Archaeologists cleaning excess mud off the Bronze Age spade
Wessex Archaeology
A recent discovery by archaeologists in the UK has unveiled a rare wooden spade from the Bronze Age. This find provides valuable insights into the lives of ancient communities who were transitioning towards settled agricultural practices.
Ed Treasure, a researcher at Wessex Archaeology in Salisbury, describes the significance of this discovery as a direct link to the past, offering a tangible connection to our ancestors.
The excavation took place in the wetlands near Poole Harbour on the south coast of England as part of the Moors at Arne Coastal Change Project. This ongoing project aims to preserve coastal wetlands and prevent the loss of important historical artifacts.
The wooden spade was found in a ring gully, a circular trench possibly used to surround shelters in ancient times. The archaeologists were amazed to find the well-preserved handle of the spade, which was crafted from a single piece of oak. The wet conditions of the area contributed to the exceptional preservation of the artifact by limiting exposure to oxygen.
Radiocarbon dating places the spade to be around 3400-3500 years old, dating it to the Middle Bronze Age. This period marked a significant shift in British prehistory as communities began to settle down and engage in agriculture.
While there is no evidence of permanent settlement at the excavation site, it is believed that the location was used seasonally for activities such as grazing animals, peat cutting, and thatching material collection.
Further research will focus on understanding the purpose of the spade and how it was utilized. Speculations include its use for cutting peat or digging the ring gullies found in the area.
Preserved spades from the Bronze Age are exceedingly rare, with one of the few known examples being the Brynlow shovel discovered in Cheshire in the 19th century. This newfound spade adds to the limited collection of wooden artifacts from this ancient era, shedding light on the daily lives and activities of our ancestors.
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