of iron

smelting on the site, the potential for an early modern context adds significantly to an already

complex multi-phasing as suggested by the structural stratigraphy.

As mentioned in previous reports, further desk-based assessment, considering

archaeometallurgical techniques and their products and by-products and specialist input

would better inform the sampling and finds policies of future excavations in order that the

maximum information can be recovered from slag that is recovered as the project progresses.

6.8 Metalwork: Cu Alloy

Possible Cu Alloy Pin

The 2009 season saw the first indication of high status metal ware being used, at least, upon

the site. SF272: believed to be the remains of a degraded copper alloy pin was recovered at

the threshold between the passage to the inner courtyard and the hearth /cooking area created

close to the lower steps of the aforementioned intramural passage, SW broch, it appears to be

the remains of a degraded copper alloy pin, 4.5cm in length.

Whilst the artefact remains appear to be comprised almost entirely of corrosion product

(verdigris) and are fragile and easily fragmented, it is hoped that further specialist analysis

will confirm a likely date of manufacture. The fragment was box excavated in order to

maintain maximum integrity. The spoil in the vicinity of the findspot was triple sieved, but

no further fragments were recovered.

51 Heald, A. 2007

52 ibid


39

6.9 Modified bone

Two fragments of possibly modified bone were recovered from Trench 8 (SF262 and

SF280). The former, apparently, a fish vertebra, measuring 5mm x 7mm in section and

12mm in length, evidences grooves on the front and reverse face with possible perforations

alongside each. Further specialist analysis will reveal whether these characteristics are part

of the natural morphology or anthropogenic incisions. One possible reading is that the

fragment may have been used as a bead.

In order to provide the fuller information regarding species distribution, economic and

environmental implications and cultural activities, further desk-based assessment and

specialist input on the entire bone assemblage of the Applecross Broch site will be necessary.

The assemblage of butchered, cremated, modified and other bone from Applecross Broch has

been collected, stabilised and recorded in order to facilitate such future analysis.

6.10 Conclusion

This summary has provided a simple, primary overview of the assemblage of finds recovered

during the 2009 season of excavations at Applecross.

As with most of the previous excavations, the majority of the finds have been recovered from

redeposited contexts, consistent with the research design of the project, thus far – to define

the extent of the broch structure, excavating and recording only the later levels of broch

occupation. Notably, Iron Age material has been identified, as represented in the prehistoric

pottery assemblage. The long Iron Age (through to Early Medieval) Period is represented by

the recovery of a decorated comb plate fragment, believed to have been formed from antler.

Again, as with the findings from previous seasons of excavation, all of the artefact types and

those ecofacts included as finds would merit further specialist analysis, enabling better

understanding of their significance in the narrative of this complex, multi-phased broch site.

This wider narrative includes the construction phasing; areas and types of industrial and

domestic activity; intra-regional and wider geographic trading and exchange relationships

and cultural influences and activities.


40

7 Recommendations for 2010 Season

During the 2010 season, the project team aims to uncover the terram and backfill covering

the entire broch structure, with a view to expose the final phase of the broch for

consolidation, thus completing the initial goals of the project.

Further excavation and recording of the site is required in all four quadrants to define the

final phase of use of the structure, specifically:

• Extension of Trench 8 (NW) by, initially, 2m to determine the relationship between

the two sides of the two arcs of boulder walling (C.0817 and C. 0843)

• Extension of Trench 2 (NE) to determine the outer face of the outer wall and locate

any associated external features, particularly to the immediate west of the entrance

passage

• Extension of Trench 1 (SE) by 1m to allow further investigation of the outer wall

structures (C.0817 and C.0423) and the possible drain passage (C.0905)

• Further removal of collapsed rubble and excavation of overburden in courtyard and

intramural passages in order to define the final phase of use

Following the above work, the entire site is to be laser scanned before any consolidation

work commences. This will include the recording, numbering and removal of the collapsed

section of walling over the souterrain passage (C.0460) and excavation of the underlying

deposits. Following this, passage will be rebuilt and the process of consolidation can begin.

8 Post-excavation Analysis

8.1 The process of post-excavation analysis has commenced. We are grateful to already have

received specialist support from Dr. Fraser Hunter from NMS and Beverly Ballin-Smith

from GUARD and funding has allowed for three radiocarbon dates from SUERC.

8.2 A strategy of post-excavation will be put in place following the 2010 season, with an aim to

establish the relationship between the different phases of site occupation and to interpret

finds and their contribution to the complete record of material culture.

8.3 Specialist work shall focus on:

• Analysis of worked lithics, stone and antler

• Analysis of the incised stone fragments

• Special ceramic analysis

• Radiocarbon dating

• Environmental Analysis


41

9 Further work and reporting

9.1 Further work

A one-day seminar has been scheduled to take place in Applecross on October 2, 2010 in

order to discuss the Applecross broch site, broch architecture and contemporary sites in the

wider landscape. Speakers will include Dr. Fraser Hunter, Tanja Romanciewicz, Beverly

Ballin-Smith, Professor Iain Armit and Steven Birch.

9.2 The project has maintained a good relationship with archaeologists Steven Birch and Martin

Wildgoose from High Pasture Cave on Skye. This was initiated in order to discuss

similarities between the sites’ artefact assemblages and importance in the wider landscape.

A team from High Pasture Cave visited and volunteered on the Applecross Broch site during

the 2009 season and are eager to return during 2010. The Applecross team hopes to return

the favour in the 2010 season. Martin Wildgoose has also provided advice and support

towards the consolidation phase of the project.

10 Publication and Presentation

10.1 An interim report, summarising the fieldwork and results of the 2006, 2007 and 2008 seasons

was prepared in 2008. This was submitted to the Highland Council Archaeology Unit,

Historic Scotland and Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of

Scotland (RCAHMS).

10.2 A presentation of the project was made to the Community Archaeology Conference in

Musselburgh in April 2009 and to the Highland Archaeology Fortnight Conference in

September 2009. Three presentations are planned: to the Ardgay History Society in May

2010, to the Applecross community in June 2010 and in the Groam House Museum in

Rosemarkie in August 2010.

10.3 During the 2009 season of fieldwork, the site team and volunteers conducted site tours of the

excavation for visitors from the campsite and the local community.

10.4 A summary of the 2009 fieldwork was submitted to Discovery and Excavation in Scotland

(DES) 2009.

10.5 An article about the 2009 season was presented to Archaeology Scotland for the Spring

publication.

11 Archiving and Finds Disposal

11.1 A full archive of publications and digital images relating to work at Applecross Broch is

currently being held by Ross and Cromarty Archaeological Services.

11.2 Finds reporting will be conducted in accordance with Scottish Treasure Trove procedures.


42

References

Armit, I., 1991. “The Atlantic Scottish Iron Age: five levels of chronology” in Proceedings of the

Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Vol. 121.

Armit, I, 2003. Towers in the �orth. Tempus Publishing, Port Stroud.

Birch, Steven, 2010. Personal communication.

Birch, S., 2008. “Latest Finds from the High Pasture Cave excavations” in URL: http://www.high-

pasture-cave.org/index.php/latest_finds/comments/164/, 14.09.08.

Braby, A. and Hunter, F., 2010. Personal communication.

Brown, L. D., 2002. “Pottery: Prehistoric Pottery” in Dockrill, S. et al (eds) 2002, Old Scatness

Broch & Jarlshof Environs Project: Field Season 2001, Interim Report �o. 7. University of

Bradford.

Calder, C S T. “Excavations of Iron Age dwellings on the Calf of Eday in Orkney” in Proceedings

of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Vol 73, 1939.

Calder, C.S.T. “Report on the excavation of a broch at Skitten, in the Kilmster District of

Caithness” in Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Vol. LXXII, 1947-1948.

Campbell, E., 1992. “Excavations of a wheelhouse and other Iron Age structures at Sollas, North

Uist, by R J C Atkinson in 1957” in Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Vol. 121,

1992.

Campbell, E., 2002. “The Western Isles pottery sequence” in, Ballin-Smith, B. and Banks, I (eds)

2002, In The Shadow of the Brochs: The Iron Age in Scotland. Tempus: Stroud.

Clarke, S., 2001. “Probably Ritual: Assemblage Interpretation at Newstead’, in Smith, A and

Brookes, A (eds) 2001, Ritual Space (BAR International Series Vol. 956) Archaeopress: Oxford.

Crawford, B. E. and Ballin-Smith, B., 1999. “The Biggings, Papa Stour, Shetland: the history and

archaeology of a royal Norwegian farm” in Society of Antiquaries of Scotland Monograph Series,

No. 15 Edinburgh.

Cunliffe, B., 1992. “Pits, preconceptions and propitiation in the British Iron Age” in Oxford Journal

of Archaeology, Vol 11. Oxford Institute of Archaeology

English Heritage. 2001. Archaeometallurgy. Centre for Archaeology, English Heritage: Swindon

Musselburgh.

Foxon, A., 1991. Bone, antler, tooth and horn technology and utilisation in prehistoric Scotland,

PhD thesis, University of Glasgow.

GUARD. 2007, “Post excavation artefactual analysis” in, Shetland Community Archaeology,

Sandwick, Unst. Shorewatch: http://www.shorewatch.co.uk/unst/arte_tools.html, 30.04.10.


43

Hallen, Y., 1994. “The use of bone and antler at Foshigarry and Bac Mhic Connain, two Iron Age

sites on North Uist, Western Isles” in Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Vol 124,

1994.

Heald, A., 2007. “Slag: Description Deposition” in Dunwell, A. et. al. 2007, Cist burials and an

Iron Age settlement at Dryburn Bridge, Innerwick, East Lothian. CFA Archaeology.

Hunter, F., 2007. “Antler” in, Dunwell, A. et. al.2007, “Cist burials and an Iron Age settlement at

Dryburn Bridge, Innerwick, East Lothian.” CFA Archaeology: Musselburgh.

Hunter, F., 2007. “Oil Shale and Cannel Coal” in Dunwell, A. et. al. 2007, “Cist burials and an Iron

Age settlement at Dryburn Bridge, Innerwick, East Lothian.” CFA Archaeology: Musselburgh.

