The document discusses arguments for and against the age of the Earth being only thousands of years old versus billions of years old according to evolutionary theory. It provides examples of how coal and fossils could have formed rapidly from plants and animals buried during Noah's flood, rather than over millions of years as evolution proposes. The document also notes that radiometric dating methods used to determine the age of the Earth disagree with each other and are based on assumptions about rates of processes that have not been observed over long periods of time.
Geologists used various dating methodologies involving ocean chemistry, erosion rates, and radiometric dating to determine that the Earth is billions of years old, contradicting earlier estimates by physicists like Kelvin of only millions of years based on cooling models. The discovery of radioactivity provided a major new heat source inside the Earth and revealed processes like radioactive decay that allowed for much older dating of rocks and minerals, establishing the age of the Earth to be over 4 billion years.
1) The oldest rocks on Earth are around 3.7-3.8 billion years old based on radiometric dating.
2) Even older zircon crystals around 4.0-4.2 billion years have been found embedded in younger rocks.
3) The best estimate for the age of the Earth itself comes from lead isotope dating of meteorites, yielding an age of 4.54 billion years.
The document discusses the history of determining the age of the Earth. Early estimates ranged from thousands to billions of years based on different methods and assumptions. In the late 19th century, radioactive dating methods were developed that provided evidence the Earth was millions to billions of years old, conflicting with a literal reading of the Bible. This sparked debates around assumptions made in dating methods and their application to estimating the Earth's age. While techniques have improved, disagreement remains on interpreting results within biblical or long-age frameworks.
Geologists used new evidence from physics, including radioactive dating and heat sources within the Earth, to show that the Earth was older than physicists had estimated based on cooling models alone. Lord Kelvin had estimated the Earth's age as between 20-40 million years based on cooling rates, but radioactive elements provided additional heat sources and evidence that the Earth was at least 1.6 billion years old. By considering multiple heat sources and dating methods, geologists and physicists reconciled differing age estimates to establish that the Earth was over 3 billion years old.
This file is mainly useful for undergraduate Earth science students. Explains various non-radiometric and radiometric methods of finding the age of Earth.
The document discusses methods that scientists use to determine the age of the Earth. It explains that radiometric dating is used to measure the decay of radioactive isotopes in rocks and minerals to estimate their age. While this provides a means to directly date some igneous rocks, most rocks cannot be directly dated and must be bracketed between dated materials. The document reviews several examples of dated rocks and materials. Though radiometric dating provides a framework, determining the exact age of the Earth remains an ongoing effort as techniques are refined.
The document discusses the history of determining the age of the Earth. It begins with pre-scientific beliefs that the Earth was only a few thousand years old based on biblical accounts. Starting in the 1600s, scholars began speculating on the Earth's origins but with little field work. In the late 1600s, Steno formulated principles of stratigraphy and rock layering that helped establish relative dating of formations. By the 1700-1800s, studies of strata, fossils, earthquakes, and erosion led to acceptance that the Earth was much older than previously believed. Radiometric dating methods developed in the 1800s-1900s allowed estimation of absolute ages, showing the Earth to be billions of years old.
The document discusses arguments for and against the age of the Earth being only thousands of years old versus billions of years old according to evolutionary theory. It provides examples of how coal and fossils could have formed rapidly from plants and animals buried during Noah's flood, rather than over millions of years as evolution proposes. The document also notes that radiometric dating methods used to determine the age of the Earth disagree with each other and are based on assumptions about rates of processes that have not been observed over long periods of time.
Geologists used various dating methodologies involving ocean chemistry, erosion rates, and radiometric dating to determine that the Earth is billions of years old, contradicting earlier estimates by physicists like Kelvin of only millions of years based on cooling models. The discovery of radioactivity provided a major new heat source inside the Earth and revealed processes like radioactive decay that allowed for much older dating of rocks and minerals, establishing the age of the Earth to be over 4 billion years.
1) The oldest rocks on Earth are around 3.7-3.8 billion years old based on radiometric dating.
2) Even older zircon crystals around 4.0-4.2 billion years have been found embedded in younger rocks.
3) The best estimate for the age of the Earth itself comes from lead isotope dating of meteorites, yielding an age of 4.54 billion years.
The document discusses the history of determining the age of the Earth. Early estimates ranged from thousands to billions of years based on different methods and assumptions. In the late 19th century, radioactive dating methods were developed that provided evidence the Earth was millions to billions of years old, conflicting with a literal reading of the Bible. This sparked debates around assumptions made in dating methods and their application to estimating the Earth's age. While techniques have improved, disagreement remains on interpreting results within biblical or long-age frameworks.
Geologists used new evidence from physics, including radioactive dating and heat sources within the Earth, to show that the Earth was older than physicists had estimated based on cooling models alone. Lord Kelvin had estimated the Earth's age as between 20-40 million years based on cooling rates, but radioactive elements provided additional heat sources and evidence that the Earth was at least 1.6 billion years old. By considering multiple heat sources and dating methods, geologists and physicists reconciled differing age estimates to establish that the Earth was over 3 billion years old.
This file is mainly useful for undergraduate Earth science students. Explains various non-radiometric and radiometric methods of finding the age of Earth.
The document discusses methods that scientists use to determine the age of the Earth. It explains that radiometric dating is used to measure the decay of radioactive isotopes in rocks and minerals to estimate their age. While this provides a means to directly date some igneous rocks, most rocks cannot be directly dated and must be bracketed between dated materials. The document reviews several examples of dated rocks and materials. Though radiometric dating provides a framework, determining the exact age of the Earth remains an ongoing effort as techniques are refined.
The document discusses the history of determining the age of the Earth. It begins with pre-scientific beliefs that the Earth was only a few thousand years old based on biblical accounts. Starting in the 1600s, scholars began speculating on the Earth's origins but with little field work. In the late 1600s, Steno formulated principles of stratigraphy and rock layering that helped establish relative dating of formations. By the 1700-1800s, studies of strata, fossils, earthquakes, and erosion led to acceptance that the Earth was much older than previously believed. Radiometric dating methods developed in the 1800s-1900s allowed estimation of absolute ages, showing the Earth to be billions of years old.
