Object: Knocking Stone
Date: Medieval
Description: Knocking stones were made out of large boulders or were sometimes cut into bedrock. They were hollowed out in the centre. Their purpose was the pounding of grain or roots using a rounded stone or a wooden mell. Husks could be removed from barley or roots bruised to use as cattle fodder. Every farm or small farming community had one. They are difficult to date as the design did not vary over the centuries. In some remote communities they were used right up until the 19th century.
Origin: This knocking stone is one of a number in the Museum collection. It was removed from the grounds of Foley House prior to redevelopment. It was donated by Fyne Homes.