bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machrie Moor, Arran: recent excavations at two stone circles
Authors: Haggarty Alison , Henshall Audrey , Grove Richard , Cowie Trevor , Foxon Andrew , McCullagh Roderick , Jordan David , Moffat Brian , Lehane-Magee Daragh
Published: April 2023

Excavations at stone circles 1 and 11 on Machrie Moor revealed previous use of the land on which they were situated, with features dating back to the earlier Neolithic. The exact positions occupied by both circles were found to have been preceded by timber monuments, comprising several elements in the case of circle 1. Evidence for fenced land divisions and ard ploughing between the timber and stone phases was also recovered. Both stone circles contained a single inserted cremation deposit. Stone circle 1 had been dug into in 1861 by James Bryce but circle 11 was previously untouched, having been buried in peat. The ceramic assemblage, though not extensive, produced examples of pottery traditions spanning over a millennium. A catalogue of Neolithic pottery by Audrey Henshall is on microfiche.
Preliminaries
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

Front matter for Volume 121

Table of Contents

Office Bearers and Representatives of the Society, 1990-1

Patron and Honorary Fellows of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 1990-1
Robert Barron Kerr Stevenson
Authors: Maxwell Stuart
Published: April 2023

Robert Stevenson was born in Glasgow in 1913, the only child of W B Stevenson, Professor of Hebrew and Semitic Languages at the University there, and Madge Kerr, a Scot but born near Dublin.
Dorothy Marshall
Authors: Scott Jack G
Published: April 2023

Our Honorary Fellow, Dorothy Nairn Marshall, died in Rothesay on 3 September 1992, in her 93rd year.
Crannogs and chronologies
Authors: Crone B A
Published: April 2023

New radiocarbon dates for south--western Scotland are presented. The relationship between Irish and Scottish crannogs is analysed in the light of these dates and it is suggested that the notion of the crannog, a defended lacustrine homestead consisting of an artificial island encircled by piling, appeared in Scotland early in the first millennium BC and reached Ireland in the late sixth century AD.
The excavation of a group of long cists at Avonmill Road, Linlithgow, West Lothian
Authors: Dalland Magnar , Home Lorimer Daphne
Published: April 2023

Describes the excavation of three long cists. Two skeletons were dated and the results are discussed in relation to radiocarbon dates from other long cist cemeteries. Daphne Home Lorimer reports on `The human bones' (341).
The dating of wooden troughs and dishes
Authors: Earwood Caroline
Published: April 2023

Topological links between wooden artefacts and those made from stone, pottery and metal facilitate the dating of some distinctive styles of wooden container. However, radiocarbon is in many cases the only method of dating those wooden troughs and dishes that are typologically indistinct. This paper reports on the radiocarbon dating of a number of wooden vessels from Scotland.
The form and the fate of Scotland's woodlands
Authors: Tipping Richard
Published: April 2023

Provides an attempt to reconstruct both the natural distribution and composition of Scotland's woodlands, and the spatial patterning, timing and causal mechanisms in their removal. Particular attention is given to recent models of vegetation change, new ideas concerning Mesolithic woodland manipulation, the Mesolithic/Neolithic transition and the current status of elm decline, and to the interplay of climate change and human activity. An appendix provides a directory of published and unpublished works concerning regional-scale mid-late Holocene vegetation history (51--4).
Excavation of a Bronze Age burial at Mousland, Stromness, Orkney
Authors: Downes Jane , Dickson Camilla , French Charles , Hinton Pat , McKinley Jacqueline I , Scaife Robert
Published: April 2023

An earthen burial mound with a surrounding kerb was excavated in 1990. The central cist contained a cremation of an adult, possibly female. A polished stone axe lay outside the cist. A radiocarbon date from charcoal within the cist showed the remains to be of Early/Middle Bronze Age date. The cist and kerb were constructed before the mound, which was built up from successive deposits of turves and soil. Palaeobotanical and micromorphological analyses demonstrate the landscape to have been open grassland and heathland. There are reports on `Mound sequence: the preparation of the ground' by J Downes & C French (143--4), `The contents of the cist' by C Dickson, J Downes, J I McKinley & P Hinton (146--7), `The structure of the mound' by J Downes, C French, P Hinton & R Scaife (147--8).
The use of bone and antler at Foshigarry and Bac Mhic Connain, two Iron Age sites on North Uist, Western Isles
Authors: Hallén Ywonne , O'Neill Marion
Published: April 2023

The rich collections of bone and antler objects from Foshigarry and Bac Mhic Connain, two Iron Age wheelhouse complexes on North Uist, are analysed to determine the raw materials used

(species and anatomical parts) and the production technology of artefact manufacture.  Comparison is made with contemporary assemblages and a picture of the exploitation of animals on these sites attempted.

 

A wide range of objects is represented in the assemblages, primarily tools, with a few ornaments. Working

debris and part-finished objects are also identified, allowing some manufacturing processes to be determined

in detail. The selection of raw materials shows an adaption to the local conditions (eg in the use of whale bone)

and a clear appreciation of the functional value of different materials and bone types.