Knight, S., 2002. “Butchery and intra-site spatial analysis of animal bone: A case study from

Danebury Hillfort, Hampshire, England.” University of Leicester.

Laing, L., 2003. Pottery in Britain 400BC to AD1900: A guide to identifying pot sherds. Greenlight

Publishing: Witham.

MacGregor, A. “The Broch of Burrian, North Ronaldsay, Orkney” in Proceedings of the Society of

Antiquaries of Scotland, Vol. 105, 1972-1974.

MacGregor, A., 1985. Bone, Antler, Ivory, and Horn: The Technology of Skeletal Materials since the

Roman Period. London: Barnes and Noble.

MacSween, A., 2002. “Dun Beag and the role of pottery in interpretations of the Hebridean Iron

Age” in Ballin-Smith, B. and Banks, I (eds) 2002, In The Shadow of the Brochs: The Iron Age in

Scotland. Tempus: Stroud.

McQueen, Rev. J, 1792. Old Statistical Account of Scotland, Vol III. “Parish of Applecross.”

Morrison, Rev. N. Third Statistical Account of Scotland, Vol. XIII. “Parish of Applecross.”

Peteranna, M. and McCullagh, C. Applecross Broch Community Archaeology Project. September

2008: Interim Report No.3, Rev 1.

Ritchie, A., 1972. “Painted pebbles in early Scotland” in Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries

of Scotland, Vol. 104, 1971-2.

Ritchie, A., 2003. “Jarlshof” in British Archaeology Vol. 69. CBA, URL:

http://www.britarch.ac.uk/BA/ba69/feat3.shtml, 16.09.08.

Sheridan, A. and Davis, M., 2002. “Investigating jet and jet-like artefacts from prehistoric Scotland:

the National Museums of Scotland project.” in Antiquity Vol. 76, 2002.

Watson, W.J., 1904. Place-�ames of Ross and Cromarty. Inverness, reprinted Evanton, 1996.

Wessex Archaeology, May 2006. Applecross Broch, Applecross, Wester Ross, Highlands. Report

59464.01.


44

Wickham-Jones, C. R. and Collins, G. H. 1978, ‘The sources of flint and chert in northern Britain’ in

Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Vol. 109, 1977-8.

Wood, J. et al, 2008. Applecross Broch �ew Community Archaeology Project: Project Design

(HAS080306). Highland Archaeology Services Ltd.

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

45

Ap

pen

dix

1

Ind

ex o

f C

on

tex

ts

<o.

Typ

e D

escr

ipti

on

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

O

ver

U

nd

er

Fil

l

of

Fil

led

by

Fin

ds

Fin

d <

o.

Sam

ple

In

terp

reta

tion

0801

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

row

n loam

and

stones

-topso

il a

nd rubble

;

crac

ked

cobble

s

8 / 4

0802,

0806,

0808,

0810,

0811,

0812

Sla

g, iron,

coke,

cla

y,

pum

ice,

stone

225, 227,

230, 231,

266

O

ver

lyin

g fill of

Tre

nch

8

0802

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

row

n stick

y soil,

centre

of T8, bel

ow

turf

8 / 4

0819

0801

Sto

ne,

antler

,

crac

ked

cobble

s

238, 239

97, 131

Red

eposite

d m

ater

ial

in b

roch

courtyar

d, T8

0803

Struct

ure

In

tram

ura

l pas

sage

N fac

e 8 / 4

-

Wal

l fa

ce N

0804

Struct

ure

In

tram

ura

l pas

sage

S fac

e 8 / 4

-

Wal

l fa

ce S

0805

Gro

up

T8 Intram

ura

l pas

sage

gro

up

8 / 4

Met

al,

work

ed

stone?

254, 256

0806

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

row

n soil a

nd

bould

ers (a

nd c

har

coal

)

from

TT tre

nch

bac

kfill,

inside

of [0

805]

8 / 4

0807,

0809

0801

90

Bac

kfill o

f pas

sage

from

TT tre

nch

-

redep

osite

d m

idden

mat

eria

l?

0807

Struct

ure

Sla

bbed

surf

ace

incl

inin

g

from

courtyar

d o

ver

intram

ura

l pas

sage

8 / 4

0806

Sad

dle

quer

n

286

E sid

e of [0

805],

slab

bed

surfac

e quer

n

stone

utilise

d; fo

rms

par

t of C.0

816

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

46

<o.

Typ

e D

escr

ipti

on

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

O

ver

U

nd

er

Fil

l

of

Fil

led

by

Fin

ds

Fin

d <

o.

Sam

ple

In

terp

reta

tion

0808

Struct

ure

Post

set

ting w

ith p

ackin

g

stones

, ad

jace

nt to

intram

ura

l st

air slab

s

8 / 4

0801

Post

for sc

reen

use

d in

cookin

g p

it w

ithin

sta

ir

gal

lery

?

0809

Struct

ure

In

tram

ura

l st

air slab

s 8 / 4

0806

-

Rem

ains of in

tram

ura

l

stai

r

0810

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

row

n, org

anic

redep

osite

d soil w

ith

som

e burn

t bone

8 / 4

0818,

0830,

0836

0801

Cer

amic

(IA

) 226

91

Mix

ed, re

dep

osite

d

soil; outsid

e oute

r w

all

by soute

rrai

n p

assa

ge

0811

Struct

ure

Poss

ible

sla

bbed

surfac

e

outsid

e [0

424], S

W sid

e

of bro

ch

8 / 4

0801

Flint

259

Exca

vat

ion o

f th

e

feat

ure

rev

eale

d it to

be

rubble

0812

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

row

n-b

lack

san

dy

loam

outs

ide

[0424] W

side

of bro

ch; by sta

ndin

g

stone

8 / 4

0801

Lithic

-

quar

tz

265

Red

eposite

d m

ater

ial

under

topso

il lik

e

0815, bes

ide

tria

ngula

r

stone

0813

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

row

n san

dy, si

lty

soil w

ith rubble

to

northw

est of site

, outsid

e

oute

r bro

ch w

all; m

ixed

with o

ver

lyin

g fill; a

t

sam

e le

vel

as oth

er

redep

osite

d c

onte

xts

0810

and 0

814

8 / 4

0830

0801

Lig

nite,

coin

, je

t?,

slag

, gla

ss,

bone

235, 233,

232, 261

100

Inte

ntional

dep

osit fo

r

a su

rfac

e pat

h o

r w

ork

area

?, N

W sid

e of

[0424]

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

47

<o.

Typ

e D

escr

ipti

on

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

O

ver

U

nd

er

Fil

l

of

Fil

led

by

Fin

ds

Fin

d <

o.

Sam

ple

In

terp

reta

tion

0814

Dep

osit

Fill bel

ow

tre

e ro

ot, v

ery

dar

k b

row

n b

lack

stick

y

soil a

nd rubble

, ru

ns to

C.0

813

8 / 4

0801

228, 229

Could

hav

e bee

n

slab

bed

are

a

under

min

ed b

y tre

e

root

0815

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

row

n-b

lack

san

dy

loam

, T1 e

xte

nsion

8 / 4

0801

work

ed

stone,

sla

g

234, 237

Sam

e as

0812

0816

Struct

ure

Sla

bbed

surf

ace

outsid

e

0805

8 / 4

0842

0801

Form

s par

t of slab

bed

surfac

e, sam

e as

C.0

807

0817

Struct

ure

Oute

r co

urs

e of

curv

ilin

ear w

alling

outsid

e bro

ch o

ute

r w

all

8 / 4

0801

Curv

ilin

ear w

all fa

ce

outsid

e of bro

ch o

ute

r

wal

l-re

vet

men

t w

all

for bro

ch?

0818

Struct

ure

Bould

ers outsid

e of bro

ch

oute

r w

all, form

ing

poss

ible

ret

urn

to S

bac

k

pas

sage

wal

l

8 / 4

0810

Poss

ible

wal

l /

revet

men

t or fa

cade

0819

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

row

n-b

lack

mix

ed

soil in c

ourtyar

d w

ith

char

coal

fra

gs an

d sto

ne

8 / 4

0829

0802

Work

ed

antler

,

bone,

tee

th,

cera

mic

236, 255

92

Courtyar

d red

eposit

layer

0820

Cut

Cut fo

r el

ectric

ity p

ost

hole

, co

nta

inin

g

redep

osite

d m

ixed

soil

8 / 4

0801

0829

H

and-c

ut el

ectric

ity

pole

hole

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

48

<o.

Typ

e D

escr

ipti

on

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

O

ver

U

nd

er

Fil

l

of

Fil

led

by

Fin

ds

Fin

d <

o.

Sam

ple

In

terp

reta

tion

0821

Struct

ure

Curv

ing intram

ura

l

gal

lery

, 3.9

m in len

gth

,

1.1

m w

ide

at N

end to 0

.6

wid

e at

S e

nd; fa

ced w

alls

8 / 4

0801

0822

Continuat

ion o

f

intram

ura

l gal

lery

from

T2 (C.0

453)

0822

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

lue-

bro

wn stick

y

org

anic

soil c

onta

inin

g

char

coal

, sh

ell an

d b

one

8 / 4

0824

0801

93

Fill of in

tram

ura

l

gal

lery

at N

E e

nd

0823

Struct

ure

Set

lar

ge

faci

ng sto

nes

of

inner

wal

l, c

ut to

N b

y

pole

hole

cut an

d b

y

C.0

826

8 / 4

0801

In

ner

wal

l in

ner

wal

l

0824

Dep

osit

Yel

low

-gre

y stick

y c

lay

dep

osit w

ithin

intram

ura

l

gal

lery

, co

nta

ins lines

of

deg

raded

char

coal

8 / 4

0822

98

Surf

ace

within

intram

ura

l gal

lery

(C.0

821)

0825

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

row

n silty

soil

dep

osit co

nta

inin

g b

one

and shel

l w

ithin

intram

ura

l ch

amber

8 / 4

0831

0822

94, 95

Red

eposite

d m

ater

ial

or su

rfac

e in

side

gal

lery

0826

Struct

ure

Sto

ne-

face

d c

avity o

n

alco

ve

in inner

wal

l 8 / 4

Cut in

to inner

wal

l

for?

