Lye leaching stones were used to leach lye from wood ashes. The
lye was then used in the soap making process. Here are are few examples.
If anyone knows of any other stones like this, I would love to hear from you.
Thank you! Email: Carol A. Hanny
Connecticut Barkhamsted Reservoir Stone
Photo by Carol A. Hanny
This stone WAS on the eastern side of Barkhamsted Reservoir. It has been removed from its original site. I was told it was to leach lye from wood ashes for soapmaking. A barrel, with holes drilled in the bottom, was fitted into the round groove. Ashes would be placed in the barrel, water poured on top, and the lye would leach out, and collected in a container by the spout on the rock.
South Hadley Massachusetts Stone.
Photo courtesy of Ken Feder
East Hartland Connecticut Stone
Photo courtesy of Ken Feder
West Hill Connecticut Stone
Photo by Carol A. Hanny
Bakerville Connecticut Stone
Photo by Carol A. Hanny
Cornwall Hollow Connecticut Stone
Photo by Carol A. Hanny
Carol A. Hanny's website:
Megaliths, Caves, & Other Interesting Stuff!