Abbey Gatehouse, and Number 1 The Square, Blanchland, Northumberland: Tree-Ring Analysis of Timbers
Author(s): Alison Arnold, Robert Howard, Matt Hurford
Dendrochronological analysis of 29 samples obtained from a range of locations at the Abbey gatehouse and No 1 The Square, Blanchland, has produced a single dated site chronology, comprising 28 samples and having an overall length of 207 rings. These rings can be dated as spanning the years AD 1326–1532. Interpretation of the sapwood on the dated samples indicates the likelihood that all the timbers were cut as part of a single programme of felling in, or about, AD 1532. Such a date shows that while the lower levels of both the gatehouse and No 1 contain some medieval fabric, possibly of late-fifteenth century date, this may have been remodelled in AD 1532 when the upper floor of No 1 was probably added. Tree-ring analysis would also show that work was undertaken on the Abbey buildings shortly before the dissolution here in AD 1536. A single sample remains ungrouped and undated.
- Report Number:
- 47/2009
- Series:
- Research Department Reports
- Pages:
- 40
- Keywords:
- Dendrochronology Standing Building
