Flint Fragment, Eskdalemuir

This fragment of flint, most likely used as a scraper to remove fat from animal hides was found in Eskdalemuir in 1957.  Mesolithic peoples obtained edged blades by breaking flakes from a larger rock. Their most characteristic blade was the tiny microlith which could be made in a range of shapes and set in groups into wood and bone handles to form arrowheads and spears. They could also be hafted into cutting tools or used to provide a sharp point for piercing. Knapping was a specialised skill, requiring good hand and eye co-ordination as well as a knowledge of stone and the way that it fractured.