0827

Struct

ure

Intram

ura

l ch

amber

S

stop w

all, tap

ers to

0.6

m

wid

e at

this

end

8 / 4

0801

Par

t of [0

821]

0828

Struct

ure

Rubble

fro

m b

roch

bet

wee

n inner

and o

ute

r

wal

ls

8 / 4

0801

Rubble

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

49

<o.

Typ

e D

escr

ipti

on

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

O

ver

U

nd

er

Fil

l

of

Fil

led

by

Fin

ds

Fin

d <

o.

Sam

ple

In

terp

reta

tion

0829

Dep

osit

Ver

y m

ixed

mid

-dar

k

bro

wn g

rittly

soil

conta

inin

g sm

all an

d

larg

e stone,

white

gla

ze

pot, u

nburn

t bone,

char

coal

8 / 4

0833

0802,

0819

0820

work

ed

stone,

antler

241,2

42,2

44-2

47

96

Mix

ed fill of

elec

tric

ity p

ole

hole

0830

Dep

osit

Gre

y-b

lack

loose

gritty

soil c

onta

inin

g sm

all

shar

p sto

nes

and som

e

larg

e slab

s

8 / 4

0835

0810,

0813

antler

, iron,

slag

,

work

ed

stone

240, 243,

249, 252,

260, 262

103

Under

lies

0813, not

sim

ilar

to a

ny o

ther

dep

osits o

n site;

abuts

bro

ch o

ute

r w

all to

NW

0831

Struct

ure

San

dstone

slab

s over

lyin

g

som

ewhat

void

ed surfac

e

in intram

ura

l gal

lery

(C.0

821)

8 / 4

0832

0802,

0825

Pav

ed surfac

e in

gal

lery

0832

Dep

osit

Pal

e, y

ello

w c

om

pac

ted

clay

sm

ooth

ed u

nder

slab

s

8 / 4

0824,

0831

99

Cla

y surfac

e

under

lyin

g p

aved

surfac

e in

gal

lery

0833

Dep

osit

Initia

l fill o

f O

HL p

ost-

dar

k b

row

n/b

lack

gre

asy

silty loam

conta

inin

g

moder

n g

lass

and

cera

mic

, bone,

sto

ne

8 / 4

0858

0802 /

0829

Cla

y

251

Fill of O

HL p

ost

hole

0834

Struct

ure

Num

erous sm

all

rect

angula

r sm

all sl

abs

collap

sed in d

om

ino

effe

ct a

round a

poss

ibly

def

ined

are

a; 0

.5m

inte

rior, loca

ted S

W o

f

courtyar

d

8 / 4

0819

0839

106

Sto

ne

settin

g in

courtyar

d-h

earth o

r

work

are

a

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

50

<o.

Typ

e D

escr

ipti

on

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

O

ver

U

nd

er

Fil

l

of

Fil

led

by

Fin

ds

Fin

d <

o.

Sam

ple

In

terp

reta

tion

0835

Dep

osit

Lay

er o

f sh

arp d

ryst

one

chip

s, a

buttin

g low

est

cours

e of oute

r w

all fa

ce

in W

arc

of bro

ch o

ute

r

wal

l

8 / 4

0838

0830

W

all fill - d

emolition

0836

Dep

osit

Gre

y-b

lack

co

mpac

ted

gritty c

lay-s

oil a

nd

rubble

; ab

uts

wal

l C.0

818

and o

ute

r bro

ch w

all,

mer

ges

to C

.0830

8 / 4

0810

Bac

kfill to w

all of

pas

sage

0837

Struct

ure

Hig

hes

t se

ctio

n o

f oute

r

wal

l fa

ce w

ith b

ould

ers

infilled

with sm

all slab

s,

5m

sec

tion o

f w

alling

exte

ndin

g south

war

d a

nd

outsid

e of bro

ch o

ute

r

wal

l

8 / 4

0801

Reb

uildin

g o

f bro

ch

oute

r w

all?

0838

Dep

osit

Bla

ck c

layey

char

coal

-

rich

, co

mpac

t so

il found

by lev

el sla

bs to

outsid

e

8 / 4

0835

Sla

g,

vitrified

stone,

bone

257, 258,

278-2

80

108, 130

Surf

ace

0839

Dep

osit

Ora

nge-

bro

wn a

shy

hea

rth-lik

e m

ater

ial,

def

ined

by sto

ne

settin

g

C.0

834

8 / 4

0819

0834

104

Hea

rth

0840

Dep

osit

Nat

ura

l sa

nd

8/4

, 9/1

0801

105

Nat

ura

l su

bso

il, al

so

seen

in T

9

0841

Dep

osit

Pal

e bro

wn g

ritty fill

around sla

bs 0816 &

0842 w

ithin

intram

ura

l

stai

r gal

lery

; pat

ches

of

char

coal

and p

eat as

h

8 / 4

0844

0801

Bone,

cera

mic

263, 264

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

51

<o.

Typ

e D

escr

ipti

on

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

O

ver

U

nd

er

Fil

l

of

Fil

led

by

Fin

ds

Fin

d <

o.

Sam

ple

In

terp

reta

tion

0842

Struct

ure

Horizo

nta

l gro

up o

f slab

s

within

intram

ura

l stai

r

pas

sage

8 / 4

0844

0816

Sla

bbed

surf

ace

under

ling e

arlier

slab

bed

surfac

e in

intram

ura

l st

air gal

lery

0843

Dep

osit

Lin

ear 'w

all'

of 7 b

ould

ers

term

inat

ing w

ith b

lank to

east, but ev

en lar

ger

bould

ers to

wes

t; c

entral

stone

has

poss

ible

pec

k

mar

ks on u

pper

surfac

e

8 / 4

0801

Sim

ilar

situat

ion to

C.0

423 b

ut not cl

early

connec

ted

0844

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

row

n stick

y

org

anic

soil w

ith a

ngula

r

stone,

shel

l, b

one,

quar

tz

chip

s an

d h

igh c

har

coal

incl

usion

8 / 4

0845,

0846,

0850

0841,

0842

Work

ed

stone,

cera

mic

(IA

), sla

g,

Cu a

lloy,

seed

pod,

bone

267-2

73,

277, 281,

282

110,

111,

113,

117-

120,

123, 125

132,

136, 137

This

fill co

nta

ined

the

cach

e of bones

0845

Dep

osit

Com

pac

ted surf

ace

of

clay

-char

coal

mix

within

intram

ura

l st

air gal

lery

;

15m

m thic

k

8 / 4

0850

0844,

0846

109,

112,

121, 123

Cla

y-lin

ed h

earth p

it

bet

wee

n sla

bbed

surfac

es

0846

Dep

osit

Bro

wn-p

ink loose

gra

vel

ly soil w

ith a

ngula

r

stone,

cla

y len

ses

thro

ughout, b

one,

char

coal

, fire

-cra

cked

cobble

s

8 / 4

0845,

0847,

0849

0844

121, 123

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

52

<o.

Typ

e D

escr

ipti

on

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

O

ver

U

nd

er

Fil

l

of

Fil

led

by

Fin

ds

Fin

d <

o.

Sam

ple

In

terp

reta

tion

0847

Dep

osit

Dep

osit of bla

ck,

char

coal

-ric

h silt

8 / 4

0849

0846,

0848

0849

122

Char

coal

-ric

h lin

ing o

f

flue

into

'fea

stin

g p

it'

that

was

sea

led w

ith

clay

0848

Dep

osit

Com

pac

t yel

low

cla

y

with shel

l, c

har

coal

and

bone

incl

usions

8 / 4

0849

0846

0849

126

Cla

y sea

ling o

f

char

coal

-lin

ed p

it a

nd

flue

(C.0

849)

0849

Cut

Char

coal

lin

ed flu

e 8 / 4

0846,

0847,

0848

0848

127

Flu

e, c

han

nel

into

pit

0850

Dep

osit

Fill, red

dish-m

id b

row

n

soil

8 / 4

0845

O

xid

ised

fill ar

ound

hea

rth a

nd flu

e

0851

Struct

ure

Four co

urs

es o

f w

alling,

pre

dom

inan

tly w

hite

lim

esto

ne,

0.5

m h

igh b

y

0.6

m w

ide;

S sid

e of

pas

sage

8 / 4

0853,

0855

N-fac

ing p

assa

ge

wal

l

face

at bas

e of pole

hole

cut (C

.0820)

0852

Struct

ure

Four-five

cours

es o

f

wal

ling w

ith lim

esto

ne,

sandstone

set in

to c

ut in

to

subso

il (C.0

856); 0

.8m

hig

h b

y 0

.5m

wid

e,

trunca

ted b

y p

ole

hole

cut

8 / 4

0857

139

S-fac

ing p

assa

ge

wal

l

face

at bas

e of pole

hole

cut (C

.0820)

0853

Dep

osit

Purp

le-b

lack

pea

t as

h a

nd

char

coal

, se

aled

by

over

lyin

g sla

b C

.0854,

dep

th 1

00m

m

8 / 4

0851

0854

138, 140

Poss

ible

del

iber

ate

redep

osit of m

ater

ial

asso

ciat

ed

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

53

<o.

Typ

e D

escr

ipti

on

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

O

ver

U

nd

er

Fil

l

of

Fil

led

by

Fin

ds

Fin

d <

o.

Sam

ple

In

terp

reta

tion

0854

Struct

ure

Sto

ne

slab

over

C.0

853;

100m

m thic

k, 500m

m

long (vis

ible

par

t)

8 / 4

0853

0408

Pas

sage

roof?

0855

Dep

osit

Dar

k b

row

n loose

soil

and sto

ne

dep

osit,

200m

m d

eep o

n N

-fac

ing

side

of pole

hole

cut

(C.0

820)

8 / 4

0851

0406

Inte

rmed

iate

dep

osit

bet

wee

n low

er p

assa

ge

and b

roch

struct

ure

0856

Cut

Cut in

to subso

il, pro

bab

ly

origin

ally

fac

ed b

y

pas

sage

all (C

.0852) but

trunca

ted b

y p

ole

hole

cut

8 / 4

0857

Cut in

to n

atura

l fo

r

pas

sage

constru

ctio

n-

mad

e vis

ible

by p

ole

hole

cut

0857

Dep

osit

Bla

ck loose

soil a

nd sto

ne

dep

osit al

ong len

gth

of S-

faci

ng sec

tion o

f pole

hole

cut under

lyin

g v

oid

s

bel

ow

bro

ch struct

ure

8 / 4

0852

0406

Inte

ntional

dep

osition

over

pas

sage

afte

r

rem

oval

or co

llap

se o

f

roof an

d b

efore

constru

ctio

n o

f bro

ch

0858

Dep

osit

Yel

low

-bro

wn soily silt

fill o

f pas

sage

bel

ow

pas

sage

redep

osit fill

8 / 4

0833

Del

iber

ate

bac

kfill a

t

tim

e of pas

sage

aban

donm

ent?

