Axe-Making Traditions in Cumbrian Stone

Abstract

The ‘trade’ in Cumbrian stone axes (CBA Group VI Great Langdale Borrowdale Volcanics) is reviewed. The form, wear and natural attrition of ‘roughout’ implements, together with environmental, cultural and antiquarian aspects of their findspots, is discussed. The character of the Cumbrian axe ‘factories’ is considered. Lists of re-cycled stone found within and outside the Lake District are presented and their distributions compared and contrasted to those of the Cumbrian implements. The widespread occurrence of glacial erratics petrographically similar to Group VI is demonstrated. These are considered the likely source of polished implements. It is suggested the implement ‘factories’ were mainly of local significance. A programme of collecting and petrographically examining erratics is advocated in order either to uphold the integrity of long-distance ‘trade’ and ‘exchange’ or alternatively to more clearly illustrate patterns of scavenging from re-cycled pebble resources.