Journal of Archaeological Science
June 11, 2005

A pollen analytical record for hemp retting from Dungeness Foreland

Authors: Schofield, J.E., Waller
Source: ; May 2005, Vol. 32 Issue 5,   p715, 12p
Document Type: Article

Abstract: This paper presents late Holocene pollen analytical, plant   macrofossil and radiocarbon data from a sequence filling a natural pit   developed in the gravel beaches of Dungeness Foreland, southeast   England. Pollen analysis of organic muds from the base of Muddymore Pit   contain exceptionally high pollen frequencies for Cannabis sativa L.   and indicate the past use of the site as a hemp-retting pit. The timing   of the pollen record for Cannabis (ca. AD 1000-1400) corresponds with a   period during which the nearby town of Lydd reached the height of its   prosperity and importance as one of the lesser havens of the 'Cinque   Ports' confederation. It is proposed that the hemp-retting site at   Muddymore Pit went a long way towards satisfying demand from the port   for the products of hempen fibre such as rope (for ships rigging) and   cloth (for ships sails). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR; Copyright 2005   Elsevier]

Author Affiliations: 1Dr J. Edward Schofield, Department of Geography &   Environment, Elphinstone Road, Aberdeen AB24 3UF, United Kingdom 2Dr Martyn Waller, School of Earth Sciences & Geography, Kingston   University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT1 2EE, United   Kingdom

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