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Seahenge to be 'saved'
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http://www.english-heritage.or[...]news/ExpandedResult.asp?Id=263

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.


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Posted by RiotGibbon
15th October 2001ce
14:16

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