Ebbing Shores : Survey and Excavation of Coastal Archaeology in Shetland 1995-2008

The archaeology of 5,000 years of settlement in Shetland is both extensive and often spectacularly well-preserved. Today, much of this rich archaeological resource is at serious risk from coastal erosion. Ebbing Shores brings together the findings of an extensive programme of coastal survey and excavation in Shetland undertaken by Historic Scotland in partnership with the Shetland Amenity Trust. Hundreds of sites of all types and periods were documented, from Neolithic tombs to whaling stations - many for the first time. The book also features in-depth studies of three key eroding sites, spanning almost two millennia of human activity - Cruester Burnt Mound, Bressay; Bayanne Settlement, Yell and Burland Smithy, Tronda. These sites offer a fascinating picture of how the ancient peoples of Shetland lived, from ritual feasting in the Bronze Age, through to farming of marginal lands in the Iron Age, and metalworking up to the Viking-Norse settlement. Authors Hazel Moore and Graeme Wilson illustrate both the extraordinary significance, and, at the same time, vulnerability of much of Shetland's costal heritage. Ebbing Shores is an invaluable guide to the story of these islands' ancient past, and a timely reminder of the importance of safeguarding an irreplaceable historic resource.