Chapple, R. M. 2014 Archaeology of Gatherings Conference | Institute of Techn...Robert M Chapple
This document summarizes several presentations from the "Archaeology of Gatherings Conference" held in Sligo, Ireland in October 2013. The first presentation discussed medieval assembly places called Óenach sites in Ireland and how shifts in territorial boundaries could exclude groups from these important political and ritual gatherings. The second presentation examined public demonstrations and parades in Belfast as expressions of identity and power, and how the meaning and role of such gatherings has changed from the 1960s to today. The third presentation made comparisons between presentations of tribute called "Inu" in ancient Egypt and elaborate colonial durbars held by the British in India in the late 19th century, both events which brought subject peoples together but reinforced colonial ide
Chapple, R. M. 2013 Iverni: a prehistory of Cork | Review. Blogspot postRobert M Chapple
This document provides a review of a two-volume book titled "Iverni: a prehistory of Cork" by William O'Brien. The reviewer summarizes several chapters of the book in detail, highlighting how it brings together recent archaeological evidence from developments and excavations to provide insights into the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and ritual practices in Cork, Ireland. The reviewer praises how the book synthesizes new findings to shed light on the region's prehistory for specialist and general readers alike. Some points of archaeological debate around site interpretations are also discussed.
Chapple, R. M. 2014 Archaeology of Gatherings Conference | Institute of Techn...Robert M Chapple
The document summarizes the Archaeology of Gatherings Conference that took place in Sligo, Ireland in October 2013. The conference brought together academics from various disciplines to discuss gatherings. It describes several of the presentations in detail, including talks on defining ritual and social cohesion, football as a social drama, the role of railways in facilitating gatherings in Ireland, and crowd-sourcing in the construction of Neolithic passage tombs. The conference aimed to stimulate new perspectives and research on identifying and understanding large-scale social and religious gatherings in the archaeological record. It appeared to be well-attended and received, with the hope that selected papers may be published in the future.
Chapple, R. M. 2012 'The archaeology of an archaeologist: a reassessment of t...Robert M Chapple
The document summarizes the author's experience excavating the contents of his old vehicle, a 1998 Nissan Terrano, using archaeological techniques and documentation methods. This "experiment" was inspired by a previous excavation of a Ford Transit van. The author provides a photographic catalogue of items recovered from the vehicle. Through reflecting on interpreting the assemblage of artifacts, the author questions how reliably the past can be interpreted and how cultural understandings can differ greatly over time. The experience highlights issues in using archaeological evidence to make assumptions about past peoples' lives and worldviews.
Irish National Strategic Research (INSTAR) programme findings from the first...Robert M Chapple
The document summarizes the findings presented at a one-day conference on the Irish National Strategic Research (INSTAR) Programme from 2008-2011. Several papers discussed advances in knowledge of early Christian landscapes in Ireland through interdisciplinary research combining archaeology, history and landscape analysis. Key findings included identifying the extent of early monastic estates and recognizing 'cemetery settlements' as integral parts of the early Christian landscape. Other projects discussed included analyzing Neolithic and Bronze Age landscapes in North Mayo through GIS mapping, and using GIS to integrate data on landscape evolution in the River Boyne valley, revealing over 130 new archaeological sites.
Chapple, R. M. 2014 Appendix | Dunbeg, Co. Kerry | Radiocarbon Dating. Blogsp...Robert M Chapple
This document summarizes the results of radiocarbon dating from an excavation at Dunbeg Promontory Fort in County Kerry, Ireland. Four radiocarbon dates were obtained: one from the Late Bronze Age (2530±35 BP), and three from the Early Christian period between the 8th-11th centuries AD. While limited in number, these dates provide valuable chronological evidence given the lack of diagnostic artifacts. They indicate the site was in use from the Late Bronze Age through the Early Christian period. The author calls for further dating to better understand the site's full chronology and landscape context.
Review: Hidden History Below Our Feet: The Archaeological Story of BelfastRobert M Chapple
This book provides a concise summary of the archaeological history of Belfast from prehistoric times to the present day. It is divided into 5 chronological chapters, each beginning with a map and site inventory and exploring what archaeological excavations have revealed about settlements, burials, and material culture during that time period. Engaging illustrations bring the landscapes and sites to life. While more excavations could be published, this volume successfully synthesizes existing research into a single accessible resource. It informs both professionals and amateurs while avoiding oversimplification.
Chapple, R. M. 2012 'Archaeology Ireland 26.1 (Issue 99) Spring 2012. Review'...Robert M Chapple
This document provides a summary of the Spring 2012 issue of Archaeology Ireland magazine. It discusses several papers from the issue, including reports on archaeological discoveries such as a possible Celtic icon stone and a Bronze Age copper mine. It also reviews papers on topics like the origins of the Ogham alphabet and mysterious depressions found at an archaeological site in Roscommon. The summary critically analyzes the arguments and evidence presented in several of the papers.
Chapple, r. m. 2014 dunbeg, co. kerry early christian promontory fort - dam...Robert M Chapple
The promontory fort at Dunbeg, Co. Kerry suffered significant damage during recent storms. A large portion of the western stone rampart fell into the sea. The site consists of four stone and earth banks that defended a small coastal promontory, with an inner stone-built rampart that was originally straight but later remodeled and reconstructed in a curved shape. Archaeological excavations in 1977 uncovered evidence of settlement from the Neolithic to medieval periods, including a stone house and souterrain. The damage underscores the threat that coastal erosion has long posed to this important archaeological site.
Chapple, R. M. 2011 'Was the building boom so bad for Irish archaeology? A re...Robert M Chapple
The document is a response to an article that criticized how the Irish building boom negatively impacted archaeology. The response argues that:
1) While legislation had flaws and could be improved, it was generally applied reasonably given limited resources.
2) Developers prioritized profits, but archaeology firms had to operate as businesses within that reality. More can be done to enforce developer responsibilities.
3) Stereotypes on both sides hindered relations, and archaeologists must become more professional to succeed in a business environment.
Chapple, R. M. 2012 'Bubbling over: archaeological lipid analysis and the Iri...Robert M Chapple
The document summarizes a lecture on lipid analysis of pottery from Irish Neolithic sites. The lecture discussed:
1) How lipid analysis can identify the contents of pots to learn about past diets and economies.
2) The SCHERD project aims to analyze lipids from 15 Irish Neolithic sites to identify regional patterns and chronological changes over time.
