A Shell-Heap at Polmonthill, Falkirk

Abstract

A large shell heap on a raised beach was discovered by mechanical excavator. It measured 170 x 25 x 1.5 yards and comprised 6-7 million oyster shells with occasional mussels, winkles, cockles and buckies. Burnt layers with charcoal and heat-fractured pebbles were also present. A vertical sided pit was dug into the heap at an unknown date.