Getting muddy this Monday!

Environmental sampling. Some love it, some fear it, but it’s a crucial part of archaeological analysis. In addition to collecting finds, we also take samples of interesting features. These could include: burnt material, graves, cremations, special features (such as ring ditches or sunken buildings) or even features with large amounts of finds!

We then float the samples in our tanks (nicknamed the Flotation Station) using mesh and water, which allows certain material to float such as charcoal, seeds and small bones. This material can then be analysed to learn more about the feature it came from, and the site in general.

Our personal favourite find that came out of a sample was a collection of charred acorns and hazelnuts from a Bronze Age post hole