3) Preliminary results show lipids are surviving on sherds, though more analysis is still needed to confirm findings.
Review: The Dublin Region in the Middle Ages: Settlement, Land-use and EconomyRobert M Chapple
This document provides a summary of a book titled "The Dublin Region in the Middle Ages: Settlement, Land-use and Economy". The book is a major publication that is the result of the Medieval Rural Settlement Project. It constructs a picture of the medieval landscape and settlement features of Dublin city and its surrounding 30km hinterland using archaeological and documentary sources. The book is divided into three parts that examine settlement and society, patterns of land ownership and defense, the church, rural settlements, and agriculture in the region during the Middle Ages. It provides a comprehensive analysis of medieval Dublin and its surrounding area based on an extensive collection of sources.
Review: Past times, changing fortunes: proceedings of a public seminar on arc...Robert M Chapple
This document provides a summary and review of the book "Past Times, Changing Fortunes: Proceedings of a Public Seminar on Archaeological Discoveries on National Road Schemes, August 2010". The review summarizes the key findings and arguments from nine papers presented in the book. These include studies of souterrains and Viking warfare in North County Louth, the development of urban and rural settlement in medieval Cashel, County Tipperary, landscape evolution and land use in North Cork, paleoecological evidence of Bronze Age farming in County Clare, the development and decline of cereal drying kilns in medieval Kildare, insights from insect remains on human-environmental interactions, and perspectives on mortuary practices from Bron
Workingman’s Dead: notes on some 17th to 19th century memorials, from the gra...Robert M Chapple
This document provides an introduction and background information about a study of 17th-19th century gravestones from two church sites in County Galway, Ireland. It summarizes the history of the church sites at Killora and Killogilleen and the physical remains. It then describes in detail six gravestones found at the sites that depict the occupations of the deceased, including two previously documented gravestones marking blacksmiths, one of which is shown in figures with hammer, tongs and horseshoe carvings. The document aims to present some of the finest examples of post-Medieval gravestone carving found and discuss them in the context of memorial trends over time.
Irish Copper Age houses in a radiocarbon landscape: a reply to Dr Charles MountRobert M Chapple
This document summarizes and analyzes 61 radiocarbon dates from Ireland that fall within the timeframe of the Irish Copper Age (2600-2400 to 2200/2100 BC). Many of the dates are associated with sites that have produced Beaker pottery or are known Bronze Age settlements, suggesting they could represent additional Copper Age structures. Others come from isolated pits of unknown function. The author argues these dates warrant further research to investigate whether any represent previously unidentified Copper Age houses or settlements.
Review: Of troughs and tuyères: the archaeology of the N5 Charlestown BypassRobert M Chapple
This document provides a review of the book "Of Troughs and Tuyères: The archaeology of the N5 Charlestown Bypass". The reviewer summarizes that the book presents the results of over 40 archaeological excavations along the route, covering 6,000 years of human activity in the region. A notable site discussed is Lowpark, described as unique in the Irish archaeological record, containing evidence of Iron Age and Early Christian ironworking. The reviewer praises the high quality of reporting and illustrations in the book, while noting some preferences on terminology. Overall, the reviewer considers the book a significant contribution to understanding Ireland's archaeological past.
Chapple, R. M. 2014 Archaeology of Gatherings Conference | Institute of Techn...Robert M Chapple
This document summarizes several presentations from the "Archaeology of Gatherings Conference" held in Sligo, Ireland in October 2013. The first presentation discussed medieval assembly places called Óenach sites in Ireland and how shifts in territorial boundaries could exclude groups from these important political and ritual gatherings. The second presentation examined public demonstrations and parades in Belfast as expressions of identity and power, and how the meaning and role of such gatherings has changed from the 1960s to today. The third presentation made comparisons between presentations of tribute called "Inu" in ancient Egypt and elaborate colonial durbars held by the British in India in the late 19th century, both events which brought subject peoples together but reinforced colonial ide
Chapple, R. M. 2013 Iverni: a prehistory of Cork | Review. Blogspot postRobert M Chapple
This document provides a review of a two-volume book titled "Iverni: a prehistory of Cork" by William O'Brien. The reviewer summarizes several chapters of the book in detail, highlighting how it brings together recent archaeological evidence from developments and excavations to provide insights into the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and ritual practices in Cork, Ireland. The reviewer praises how the book synthesizes new findings to shed light on the region's prehistory for specialist and general readers alike. Some points of archaeological debate around site interpretations are also discussed.
Chapple, R. M. 2014 Archaeology of Gatherings Conference | Institute of Techn...Robert M Chapple
The document summarizes the Archaeology of Gatherings Conference that took place in Sligo, Ireland in October 2013. The conference brought together academics from various disciplines to discuss gatherings. It describes several of the presentations in detail, including talks on defining ritual and social cohesion, football as a social drama, the role of railways in facilitating gatherings in Ireland, and crowd-sourcing in the construction of Neolithic passage tombs. The conference aimed to stimulate new perspectives and research on identifying and understanding large-scale social and religious gatherings in the archaeological record. It appeared to be well-attended and received, with the hope that selected papers may be published in the future.
Chapple, R. M. 2012 'The archaeology of an archaeologist: a reassessment of t...Robert M Chapple
The document summarizes the author's experience excavating the contents of his old vehicle, a 1998 Nissan Terrano, using archaeological techniques and documentation methods. This "experiment" was inspired by a previous excavation of a Ford Transit van. The author provides a photographic catalogue of items recovered from the vehicle. Through reflecting on interpreting the assemblage of artifacts, the author questions how reliably the past can be interpreted and how cultural understandings can differ greatly over time. The experience highlights issues in using archaeological evidence to make assumptions about past peoples' lives and worldviews.
Irish National Strategic Research (INSTAR) programme findings from the first...Robert M Chapple
The document summarizes the findings presented at a one-day conference on the Irish National Strategic Research (INSTAR) Programme from 2008-2011. Several papers discussed advances in knowledge of early Christian landscapes in Ireland through interdisciplinary research combining archaeology, history and landscape analysis. Key findings included identifying the extent of early monastic estates and recognizing 'cemetery settlements' as integral parts of the early Christian landscape. Other projects discussed included analyzing Neolithic and Bronze Age landscapes in North Mayo through GIS mapping, and using GIS to integrate data on landscape evolution in the River Boyne valley, revealing over 130 new archaeological sites.