 

Fresh examination identified some important, previously unrecognized objects, including a whale-bone  vertebral disc with ogam-like decorations which  had been used as a trial piece for an interlace pattern.
The provision of fort-annexes on the Antonine Wall
Authors: Bailey Geoff B
Published: April 2023

A paper suggesting that temporary bath houses were provided in the Wall forts until a planned vallum could be completed behind the Wall. Once the vallum plan was abandoned annexes were attached to each fort and the internal bath houses demolished to be replaced by larger bathing complexes.
Excavation of an early church and a women's cemetery at St Ronan's medieval parish church, Iona
Authors: O'Sullivan Jerry , Carter Stephen , Dixon Dianne , Lorimer Daphne , Turnbull Gordon
Published: April 2023

St Ronan's was the medieval parish church of lona. Excavation within the church recorded remains of an earlier building and graves of various dates, from the early medieval to the modern period. The sex of earlier remains  could not be determined, but all of the later skeletal remains were of women or children, and records attest to  the use of the site as a women's cemetery until the mid-18th century. The discussion considers the antiquity  and origins of the women's cemetery and describes some possible Irish parallels.

 

The earliest graves were overlain by the wall remnants of a small, unicameral, stone building — probably a

church — with clay-bonded and whitewashed walls. The remains of the building were incorporated into the foundations of the medieval parish church. Parallels for the fabric and treatment of the masonry are known  from some  other pre-Romanesque Scottish churches. 

 

Finds from the excavation included a cross-inscribed slab, bronze and bone pins, coffin fittings and nails,  fragments of decorated bronze objects and three medieval coins. 

 

The excavation was funded by the lona Cathedral Trust and Historic Scotland.
Excavations at Duffus castle, Moray
Authors: Cannel John , Tabraham Christopher
Published: April 2023

Reports the results of limited excavations in the bailey during 1984 and 1985 -- before and after work to stabilise the curtain wall. Clear evidence for primary occupation in the twelfth century and a substantial masonry building phase in the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries was revealed.
Tay Street, Perth: the excavation of an early harbour site
Authors: Bowler David , Cachart Ray , Cheer Peter , Cox Adrian , Smith Catherine
Published: April 2023

Excavation confirmed the sixteenth-century and later harbour site -- the second of three known locations. There are notes on `The finds' by Adrian Cox (481--4), `The pottery' by Peter Cheer (484), `The animal bone' by Catherine Smith (484).
Meetings of the Society 1993-4
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

Details of Society meetings held in 1993 – 1994.
Anniversary meeting
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

At the Anniversary meeting the Annual Report was delivered covering topics such as Membership, Meetings, Research and publications. The Treasurer also presented the report on the Society’s finances. The Vice-President delivered the President’s Address in the President’s absence. The Council for the following session was then elected, as were new applicants for Fellowship. A list of Fellows who died during 1993-1994 was presented.

 

Instructions for Contributors are appended.
Archaeological survey of the Bhaltos (Valtos) peninsula, Lewis
Authors: Armit Ian , Dockrill Steve , Neighbour Tim , Pocock Jim , Simpson Ian , Wilson Martin
Published: April 2023

This report describes the results of an archaeological field survey of the Bhaltos peninsula in Lewis. The results

are assessed in the light of both older research and the continuing programmes of excavation and palaeoenvironmental analysis in the area. The examples and distributions of various site-types provide a comparison with more general models recently proposed for settlement in the Western Isles and appear to suggest a series of settlement discontinuities in the Iron Age, Norse and medieval periods.
Craignethan: the castle of the Bastard of Arran
Authors: McKean Charles
Published: April 2023

Mostly historical account of the architecture of the unique fortified villa and of its owner Sir James Hamilton of Finnart, illegitimate great-grandson of James II.
Excavations at Hillslap Tower, Roxburghshire, 1983-4
Authors: Cannel John , Lewis John
Published: April 2023

Excavation within the barmkin of the towerhouse was carried out in advance of renovation. The investigation revealed part of the flagged and cobbled surface of the courtyard and the fragmentary remains of a building abutting the tower. It is thought that this outbuilding belonged to the original, late sixteenth-century layout associated with the tower.
Preserving the Bishop's Castle, Glasgow, 1688-1741
Authors: Murray Athol L
Published: April 2023

An examination of the accepted view that the building fell into ruin after 1688 based on unpublished documentary sources and efforts to save it between 1688 and 1741. `Appendix 1: views showing the Bishop's Castle' (1155--6) and `Appendix 2: documents relating to the Bishop's Castle, 1693--1736' (1157--60) conclude proceedings.
The Marchmont or St Ronan's Arrow
Authors: Burnett John , Dalgleish George R
Published: April 2023

An article considering a silver arrow, given as a prize in medieval revivalist games of the nineteenth century. There are appendices on `The medals attached to the Marchmont Arrow' (1183--5) and on nineteen other `Scots silver arrows' dating to between 1603 and 1850 (1185--6).
Meetings of the Society, 1994-95
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

Details of Society meetings held in 1994 – 1995.
Some excavations on the line of the Antonine Wall 1985-93
Authors: Keppie Lawrence J F , Bailey Geoff B , Dunwell Andrew J , McBrien J H , Speller Keith , Bateson J D , Boardman S , Dickson C , Henig M , Tipping R , Webster P V
Published: April 2023

