Excavations at Barnfield Pit, Swanscombe, 1968–72

Abstract

• The lower Palaeolithic site at Swanscombe has been the focus of research and debate since the beginning of the century. Not only did it provide evidence of Clactonian flint industries overlain by Acheulian, but it has also yielded the only human skull fragments from this period in Britain. This volume provides a detailed description of the most recent excavations undertaken by John Waechter from 1968-72. Included are chapters on the historical background of Swanscombe, the geology of the site and surrounding area, together with chapters on the associated fish, bird, mammal and pollen remains. These provide the geological and environmental context for the flint industries which are described and interpreted in the final chapters. New information on the refitting of the knapping scatters is balanced by fresh interpretations that question the validity of the Clactonian/Acheulian division. After a century of research this volume demonstrates that Swanscombe is still a site of international importance, and continues to offer new evidence.