Chapple, R. M. 2014 Appendix | Dunbeg, Co. Kerry | Radiocarbon Dating. Blogsp...Robert M Chapple
This document summarizes the results of radiocarbon dating from an excavation at Dunbeg Promontory Fort in County Kerry, Ireland. Four radiocarbon dates were obtained: one from the Late Bronze Age (2530±35 BP), and three from the Early Christian period between the 8th-11th centuries AD. While limited in number, these dates provide valuable chronological evidence given the lack of diagnostic artifacts. They indicate the site was in use from the Late Bronze Age through the Early Christian period. The author calls for further dating to better understand the site's full chronology and landscape context.
Review: Hidden History Below Our Feet: The Archaeological Story of BelfastRobert M Chapple
This book provides a concise summary of the archaeological history of Belfast from prehistoric times to the present day. It is divided into 5 chronological chapters, each beginning with a map and site inventory and exploring what archaeological excavations have revealed about settlements, burials, and material culture during that time period. Engaging illustrations bring the landscapes and sites to life. While more excavations could be published, this volume successfully synthesizes existing research into a single accessible resource. It informs both professionals and amateurs while avoiding oversimplification.
Chapple, R. M. 2012 'Archaeology Ireland 26.1 (Issue 99) Spring 2012. Review'...Robert M Chapple
This document provides a summary of the Spring 2012 issue of Archaeology Ireland magazine. It discusses several papers from the issue, including reports on archaeological discoveries such as a possible Celtic icon stone and a Bronze Age copper mine. It also reviews papers on topics like the origins of the Ogham alphabet and mysterious depressions found at an archaeological site in Roscommon. The summary critically analyzes the arguments and evidence presented in several of the papers.
Chapple, r. m. 2014 dunbeg, co. kerry early christian promontory fort - dam...Robert M Chapple
The promontory fort at Dunbeg, Co. Kerry suffered significant damage during recent storms. A large portion of the western stone rampart fell into the sea. The site consists of four stone and earth banks that defended a small coastal promontory, with an inner stone-built rampart that was originally straight but later remodeled and reconstructed in a curved shape. Archaeological excavations in 1977 uncovered evidence of settlement from the Neolithic to medieval periods, including a stone house and souterrain. The damage underscores the threat that coastal erosion has long posed to this important archaeological site.
Chapple, R. M. 2011 'Was the building boom so bad for Irish archaeology? A re...Robert M Chapple
The document is a response to an article that criticized how the Irish building boom negatively impacted archaeology. The response argues that:
1) While legislation had flaws and could be improved, it was generally applied reasonably given limited resources.
2) Developers prioritized profits, but archaeology firms had to operate as businesses within that reality. More can be done to enforce developer responsibilities.
3) Stereotypes on both sides hindered relations, and archaeologists must become more professional to succeed in a business environment.
Chapple, R. M. 2012 'Bubbling over: archaeological lipid analysis and the Iri...Robert M Chapple
The document summarizes a lecture on lipid analysis of pottery from Irish Neolithic sites. The lecture discussed:
1) How lipid analysis can identify the contents of pots to learn about past diets and economies.
2) The SCHERD project aims to analyze lipids from 15 Irish Neolithic sites to identify regional patterns and chronological changes over time.
3) Preliminary results show lipids are surviving on sherds, though more analysis is still needed to confirm findings.
Review: The Dublin Region in the Middle Ages: Settlement, Land-use and EconomyRobert M Chapple
This document provides a summary of a book titled "The Dublin Region in the Middle Ages: Settlement, Land-use and Economy". The book is a major publication that is the result of the Medieval Rural Settlement Project. It constructs a picture of the medieval landscape and settlement features of Dublin city and its surrounding 30km hinterland using archaeological and documentary sources. The book is divided into three parts that examine settlement and society, patterns of land ownership and defense, the church, rural settlements, and agriculture in the region during the Middle Ages. It provides a comprehensive analysis of medieval Dublin and its surrounding area based on an extensive collection of sources.
Review: Past times, changing fortunes: proceedings of a public seminar on arc...Robert M Chapple
This document provides a summary and review of the book "Past Times, Changing Fortunes: Proceedings of a Public Seminar on Archaeological Discoveries on National Road Schemes, August 2010". The review summarizes the key findings and arguments from nine papers presented in the book. These include studies of souterrains and Viking warfare in North County Louth, the development of urban and rural settlement in medieval Cashel, County Tipperary, landscape evolution and land use in North Cork, paleoecological evidence of Bronze Age farming in County Clare, the development and decline of cereal drying kilns in medieval Kildare, insights from insect remains on human-environmental interactions, and perspectives on mortuary practices from Bron
Workingman’s Dead: notes on some 17th to 19th century memorials, from the gra...Robert M Chapple
This document provides an introduction and background information about a study of 17th-19th century gravestones from two church sites in County Galway, Ireland. It summarizes the history of the church sites at Killora and Killogilleen and the physical remains. It then describes in detail six gravestones found at the sites that depict the occupations of the deceased, including two previously documented gravestones marking blacksmiths, one of which is shown in figures with hammer, tongs and horseshoe carvings. The document aims to present some of the finest examples of post-Medieval gravestone carving found and discuss them in the context of memorial trends over time.
Irish Copper Age houses in a radiocarbon landscape: a reply to Dr Charles MountRobert M Chapple
This document summarizes and analyzes 61 radiocarbon dates from Ireland that fall within the timeframe of the Irish Copper Age (2600-2400 to 2200/2100 BC). Many of the dates are associated with sites that have produced Beaker pottery or are known Bronze Age settlements, suggesting they could represent additional Copper Age structures. Others come from isolated pits of unknown function. The author argues these dates warrant further research to investigate whether any represent previously unidentified Copper Age houses or settlements.
Review: Of troughs and tuyères: the archaeology of the N5 Charlestown BypassRobert M Chapple
This document provides a review of the book "Of Troughs and Tuyères: The archaeology of the N5 Charlestown Bypass". The reviewer summarizes that the book presents the results of over 40 archaeological excavations along the route, covering 6,000 years of human activity in the region. A notable site discussed is Lowpark, described as unique in the Irish archaeological record, containing evidence of Iron Age and Early Christian ironworking. The reviewer praises the high quality of reporting and illustrations in the book, while noting some preferences on terminology. Overall, the reviewer considers the book a significant contribution to understanding Ireland's archaeological past.