At bas

e

of pole

hole

cut, so n

ot

inves

tigat

ed

0859

Struct

ure

Four la

rge

bould

ers so

uth

of poss

ible

pav

ing

(C.0

86) an

d a

buttin

g

oute

r w

all; tw

o lar

ges

t

alig

ned

at 90 d

eg to o

ute

r

wal

l an

d tw

o o

ther

s se

t

random

ly b

ehin

d

8 / 4

0838

Ear

ly e

ntran

ce to

anoth

er struct

ure

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

54

<o.

Typ

e D

escr

ipti

on

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

O

ver

U

nd

er

Fil

l

of

Fil

led

by

Fin

ds

Fin

d <

o.

Sam

ple

In

terp

reta

tion

0860

Struct

ure

Irre

gula

r slab

bed

surfac

e,

1m

x 1

.75m

, m

ay e

xte

nd

to C

.0859

8 / 4

0838

Pav

ed surfac

e to

ear

ly

entran

ce?

0861

Gro

up

Subbro

ch p

assa

ge,

conte

xt 0851, 0852, 0854

8 / 4

Subbro

ch p

assa

ge,

continuat

ion o

f

soute

rrai

n?

TR

E<

CH

9

0901

Dep

osit

Topso

il, sa

ndy loam

in

T9

9/1

0902

Over

lyin

g fill of tren

ch

9

0902

Dep

osit

Dar

k g

rey-b

lack

com

pac

t

clay

ey loam

conta

inin

g

bone,

char

coal

fle

cks,

fire

-cra

cked

cobble

s

9/1

0905

0901

Work

ed

stone

248

101

Sca

tter

ed, co

mpac

t

redep

osit over

sla

bs

C.0

905

0903

Dep

osit

Bla

ck, ch

arco

al-ric

h a

shy

dep

osit

9/1

0902

Work

ed

stone

250

102

Rem

ains of hea

rth

0904

Dep

osit

Mid

-bro

wn, co

mpac

t

sandy loam

conta

inin

g

char

coal

fle

cks

9/1

0905

0901,

0902

Char

coal

,

iron

253, 274

114,

115, 133

Fill ar

ound [0446]

09

05

S

tru

ctu

re

Re

cum

be

nt

sla

bs,

sa

me

as

[04

46

] 9

/1

09

06

0

90

2,

09

04

W

ork

ed

sto

ne

2

76

1

28

, 1

29

09

06

D

ep

osi

t

Sa

nd

y w

ith

wit

h c

ha

rco

al

fle

ckin

g;

in b

ase

of

po

ssib

le d

rain

9/1

09

05

Sil

tin

g a

fte

r

ab

an

do

nm

en

t o

f

stru

ctu

re

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

55

Ap

pen

dix

2

Ind

ex o

f F

eatu

res

<o.

Inte

rpre

tati

on

D

escr

ipti

on

C

on

texts

S

am

ple

s F

ind

s

1

Fire

Pit

Com

prise

d o

f bla

cken

ed sto

nes

and

light gre

y a

sh a

nd c

har

coal

fle

cks,

35cm

dia

met

er x

14cm

dee

p

0903

102

250

2

Bone

collec

tion

Tig

htly p

acked

gro

up o

f lo

wer

jaw

bones

and v

erte

bra

e (s

om

e

articu

late

d) ab

uttin

g intram

ura

l st

air

pas

sage

SW

fac

e; 4

00x250x110

0841,

0844

125, 134

3

Post

-bro

ch intram

ura

l

pas

sage

work

/ c

ookin

g

area

Cla

y-lin

ed h

earth set

insi

de

intram

ura

l

pas

sage

with a

poss

ible

post

set

ting

0844-

0850

109-1

13,

117-1

24,

126, 127,

132, 136,

137

4

Sub-b

roch

pas

sage

in

OH

L p

ole

hole

Tw

o w

all fa

ces w

ere

iden

tified

at th

e

bas

e of th

e O

HL p

ole

hole

; built in

par

t

of lim

esto

ne

0851,

0852,

0853

135, 138,

139, 140

284.

285

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

56

Ap

pen

dix

3

Ind

ex o

f F

ind

s

Fin

d

#

Con

text

<u

mb

er a

nd

Det

ail

s M

ate

rials

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

Des

crip

tion

an

d <

ote

s A

pp

rox.

Dati

ng

Init

ials

D

ate

225

0801

Topso

il a

nd rubble

cle

an-b

ack.

Fe,

Sto

ne,

Cla

y (Fired

),

Loam

, G

ravel

8/4

Furn

ace

/ K

iln B

ow

l Bas

e Iron A

ge

-

Med

ieval

NG

06/0

9

226

0810

Poss

ible

re-

dep

osite

d d

ark b

row

n loam

with

root in

clusions, o

uts

ide

the

oute

r w

all of th

e

soute

rrai

n / a

lter

nat

ive

entran

ce p

assa

ge.

Cer

amic

8/4

H

eavily a

bra

ded

body sher

d. E

vid

ence

of

burn

ing o

n b

oth

fac

es.

Iron A

ge

MK

P

08/0

9

227

0801

Fe

Fra

g

8/4

D

econte

xtu

alis

ed F

e fr

ag

?Moder

n

CD

07/0

9

228

0815

Cla

y (U

nfire

d)

T1 E

xt /

1

Poss

ible

flo

oring / p

ackin

g m

ater

ial.

Unknow

n

GSW

09/0

9

229

0815

Char

coal

/

Shal

e

T1 E

xt /

1

Har

d fra

gm

ent of ch

arco

al o

r sh

ale,

poss

ible

coke

– found o

utsid

e th

e oute

r, o

ute

r w

all.

Unknow

n

NG

09/0

9

230

0801

Pum

ice

8/4

Pum

ice

frag

men

t fo

und in ‘co

urtyar

d’ in

terior.

Unknow

n

JG

09/0

9

231

0801

Peb

ble

(Pin

k

Gra

nite)

8/4

Tool: P

olish

er / R

ubber

U

nknow

n

TW

09/0

9

232

0813

Dar

k b

row

n, silty loam

, fill o

f ru

bble

on N

W

side

of C.0

817/C

.0424 (Bro

ch o

ute

r w

all).

Ag a

nd C

u

allo

ys

8/4

Coin

: Tw

o S

hillings (1

964)

1964

CD

09/0

9

233

0813

Shal

e 8/4

Tw

o fra

gm

ents

of sh

ale,

poss

ible

lig

nite

Unknow

n

CJM

09/0

9

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

57

Fin

d

#

Con

text

<u

mb

er a

nd

Det

ail

s M

ate

rials

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

Des

crip

tion

an

d <

ote

s A

pp

rox.

Dati

ng

Init

ials

D

ate

234

0815

Dar

k, bro

wn, silty, sa

ndy loam

; sa

me

as

C.0

862.

Sto

ne

T1 E

xt /

1

Round, hea

t co

loure

d sto

ne

Unknow

n

NG

09/0

9

235

0813

?Jet

8/4

Per

fora

ted jet

bea

d (bla

ck) w

ith m

ulti-fa

cets

. ?C

19–C20

CD

09/0

9

236

0819

Mid

bro

wn silty

loam

/ san

d m

ix w

ith sm

all

stone

and root in

clusi

ons; inner

courtyar

d

dep

osit la

yer

.

Antler

8/4

A

ntler

com

b e

nd p

late

fra

gm

ent, w

ith d

ot an

d

ring d

ecora

tions in

cise

d o

n b

oth

fac

es a

nd

den

tations at

tooth

ed e

nd. T

wo tee

th fra

gm

ents

wer

e bro

ken

upon rec

over

y a

nd a

re b

agged

with

the

mai

n fra

gm

ent.

The

spoil tro

wel

led fro

m the

findsp

ot w

as triple

siev

ed. N

o further

fra

gm

ents

wer

e re

cover

ed.

7th –

9th

Cen

tury

AD

MF

10/0

9

237

0815

Sla

g

8/4

?T

ap sla

g fra

gm

ent.

?Med

ieval

N

G

10/0

9

238

0802

Dar

k b

row

n stick

y soil (poss

ibly

hum

ic),

centre

of T8.

Sto

ne

(cobble

) 8/4

H

amm

erst

one

Unknow

n

TW

10/0

9

239

0802

Antler

(work

ed)

8/4

Cylindrica

l tine

off

-cut, saw

n o

ff; ca

nce

llous

mat

eria

l has

bee

n c

ore

d o

ut cr

eating a

‘to

ggle

’.

No d

ecora

tion.

Iron A

ge

-

Med

ieval

MF

11/0

9

240

0830

Lay

er / d

eposit, u

nder

lyin

g [0813]; n

ot se

en

anyw

her

e el

se.

Antler

(work

ed)

8/4

A

s ab

ove,

but bro

ken

into

3 fra

gm

ents

. P

oss

ible

rough o

ut.

Iron A

ge

-

Med

ieval

CD

11/0

9

241

0829

Spoil re-

dep

osite

d b

y O

HL p

ost

hole

tre

nch

cuttin

g.

Sto

ne

8/4

Com

posi

te T

ool – R

ubber

/ H

amm

er w

ith

per

cuss

ion m

arks at

both

ends.

Unknow

n

JW

11/0

9

242

0829

Sto

ne

8/4

H

amm

erst

one

Unknow

n

JW

11/0

9

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

58

Fin

d

#

Con

text

<u

mb

er a

nd

Det

ail

s M

ate

rials

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

Des

crip

tion

an

d <

ote

s A

pp

rox.

