Work

Archaeological investigation and charcoal analysis of charcoal burning platforms, Barbon, Cumbria, UK

Year: 2017

Type: article

Abstract: In October 2013, small-scale excavations were undertaken at Barbon Park, Cumbria, on a series of features interpreted as former charcoal production sites. This formed part of Historic England's National Archaeological Identification Survey (NAIS) Upland Pilot: Lakes and Dales. The charcoal burning platforms were identified initially from aerial survey using a combination of aerial photographs and airborne laser scanning (lidar) data. Charcoal samples were recovered and chronological modelling shows the production sites to be post-medieval in date. Analysis of the charcoal recorded the dominance of Fraxinus, together with Maloideae/Prunus type, and lesser contributions of common woodland taxa, including Ilex and Hedera. Documentary research into the possible uses of the charcoal has proved inconclusive, although it seems that gunpowder and lime production can be reasonably discounted.

Source: Quaternary International

DOI: 10.1016/j.quaint.2017.05.025

Authors: Zoë Hazell, Vicky Crosby, Matthew Oakey, Peter Marshall

Institution: Historic England

Language: English

Topic: Archaeology and ancient environmental studies

Subfield: Paleontology

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,400

Funders: University of Gloucestershire, Àrainneachd Eachdraidheil Alba, Natural England