Review: Gathering Time: Dating the Early Neolithic Enclosures of southern Bri...Robert M Chapple
This document provides a lengthy review and summary of the book "Gathering Time: Dating the Early Neolithic Enclosures of southern Britain and Ireland" by Alasdair Whittle, Frances Healy, and Alex Bayliss. The book uses Bayesian statistical modeling of over 2,300 radiocarbon dates to develop robust chronologies for Neolithic enclosures and monuments across Britain and Ireland. Key findings include:
1) The main period of construction for causewayed enclosures was between the late 38th-mid 36th centuries BC.
2) Many enclosures were actively used for relatively short periods, some for just decades rather than centuries.
3) The Neolithic way of life is
Review: Creative Minds: Proceedings of a Public Seminar on Archaeological Dis...Robert M Chapple
The document provides a summary and review of the book "Creative Minds: Proceedings of a Public Seminar on Archaeological Discoveries on National Road Schemes, August 2009". The book contains papers from the seminar that discuss various archaeological discoveries and analyses from sites excavated as part of road construction projects in Ireland. The review provides overview of several of the papers, including discussions of lithic assemblages from a Neolithic site, analyses of spindle whorls, Irish pottery traditions, paleoenvironmental research, early wheels, iron smelting, hand bells from a monastic site, and medieval charcoal production. The reviewer notes the value of the radiocarbon dates listed in an appendix but also inconsistencies between
Corrstown: a coastal community. Excavations of a Bronze Age village in Northe...Robert M Chapple
This document provides a summary of the book "Corrstown: A Coastal Community" which presents the results of an excavation of a large Bronze Age village in Northern Ireland. The excavation uncovered 76 structures including houses, paths, and roads, making it the largest Bronze Age settlement found in Ireland or the UK. Artifacts recovered included over 9,000 sherds of pottery and 16,500 pieces of flint, providing important new information about Middle and Late Bronze Age material culture and daily life. Specialists analyzed the lithics, pottery, stone tools, and plant remains, finding evidence of domestic occupation and the local production of bronze and stone tools.
Chapple, R. M. 2012 'Archaeological Excavations at Tullahedy County Tipperary...Robert M Chapple
This document provides a review and summary of the book "Archaeological Excavations at Tullahedy County Tipperary. Neolithic Settlement in North Munster: Review" by Rose M. Cleary & Hilary Kelleher.
The book presents extensive data from excavations at the Tullahedy archaeological site in County Tipperary, Ireland. It details five phases of activity at the site from the Neolithic period through the medieval period. Notably, it describes three Neolithic houses and over 250 pits containing stone tools, axe heads, and cereal remains. Radiocarbon dating indicates the Neolithic occupation lasted from around 3670-3460 BC. The publication provides a valuable resource of data
Chapple, R. M. 2013 Review: Archaeology Ireland 26.3 (issue 101). Blogspot postRobert M Chapple
The document provides a review of Archaeology Ireland issue 101, including summaries of several articles in the issue. It discusses an unusually large medieval font discovered at Tallaght, news items from various sources including events mentioned on the blogger's website, an obituary for Etienne Rynne who was the blogger's professor, an article by the blogger on the Cherrymount Crannog excavation in Fermanagh, results from a laser scanning project at Brú na Bóinne passage tombs, an interpretation of objects found in a blocked oven in Wicklow as a "spiritual midden" to trap witches, restoration of steam engine models at NUI Galway, and an examination of the 13th century town
The document summarizes archaeological research on the Thornborough Henges ritual monument complex in North Yorkshire, England. It describes the layout and features of the site, including three large henge monuments arranged in a straight line across a gravel plateau. Archaeological investigations aimed to determine the chronology and role of the site in the surrounding Neolithic landscape. Surface surveys found lower artifact densities near the henges, suggesting the area was kept clear, while distant scatters implied temporary occupation when visiting the ritual center.
Chapple, R. M. 2014 Review - Rewriting the (Pre)history of Ulster- A synthesi...Robert M Chapple
Chapple, R. M. 2014 Review - Rewriting the (Pre)history of Ulster- A synthesis of developer led excavation, monuments and earthworks 4300 to 1900 BC - Dr Rowan McLaughlin. Blogspot post
This document discusses various absolute dating methods used in archaeology to determine the precise age of artifacts, fossils, and rocks in years. It describes radiocarbon dating, also known as carbon-14 dating, which determines the age of organic materials by measuring the radioactive decay of carbon-14. It also explains thermoluminescence dating to date pottery and other baked clay artifacts by measuring accumulated radiation, potassium-argon dating which dates volcanic rocks based on the decay of potassium-40 into argon gas, and dendrochronology which dates wood by comparing patterns of tree ring growth variations.
The discovery of buckminsterfullerene (C60) in 1985 was an unexpected finding that generated significant interest. In experiments at Rice University in 1985, laser vaporization of graphite produced a strong peak for a carbon cluster with 60 atoms. The researchers concluded this extremely stable cluster was likely a hollow, spherical molecule. Inspired by geodesic dome designs of Buckminster Fuller, they proposed the cluster had the structure of a soccer ball formed from 20 hexagons and 12 pentagons. This buckminsterfullerene molecule, nicknamed "buckyball," launched interest in a new class of carbon structures called fullerenes. In 1990, a method was developed to produce buckyballs in gram quantities, enabling extensive study and applications
A radiocarbon spike at14 300 cal yr BP in subfossiltrees provides the impulse...Sérgio Sacani
We present new14C results measured on subfossilScots Pines recovered in the eroded banks of theDrouzet watercourse in the Southern French Alps.About 400 new14C ages have been analysed on15 trees sampled at annual resolution. The resulting14C record exhibits an abrupt spike occurring in asingle year at 14 300–14 299 cal yr BP and a century-long event between 14 and 13.9 cal kyr BP. In order toidentify the causes of these events, we compare theDrouzet14C record with simulations of14Cbasedon the10Be record in Greenland ice used as an inputof a carbon cycle model. The correspondence with10Be anomalies allows us to propose the 14.3 cal kyr BPevent as a solar energetic particle event. By contrast
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CASE STUDY
How Old Is Stonehenge?