Dati

ng

Init

ials

D

ate

243

0830

Fe

(sla

g o

r

ore

)

8/4

Tw

o fra

gm

ents

of a

nodule

of ?h

eavy F

e ore

/

slag

Unknow

n

MM

11/0

9

244

0829

Sto

ne

8/4

H

amm

erst

one

Unknow

n

JW

11/0

9

245

0829

Antler

(work

ed)

8/4

A

ntler

tin

e, saw

n o

ff fro

m m

ain b

eam

. T

her

e

appea

r to

be

cross

mar

ks in

cise

d a

long o

ne

face

of th

e tine,

at in

terv

als.

Unknow

n

JW

11/0

9

246

0829

Quar

tz

8/4

H

amm

erst

one,

per

cuss

ion a

t poin

ted e

nd.

Unknow

n

JW

11/0

9

247

0829

Sto

ne

(cobble

) 8/4

H

amm

erst

one

Unknow

n

JW

11/0

9

248

0902

Cla

y / loam

y d

eposit; som

ewhat

sca

tter

ed

bel

ow

sla

bs at

oute

r bro

ch w

all.

Sto

ne

9/1

Fra

gm

ent of ?t

he

upper

whee

l of a

rota

ry q

uer

n.

Iron A

ge

-

Onw

ards

AJG

11/0

9

249

0830

Fe

(sla

g) an

d

Sto

ne

(vitrified

)

8/4

O

ne

larg

e nodule

of slag

(se

e 243) an

d a

chip

of

vitrified

sto

ne.

Unknow

n

CD

11/0

9

250

0903

Dar

k b

lack

dep

osit, b

urn

ing a

nd a

sh

incl

usions; p

oss

ible

hea

rth rem

ains.

Sto

ne

9/1

D

isco

id san

dstone,

or pot lid, re

cover

ed fro

m

poss

ible

hea

rth.

Unknow

n

SI

12/0

9

251

0833

Dar

k b

lack

/bro

wn silty

loam

, gre

asy

consisten

cy; fill o

f O

HL p

ole

tre

nch

.

Cla

y

8/4

Cla

y fra

gm

ent, p

oss

ibly

mould

ed; re

d

Unknow

n

JW

12/0

9

252

0830

Quar

tz

(peb

ble

)

8/4

H

amm

erst

one,

per

cuss

ion a

t tw

o p

oin

ts.

Unknow

n

CD

12/0

9

253

Null

Null

Null

Null

Null

Null

Null

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

59

Fin

d

#

Con

text

<u

mb

er a

nd

Det

ail

s M

ate

rials

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

Des

crip

tion

an

d <

ote

s A

pp

rox.

Dati

ng

Init

ials

D

ate

254

0805

T8 Intram

ura

l Pas

sage;

par

t of gro

up w

ith

0802 –

0804.

Fe

8/4

Fe

Fra

gm

ent

Unknow

n

SJW

13/0

9

255

0819

Cer

amic

8/4

Body sher

d, ab

raded

. Iron A

ge

JD

13/0

9

256

0805

Peb

ble

8/4

Squar

e sh

aped

peb

ble

– p

oss

ible

pot lid.

Unknow

n

SW

13/0

9

257

0838

Lay

er o

f dar

k b

lack

, ch

arco

al ric

h soil,

under

lyin

g C

.0835, on N

W sid

e of C.0

817

(Bro

ch o

ute

r w

all).

Fe

(sla

g)

8/4

N

odule

of slag

Iron A

ge

-

Med

ieval

NG

/

CD

13/0

9

258

0838

Fe

(sla

g)

8/4

N

odule

of slag

Iron A

ge

-

Med

ieval

NG

/

CD

13/0

9

259

0811

Rubble

rem

ains (a

ppea

rance

of slab

bed

surfac

e) o

utsid

e C.0

817 b

roch

oute

r w

all

C.0

424, SW

sid

e of th

e bro

ch.

Flint / Cher

t 8/4

Flint / Cher

t Fra

gm

ent – p

oss

ibly

work

ed.

Unknow

n

SW

14/0

9

260

0830

Fe

(sla

g)

8/4

N

odule

of slag

, irre

gula

r sh

aped

80 x

100 x

30m

m

Iron A

ge

–

Med

ieval

NG

15/0

9

261

0813

Fe

(sla

g)

8/4

N

odule

of slag

, irre

gula

r sh

ape

Iron A

ge

-

Med

ieval

AJG

15/0

9

262

0830

Fe,

?Bone,

Sto

ne

8/4

Fe,

/Bone,

Sto

ne

concr

etio

n

Unknow

n

AJG

15/0

9

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

60

Fin

d

#

Con

text

<u

mb

er a

nd

Det

ail

s M

ate

rials

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

Des

crip

tion

an

d <

ote

s A

pp

rox.

Dati

ng

Init

ials

D

ate

263

0841

Pal

e bro

wn soil w

ith g

ritty g

ravel

incl

usions,

lense

s of dar

ker

, poss

ibly

char

coal

ric

h

mat

eria

l. U

nder

C.0

801 a

nd o

ver

lyin

g

C.0

844; m

atrix o

f slab

s C.0

816 a

nd C

.0842;

poss

ible

hea

rth, w

ith p

eat as

h –

did

n’t

dev

elop.

Bone

8/4

Poss

ible

fish v

erte

bra

e, 5

mm

x 7

mm

in sec

tion;

length

= 1

2m

m. G

roove

inci

sions on fro

nt an

d

rever

se fac

e w

ith p

oss

ible

per

fora

tions

alongsi

de;

? b

ead

Unknow

n

CD

16/0

9

264

0841

Cer

amic

8/4

D

ark O

range

body sher

d, w

ith b

lack

inner

fabric,

evid

ence

of burn

ing; 35m

m x

35m

m x

7m

m

Iron A

ge

CD

16/0

9

265

0812

Dar

k b

row

n / b

lack

san

dy loam

, outs

ide

of

bro

ch o

ute

r w

all, W

sid

e of Bro

ch, cl

ose

to

poss

ible

re-

use

d o

rthostat

.

Quar

tz

8/4

?

Scr

aper

; flak

ed, poss

ible

sig

ns of re

-work

ing,

50m

m x

35m

m.

Unknow

n

CD

16/0

9

266

0801

Fe

8/4

N

odule

of Fe

with c

oncr

etio

ns 110m

m x

80m

m

x 5

0m

m

Unknow

n

CD

17/0

9

267

0844

Dar

k b

row

n / b

lack

hum

ic m

ater

ial; a

surf

ace,

with shel

l, b

one,

root, c

har

coal

and q

uar

tz

chip

incl

usions, u

nder

lyin

g C.0

841 a

nd

C.0

842, over

lyin

g C

.0845; th

is is th

e fill o

f

the

intram

ura

l pas

sage,

SW

bro

ch; ev

entu

ally

inte

rpre

ted a

s a

fire

pla

ce / c

ookin

g p

it.

Cer

amic

8/4

Sm

ooth

, fine

body sher

d, one

vis

ible

quar

tz

incl

usion, 20m

m x

24m

m x

4m

m.

Iron A

ge

NG

17/0

9

268

0844

Sto

ne

8/4

H

amm

er o

r A

nvil S

tone

Unknow

n

AJG

17/0

9

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

61

Fin

d

#

Con

text

<u

mb

er a

nd

Det

ail

s M

ate

rials

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

Des

crip

tion

an

d <

ote

s A

pp

rox.

Dati

ng

Init

ials

D

ate

269

0844

Cer

amic

8/4

Pot body sher

d

Iron a

ge

AJG

17/0

9

270

0844

Cer

amic

8/4

Pot body sher

d (ver

y a

bra

ded

).

Iron A

ge

NG

17/0

9

271

0844

Fe

(Sla

g)

8/4

Sla

g fra

gm

ent

Unknow

n

AM

W

17/0

9

272

Null

Null

Null

Null

Null

Null

Null

273

0844

?See

d p

od /

Oyst

er shel

l

rem

ains

8/4

N

ot cl

early iden

tified

U

nknow

n

AM

W

18/0

9

274

0904

Mid

-bro

wn, silty loam

with c

har

coal

fle

ckin

g

and q

uar

tz, an

gula

r stone

and lan

d snai

l

incl

usions; m

atrix o

f C.0

905

Fe

9/1

Fe

Fra

gm

ent.

Unknow

n

SG

18/0

9

275

99

Spoil

Sto

ne

Unst

rat

Ham

mer

stone

– p

ercu

ssio

n o

n b

oth

ends an

d

along the

side

Unknow

n

SE

18/0

9

276

0905

Lin

tel slab

s (o

ne

in situ, tw

o c

ollap

sed a

nd

slan

ting); c

ontinuat

ion o

f C.0

446.

Sto

ne

(san

dst

one)

9/1

?A

nvil a

nd h

amm

erst

one

– c

entral

per

cuss

ion

dep

ress

ion w

ith p

ercu

ssio

n m

arks ar

ound the

circ

um

fere

nce

.

Unknow

n

SB

18/0

9

277

0844

Cu A

lloy

8/4

V

ery d

egra

ded

?Cu p

in –

alm

ost

all c

orrosion

pro

duct

(ver

dig

ris)

, le

ngth

= 4

.5cm

. B

ox-

exca

vat

ed to m

ainta

in m

axim

um

inte

grity

. T

he

corroded

met

al is frag

ile

and e

asily fra

gm

ente

d.

The

find spot sp

oil w

as triple

sie

ved

, but no

further

fra

gm

ents

wer

e re

cover

ed.

Unknow

n

AM

W

18/0

9

AP

L09

Da

ta S

tru

ctu

re R

ep

ort

Ma

y 2

01

0

62

Fin

d

#

Con

text

<u

mb

er a

nd

Det

ail

s M

ate

rials

T

ren

ch

/ Q

uad

Des

crip

tion

an

d <

ote

s A

pp

rox.

Dati

ng

Init

ials

D

ate

278

0838

Surf

ace;

lay

er o

f dar

k b

row

n / b

lack

com

pac

ted soil, th

e m

atrix o

f b

ould

ers w

ith

inte

nse

char

coal

incl

usions, 5

00m

NN

W o

f

the

oute

r w

all fa

ce, under

lyin

g C

.0835

Fe

and S

tone

(vitrified

)

8/4

Tw

o fra

gm

ents

of Fe

stone

with sig

ns of

vitrifica

tion.

