Hi Tim,

I have similar pits to the ones that you describe in my woodlot and these are generally described in archeological terms as being sawpits. Exactly how these pits were used in the conversion process is not completely clear nor have I yet seen a photograph or illustration of how this worked but the top of the pit rim tends to be leveled to accomodate bearers. I also have one pit that is only 2 feet deep and might well be a hewing pit so that the log does not need to be raised but can be simply rolled at ground level into position for hewing.

I can take some photos if you want.

Regards

Ken Hume