Approximately 8 miles north of Salisbury, Wiltshire, England, stands a large cir-
cular stone monument surrounded by an earthwork. This prehistoric structure is
known throughout the world as Stonehenge. Its name is derived from the Old
English word hengen, referring to something hung up. In the case of the monu-
ment, this name refers to the large horizontal lintel stones. The monument con-
sists of an outer ring of sarsen stones, surrounding two inner circles of
bluestones. The first and third circles are adorned with the familiar stone lintels.
The entire structure is surrounded by a ditch and bank. Just inside the bank are
56 pits, named the Aubrey Holes, after their discoverer. These holes appear to
have been filled shortly after their excavation.
Recently, it has been discovered that a number of the stone alignments are
associated with important solar and lunar risings and settings, suggesting that
the site served as some sort of massive astronomical calendar. If this conclusion
is accurate, it seems likely that the monument might have been used as a temple
for sky worshipers.
Corinn Dillion is interested in dating the construction of the structure. Ex-
cavations at the site uncovered a number of unshed antlers, antler tines, and an-
imal bones. Carbon 14 dating methods were used to estimate the ages of the
Stonehenge artifacts. Carbon 14 is one of three carbon isotopes found in Earth’s
atmosphere. Carbon 12 makes up 99% of all the carbon dioxide in the air. Vir-
tually all the remaining 1% is composed of carbon 13. By far, the rarest form of
carbon isotope found in the atmosphere is carbon 14.
The ratio of carbon 14 to carbon 12 remains constant in living organisms.
However, once the organism dies, the amount of carbon-14 in the remains of
the organism begins to decline, because it is radioactive, with a half-life of
5730 years (the “Cambridge half-life”). So the decay of carbon-14 into ordi-
nary nitrogen makes possible a reliable estimate about the time of death of
the organism. The counted carbon 14 decay events can be modeled by the
normal distribution.
Dillion’s team used two different carbon 14 dating methods to arrive at age
estimates for the numerous Stonehenge artifacts. The liquid scintillation count-
ing (LSC) method utilizes benzene, acetylene, ethanol, methanol, or a similar
chemical. Unlike the LSC method, the accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS)
technique offers direct carbon 14 isotope counting. The AMS method’s greatest
advantage is that it requires only milligram-sized samples for testing. The AMS
method was used only on recovered artifacts that were of extremely small size.
Stonehenge’s main ditch was dug in a series of segments. Excavations at the
base of the ditch uncovered a number of antlers, which bore signs of heavy use.
These antlers could have been used by the builders as picks or rakes. The fact
that no primary silt was discovered beneath the antl ...
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crucial for coordinated efforts across different administrative levels. Advanced technologies like
Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems
9
Changes in vegetation cover refer to variations in the distribution, composition, and overall
structure of plant communities across different temporal and spatial scales. These changes can
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Chapple, R. M. 2013 The Knockgraffon Late Bronze Age House in its Radiocarbon Landscape. Blogspot post
1. The Knockgraffon Late Bronze Age House in its Radiocarbon Landscape
Originally posted online on 1 November 2013 at rmchapple.blogspot.com
(http://rmchapple.blogspot.co.uk/2013/11/the-knockgraffon-late-bronze-age-house.html)
The Knockgraffon Late Bronze Age House. JG O'Donoghue. Reproduced by permission.
Over the last while I’ve become a big fan of the art of JG O’Donoghue, the Cork-based artist
and illustrator. He specialises in archaeological and heritage themes, but he’s also available
for commission and sells his work via an on-line shop [Facebook | Website | Storenvy]. If all
this wasn’t enough, he also runs a blog: Líníocht Blog. In a recent post on his Facebook page,
he examined a possible Middle Bronze Age byre at Knockgraffon, Co. Tipperary and produced
a reconstruction that was both a beautiful image and directly based on the archaeological
evidence. He has now followed this up with a blog post of another exquisite reconstruction,
again based on the archaeological evidence, of a Late Bronze Age house from the same
townland of Knockgraffon.
I have two points in dedicating this post to the Knockgraffon house. First, I’d like to introduce
as many people as possible to the work of a talented artist, and all-round good guy, JG
O’Donoghue. Please go take a look at this stuff. Maybe buy a couple of his cards … you could
send them to me! The other point of today’s post is to examine the ‘Radiocarbon Landscape’
of the Knockgraffon house. I have coined the term as an alternative, and complimentary,
intellectual strategy which departs from traditional research pathways, such as the
examination of sites of similar morphology. Just because individual sites appear similar does
not guarantee that they are of identical age – indeed, they may be separated by hundreds of
years. I’m not claiming that such an approach is invalid, just that there are alternatives.
2. The Knockgraffon Middle Bronze Age Byre. JG O'Donoghue. Reproduced by permission.
Even though archaeology is no longer my primary source of income, I still maintain my
personal research project: Irish Radiocarbon and Dendrochronological Dates
[Facebook | Website]. My work in cataloguing radiocarbon determinations and
dendrochronological dates from Irish excavations has, so far, amassed over 7000 data points.
As you may know, the Catalogue (available as an MS Excel document) is freely downloadable
(or available directly from me by email) to all interested researchers, from professional
academics to the ‘ordinary’ person on the street. I have chosen to keep the data in a relatively
‘ordinary’ format of MS Excel, rather than trapping it in a custom-built database, as I have
found that this allows more people to view, access, and manipulate the information than might
otherwise be possible. One of my key goals is to provide the maximum volume of data in the
most ‘vanilla’ format possible, allowing individual researchers to tailor it to their own needs
with the minimum of effort.
3. Plan of Knockgraffon Late Bronze Age House (McQuade, Molloy & Moriarty 2009, 76)
First of all, let’s examine the Knockgraffon house itself. The excavation was directed by Colm
Moriarty, who runs irisharchaeology.ie [Facebook | Website | Shop] and published in
the NRA volume In the Shadow of the Galtees (McQuade, Molloy & Moriarty 2009). The house
survived as a curving set of seven post-holes on the southern side, with a further post-hole on
the northern side. Two large post-holes are interpreted as internal roof-supports, while the
entrance was defined by a set of post-holes that would have formed a porch structure. Taken
together, the whole is interpreted as having constituted a round house, some 6m in diameter.