Presents the results of twenty-one excavations and watching briefs along the Wall. The alignment of the Wall and the position of fort defences were identified in several places. New information about the superstructure of the Wall, soldiers' diet, and the contemporary environment was obtained. There are specialist reports on: Botanical remains from the inner ditch' by Sheila Boardman & Camilla Dickson (653); `Plant macrofossils' by Sheila Boardman (654--5); and `Pollen analysis' by Camilla Dickson (655--6). `Appendix 1: casual finds along the Wall' edited by G B Bailey (661--3) includes notes on pottery fragments from P V Webster (661), an intaglio by M Henig (661--2), and coins by J D Bateson (663). `Appendix 2: Mungo Buchanan's account of excavations at Watling Lodge in 1894' edited by G B Bailey (664--5), `Appendix 3: analysis of rampart material Tayavalla' by R Tipping (666), and `Appendix 4: analysis of botanical remains from Kirkintilloch' by Sheila Boardman & Camilla Dickson (666--8) complete proceedings.
A Viking Age cemetery at Cnip, Uig, Isle of Lewis
Authors: Dunwell Andrew J , Cowie Trevor G , Bruce Margaret F , Neighbour Tim , Rees Alastair , Finlayson B , Kerr N , Murray N , Strachan R J
Published: April 2023

Six burials of ninth--tenth-century date recorded between 1991 and 1994, plus one tenth-century burial recorded in 1979, lead to the suggestion that the headland was a Viking cemetery area. There is an appendix `Surface collection of artefacts' by Tim Neighbour & Andrew Dunwell (747--9).
An unusual lithic assemblage from Lunanhead, Angus
Authors: Wickham-Jones Caroline R , Mackenzie James R
Published: April 2023

In July 1993 the Scottish Urban Archaeological Trust Ltd (SUAT) carried out an extensive field evaluation funded by Historic Scotland in advance of a housing development near Lunanhead, Angus. From the base of a natural depression 28 flint artefacts were recovered. One further piece was retrieved from the topsoil. Although small, this assemblage represents an important find combining evidence of a rare commodity in Scotland: good-quality flint nodules, with technological evidence of a broad blade industry, of which Scotland has few examples to date.
A Neolithic ring-mound at Midtown of Pitglassie, Auchterless, Aberdeenshire
Authors: Shepherd Alexandra , Henshall Audrey S , Powell Faye , Rapson Sheila , Wickham-Jones Caroline
Published: April 2023

In Autumn 1978, excavation took place on a small round mound at Midtown of Pitglassie where digging in the 1950s had produced Neolithic and Bronze Age pottery and lithics. The excavation was organized by the Ancient Monuments Inspectorate of the Department of the Environment, now Historic Scotland, with whose assistance this report is published. The excavation revealed an original annular mound, composed of circular banks of stone, earth and turf. The central area was filled with stone rubble, mostly disturbed and redeposited in the 1950s, but with one remnant of a possible central cairn. Pre-mound activity included turf-stripping and cremation, followed by the formal deposition in a number of pits of cremated bone (from, probably, one

individual), accompanied by pottery and lithics, including a Neolithic leaf-shaped arrowhead. In addition to these specific deposits, pottery of Grimston Lyles Hill tradition, numerous quartz and further flint pieces were found within the mound and fragments of Beaker were recovered from the disturbed central area. Remnants of a possible circle of stone settings were found around the perimeter of the monument. Radiocarbon dates for charcoal from a cremation pit and the pre-mound surface provided dates of between 3964 and 3342 cal BC.
Dunstaffnage Castle, Argyll & Bute: excavations in the north tower and east range, 1987-94
Authors: Lewis John , Graves P , Caldwell D , Holmes N M McQ , Smith H , Will R , Gallagher D , Murdoch K R , Boardman S , O'Sullivan T , Thoms J
Published: April 2023

Reports excavations in areas thought to encompass the donjon and hall respectively. Traces of an early curtain wall predating the north tower were found. At ground level, two window embrasures were revealed in the east wall of the building and, on its south side, a doorway into a passage linking with the east range. In the late seventeenth or eighteenth century the passage was blocked and a fireplace inserted into the north gable of the east range, which was occupied at least until the late eighteenth century. There are specialist reports on: `Sculptured stones' by Pamela Graves (576--8); `Coins' by Nicholas M McQ Holmes (578--9); `Other small finds' by David Caldwell (579--87); `Pottery' by Helen Smith (587 & 589) followed by `Medieval and post-medieval pottery' by Robert S Will (589--90); `Clay tobacco pipes' by Dennis B Gallagher (590--6); `Vessel glass' by K R Murdoch (596--7); The environmental evidence begins with `Charcoal' by Sheila Boardman (597), followed by `Faunal remains' by Tanya O'Sullivan & Jennifer Thoms (597--8).
Linlithgow Palace: an excavation in the west range and a note on finds from the palace
Authors: Caldwell David , Lewis John
Published: April 2023

This report outlines the results of an archaeological excavation withing one of the cellars in 1987, and lists finds from this and other excavations and clearance work carried out in and around the palace over a number of years. The catalogue also reviews some material published elsewhere. Some of the finds shed new light on the palace and its occupants. Pottery, clay pipes, window glass and cames, wine glasses, copper alloy objects, iron objects, a bone mount, woodwork, stone, plasterwork, leather, are included.
Excavation and watching brief at Newbigging Pottery, Musselburgh, East Lothian
Authors: Haggarty George , McIntyre Alison
Published: April 2023

