Prehistoric fishing instruments found randomly on Southampton shore in 2005 give a stark look into the lives of Saxon ancestors. Exeter University archaeologists claim that the astounding find give a new perspective of those who lived on the shore between 680AD and 896AD. Marine archaeologist Dr. John Cooper claims that the discovery has allowed he and several colleagues to expand their research by mapping changes to the shoreline over the past one thousand years. Radiocarbon dating was used to approximate the instruments’ age.

Key Takeaways:

• The weir, built as a permanent wooden structure to catch fish as the tide ebbed, was found by chance on the shore of Southampton Water in 2005.
• Experts from Exeter University said the results were “thrilling” and provided new insights into the process of coastal erosion in the area.
• The 70m-long (500ft) structure was found by chance close to the Fawley oil refinery by archaeology students more than 10 years ago.

“A timber fishing trap exposed on the Hampshire coast dates back to Saxon times, it has been confirmed.”

Read more: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-40635975