Other than the roof supports, there were a series of internal features, including four pits, the
majority of which were sub-circular with concave profiles. Outside the house, a sub-
rectangular setting of four post-holes is interpreted as the supports for a raised granary. A
further sequence of three post-holes, to the south of the house, is thought to be the remains of
vertical supports for a fence or windbreak.
4. Radiocarbon dates contemporary with the Knockgraffon house. Click for larger image.
In terms of chronology, the activity at the site is dated by a single determination
on pomaceous wood charcoal from one of the post-holes that made up the entrance porch
(F87). The determination that came back from the laboratory was 2810±50 BP (Beta-220337).
For anyone not familiar with the process of radiocarbon dating, this means that – judging by
the rate of decay of the radioactive carbon isotope 14C – the wood died 2810 radiocarbon years
before the present. First of all, ‘Present’ was established as 1950 AD as an unchanging point to
be ‘before’. Also, radiocarbon years are not the same length as calendar years, which is why
the date needs to be calibrated, to return it to a meaningful time-frame There is also a standard
deviation, or degree of uncertainty, attached to this figure, in this case 50 radiocarbon years.
For anyone interested in more detail, I did a lecture to the NRA on this topic, that’s available
as a PDF: here, and the final publication is available here. Once the determination has been
calibrated into calendar years, we can see that the range (at 2σ, or 97%, level) spans the period
from 1114 to 839 cal BC. Personally, I would have preferred to have seen a number of dates
from this site. A single date is great, but it doesn’t allow us to draw out the potential for longer,
phased activity on the site. However, in the context of a large road-development excavation
like this, I’m just grateful that this one little house site has any date at all. But just what do we
have? We can tell that the wood for the front-left post of the porch was cut down in the period
from 1114 to 839 cal BC … we can say that this falls into the period that we call the Late Bronze
Age (see Chapple 2008). Traditional research pathways include examining the morphology of
the structure in relation to other known houses of similar date, and comparing and contrasting
between similar structures from the same road scheme excavations. The overall authors of the
monograph (McQuade, Molloy, & Moriarty 2009) do this in good style, and I in no way wish
to detract from their achievement. The explosion of published, well-dated, excavations
undertaken in the last decade or so is now sufficient that we can introduce another,
complimentary, research path that can operate on the scale of a single decade. Interrogating
the data in the IR&DD catalogue for just five radiocarbon years on either side of the central
date (i.e. from 2805 to 2815BP) brings back 29 radiocarbon dates, representing 15 Irish
counties (plus two from Iceland), and 26 individual excavations. Think about it! That’s just ten
years … all other things being equal, the people who created these sites lived and died in the
same narrow timeframe. The likelihood is that they shared a common language, and – even if
only in the broadest sense – they shared numerous cultural connections. They were part of the
same trade networks; they shared building traditions and burial traditions. Actually, as much
as I’d like it to appear so, it’s not that simple. At the 2σ level, the standard deviations of these
dates covers the period from 1294 cal BC to 795 cal BC, a period of almost 500 years. At the 1σ
level, where the confidence that the events being measured occurred within the specified
timescale are closer to 65%, the period ranges from 1114 cal BC to 839 cal BC, a period of 275
5. years. There are several reasons for this temporal spread, including the inconsistencies of the
calibration curve, and the large standard deviations associated with some of the older
determinations. In the latter case, two of the dates from Rathgall, Co. Wicklow, have standard
deviations of 105 and 110 years. Even when taking such difficulties into consideration, we are
still left with a range of dates that are as close to contemporary with the events at the
Knockgraffon house as you are going to find.
Even in a brief list of dates such as this, there are other excavated houses. At Townparks,
Antrim Town, material from a lined pit at House C was dated to 2810±50 BP (1114-839 cal BC,
GU-11495)(Ballin Smith 2003, 41). At Carrigillihy, Co. Cork, a date of 2810±50 BP (1114-839
cal BC, GrN-12917) was returned from charcoal from the habitation layer of the later house
(O'Kelly 1989, 348). Cherry (Prunus avium) charcoal from the slot-trench (F14) of the round
house at Ballylegan, site 207.1, Co. Tipperary, dated to 2805±33 BP (1047-849 cal BC, UB-
7214)(Stanley, Danaher & Eogan 2009, 169; McQuade, Molloy & Moriarty 2009, 366).
At Clonadacasey 2, Co. Laois, a date of 2805±35 BP (1049-846 cal BC, SUERC-18510) was
returned from charcoal (Pomoideae and ash) from a post-hole in Structure 2 (NRA Database).
At Rathgall, Co. Wicklow, charcoal from Hearth 1 dated to 2810±105 BP (1288-796 cal BC, D-
134)(Raftery 2004, 87). On the same site, charcoal from a pit at the south-west corner of
Hearth 2, returned a date of 2810±110 BP (1294-795 cal BC, D-133)(Dresser 1980, 1028).
This is the Bronze Age, after all, so you should expect lots of burnt mounds. Oak, alder, hazel
& Pomoideae charcoal from the fill of a stake-hole at Mullenmadoge II, Co. Mayo, dated to
2815±50 BP (1116-843 cal BC, GrN-30850)(Gillespie & Kerrigan 2010, 368). Charcoal from
Trough 5 at Demesne or Mearsparkfarm 5, Co. Westmeath, dated to 2812±23 BP (1018-904
cal BC, UBA-8187)(NRA Database). A date of 2811±26 BP (1038-901 cal BC, UB-11275) was
returned from hazel charcoal from fill of well/spring (C10) associated with the burnt mound
at Caherweelder 1, Co. Galway (O'Mahony & Delaney 2010, 19; Delaney & Tierney 2011, 202-
203). At Oldtown 1, Co. Laois, alder and hazel charcoal from a burnt mound trough dated to
2810±35 BP (1053-846 cal BC, SUERC-17992)(NRA Database). Charcoal from Parksgrove 2,
Co. Kilkenny, dated to 2810±40 BP (1109-842 cal BC, GrN-25789)(Pers. Comm. R. Warner).