Reports work carried out in December 1987 to January 1988 on the site of a nineteenth-century pottery kiln. The base of a large kiln was recorded, beneath which there was evidence for three earlier kilns. Thousands of pottery sherds were recovered. Details of all known marked Newbigging ceramics are also listed for the first time in an appendix (958--60).
Meetings of the Society 1995-6
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

Details of Society meetings held in 1995 – 1996.
Palaeolithic handaxes in Scotland
Authors: Saville Alan , O'Neil Marion
Published: April 2023

The occurrence and typology of artefacts of handaxe type in Scotland are reviewed and it is concluded that, though some are genuine Lower Palaeolithic implements, none of these finds provides convincing evidence for Early Palaeolithic human presence in Scotland.
Iron Age coins in Scotland
Authors: Hunter Fraser
Published: April 2023

A Corieltauvian plated stater recently discovered at Galadean, Borders, is described and the few other IA coin finds from Scotland are summarized. Attempts are made to explain why the people of northern Britain did not adopt coinage, in terms of relationships between the area and the coin-using south in the late pre-Roman IA. There is an `Appendix: Iron Age coins from northern England' (522--3).
Lecture summaries 1996-7
Authors: Ralston Ian , Gabra-Sanders Thea , Sherratt Andrew , Stockdale David
Published: April 2023

Four lecture summaries:Mont Beuvray and the later Iron Age settlement record of central FranceAn important collection of archaeological textiles from Sillerholes, West Linton: a preliminary reportWith baleful weeds and precious-juiced flowers: Grooved Ware, grape-cups and prehistoric pharmacognosyAdmiral Duncan: a forgotten national hero
Anniversary meeting
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

At the Anniversary meeting the Annual Report was delivered covering topics such as Membership, Meetings, Research and publications. The Treasurer also presented the report on the Society’s finances. The Editor also reported on the production of the Proceedings. The Council for the following session was then elected, as were new applicants for Fellowship. A list of Fellows who died during 1996-1997 was presented.At the Anniversary meeting the Annual Report was delivered covering topics such as Membership, Meetings, Research and publications. The Treasurer also presented the report on the Society’s finances. The Editor also reported on the production of the Proceedings. The Council for the following session was then elected, as were new applicants for Fellowship. A list of Fellows who died during 1996-1997 was presented.

Notes for Contributors are appended.
Anniversary meeting
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

At the Anniversary meeting the Annual Report was delivered covering topics such as Membership, Meetings, Research and publications. The Treasurer also presented the report on the Society’s finances. The Dorothy Marshall Medal and the R B K Stevenson award were then presented. The Council for the following session was elected, as were new applicants for Fellowship. A list of Fellows who died during 1997-1998 was presented.At the Anniversary meeting the Annual Report was delivered covering topics such as Membership, Meetings, Research and publications. The Treasurer also presented the report on the Society’s finances. The Dorothy Marshall Medal and the R B K Stevenson award were then presented. The Council for the following session was elected, as were new applicants for Fellowship. A list of Fellows who died during 1997-1998 was presented.

Notes for Contributors are appended.
St Germains, Tranent, East Lothian: the excavation of Early Bronze Age remains and Iron Age enclosed and unenclosed settlements
Authors: Alexander Derek , Watkins Trevor , Gleeson A , Hunter F , Sheridan A , Thoms J
Published: April 2023

Reports on investigations undertaken between 1978 and 1982 which revealed a penannular ring-ditch, ring-groove houses and a polygonal enclosure with antennae ditches. Evidence suggests that this enclosure was later replaced by a more substantial ditch and bank which then became levelled when a series of stone-paved houses were constructed. There are specialist contributions on: `Early Bronze Age artefacts' by Alison Sheridan (212); `Small finds' by Fraser Hunter (233--40); `Coarse stone' by Abigail C Gleeson (240--2); and `Animal bone' by Jennifer Thoms (242).
A survey of crannogs in the Lake of Menteith, Stirlingshire
Authors: Henderson Jon C
Published: April 2023

Identifies four sites with the aid of aerial photography, side-scan sonar survey, echo-sounding and underwater exploration by divers.
Neolithic and later prehistoric structures, and early medieval metal-working, at Blairhall Burn, Amisfield, Dumfriesshire
Authors: Strachan Richard , Ralston Ian , Finlayson Bill , Clarke C M , Cowie T G , Crone B A , Cullen I , Hunter F , Sheridan A , Wickham-Jones C R
Published: April 2023

Discusses excavations which revealed evidence for multiple phases of activity including two burnt mounds, two round-houses, part of a probable ring-groove structure which may be a platform house and a metal-working area, with the main foci on the Late Neolithic, Bronze Age and early medieval periods. There are specialist contributions on: ceramics from all periods in the `Pottery report' by Trevor Cowie (70--5); `Coarse stone artefacts' by Caroline R Wickham-Jones (75--7); `Chipped stone' by Bill Finlayson (77--8); `Stone axehead flake' by Alison Sheridan (78--9); `Cannel coal 'napkin ring'' by Fraser Hunter (79--82); `Burnt and industrial debris' by Irene Cullen (82--3); and `Palynological analysis of burnt mound material' by Ciara Clarke (84--6).
Excavation of two cairns, a cist and associated features at Sanaigmhor Warren, Islay, Argyll and Bute
Authors: Cook Murray , Rankin D , Ellis C , Cowie R , Sheridan A , McSweeney K
Published: April 2023