Unknow

n

CJM

18/0

9

279

0836

Fe,

Sto

ne

8/4

Fe

slag

and sto

ne;

clinker

U

nknow

n

CD

17/0

9

280

0838

Bone

8/4

M

odifie

d b

one

frag

men

t U

nknow

n

SW

19/0

9

281

0844

Sto

ne

8/4

Polish

ing / sm

ooth

ing sto

ne

, poss

. ritu

al d

eposit

Unknow

n

NG

18/0

9

282

0844

Sto

ne

8/4

Sm

ooth

(polish

ed) p

ebble

- poss

ible

char

m,

poss

ible

evid

ence

of m

anganes

e st

ainin

g

Unknow

n

NG

18/0

9

283

99

Sto

ne

(vitrified

)

Unst

rat

Vitrified

sto

ne

frag

men

t U

nknow

n

NG

18/0

9

284

Fea

ture

4

Cer

amic

U

nst

rat

Gre

yw

are

body sher

d, su

rfac

e ver

y c

raze

d (poor

firing); e

vid

ent m

icac

eous in

clusions

Iron A

ge

(Mid

dle

)

NG

19/0

9

285

Fea

ture

4

Sto

ne

Unst

rat

Whet

stone

frag

men

t – b

roken

in sec

tion

Unknow

n

NG

19/0

9

Un

reg

Nil

Sto

ne

Unst

rat

Mic

aceo

us Sch

ist Rota

ry Q

uer

n F

ragm

ent, u

pper

whee

l. Bro

ken

at th

e ce

ntral

per

fora

tion.

?Iro

n A

ge

NG

?


63

Appendix 4 Index of Samples

Sample

# Context Feature

Volume

(L/g) Trench

Sample

Justification

Taken

By Date

90 0806 Grab

Trench 8

(T8)/Quad

4 (Q4)

Control - Rich

charcoal

deposit,

redeposited

midden

CJMcC 07/09/2009

91 0810 Grab T8/Q4

Control - Rich

charcoal

deposit, pot

frags

CJMcC 09/09/2009

92 0819 Grab T8/Q4

Rich dark

black loamy

deposit, bone

comb

CJMcC 10/09/2009

93 0822 Grab T8/Q4

Rich dark

black loamy

deposit,

charcoal-rich

CD &

AW 10/09/2009

94 0825 T8/Q4 Large charcoal CD &

AW 10/09/2009

95 0825 Grab T8/Q4 Rich charcoal

inclusions AMW 11/09/2009

96 0829 Grab T8/Q4

Rich shell and

charcoal

inclusions

CJMcC 11/09/2009

97 0802 Charcoal T8/Q4 Charcoal MF 11/09/2009

98 0824 Charcoal T8/Q4 Charcoal AW 11/09/2009

99 0832 Clay T8/Q4

Clay surface

under paved

surface

AW 11/09/2009

100 0813 Charcoal T8/Q4 Charcoal x 2 JD 11/09/2009

101 0902 Grab T9/Q1 Charcoal rich

soil AMW 12/09/2009

102 0903 1 Grab T9/Q1 Charcoal rich

soil AMW 12/09/2009

103 0830 Grab T8/Q4

Charcoal rich

soil and

charcoal

SW 12/09/2009

104 0839 Grab T8/Q4

Ashy possible

hearth in stone

setting [0834]

JD 13/09/2009

105 0840 Grab T8/Q4 Control CD 14/09/2009

106 0834 Charcoal T8/Q4

Charcoal

associated with

cracked cobble

NG 14/09/2009

107 0830 Charcoal T8/Q4 Charcoal taken

from clean soil NG 15/09/2009


64

Sample

# Context Feature

Volume

(L/g) Trench

Sample

Justification

Taken

By Date

108 0838 Charcoal T8/Q4

Large intact

segment

tucked against

wall face

NG 16/09/2009

109 0845 3 Lumps T8/Q4

Surface'

trampled,

adhering to

slabs-clay-

lined 'pit'

CD 16/09/2009

110 0844 3 Charcoal T8/Q4

Fill-surface

overlying

0845, very

charcoal rich

CD 16/09/2009

111 0844 3 Quartz T8/Q4

Inclusions in

fill, in

significant

quantity not

seen elsewhere

CD 16/09/2009

112 0845 3 Grab T8/Q4

Clay-possible

surface

beneath 0844

CJMcC 17/09/2009

113 0844 3 Grab T8/Q4 Clay-possible

surface CJMcC 17/09/2009

114 0905 Charcoal T9/Q1 Charcoal frags SG 18/09/2009

115 0905 Grab T9/Q1 Low snail

cache SG 18/09/2009

116 0844 Charcoal T8/Q4 Charcoal frags AMW 18/09/2009

117 0844 3 Clay

grab T8/Q4 Clay frags AM 18/09/2009

118 0844 3 Charcoal

grab T8/Q4 Charcoal frags AM 18/09/2009

119 0844 3 Charcoal

grab T8/Q4 Charcoal frags AM 18/09/2009

120 0844 3 Grab T8/Q4 Clay frags AM 18/09/2009

121 0845/0846 3 Bulk T8/Q4

Clay, brown

silty, angular

stone, charcoal

flecking

GK 18/09/2009

122 0847 3 Grab T8/Q4

Charcoal-

lining of pt, fill

of this is 0846

GK 18/09/2009

123 0844/0845/0846 3 Grab T8/Q4 Clay and silty

loam - surface NG 17/09/2009

124 0844/0845/0846 3 Grab T8/Q4 Ashy charcoal NG 17/09/2009

125 0844 2 5 bags T8/Q4

Cache of bones

closing of

feasting pit

NG 17/09/2009


65

Sample

# Context Feature

Volume

(L/g) Trench

Sample

Justification

Taken

By Date

126 0848 3 Grab T8/Q4 Baked clay

(&bone) SW 19/09/2009

127 0849 3 Grab T8/Q4

Fill of 0848,

charcoal and

bone rich

SW 19/09/2009

128 0905 - T9/Q1

Cracked

cobbles a,

b,c,d,e,f

- 18/09/2009

129 0905 Bulk T9/Q1 Bone - 18/09/2009

130 0838 Bulk T8/Q4 52 pieces of

bone SW 19/09/2009

130 0838 Bulk T8/Q4 Teeth SW 19/09/2009

130 0838 Bulk T8/Q4 Vertebrae SW 19/09/2009

131 0802 Grab T8/Q4 Carbonized

hazelnut shell JW 18/09/2009

132 0844 3 Grab T8/Q4 Clay &

conglomerate AMW 18/09/2009

133 0904 Charcoal T9/Q1 Charcoal AMW 18/09/2009

134 0844 2 Bulk T8/Q4 Bone, jaws,

vertebrae SW 19/09/2009

135 F.4 4 Charcoal non-strat Charcoal frags NG 19/09/2009

136 0844 3 Clay 6

frags T8/Q4

West slab clay

hearth NG 19/09/2009

137 0844 3

Baked

clay 3

frags

T8/Q4 - 09/10/2009

138 0853 4 Grab T8/Q4

Charcoal rich

silty grab (pole

hole)

CD 09/10/2009

139 0852 4 Grab T8/Q4

Charcoal &

sandy-ash? Fill

of souterrain

wall (pole

hole)

CD 09/10/2009

140 0853 4 Charcoal T8/Q4 CD 09/10/2009


66

Appendix 5 Index of Plan and Section Drawings

<o. Scale Description Trench

/ Quad Context Feature

Drawn

By Date

1 1:20 Intramural chamber NW,

paving slabs overlay 8/4

0824,

0825,

0831,

0832

MM/

AW

11-

12/09/2009

2 1:20 Courtyard, SE passage 8/4

0803,

0804,

0820

GS 14/09/2009

3 1:20 SE quarter of T8, w/ TT

trench; intramural stairs 8/4 0809

JD/GS/

CD 14/09/2009

4 1:20 Trench 9 9/1 0446 1 AW 14/09/2009

5 1:20 Trench 9 T1 0817,

0423 1 CD 15/09/2009

6 1:20 Slabs in SE intramural

chamber, overlay 8/4 0842 3 GS 16/09/2009

7 1:20 Intramural gallery and

courtyard 8/4

0820,

0821,

0827

CD 17/09/2009

8 1:20 Outer wall 8/4 0422,

0817 AG/GS 17/09/2009

9 1:20 SW boundary, outer wall 8/4 SE 17/09/2009

10 1:20 Outer wall 8/4 0422 JW 17/09/2009

11 1:40 W corner of site 8/4 0830 AJ 17/09/2009

12 1:20 W corner, outer wall 8/4 AW 18/09/2009

13 1:20 W corner, outer wall 8/4 0817 MW/

MP

18-

19/09/2009

14 1:20 Intramural chamber &

stairs 8/4

0805,

0809,

0841-

0850

3 JW 19/09/2009

15 1:20 Cut (0820) - OHL pole 8/4 4 JW/NG 19/09/2009

16 1:100 Overall site plan Overall - MP 19/09/2009

17 1:20 F.4, base of OHL pole 8/4 4 CD 10/10/2009

Section

1 1:10

F.3 profile of deposits, W-

facing section in SE

intramural chamber

8/4 0846,

0847 3 NG 18/09/2009

2 1:10

Sub-broch passage S side of

broch in T9, E & W

profiles

9/1 0905,

0906 T9 10/10/2009


67

<o. Scale Description Trench

/ Quad Context Feature

Drawn

By Date

3 1:10

South wall face profile of

sub-broch passage, base of

OHL pole hole

9/1

0851,

0853,

0855

4 CD 10/10/2009

4 1:10

North wall face profile of

sub-broch passage, base of

OHL pole hole

9/1

0852,

0857,

0858

4 CD 10/10/2009


68

Appendix 6 Index of 2009 Site Photographs

Photo

#

Trench

#

Location /

Context Description Viewpoint

Date

(2009)

