The Last Voyage | Sutton Hoo

Embark on the last voyage of an Anglo-Saxon burial ship and learn how its discovery changed our understanding of a civilisation.  In 1939, archaeologists uncovered a “ghost ship” under the acidic sandy soil of Sutton Hoo, in Suffolk. Now, presenter James Grasby reimagines the last journey of that vessel, and who was aboard, as it was hauled from the water and dragged to its final resting place some 1,400 years ago.   Information and resources Free guided tours of the Royal Burial Ground are available daily from February to October. You can book onto a tour with the Visitor Welcome team when you arrive at Sutton Hoo.  The replica ship is being built by the Sutton Hoo Ship’s Company. To follow the progress of the project and how you can support it, please visit saxonship.org The Sutton Hoo Ship’s Company are using authentic Anglo- Saxon ship building methods in their build and are supporting the Heritage Crafts apprenticeship programme. This programme is aimed at tackling the heritage skills shortage and is made possible thanks to a £6.2 million gift from the Hamish Ogston Foundation. The programme is open to people of all ages and provides the skills and experience to embark on a career that will make a significant contribution towards protecting and preserving the nation’s heritage. Find out more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hamish-ogston Auto Generated Additional Information Introduction: - In this episode, James Grasby visits the boatyard in Woodbridge and explores the historic site of Sutton Hoo. - He is joined by Jacq Barnard, the project manager from the Sutton Hoo Ship's Company, who provides insights into the construction of a replica of the 86 ft oak ship discovered at Sutton Hoo. - They discuss the use of Anglo Saxon methods and tools to recreate the ship and the mysteries surrounding its purpose and significance. Main Topics Discussed: 1. Discovery of the Sutton Hoo Ship: - In 1939, archaeologist Basil Brown uncovered the buried 86 ft oak ship at Sutton Hoo. - The ship contained a carefully curated burial chamber for King Redwald of the woofing dynasty. 2. Recreating the Ship: - The Sutton Hoo Ship's Company is using Anglo Saxon methods and tools to build a replica of the ship. - The rivets found at the excavation site were crucial in converting archaeological information into a modern-day plan. - The ship is expected to be completed by spring 2025 and will be tested to determine its capabilities and potential uses. 3. Journey on the River Deben: - James Grasby and Matt embark on a small clinker-built wooden boat to experience the journey the Anglo Saxon rowers might have taken. - They discuss the challenges of rowing and the landscape surrounding the river. 4. Hauling the Ship: - Laura Howarth, an expert on Sutton Hoo, explains the process of hauling the ship from the river to the burial mounds. - The ship was beached in squashy mud, and the hauling process likely took several days. - Funeral feasts and ceremonies were held during this time. 5. Burial Mounds and Research: - Sutton Hoo has around 18 burial mounds, with ongoing research uncovering more information. - The Royal Burial Ground is an important part of the Sutton Hoo story, but there are other fascinating chapters to explore. - Non-invasive techniques and technology are used to further understand the site and add to its story. Key Takeaways: - The replica of the Sutton Hoo ship is being built using Anglo Saxon methods and tools. - The purpose and significance of the original ship remain a mystery, and the replica will help shed light on its capabilities and potential uses. - The journey on the River Deben provides insights into the challenges faced by Anglo Saxon rowers. - Hauling the ship from the river to the burial mounds was a significant feat of strength and engineering. - Ongoing research at Sutton Hoo continues to uncover new information and add to the site's story. Guests: - Jacq Barnard: Project Manager from the Sutton Hoo Ship's Company. - Laura Howarth: Expert on Sutton Hoo. - Matt: Member of Wulfheodenas - Brian: Ship Skipper Additional Information: - The Sutton Hoo Ship's Company aims to complete the replica ship by spring 2025. - The ship will be tested to determine its capabilities and potential uses. - Sutton Hoo has around 18 burial mounds, with ongoing research and non-invasive techniques being used to uncover more information.