A rescue excavation in a machair blow-out at Sanaigmhor Warren, Islay, recovered two urned cremations, one under a cairn comprised mainly of white quartz, and the other in a cist, associated with an orthostat. The cremations were radiocarbon dated to the IA. The paper sets these finds in their local and regional context, and briefly discusses burial practices in the period concerned. The Sanaigmhor Warren area is discussed in terms of its future archaeological potential.
Evidence for extramural settlement north of the Roman fort at Newstead (Trimontium), Roxburghshire
Authors: Clarke Simon , Wise Alicia
Published: April 2023

Excavations in 1996 revealed information about the fort defences, north and west annexe defences, amphitheatre, and first- and second-century AD extramural settlement. This contributes to the debate on the function and status of annexes both at Newstead and in other contemporary Roman forts, and to understanding of Roman interaction with the indigenous population. Proposed identification of a small amphitheatre underlies that status of Newstead as a major military base, but also suggests that arenas were far more common than has generally been recognised, stimulating a search for similar structures at other Roman sites in Scotland.
Preliminaries
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

Front matter for Volume 129

Table of Contents

Editorial Board for the Proceedings, 1998-9

Society of Antiquaries of Scotland Council for 1998-9

Patron and Honorary Fellows of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 1998-9

Laws of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland
Artificial platforms of possible Iron Age or Dark Age date on Dùn Mór, Dornie, Skye & Lochalsh
Authors: Neighbour Tim , Cressey M , Clarke A , Warren G
Published: April 2023

Report a topographical survey and trial excavations that were conducted on a tree-covered ridge near Dornie. A number of artificially enhanced platforms were discovered at different levels on the ridge; these had been created by connecting bedrock outcrops with retaining walls. Walls delimit access to the ridge from the south-east, where there is an isolated platform. A well defined pathway, enhanced in two places by retaining walls, dog-legs up the southern side of the ridge from the edge of Loch Duich. An oval cairn, covering a `grave-shaped' hole, was discovered on one platform. Worked quartz, modern pottery, glass and iron objects were found in the dumped material behind the walls. While radiocarbon dates from two securely sealed deposits are consistent with the interpretation that the site is an Iron Age or Dark Age fortified ridge site, its morphology is slightly different from most well-known examples. Includes separately authored reports on:
Lecture summaries 1999 - 2000
Authors: Henig Martin , Jones Richard , Durie Alastair , Darvill Timothy
Published: April 2023

Four lecture summaries:Roman Britain as protectorate, political symbol and military training-groundScience and the passed: the archaeology of excrementScottish hydro-hotels and the tourist industry in 19th-century ScotlandThe Billown Neolithic Landscape Project, Isle of Man: changing perceptions of the western seaways in early prehistory
Anniversary meeting
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

At the Anniversary meeting the Annual Report was delivered covering topics such as Membership, Meetings, the activities of the Society and publications. The Treasurer also presented the report on the Society’s finances. The Council for the following session was elected, as were new applicants for Fellowship. A list of Fellows who died during 1999-2000 was presented. The President then gave the President's Address.
The date and context of the Glamis, Angus, carved Pictish stones
Authors: Laing Lloyd
Published: April 2023

The widely accepted eighth-century dating for the Pictish relief-decorated cross-slabs known as Glamis 2 and Glamis 1 is reviewed, and an alternative ninth-century date advanced for both monuments. It is suggested that the carving on front and back of Glamis 2 was contemporaneous, and that both monuments belong to the Aberlemno School.
The 17th-century doublet from Keiss, near Wick, Caithness
Authors: Tarrant Naomi
Published: April 2023

A woollen doublet found on a virtually complete skeleton was unearthed in peat cutting at Clayton Hill, Keiss, in 1975, and proved to belong to a young man of about 17. The doublet is a rare example of clothing for a person belonging to a less wealthy stratum of society.
Gerard Baldwin Brown (1849-1932): the recording and the preservation of monuments.the recording and preservation of monuments
Authors: Breeze David J
Published: April 2023

Account of the life and work of a pioneer in the preservation and restoration of ancient monuments.
An Iron Age child burial at Dunbar Golf Course, East Lothian
Authors: Baker Louise , Henderson D , Hunter F
Published: April 2023

Radiocarbon date of cal AD75--242. Copper alloy penannular brooch placed with burial unusually small. Contributions on:
A group of cache balls from St Andrews
Authors: Carradice Ian , Walton Rogers P
Published: April 2023

Balls made from tightly wound yarn with leather covers.
Meetings of the Society 2001-2002
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

Details of Society meetings held in 2001 – 2002.
Excavations at Geirisclett chambered cairn, North Uist, Western Isles
Authors: Dunwell Andrew , Johnson Melanie , Armit Ian , Carter S , Cerón-Carrasco R , Church M , Cressey M , Finlayson B , McKinley J , Thoms J
Published: April 2023

