The Shelly Clays and Gravels of Aberdeenshire, considered in Relation to the Question of Submergence

Abstract

The high-level shelly gravels and clays of Aberdeenshire were described in some detail by Mr. T. F. Jamieson, of Ellon, in two valuable papers read to this Society in March 1882. They have also been treated of at some length by the Geological Survey of Scotland, in their published memoir relating to the district. As these deposits have been frequently, and quite recently, referred to as proving a submergence in Scotland during Glacial times, to the extent of 500 feet or upwards, I would ask leave briefly to review the facts, for the purpose of showing that they do not lead to or warrant such a conclusion. 1. There are, first, certain beds or undulating ridges of sand and gravel which, according to Mr. Jamieson, contain fragments of shells of Crag species. These extend along the sea-shore and for some distance inland, a few miles north of the river Ethan, and are found up to a height of 225 feet above the sea, but chiefly between 100 and 200 feet. They rest on the grey Boulder Clay of the district, which is formed of the ddbris of the gneiss, granite, and mica-schist rocks prevailing there ; but they are different from it, containing many pieces of yellow limestone and calcareous shale belonging to some Secondary formation not found in situ in Aberdeenshire. ‘ The shelly material occurs generally in the form of fine pounded ddbris and small worn crumbs, with here and there a larger bit, generally a hinge.’ The