Mystery on the marsh: Newly discovered Anglo-Saxon island is one of the most important archaeologica
Mystery on the marsh: Newly discovered Anglo-Saxon island is one of the most important archaeological finds in decades
Date:March 2, 2016
Source:University of Sheffield
Summary:The remains of an Anglo-Saxon island have been uncovered in one of the most important archaeological finds in decades.
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A glass counter decorated with twisted colourful strands found at the site.
Credit: Image courtesy of University of Sheffield
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The remains of an Anglo-Saxon island have been uncovered in one of the most important archaeological finds in decades.
The island which was home to a Middle Saxon settlement was found at Little Carlton near Louth, Lincolnshire by archaeologists from the University of Sheffield.
It is thought the site is a previously unknown monastic or trading centre but researchers believe their work has only revealed an enticing glimpse of the settlement so far.
The exciting discovery was made after a local metal detectorist Graham Vickers reported an intriguing item to the Lincolnshire Finds Liaison Officer (FLO), Dr Adam Daubney, from the Portable Antiquities Scheme which encourages the voluntary recording of archaeological objects found by members of the public in England and Wales.
Mr Vickers unearthed a silver stylus, which is an ornate writing tool dating back to the 8th century, from a disturbed plough field. This was the first of many unusual items found at the site which held important clues to the significant settlement lying below.
The large number of artefacts now include a total of 21 styli, around 300 dress pins, and a huge number of 'Sceattas', coins from the 7th-8th centuries, as well as a small lead tablet bearing the faint but legible letters spelling 'Cudberg' which is a female Anglo-Saxon name.
More:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/03/160302083603.htm