This report describes the results of excavations undertaken within the burial chamber and entrance area of the chambered cairn at Geirisclett, North Uist, Western Isles in 1996–7. The chamber of this cairn had been investigated by Erskine Beveridge in the early years of the 20th century, and the work described here was conducted because of the threat of tidal scouring of any remains which had survived previous attention. The excavation revealed evidence of disturbed Neolithic and Beaker funerary deposits within the two compartments of the chamber, which on architectural grounds falls into Henshall’s Clyde group. The burial chamber appears to have been used over the same time period both by humans as a burial place and by otters as a holt. The application of palaeoenvironmental studies has allowed the formation processes of the deposits and artefacts in the chamber to be understood, permitting the character of the burial rites to be better appreciated. The past and present landscape setting of the chambered cairn is considered briefly. The excavations, post-excavation

studies and publication of this report were funded by grants made by Historic Scotland.
Excavation at Manish Strand, Ensay, Western Isles
Authors: Simpson D D A , Gregory Richard A , Murphy Eileen M , Cram L , Gibson A , Hamilton-Dyer S , Nelis E
Published: April 2023

Survey and excavation at Manish Strand, Ensay, Western Isles in 1965, identified two midden deposits which date to the later Neolithic and Early Bronze Age. Two ‘pit’ burials containing Late Bronze Age human inhumations were also discovered during the course of the excavation.
A Viking Age weight from Cleat, Westray, Orkney
Authors: Maleszka Monika
Published: April 2023

A Viking-period barrel-shaped weight, found at Cleat, on Westray, is discussed in the context of other weights and contemporary Islamic and Scandinavian/Islamic weight systems.
The Bishop's Castle, Glasgow, 1598-1744
Authors: Murray Athol L
Published: April 2023

A previous paper in these Proceedings (Murray 1995) described the castle in its final form in the 1690s and its gradual destruction over the following century. Since then a study of the Bishop of Moray’s castle of Spynie has pointed to similarities between it and Glasgow. Examination of other sources has documented two periods of building activity which have escaped previous notice. The first involves repairs and alterations carried out by the Duke and Duchess of Lennox after 1598; the second work undertaken by Archbishop Ross between 1680 and 1686. In addition further light is thrown on Robert Thomson’s role in the destruction of the castle from 1715 onwards.
Tradition and change in the age of Improvement
Authors: Maudlin Daniel
Published: April 2023

This paper is an historical and architectural case-study of the remaining Argyll tacksmen’s houses in Morvern, built during the first phase of agricultural Improvement between 1754 and 1819. It is argued that this group of buildings represents the last phase of clan warfare in the region, built by tacksmen acting as colonizing agents of Campbell control and polity over relatively recently acquired MacLean territory.
John Law's Theory of Money and its roots in Scottish culture
Authors: Pittock Murray G H
Published: April 2023

This paper seeks to place the well-known lineaments of Law’s System in France within the context not only of his earlier writings on the Scottish economy but also in the dimension of his lived experience as a 17th-century Scot, the son of a goldsmith-banker, and a man acutely conscious both of the history of his country’s unstable monetary policy, and also of the final crisis into which it was lurching in his own day.
The evidence of finds for the circulation and use of coins in medieval Scotland
Authors: Holmes N M McQ
Published: April 2023

Single finds of coins minted between the twelfth century and 1603 are analysed, and the evidence compared with that provided by hoards and documents, in an attempt to determine which coins were being used for which purposes at various times. Lists of coin finds are appended for a number of important sites not included in the regular surveys published in this journal, and the possible significance of these larger accumulations is discussed. Includes
The archaeology of burgage plots in Scottish medieval towns: a review
Authors: Coleman Russel , Smith Catherine
Published: April 2023

Burgage plots, typically narrow strips of land with a house near the street frontage, are one of the most striking features of the medieval townscape. Archaeological excavations in Scottish burghs over the last twenty-five years have recovered considerable evidence concerning their nature, development and function, and the paper aims to provide an overview of the archaeological evidence for this feature of Scottish burghs. Includes a specialist report on
Excavations at Kaimes Hill, Ratho, City of Edinburgh, 1964 -72
Authors: Simpson D D A , Gregory Richard A , Murphy Eileen M , Clarke A , Cram L , Gormley S , Holmes N M McQ , Hunter F , McCartney M , McGill C , Nelis E
Published: April 2023

Kaimes Hill, City of Edinburgh, has been the focus for both antiquarian and modern archaeological research since at least the mid-nineteenth century and has produced evidence for activity dating from the Mesolithic through to the medieval period. The paper assimilates this evidence, provides a complete account of the excavations undertaken over the ramparts, `hut circles', prehistoric ritual and funerary monuments by D D A Simpson between 1964--72, and presents the results obtained from recent artefactual analysis and radiocarbon dating. Specialist reports include
The gardens of Glamis: an aerial view
Authors: Brown Marilyn M
Published: April 2023

Traces of the gardens laid out around Glamis Castle in the late 17th century have been recorded during aerial survey. The paper discusses the form of the gardens, the indications of earlier features, their character and their destruction. Documentation relating to the estate, the architectural sketches on the Pont manuscript maps and the results from geophysical survey are considered in relation to the evidence from the cropmarks.
Axminster carpet manufacture in Edinburgh in the mid-18th century
Authors: Habib Vanessa
Published: April 2023

Hand-knotted carpets in the Turkey and Persia styles became fashionable in the 1750s when weavers from the Royal Savonnerie Carpet Manufactory at Chaillot near Paris settled in London. An English manufactory developed in Exeter under Claude Passavant, in Axminster under Thomas Whitty and in London under Thomas Moore. These carpets subsequently became known generically as ‘Axminster’ carpets after the fame of Whitty’s manufactory spread. Recent research has revealed that a French carpet weaver came to Scotland in the mid-18th century and established an Axminster manufactory in Edinburgh and Fife. Local merchants and upholsterers also took up the business. None of their carpets have so far come to light, but we are able to trace the origins and progress of this early stage in the carpet manufacture from the historical records.
What's cooking? New radiocarbon dates from the earliest phases of the Perth High Street excavations and the question of Perth's early medieval origin
Authors: Hall Mark , Hall Derek , Cook Gordon
Published: April 2023

