An account of some kjoekkenmoeddings, or shell-heaps, in Maine and Massachusetts

"An account of some kjoekkenmoeddings, or shell-heaps, in Maine and Massachusetts" by Jeffries Wyman, M.D. is a scientific publication likely written in the mid-19th century. The book focuses on the investigation and description of various archaeological shell-heaps along the coasts of Maine and Massachusetts, known as këkkenmøddings, which serve as remnants of Native American habitation and provide insights into their culinary practices and lifestyle. In this account, Wyman meticulously examines several shell-heaps, presenting a detailed analysis of their composition, structure, and the various animal remains and tools discovered within them. He documents findings from key locations, such as Frenchman’s Bay and Cotuit Port, detailing the layers of shells, the types of seafood consumed, and the remains of terrestrial animals. Wyman discusses the significance of these discoveries in understanding the dietary habits and cultural practices of the Indigenous peoples, as well as the age of the heaps, suggesting they date back several centuries based on the variety of species and the geological conditions surrounding them. The work is notable for its empirical observations and contributes to the field of archaeology by highlighting the historical and cultural importance of these shell deposits.