Tree-Ring Analysis of Timbers from Muchelney Abbey, Muchelney, Near Langport, Somerset

Author(s): Dr Martin Bridge

Extensive tree-ring research was carried out at this site over a two-year period. Some areas were judged not to have suitable timbers for dendrochronological dating, but structural timbers and two doors from a variety of areas within what remains of this abbey complex were investigated using a combination of techniques, including coring of structural timbers, micro-boring of a door, and FIMO impressions of the boards of a door. The following felling periods, and hence likely phases of building activity were obtained: - some timbers in the Reredorter, after AD 1268, but probably late thirteenth or early fourteenth century - kitchen roofs, AD 1312-33 and AD 1401 - door to the cloisters, after AD 1410, but probably early/mid fifteenth century - ceiling of the Ante Room, AD 1447-73 - roof of the Abbot's Parlour, two groups of timbers, felled AD 1464-73 and after AD 1465 - roof of the east room of the south cloisters, after AD 1492, but probably early sixteenth century - door to the Steward's Room, after AD 1481, but probably of late fifteenth or early sixteenth century - the ceiling of the Steward's Room, AD 1492-1507 - the roof of Steward's Room, two groups felled AD 1490-1522 and AD 1507-37 Dendrochronology has therefore provided independent dating evidence for the development of this complex of buildings.

Report Number:
114/2002
Series:
CfA Reports
Pages:
60
Keywords:
Dendrochronology Standing Building

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