Neolithic Stone Axe Head
This small, finely polished stone axe head dates to the Neolithic (New Stone Age), about 3000BC. It was found near Sauchie and was acquired by the Museum as a result of Scotland’s Treasure Trove law. It is made of baked green siltstone.
The blade edge has been made by chipping and polishing the stone until there is a sharp edge, while the other end has been shaped to a rounded point. The axe was probably held in the hand when used, though it could have been fitted into a socket in a wooden handle then fastened in place with a strip of leather.
Very little is known about the Neolithic in Clackmannanshire, as all of the known sites – stone circles east of Alloa, in Tillicoultry, Tullibody and perhaps Alva – have been destroyed.
No settlements have been found yet, but other stone axe heads said to have been found along the foot of the Ochils and an unusual ornamental stone ball found near Dollar (on display in Dollar Museum) all show that people were living here five millennia ago.
Mus Accn No 902 461
See also
Contact information
For further information about this page please contact:
Museum and Heritage Officer,
Speirs Centre, Primrose Street, Alloa, FK10 1JJ
Tel: 01259 216913 / 450000 Fax: 01259 721313
Email: museum@clacks.gov.uk
Or use the on-line contact form.