Star Carr in North Yorkshire is a pretty big deal in the archeological world. First found in 1947, the site is now considered the most important site of its kind in the whole of the UK and over the decades it has spilled a lot of tea on our Stone Age ancestors.
Besides headdresses, axes and arrow heads, one of the biggest discoveries at the ancient site near Scarborough was the 2010 excavation of a circular structure. Thought to date back to around 8,500 BC, archeologists have dubbed it ‘Britain’s oldest house’.
Now, the University of York and York Museums Trust are joining forces to construct a replica of the ancient building to help give a glimpse into life during the Mesolithic (middle Stone Age) period. They’ll build it using ancient techniques, with stone tools and plants that would have been around at the time.
Dr Adam Parker, curator of archeology at the museum, said: ‘Taking our lead from Star Carr, we are able to harness and harvest materials from the environment that will be similar to the components these people utilised all those years ago. It’s a chance for visitors to see the process and the results and we’re expecting everyone to get very hands on with the making of matting and twine.’
The house will accompany York Museum’s Star Carr exhibition, ‘Life After Ice’ where visitors can learn more about the sight see some of the incredible artefacts that have been found there. Construction gets underway tomorrow (on August 7) in front of the Yorkshire Museum and people will be able to visit it until September 1.
Historic Britain
Consider yourself a bit of a history nerd? Head to one of Time Out’s top museums, or visit one of these amazing live-in museums to experience the UK’s history as if it’s happening around you. In other heritage news, these are Britain’s most endangered Victorian buildings and this structure was recently named the most beautiful Unesco site in the world.
ICYMI: Six buildings have been nominated for the UK’s most prestigious architecture prize.
Plus: What is ‘champing’? The new type of glamping, explained.
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