Evidence of a Neolithic axe quarry has been discovered at the base of Tievebulliagh, a hill and peak in the region. This quarry was a source of flint axe heads made from porcellanite, a type of rock. These axe heads have been found scattered across the British Isles, spanning from the Outer Hebrides to the south coast of England and throughout Ireland. This widespread distribution indicates the importance and reach of the quarry.
The site at Tievebulliagh is comparable to other notable axe industries, such as the Langdale axe industry located in the English Lake District and the quarries at Penmaenmawr in North Wales. These sites were known for producing significant quantities of stone axes.
In the vicinity of Tievebulliagh, various remnants related to axe production have been discovered, including splinters, scraps, and unfinished axes. This area likely served as a location for the initial shaping and sharpening of the axes. Once prepared, the axes were likely transported to the coast, where they would have undergone final finishing by the sea. After this, they were exported to regions including southwest Ireland, southeast England, and northeast Scotland. Interestingly, no finished axes have been found at the quarry itself.
Another significant find related to stone axes is "The Malone Treasure." This collection comprises 19 polished stone axes made from porcellanite sourced from Tievebulliagh or a similar material found in Brockley on Rathlin Island. These axes were discovered at Danesfort House on Malone Road in Belfast. Some of the axes were inserted vertically into the ground, raising the possibility that they were intended for ceremonial rather than practical purposes. These artifacts are now on display at the Ulster Museum in Belfast.