British Archaeology, Issue no 51, February 2000 - NEWS

Dating Seahenge

The inverted oak tree removed last year from the shoreline at Holme-next-the-Sea in Norfolk, and taken for conservation to Flag Fen, fell down-or was felled-in the spring of 2050 BC, according to dating experts at English Heritage. The surrounding timber circle was made from oaks felled one year later in 2049 BC. The date was provided by statistical analysis of the results of a combination of dendrochronology and radiocarbon dating. Further examination of the partial growth ring on the outside of the stump suggested the tree fell between April and June. Part of a honeysuckle rope, found around the stump, was probably used to haul the tree into place.

For another account of the dating of the site - Dating Seahenge from British Archaeology. An account of the discovery of this timber circle can be found at Inverted tree found inside timber ring from the magazine British Archaeology. Also Wooden door to past (The Guardian, Thursday July 29, 1999), and Mysterious ring of ancient trunks (Daily Telegraph, 14 Jan 1999). The dating of the circle was also covered by The Guardian (Seaside wooden circle dates from 2050BC).