Colonsay, Airstrip
Lithic Scatter (Prehistoric), Pit(S) (Period Unassigned), Pottery Scatter (Period Unassigned), Shell Midden (Period Unassigned)(Possible), Structure (Period Unassigned), Animal Remains(S) (Bone)(Period Unassigned)
Site Name Colonsay, Airstrip
Classification Lithic Scatter (Prehistoric), Pit(S) (Period Unassigned), Pottery Scatter (Period Unassigned), Shell Midden (Period Unassigned)(Possible), Structure (Period Unassigned), Animal Remains(S) (Bone)(Period Unassigned)
Canmore ID 294078
Site Number NR39SE 144
NGR NR 359 930
Datum OSGB36 - NGR
Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/site/294078
- Council Argyll And Bute
- Parish Colonsay And Oronsay
- Former Region Strathclyde
- Former District Argyll And Bute
- Former County Argyll
NR39SE 144 359 930
NR 359 930 A programme of archaeological monitoring works were carried out in March and April 2006 observing all ground-breaking work associated with the development of Colonsay Airfield. Most of the monitoring works uncovered little more than relatively recent field systems, Area 8, however, produced a significant number of artefacts which appear to be associated with a core of archaeological activity. This comprised the remains of a circular drystone structure, revetted into the sand and a complex of pits to the N of this structure which are being viewed as contemporary. A small number of other associated features were also identified. A preliminary date in the later prehistoric period has been put forward pending further investigation.
Through the excavation process a large number of artefacts, including a large selection of both pottery and lithic material, were retrieved. A significant number of marine shell and animal bone deposits were also identified in relation to the main archaeological features. From these it is hoped that a number of questions about the site might be answered, particularly concerning issues of dating, subsistence and economy.
These excavations mark the end of the planned on-site monitoring and excavation at Colonsay airfield prior to the development of the existing air strip.
Report to WoSAS and archive to NMRS.
Sponsors: Argyll and Bute Council (Transportation and Infrastructure).
Scott Macleod and Douglas Gordon, 2006.
Watching Brief (March 2006 - April 2006)
NR 359 930 A programme of archaeological monitoring works were carried out in March and April 2006 observing all ground-breaking work associated with the development of Colonsay Airfield. Most of the monitoring works uncovered little more than relatively recent field systems, Area 8, however, produced a significant number of artefacts which appear to be associated with a core of archaeological activity. This comprised the remains of a circular drystone structure, revetted into the sand and a complex of pits to the N of this structure which are being viewed as contemporary. A small number of other associated features were also identified. A preliminary date in the later prehistoric period has been put forward pending further investigation.
Through the excavation process a large number of artefacts, including a large selection of both pottery and lithic material, were retrieved. A significant number of marine shell and animal bone deposits were also identified in relation to the main archaeological features. From these it is hoped that a number of questions about the site might be answered, particularly concerning issues of dating, subsistence and economy.
These excavations mark the end of the planned on-site monitoring and excavation at Colonsay airfield prior to the development of the existing air strip.
Report to WoSAS and archive to NMRS.
Sponsors: Argyll and Bute Council (Transportation and Infrastructure).
S Macleod and D Gordon 2006