The results of recent Historic Scotland-sponsored radiocarbon dating of residues on Shelly Ware pottery from the earliest phases of the mid-1970s Perth High Street excavations are discussed. The dating suggests settlement activity in the late-tenth to early-eleventh century. The two key strands of the discussion are the exploration of early medieval Perth and its environs and the need to re-evaluate the earliest phasing of the Perth High Street excavation.
Redcastle, Lunan Bay, Angus
Authors: Alexander Derek , Carter S , Church M , Cressey M , Hunter F , Ingemark D , Jackson A , MacSween A , McGill C , Oldham D , Sinfield L , Tams A , Warren G , Hicks K , Mudie G , Braby A
Published: April 2023

Cropmarks of a cemetery containing square- and round-ditched burials were excavated at Redcastle in 1997 and 1998. A total of sixteen graves was recorded: five in square barrows, two in round barrows and nine unenclosed graves. Another round barrow is clearly visible on the aerial photograph outside the excavation area. Preservation of the graves and the human remains therein varied considerably. Analysis of the bones identified two females, three possible females and one possible male. Radiocarbon dating showed that the burials dated from the third to eighth centuries AD. There was no readily apparent connection between gender or age and the use of square or round ditches to enclose the graves. Some evidence was recovered for Neolithic activity in the area while the remains of a timber-lined souterrain were also excavated. The fill of the souterrain contained a range of artefacts including native and Roman pottery, Roman glass and iron tools. Detailed palaeoenvironmental studies were undertaken of the basal deposits in an attempt to clarify the use of the souterrain. Radiocarbon dates indicate that it was in use prior to and during the first to fourth centuries AD. Includes separately authored reports on
Roman and medieval coins found in Scotland, 2001-2005
Authors: Bateson J D , Holmes N M McQ
Published: April 2023

Coins and other numismatic finds from some 270 locations across Scotland are listed and discussed.
Stone emplacement in early Scottish churches: evidence of Early Christian craftsmanship
Authors: Potter John F
Published: April 2023

Although it has become customary to suggest that the first stone ecclesiastical buildings in Scotland date from the earliest 12th century, this examination of stone emplacement indicates that English Saxon-style craftsmanship is evident in a number of early Scottish churches. It seems probable that, as in England, pre-Norman Conquest masons in Scotland chose to emplace many of their stones, in structures like quoins and jambs, with the bedding orientated vertically. The recognition of the existence of pre-12th century stone churches in Scotland is consistent with the prevalence of other forms of early Christian stoneworking in that period.
The aerodynamics of carved stone balls
Authors: Todd T N
Published: April 2023

Over 400 carved stone balls have been found in Scotland, usually attributed to the Neolithic period and often described as `unknown in function' or `probably ritualistic'. The article offers a new hypothesis for their use, demonstrating that these balls are unexpectedly well optimized, in terms of their aerodynamics and mass, for unaided throwing by hand. This may explain their otherwise surprising uniformity in size and weight and their generally rough surface texture (which reduces air drag), due to carving and/or picking-out left unpolished. The mass distribution for over 200 examples held in various Scottish museums and archive stores is presented in support of this hypothesis. Includes
Rethinking Scotland's Neolithic: combining circumstance with context
Authors: Brophy Kenneth
Published: April 2023

In 1985 a review of Scottish Neolithic studies from an outside perspective written by Ian Kinnes was published in the Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. Kinnes's paper offered a discussion of the state of knowledge of Scotland's Neolithic at that time, reviewing forty years of excavation results. He was also critical of, as he saw it, the parochial and derivative nature of Neolithic studies in Scotland. In this paper, written 20 years after Kinnes’s significant contribution, the response to this charge will be discussed. A review of major developments in Neolithic studies since 1985 has also been undertaken, the results of which are included here. The impact of developer-funded archaeology and aerial photography in particular has generated substantial new data not available to Kinnes; these data have been generated within a new theoretical climate in Neolithic studies, and this too will be addressed. Reviews of evidence for settlement and monuments are presented as case studies to exemplify progress made since 1985.
Kenneth Arthur Steer
Authors: Dunbar John G , Maxwell Gordon S
Published: April 2023

Because he enjoyed an unusually long life, and spent the last three decades or so of it in retirement in Gloucestershire, Kenneth Steer’s name is not as familiar to the present generation of archaeologists as it should be.
Excavation at Orquil souterrain, St Ola, Orkney
Authors: Simpson D D A , Murphy Eileen M , Gregory Richard A , McCartney M
Published: April 2023

In July 1971 a souterrain was excavated at Orquil, St Ola, Orkney. Although it is generally typical of many Orcadian souterrains, a lower subsidiary pit feature was identified during the course of excavation which appears to be a novel feature of souterrain construction.
Annual Report for the year 2006 -2007
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

