Economy of a Norse Settlement in the Outer Hebrides: Excavations at Mounds 2 and 2A Bornais, South Uist

This book explores the economic evidence for the settlement at Bornais on South Uist, including large assemblages of material found during excavations at mounds 2 and 2A. It provides important information on craft activity, dress, social relations, and agricultural practices, and indicates contacts to the south with the Irish Sea ports and Bristol, and to the north with Shetland and the Viking homelands of Norway. The evidence is exceptional and provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore medieval life in the Scandinavian kingdoms of Western Britain.

Format: Hardback
Length: 608 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2020
Publisher: Oxbow Books

This captivating book delves into the compelling economic evidence supporting the settlement of Bornais on the picturesque South Uist island. It presents a detailed account of the extensive material discoveries made during the excavations at mounds 2 and 2A. Among the significant findings are remarkable evidence of craft activities, including the sole comb-making workshop from a rural settlement in Britain. A substantial portion of the copper alloy, bone, and antler assemblages comprise personal adornments, offering valuable insights into the dress and social dynamics of the settlement's occupation. Furthermore, a vast collection of iron tools and fittings provides essential information about the various activities that took place within the settlement.

The information derived from the artifact assemblages is further enriched by the ecofactual material, which includes a substantial abundance of animal, fish, and bird bones, as well as carbonized plant remains. These remnants provide intricate details about agricultural practices, food processing, preparation, and consumption. It becomes evident that the Norse inhabitants of the settlement had access to a far more diverse range of resources than had been previously exploited. Moreover, the settlement exhibited a broader network of connections, as evidenced by the material culture, which indicates interactions with the south through Irish Sea ports and Bristol, as well as the north with Shetland and the Viking homelands of Norway.

The evidence uncovered by these excavations is truly exceptional and presents an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the vibrant medieval life of the Scandinavian kingdoms of Western Britain. The meticulous research and meticulous excavation efforts have yielded a wealth of information that sheds light on the daily lives, cultural practices, and economic developments of this fascinating period. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of medieval archaeology and offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the Scottish islands.

Weight: 2606g
Dimension: 217 x 305 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789255386