THE FISH BONE FROM LAUNCESTON CASTLE, CORNWALL
Author(s): P Smith
A total of 6861 fragments of fish bone have been identified from Launceston Castle in Cornwall. Fish bones were present in layers ranging from 1068 AD to 1939 AD but the majority came from two periods; the late 13th century and the 15th century. The most commonly represented species in all periods was hake (Merluccius merluccius) and this species is studied in detail. A modern comparative group of hake is used to see if any relationship between bone dimension and total length of the fish can be established. Processing techniques are looked at and it is concluded that hake were the `stockfish' of the Cornish fishing industry, and that the assemblage at Launceston reflects a local fishery. The presumed high status of the castle is reflected only in the exploitation of a few rarities such as a very large flatfish. However, as the status of the castle declined the proportion of fish also declined.
- Report Number:
- 56/1995
- Series:
- AML Reports (New Series)
- Pages:
- 55
- Keywords:
- Animal Remains Fish Bone