At the Anniversary meeting the Annual Report was delivered covering topics such as Research grants, events, the activities of the Society and publications. The Treasurer also presented the report on the Society’s finances. A list of newly elected Fellows was read, and a list of deceased Fellows is included. The President's Address was then delivered.
New aspects of rotary querns in Scotland
Authors: McLaren Dawn , Hunter Fraser
Published: April 2023

This paper discusses aspects of Scottish rotary quern use which have received little attention in thepast, such as handling systems (particularly horizontal slot-handled querns), decoration and anunrecognised class of miniature examples. The growing corpus of rotary querns is starting to revealregional patternings and concentrations of particular decorative styles. This ongoing investigationsuggests that the picture is more complex than previously understood.
The later prehistory of 'black holes': regionality and the south-west Scottish Iron Age
Authors: Cavers Graeme
Published: April 2023

The Iron Age archaeology of south-west Scotland has always been anonymous in national synthesesof the period in comparison to better studied areas. This lack of attention does not reflect the qualityof the archaeological record however, which testifies to a rich and diverse later prehistoric society.This paper is a discussion of the range and nature of the evidence for Iron Age society in Dumfries andGalloway west of the Nith, considering affinities with other areas, particularly the Atlantic regions tothe north, and exploring the reasons for the form and distribution of Iron Age monuments in the area.It is argued that a reanalysis of our definition and interpretation of fundamental characteristics oflater prehistoric society, such as domestic monumentality, may be rewarding in heterogeneous andunsorted areas such as Galloway.

*This paper was awarded the RBK Stevenson Award
A Shetland Viking comb in Copenhagen
Authors: Stummann Hansen Steffen
Published: April 2023

With the founding of The Society of Northern Antiquaries in 1825, Copenhagen became a centre forworldwide archaeology. A network of agents helped establish an extensive collection of artefacts.The Danish governor in the Faroe Island, Christian Pløyen, acted as such when he visited Shetlandin 1839. One of the interesting objects he secured for Copenhagen was a fragment of a Viking comb,which until now has been stored unnoticed in the National Museum of Denmark.
A fragment of a Pictish symbol-bearing slab with carving in relief from Mail, Cunningsburgh, Shetland
Authors: Ritchie Anna
Published: April 2023

A fragment of carved stone found in March 2008 is considered likely to be part of a Pictish cross-slab of eighth- to tenth-century date. It bears a double disc and Z-rod within a frame and part of an interlace design, carved in incision and low relief. This is the fifth symbol-bearing monument known from Shetland and the only one to bear this particular symbol. Each disc is infilled with a cross of arcs, but it is uncertain whether this is purely decoration or whether it has Christian meaning.
Viking Age and Late Norse gold and silver from Scotland: an update
Authors: Graham-Campbell James
Published: April 2023

There are two parts to this paper, the first of which takes the form of addenda and corrigenda (mainlyof an antiquarian nature) to the author’s catalogue of Viking Age and Late Norse gold and silverfrom Scotland (Graham-Campbell 1995). The second part brings together (and catalogues) all therelevant finds that have either been discovered or newly recognised during the decade since itspublication (to 2006).
Brotchie's Steading, Dunnet, Caithness: a 19th-century croft house and earlier settlement mound
Authors: Holden Timothy , Franklin Julie , Hastie Mhairi , Henderson David , Walker Bruce
Published: April 2023

Brotchie’s steading is a ruined croft house that is of particular interest because several large fragmentsof worked whale mandible were recently recovered from one of the rooms. These were identified ashaving supported the roof of the building as a pair of cruck blades (a Highland couple).

The excavation programme was initially designed to further examine the role of whale bonesas a construction material within the context of the Caithness croft house. Excavations in 2001revealed a further element of in situ whale bone that enabled an informed reconstruction of theoriginal structure. The investigations on site also identified at least 1.5m of stratigraphy exposedin the bank to the west of the site, indicating at least four phases of building beneath the ruinedcroft house.

Subsequent trial trenching determined that the bank upon which Brotchie’s steading now sitsis largely man-made and part of an extensive settlement mound. The base of the sequence, in thesouthern part of the site, revealed what appears to have been an occupation surface, and materialfrom this provided a date in the range 390–170 BC. At the north end of the site a thick layer of stonerubble associated with a clay- and stone-lined pit and two red deer antler picks was identified.Radiocarbon determination of samples of antler and cow bone indicate further occupation of thesite in the first–third centuries ad. The overlying strata supported by a sequence of radiocarbondates and finds indicate that the site was also a focus of human activity in the fifth, 13th and 15thcenturies AD up until the early 20th century. While the full extent of the site is currently unknown,the possibility presents itself that the adjacent knoll, upon which Dunnet Kirk now sits, forms a partof a major archaeological site that has seen almost continuous, or at least regular, occupation forover two millennia.
Annual Report for the year 1 July 2007 -30 June 2008
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

At the Anniversary meeting the Annual Report was delivered covering topics such as Research grants, events, the activities of the Society and publications. The Treasurer also presented the report on the Society’s finances. A list of newly elected Fellows was read, and a list of deceased Fellows from 2007-2008 is included. New members of Council were then elected.
Prelims
Authors: - -
Published: April 2023

Front matter for Volume 138

Table of Contents

List of abbreviations commonly used in the Proceedings

Editorial board for the Proceedings Vol 138

Society of Antiquaries of Scotland Council from 30 November 2007

Patron and Honorary Fellows of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 2007-8

Laws of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland