Prehistoric Pottery in Alexandria
Two pits identified during evaluation trenching in Alexandria. Image copyright CFA Archaeology Ltd
Trial trenching undertaken by CFA Archaeology Ltd in advance of construction of a new health and care centre at the Vale of Leven Hospital in Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire, has identified a number of pits. The work was required as the site lies on a raised terrace of the River Leven, within the Vale of Leven, and lies close to a source of water. As the site did not appear to have been affected by modern development, it was considered by WoSAS to retain some potential to produce material relating to prehistoric occupation.
Twenty-four trial trenches were excavated during the course of the evaluation, representing roughly an 8% sample of the total area available for development. This revealed seven pits, all located in two trenches towards the centre of the site. Two sherds of prehistoric pottery were recovered from the fill of one of the pits. The sherds join together, indicating that they represent two fragments of a single vessel. They are undecorated and in a hard, mica-rich fabric, and it is considered more likely that they are early prehistoric in date rather than late. Following the identification of this material during the initial evaluation, a further phase of excavation will be required to ensure that any other features or artefacts that may be present are identified and recorded.