Taken

by

CD1 8 - Last quadrant before de-turfing, and that

darned pole From SW 5.9 CD

CD2 8 - Day 1 deturfing From S 5.9 CD

CD3 8 - Day 1 deturfing From S 5.9 CD

CD4 8 - Nick, Brian, Mary removing topsoil From S 6.9 CD

CD5 8 - Smile for the camera Mary From S 6.9 CD

CD6 8 Outer wall Outer wall beginning to emerge; Time

Team trench uncovered From SE 6.9 CD

CD7 8 Outer wall Worra lorra laffs From SW 6.9 CD

CD8 8 - Time Team trench uncovered; outer wall in

foreground, first step behind

From

WSW 6.9 CD

CD9 8 - Paul and Liz at work - 6.9 CD

CD10 8 Outer wall Paul at work From SW 6.9 CD

CD11 8 Outer wall Outer wall emerges From E 6.9 CD

CD12 8 - Time Team trench uncovered From NE 6.9 CD

CD13 8 Outer wall We are not wall chasing but.. From NE 6.9 CD

CD14 8 General Extent of outer wall begins to emerge From NW 6.9 CD

CD15 8 Outer outer

wall, 0817

Wall emerges at west end near

convergence with outer wall From W 7.9 CD

CD16 8 Outer outer

wall, 0817

Wall emerges at west end near

convergence with outer wall

From

WSW 7.9 CD

CD17 8 Outer wall

Outer wall, in situ wall-facing stones and

collapsed wall-fill. To left, rubble fill of

intramural passage

From NE 7.9 CD

CD18 8 Outer wall

Outer face of outer wall, white limestone

block is last stone in place before collapse

over passage to left.

From NW 7.9 CD

CD19 8 Outer wall Exposed top of outer wall in N of trench 7.9 CD

CD20 8

Entrance to

intramural

passage, 0805

Time Team trench, entrance to passage and

beginning on left of paving which rises to

higher level (not yet exposed)

From SE 7.9 CD

CD21 8

Entrance to

intramural

passage,

0805/0807




From NE 7.9 CD


69

Photo

#

Trench

#

Location /


Date

(2009)

Taken

by

CD22 8

Entrance to

intramural

passage, 0805



higher level (not yet exposed) Are these

the corner stones?, original or later

adaptation. Rim of trough is just visible

under ranging pole. Right end of pole rests

on paving

From N 7.9 CD

CD23 8

Entrance to

intramural

passage, 0805




From SW 7.9 CD

CD24 8 0809/0804

Time Team trench. Behind red end of pole

are two steps. Pole rests on remaining

inner facing stones of outer wall

From

WSW 7.9 CD

CD25 8 0804/0809

Time Team trench. Pole follows line of

inner face of outer wall. Intramural steps to

left

From N 7.9 CD

CD26 8 0808/0809

Time Team trench. Upper of two exposed

steps. In front of this is post setting,

presumed later insertion after closure of

stair

From N 7.9 CD

CD27 8 0808/0809 Time Team trench upper of exposed steps

and, to right, later post setting From ENE 7.9 CD

CD28 8 0808/0809 Time Team trench upper of exposed steps

and, behind, later post setting From S 7.9 CD

CD29 8 Outer wall,

0817

Outer wall outer face and, on left,

converging outer outer wall From S 7.9 CD

CD30 8 Outer wall,

0817

Outer wall outer face and converging outer

outer wall, indicated by large boulder

between bucket and finds tray

From SW 7.9 CD

CD31 - Finds supervisor 7.9 CD

CD32 8 Paved surface,

0807 over 0805

Intramural passage: upper layer of rough

paving over fill over stairs From N 7.9 CD


0807 over 0805


paving over fill of passage. And paved

ramp up within entrance from courtyard

From ENE 7.9 CD


0805, 0807


paving over lower layer, visible on left and

accessed by ramp within entrance passage

From ENE 7.9 CD


0805, 0807


paving over lower layer, under pole, and

ramp to right within entrance passage

From ESE 7.9 CD

CD36 8 Outer wall,

0812

Top of outer wall west of pole, wall fill,

intramural passage behind From W 7.9 CD


70

Photo

#

Trench

#

Location /


Date

(2009)

Taken

by

CD37 8 812

In foreground, compacted rubble and earth

of possible later ramp corresponding to

linear bank exposed in 2008. In

background, outer wall and outer outer

From N 7.9 CD

CD38 8 0812/0817

On left, compacted rubble-earth of

conjectured ramp. Behind, point of

convergence of OW and OOW

From W 7.9 CD

CD39 8 0812/0817

Behind, compacted rubble-earth of

conjectured ramp. On right, point of

convergence of OW and OOW

From SW 7.9 CD

CD40 8 0812 Conjectural later ramp to surviving top of

OW

From

WNW 7.9 CD

CD41 8 General Beginning of day 5 general view of work

so far From SW 8.9 CD

CD42 8 Outer wall The outer wall of the broch on day 5 From S 8.9 CD

CD43 8 Outer wall The outer wall of the broch on day 5 From SW 8.9 CD

CD44 8 - Alan at work 8.9 CD

CD45 8 0812/0817 Removing the earth from the conjectural

ramp up to outer wall head From S 8.9 CD

CD46 8 General General view of work in progress From N 8.9 CD

CD47 8 General General view of work in progress From

NNE 8.9 CD

CD48 8 Ramp, 0812 Top of conjectural ramp, OW wallhead

behind From W 8.9 CD

CD49 8 General Outside north part of outer wall, rubble From N 8.9 CD

CD50 8 General

Outside north part of outer wall, rubble,

outer face of OW in foreground, looking

down from above

From E 8.9 CD

CD51 8 0814 Tree stump in disturbed deposits and

rubble outside N part of OW From W CD

CD52 8 buckets Tea break, empty your buckets 8.9 CD

CD53 8 - Tea break, Andy Heather Alan Mary 8.9 CD

CD54 1 Outer walling Trench 1 extended, emergence of outer,

outer walls From SE 9.9 CD

CD55 1 Outer walling Trench 1 extended, showing emerging

continuation of line of outer, outer walls From SE 9.9 CD

CD56 8

Intramural

passage north,

0821

Passage emerges, rubble fill From NE 10.9 CD

CD57 8 0821/0831

Intramural passage, loose rubble and

cavities evidence for collapse into lower

passage

From

WNW 10.9 CD


71

Photo

#

Trench

#

Location /


Date

(2009)

Taken

by

CD58 8 0821/0831 Intramural passage, loose rubble and voids

at north end From SSE 10.9 CD

CD59 8 - Cait getting midge bites around her midriff 10.9 CD

CD60 8 0821/0831 North intramural passage partially cleared

to possible rough paving

From

NNE 10.9 CD


to possible rough paving From NE 10.9 CD


to possible rough paving

From

SSW 10.9 CD


to possible rough paving From W 10.9 CD

CD64 8 0821 North intramural passage , detail of inner

wall outer face From W 10.9 CD

CD65 8 0821/0827 North intramural passage narrowing and

blocked south end of passage 10.9 CD

CD66 8 - Meryl and Anna 10.9 CD

CD67 8 0823/0826

Neuk created by removal of facing stones

of inner wall inner face and re-setting of

stones into arc

From NW 10.9 CD

CD68 8 0823/0826 Neuk created by removal of facing stones

of inner wall inner face From SE 10.9 CD

CD69 8 0810/0813 Slot trench investigating nature and depth

of deposits outside north part of outer wall From N 11.9 CD

CD70 8 0810/0813 North facing section of slot trench outside

north part of outer wall From N 11.9 CD

CD71 8 Trough, 0805 Trough lying in entrance passage to south

intramural From ENE 13.9 CD

CD72 8 0805 Trough lying in entrance passage to south

intramural From N 13.9 CD

CD73 8 0805/0807 Trough lying in entrance passage to south

intramural. Paving ramp to right From SW 13.9 CD

CD74 8 0805/0807 Trough lying in entrance passage to south

intramural. Paving ramp to right

From

WSW 13.9 CD

CD75 8 Pole, 0820 Excavation of re-deposited fill around

electricity pole From W 13.9 CD

CD76 8 0835

Lower slot trench outside north part of

outer wall. South-facing section. Note

deposit of loose small stone chippings

against wall face

From

SSW 13.9 CD

CD77 8 0835 Lower slot trench exposing probable entire

depth of wall face From W 13.9 CD


72

Photo

#

Trench

#

Location /


Date

(2009)

Taken

by

CD78 8

South

intramural

passage, 0805

Animal bones crammed into gap between

step and outer wall inner face

From

WSW 13.9 CD

CD79 8 0805 Animal bones crammed into gap between


From

above 13.9 CD

CD80 8 0805 Animal bones crammed into gap between


From

above 13.9 CD

CD81 9 0905 Trench 9, exposed tops of ?lintel stones of

? souterrain From NE 13.9 CD

CD82 9 0905 Possible lintel stone and, above, rubble fill

of collapse into passage From SE 13.9 CD

CD83 9 0905 Possible lintel stones of souterrain and

rubble fill of collapsed stone From SE 13.9 CD

CD84 9 0905

Possible lintel stones of souterrain side

‘support’ slabs and rubble fill of collapsed

stone. At top of photo, tag indicates area of

burning

From NE 13.9 CD

CD85 9 0905 Lintels emerging from broch OW From N 13.9 CD

CD86 8 Outer wall North outer face, detail of stonework From

WNW 13.9 CD

CD87 8 Outer wall North outer face, detail of stonework From NW 13.9 CD

CD88 8 Outer wall North outer face, detail of stonework From

NNW 13.9 CD

CD89 8 - Ella Sam, Nick 13.9 CD

CD90 8 Outer wall Wall face fully exposed From

WSW 13.9 CD

CD91 1 Outer walling T1 extension showing line of converging

outer, outer walls From NW 13.9 CD

CD92 1 Outer walling

Outermost wall, in front, outer outer wall

behind and broch outer wall face just

visible at back

From SW 13.9 CD

CD93 1 Outer walling

Outermost wall, in front, outer outer wall

behind and broch outer wall face just

visible at back

From

WSW 13.9 CD

CD94 1 Outer walling Face of outermost wall From SE 13.9 CD

CD95 8 ? Hearth, 0845 Stone setting in courtyard, dark matrix rich

in shell fragments From E 14.9 CD


in shell fragments From SW 14.9 CD


in shell fragments From NW 14.9 CD


in shell fragments From N 14.9 CD


73

Photo

#

Trench

#

Location /


Date

(2009)

