THE TREE-RING ANALYSIS OF FIVE BELLFRAMES FROM THE COUNTY OF ESSEX
Author(s): Ian Tyers
Dendrochronological analysis of five Essex bellframes is described. Seventeen bellframes had previously been assessed for their suitability for dendrochronological analysis (Tyers 1993a; 1995a), and three had already been analysed (Tyers 1995b). 57 samples were obtained from a further five bellframes that were selected for extensive sampling and analysis. The analyses were commissioned as part of a wide-ranging survey of surviving bellframes in the county.Dates were obtained for timbers from the primary phase of one bellframe, the primary phase of one belfry, and the later modification phases of two bellframes. The results have helped illuminate the developmental sequence of surviving bellframe types.This study has reaffirmed that tree-ring dating of timbers from buildings in Essex is difficult. This appears primarily due to the use of fast growing young trees which are less suited to the technique. A particular problem with this study has been the limited numbers of trees used to build most extant bellframes. Nevertheless, data have been produced which will add to the research currently underway to create a long, well replicated, county based chronology, and which may help to date more bellframes in the future.
- Report Number:
- 12/1996
- Series:
- AML Reports (New Series)
- Pages:
- 34
- Keywords:
- Dendrochronology