At Kennastown 1, Co. Meath, a hazelnut shell from the fill of pit (C125, F127) was dated to
2810±40 BP (1109-842 cal BC, Beta-247079)(M3 Radiocarbon Date list). Hazel charcoal from
the fill (C12) of a pit (C15) returned a date of 2809±20 BP (1010-909 cal BC, UB-11508)
at Moyveela 2, Co. Galway (Mullins & Delaney 2010, 18; Delaney & Tierney 2011, 204-205).
At Lisheen, Co. Clare, a date of 2808±33 BP (1050-849 cal BC, UB-6062) was returned from
material recovered from a low mound of burnt stone overlying troughs (Grogan 2007, 210).
Alder charcoal from a bedding layer (C617) of timber, associated with a working platform at
the burnt mound at Caheraphuca 6, Co. Clare, dated to 2806±24 BP (1016-900 cal BC, UBA-
12721)(Bayley 2010, iii, 9, 33).
In terms of contemporary burial, material from one of the cremation pits at Blackrath, Co.
Kildare, returned a date of 2815±50 BP (1116-843 cal BC, SUERC-25366)(INSTAR Database).
Human bone from a cremation burial in a coarse wear vessel at Rathgall, Co. Wicklow, dated
to 2805±35 BP (1049-846 cal BC, GrA-22304)(Pers. Comm. R. Warner). Charcoal from a
secondary feature inside the ring ditch at Ballyveelish 3, Co. Tipperary, returned a
determination of 2810±90 BP (1253-806 cal BC, GrN-11656)(Lanting 1987, 29; Doody, 1987,
13). At Ballintaggart, Co. Down, charcoal from the central cremation (C131, F200) of ring ditch
5 (Area 2) returned a date of 2810±70 BP (1192-814 cal BC, Beta-217352)(Chapple, Dunlop,
Gilmore & Heaney 2009, 76; Chapple 2008, 166; Chapple & Heaney 2010). Finally, at
Carnkenny, Co. Tyrone, charcoal from the old ground surface sealed below the ring cairn
returned a date of 2815±50 BP (1116-843 cal BC, UB-599)(Lynn 1973-1974, 30; Smith, Pearson
& Pilcher 1973, 215).
There is only one shell midden in this group, at False Bay, Co. Galway, which dated to 2810±75
BP (1193-812 cal BC, KI-2899)(McCormick, Gibbons, McCormac, & Moore 1996, 83). There
6. are three trackways from this period within the sample group. At Dromard More (Track B),
Co. Tipperary, a piece of alder with bark, used as a runner on the trackway, dated to 2810±25
BP (1026-900 cal BC, GrN-18764)(Brindley & Lanting 1998, 55). An oak plank from the
trackway at Baunaghra (Templetuohy Bog), Co. Laois, returned a date of 2805±45 BP (1111-
836 cal BC, GrN-14732)(Brindley & Lanting 1998, 48). Finally, Track 3 at Derryoghil, Co.
Longford, was dated to 2805±20 BP (1007-907 cal BC, GrN-15487)(Brindley & Lanting 1998,
51). The increased frequency of trackways from the Middle Bronze Age onwards is occasionally
seen as a response to deteriorating climatic conditions (Grogan 2004). In this context it is
particularly interesting that two dates in this sequence are related to the volcanic eruption of
Hekla 3 in Iceland, which may well have had a significant impact on local conditions. The two
dates are: 2810±80 BP (1208-810 cal BC, GU-7031) and 2810±50 BP (1114-839 cal BC, GU-
7039)(Plunkett 2006, 62).
Other sites of similar date include Rath, Co. Meath, where one feature (F380) was dated to
2812±31 BP (1052-858 cal BC, Wk-18206) (Pers. Comm. J. Gaffrey, CRDS Ltd.). At Hallsfarm
1, Co. Westmeath, charcoal from a spread of material returned a date of 2813±45 BP (1113-
844 cal BC, UBA-8205)(NRA Database)
Taken together, this small group of radiocarbon determinations allows us to see beyond the
immediate physical landscape, and past an examination of parallel morphologies, into an
island-wide panorama of contemporary sites. Through this approach we can see the wider
scope of contemporary human action – not just the construction of other houses, but the
disposal of the dead, reaction to climate change, the exploitation of food resources … and
whatever they did with burnt mounds. As more and more radiocarbon dates are published –
and eventually make their way into the IR&DD Catalogue – combined with a more nuanced
approach to sample selection and advances in dating technology, the numbers of accurate and
precise dates will grow. As a direct result of this, the more fine-grained and narrow-ranged the
‘Radiocarbon Landscapes’ we are able to produce will become. I do not claim that it is a
research ‘silver bullet’ that does away with any other avenue of research. Far from it! This
approach, if used well, can become another valuable implement in the archaeological research
tool-box. It may lack the immediacy (and beauty) of O’Donoghue’s excellent images, but this
too is attempting to reconstruct an image of the Knockgraffon and its place in the landscape.
Together we can write bigger, more comprehensive, and (ultimately) more beautiful narratives
of the past.
Notes:
My most sincere thanks go to JG O’Donoghue, for allowing me to use his beautiful illustrations
in this post; and also to Colm Moriarty for being such a good sport and offering encouragement
throughout.
Moriarty gives the calibrated date for Beta-220337 as 1100-830 cal BC. This is slightly
different to the calibrated range of 1114-839 cal BC that I’ve used here. The reason for this is
that I used Calib 6.1.0, implementing the IntCal09 curve (Reimer et al. 2009),
while McQuade et al. (2009, 370) used the IntCal98 curve for dates from Beta Analytic Inc.,
though it’s not stated which particular computer program (and version) they used.
As I’ve stated above, the IR&DD catalogue is available to anyone – for free – to do with as they
please. If you want to try your hand at creating a Radiocarbon Landscape to complement your
own excavation or research project, it’s simple for you to do so – and you have my blessing. If
you need help, I’d be more than happy to give whatever advice I can - for free. However, if
you’d like me to give it a shot for you, I’d be up for that, too – and my rates are pretty
reasonable!
I've sung the praises of JG's online shop above, but I should also point out that Colm Moriarty's
irisharchaeology.ie also has an on-line shop selling 'wonderful things' ... go check it out!: here.
7. If you're not sure that it's for you - just buy either the leather wallet, or the Viking belt and
have them sent on to me! :)
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