Seahenge saved for posterity (again)

Submitted by Andy B on Monday, 15 October 2001 Page Views: 877

"Seahenge", the important Bronze Age Timber Circle that was recovered from the seashore at Holme, Norfolk, is to be saved and conserved for future generations.

This course of action, proposed by English Heritage, was announced and discussed at a meeting of the Timber Circle Working Group on Wednesday 10 October in Hunstanton, Norfolk.

David Miles, Chief Archaeologist at English Heritage, said: "'Seahenge' is one of the most important discoveries of recent years for British archaeology. It has opened a new window into the Bronze Age and by conserving the timbers we will be preserving them for future generations to experience for themselves."

A proposal that the timbers be reburied at Holme beach was carefully considered and English Heritage consulted scientists throughout the world in the process. The English Heritage Science and Conservation Panel and its statutory Ancient Monuments Advisory Committee concluded that a reburial on the beach would not guarantee the long-term preservation of these important
timbers. Instead, English Heritage Commissioners agreed that the most responsible course of action was to conserve the timbers and guarantee their safe storage thereafter.

The conservation programme, fully funded by English Heritage, will take place at the Flag Fen archaeological centre near Peterborough. The whole process will take at least five years, during which time English Heritage will discuss with local partners and the owner of the timbers, the le Strange Estate, possibilities for the future display of this unique survival from the early Bronze Age.

The "Seahenge" timbers have been precisely dated to spring 2050BC and 2049BC using pioneering dating techniques. Speculation continues as to the purpose of "Seahenge" and the study of axe marks on the wood has shown that about three dozen bronze tools were used to cut and trim the timbers, suggesting that the construction was a communal activity.

English Heritage, in partnership with Norfolk County Council, will also produce a travelling exhibition and booklet about "Seahenge" and the important discoveries made about this fascinating structure.

Note: Phew - Sense prevails at last - Andy

Contributor Bio for Andy B: Megalithic Portal Founding Editor.

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