Seahenge

The debate

Some people objected to the excavation – some local people felt they had not been consulted about ‘their’ Seahenge and that it should be left alone; some neo-Druids objected on religious grounds; and some people were not convinced that the circle was really at risk from the sea.

Most archaeological excavations do not attract much public attention or controversy but Seahenge became the subject of a very public debate. Who owns the past? How do you weigh up science and spirituality? How should difficult decisions be made in the face of conflicting opinion?

Photo © Archaeoptics

The timbers at Flag Fen

After several months of excavation, which involved bailing the encroaching tidal water out the circle for at least 5 out of the 7 digging hours a day, the timbers were removed to the safety of Flag Fen.

They were brought here so they can be properly stored to stop them decaying and the staff here have the skills to help the English Heritage scientists conserve the timbers for future generations.