Taken

by

CD99 8 Courtyard, 0845 Stone setting in courtyard, dark matrix rich

in shell fragments - 14.9 CD

CD100 8 - Graham 14.9 CD

CD101 8 - Alistair Nick Sam 14.9 CD

CD102 8 - Gordon 14.9 CD

CD103 8

South

intramural

passage,

0805/0842

Paving overlying passage fill From S 15.9 CD

CD104 8 0804/0805/0842 Paving overlying passage fill. Ranging

pole on right indicates wall face From N 15.9 CD

CD105 8 0805 Entrance to south intramural passage,

trough in situ From NE 15.9 CD

CD106 8 0805/0842 Paving overlying passage fill, far ranging

pole indicates wall face From NE 15.9 CD

CD107 8 005/0842 Entrance to south intramural passage,

paving ramp

From

WSW 15.9 CD

CD108 8 0805/0807/0842

Entrance to south intramural passage,

paving. On left is upper layer of paving,

lower on right. Note straight line of

walling on right

From SW 15.9 CD

CD109 8 0805/0842 Entrance to south intramural passage and

paving overlying passage fill From NE 15.9 CD

CD110 8 People Men at work: Alistair and Gordon 15.9 CD

CD111 8 Marked stone,

0843

Outermost wall, pitted marks on top of set

stone From S 16.9 CD

CD112 8 0843 Outermost, pitted marks on top of set stone From S 16.9 CD

CD113 8 0843 Outermost wall, pitted marks on top of set

stone

From

above 16.9 CD

CD114 8 0843 Outermost wall, pitted marks on top of set

stone From N 16.9 CD

CD115 8 Outermost wall,

0843 Row of large set boulders, base of OOOW From N 16.9 CD

CD116 8 0817/0843

Outermost wall in foreground, with outer

outer wall behind, notably large boulder on

left, and broch outer wall at back

From W 16.9 CD


74

Photo

#

Trench

#

Location /


Date

(2009)

Taken

by

CD117 8 0817/0843

Outermost wall in foreground, with outer

outer wall behind, notably large boulder on

left, and broch outer wall at back

From W 16.9 CD

CD118 8 0805/0842

South intramural passage, upper layer of

paving slabs removed to reveal lower

layer, overlying passage fill

From ESE 16.9 CD

CD119 8 0805/0842 Lower layer of paving slabs overlying

passage fill From NW 16.9 CD


passage fill

From

NNW 16.9 CD


passage fill From ENE 16.9 CD

CD122 8

Intramural

passage,

0805/0845

Paving slabs removed to reveal black ash-

rich fill of passage. Two obliquely placed

slabs, one propped on middle of lowest

step, one left of vertical ranging pole

From NW 16.9 CD

CD123 8 0805/0845

Fill of passage under paving, two set slabs,

one leaning against lowest step on left, one

against wall between two red sections of

ranging pole

From SW 16.9 CD

CD124 8 0805/0845 Slab set against wall face, black material

on face of stone is adhesions From SW 16.9 CD

CD125 8 0805/0845 Fill of passage and two set slabs From SE 16.9 CD

CD126 8 0845

Slab set to lean against lowest step, with

lump of adhesions at base. Note deposit of

bones below stone in foreground

From SW 16.9 CD

CD127 8 0843 Outermost wall of broch in W corner From S 16.9 CD

CD128 8 0843 Outermost wall of broch in W corner From NW 16.9 CD

CD129 8

Paving

?entrance,

0859/0860

Possible paved area bounded by large

boulders on west side of broch, may be

earlier entrance

From

NNW 16.9 CD

CD120 8

Paving

?entrance,

0859/0860



earlier entrance

From ESE 16.9 CD

CD131 8

Paving

?entrance,

0859/0860



earlier entrance

From E 16.9 CD

CD132 8 Bone deposit,

0809

Removal of stone reveals deposit of mixed

bones in NW end of passage

From

above 17.9 CD


0809



From

above 17.9 CD


75

Photo

#

Trench

#

Location /


Date

(2009)

Taken

by


0809



From

above 17.9 CD

CD135 8 People, 0809 Ann photographs bone deposit 17.9 CD

CD136 8 People, 0809 Nick photographs the bone deposit 17.9 CD

CD137 8 People, 0805 Excavating the fill of the passage 17.9 CD

CD138 8 People, 0805 Liz Curtis excavating the fill of the

passage 17.9 CD

CD139 8 Hearth,

0805/0845

Adhesion on slab leaning on step: possible

clay hearth lining From SSE 17.9 CD

CD140 8 Hearth,

0805/0845



CD141 8 Hearth,

0805/0845



CD142 8 Hearth,

0805/0845



CD143 8 Hearth,

0805/0845

Adhesion on slab leaning against wall face,

possible clay hearth lining

From

WSW 17.9 CD

CD144 8 People, 0806 Nick uncovers another step 17.9 CD

CD145 8 People, 0806 James on the naughty step 17.9 CD

CD146 8 Buckets Do we have enough buckets? 17.9 CD

CD147 9 Souterrain,

0905

Fallen slab: overburden removed to reveal

cut of passage From N 18.9 CD

CD148 9 Souterrain,

0905


cut of passage From NE 18.9 CD

CD149 9 Souterrain,

0905


cut of passage From SW 18.9 CD

CD150 9 Souterrain,

0905


cut of passage From SE 18.9 CD

CD151 9 Souterrain,

0905


cut of passage From W 18.9 CD

CD152 9 Souterrain,

0905


cut of passage

From

above 18.9 CD

CD153 9 Souterrain,

0905


cut of passage From E 18.9 CD

CD154 8 Paving, 0842

Area north of time team trench which

appears to be an intramural fill,

continuation of paving noted overlying

passage fill and stair

From S 19.9 CD


76

Photo

#

Trench

#

Location /


Date

(2009)

Taken

by


Area north of time team trench which

appears to be an intramural fill,

continuation of paving noted overlying

passage fill and stair

From ENE 19.9 CD


Possible wall face but not the inner wall,

edging to later paving over intramural

space, north of time team trench

From E 19.9 CD

CD157 8

Paving,

deposits, 0842

Overlying inner wall and intramural area,

north of the time team trench. Under

ranging poles is possible paving at high

level. In foreground is beginning of area of

stone chippings

From

NNE 19.9 CD

CD158 8 Edge of paving,

0842

West edge of possible paving at high level,

north of time team trench From W 19.9 CD

CD159 8 Inner wall,

0842

Deposits over fill of inner wall in north

part of Trench, notably small sharp stone

chips. Intramural passage to left, electricity

pole hole to right. Adhesion to large slab is

concrete, modern

From

SSW 19.9 CD

CD160 8 Concrete, 0842

Large slab over fill of inner wall,

undisturbed but with adhesion of modern

concrete

From W 19.9 CD

CD161 8 Inner wall,

0823 Inner wall face, courtyard to left From N 19.9 CD

CD162 8 0823/0826 Inner wall inner face with neuk to left From E 19.9 CD

CD163 8 0823/0826 Inner wall face and neuk in foreground From SSE 19.9 CD

CD164 8

Intramural

passage,

0804/0805/0809

W face (outer wall inner face) of

intramural passage. Lowest excavated step

visible on right. Deposits black, hearthy

From E 19.9 CD

CD165 8 0805/0809 Passage and stair as left at end of 2009

season From SE 19.9 CD

CD166 8 Stair, passage,

0805/0809

Passage and stair as left at end of 2009

season, E face (Inner wall outer face) From W 19.9 CD

CD167 8 Stair, passage,

0805/0809

Deposits within passage as left at end of

2009 season From NW 19.9 CD

CD168 8 General Broch outer walls at end of 2009 season From W 19.9 CD

CD169 8 Entrance,

0859/0860

Set large boulders and possible paving of

possible early entrance

From

WNW 19.9 CD

CD170 8 Outer wall Detail of outer wall face stonework From NW 19.9 CD

CD171 8 Outer wall Detail of outer wall face stonework From

NNW 19.9 CD


77

Photo

#

Trench

#

Location /


Date

(2009)

Taken

by

CD172 8 Outer wall Detail of outer wall face stonework From NW 19.9 CD

CD173 8 Outer wall Detail of outer wall face stonework, best

example of filling stones From NW 19.9 CD

CD174 8 Outer wall Detail of outer wall face stonework From N 19.9 CD

CD175 8 Outer wall Detail of outer wall face stonework,

example of laid small slabs

From

NNW 19.9 CD

CD176 People The team: Alan Mary Ann Cait Cathy

Susan Nick Allan John 19.9 CD

CD177 People The team, last day 19.9 CD

CD178 8 Passage,

0852/0861

NE wall face, backed by orange natural

subsoil cut. On far left is loose backfill

mixed deposits

From S 9.1 CD

CD179 8 0852/0861

NE wall face, backed by orange natural

subsoil cut. On left is loose backfill mixed

deposits and rubble

From SE 9.1 CD

CD180 8 0852/0861

NE wall face, backed to right by orange

natural subsoil cut. On left is loose

backfill mixed deposits and rubble

From SE 9.1 CD

CD181 8 0852/0861

NE wall face, backed to right by orange

natural subsoil cut. On left is loose

backfill mixed deposits

From S 9.1 CD

CD182 8 0851/0853

SW wall face, with loose backfill mixed

deposits to left. Above wall is orange ash

deposit then rubble of broch outer wall

From NE 9.1 CD

CD183 8 0851/0853 SW wall face and overlying ash-charcoal

deposit From NE 9.1 CD

CD184 8 0851 SW wall face From NE 9.1 CD

CD185 8 0851 SW wall face and on left mixed re-deposit

backfill of pole hole

From

NNE 9.1 CD

CD186 8 0851 SW wall face and on left mixed re-deposit

backfill of pole hole

From

NNE 9.1 CD

CD187 8 0851 SW wall face, looking down from above From

above 9.1 CD

applecross broch community archaeology project · plate 1 sf236: antler comb end plate fragment 13...

Documents