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Work For Us
In July 2024, a recent experimental archaeology project saw the completion and launch of three, hand-made, Bronze Age-style logboats at Stanwick Lakes in Northamptonshire.
Boughton were delighted to play a vital role in this fascinating initiative by supplying the raw materials—fallen lime trees—from the grounds to create the logboats.
Recreating Ancient Craftsmanship
The Big Bronze Age Boat Build emerged from an ambitious program led by Dr. James Dilley, an experimental archaeologist and founder of AncientCraft. The project aimed to handcraft three logboats using only Bronze-Age techniques and tools, ultimately launching them on Solstice Lake within the country park at Stanwick Lakes.
The team drew inspiration from Stanwick Lakes’ prehistoric history and insights from Must Farm, where excavations between 2011 and 2012 uncovered nine logboats from 1300-700 BC, crafted from oak, alder, and lime. Further digs in 2015-2016 revealed Britain’s most complete prehistoric settlement, preserving Bronze Age structures and a wealth of woodworking tools, including bronze axes, adzes, and chisels with intact wooden handles.
Under the supervision of Dr Dilley, the project involved volunteers from the public and archaeologists. At the launch event, participants emphasised the value of seeing Bronze Age-style tools in action and exploring the toolmarks found on the excavated logboats.
Experimenting with Ancient Techniques
Since the exact methods for making Bronze Age logboats are unknown, the experimental project employed different techniques for each of the three boats. Made from the fallen lime trees at Boughton, two were hollowed out by chipping the interiors, while the third was created using controlled burning. Initially, the team removed as much bark as possible, then split the top surface with stakes and used axes and adzes to smooth out any uneven areas and knots. The hollowing out of the logs took place over many weekends, attracting curious onlookers who watched and asked questions as volunteers worked.
A Celebratory Completion
The completed boats were tested in July 2024 at a special launch event at Stanwick Lakes. To the delight of all, the logboats launched successfully into Solstice Lake, gracefully gliding across the water powered by leaf-shaped paddles.
This triumphant moment not only showcased the skill and dedication of the volunteers but also celebrated the rich heritage of the area, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing exploration of Bronze Age craftsmanship. As the boats skimmed across the lake, they brought history to life, highlighting the epic transformation from fallen lime trees at Boughton, to uniquely crafted vessels.
