Archaeology Research

Scottish Mesolithic Geophysical Survey Project

The Scottish Mesolithic Geophysical Survey Project (SMGSP) was established in 2002 to develop research in the use and application of geophysical prospection and survey techniques to the archaeology of gatherer-hunters and specifically the Mesolithic period (c. 9000-5300 BP), using a range of Scottish sites as case studies. To date the SMGSP has been involved in a number of geophysical surveys at several shell midden and occupation sites with structural remains including Newton on Islay, Sand, Applecross and Port Lobh, Colonsay using a combination of gradiometry and resistivity techniques and high resolution sampling strategies.

As the archaeology of this period is predominately characterised by the ephemeral remains of lithic scatters and temporary campsites, research strategies for hunter-gatherer archaeology have not utilised a suite of investigative and non-destructive techniques that are common methodologies for later periods. Consequently, geophysical survey methods are currently an under-utilised research strategy for the discovery and investigation of such sites. The goal of this research project is to re-evaluate the potential of such techniques by surveying a range of representative site types from the period with a view to understanding the geophysical response of gatherer-hunter activities. This will aid not only with the identification of new sites but also offers alternative non-destructive means of interpreting the material signatures of Mesolithic activity. The SMGSP has been funded by the Robertson Bequest Fund and the Department of Archaeology at The University of Glasgow.

High resolution survey over the shell midden at Port Lobh 1, Colonsay