Posted on 02/05/2009 2:58:24 PM PST by BGHater
The remains of a 1,500-year-old Saxon burial ground have been uncovered by two Sussex metal detector enthusiasts.
Bob White and Cliff Smith unearthed brooches, a bronze bowl, a spear and a shield from the graves of a man and two women on farmland near Lewes.
Mr Smith, of Eastbourne District Metal Detecting Club, said he knew he had found something special when he noticed part of a bowl and a piece of skull.
It is thought the family were relatively wealthy and of high status.
Mr Smith and Mr White called Sussex Police as soon as they uncovered the items in October 2008 as they were unsure of the age of the grave.
Mr White said: "It was a bit scary at first because we were unsure if it was a murder scene."
Casper Johnson and Greg Chuter, East Sussex County archaeologists, confirmed they were Saxon burials and decided to excavate the graves immediately to avoid the risk of looting.
The most impressive grave contained the remains of a female, an unusual bronze bowl, gilded brooches and silver belt decorations.
The male was buried with a spear and shield.
The 1,500-year-old skeletal remains and the relics have been sent to English Heritage's laboratory in Portsmouth for analysis.
It is hoped they will eventually go on public display at Lewes's Barbican House Museum.
(Excerpt) Read more at news.bbc.co.uk ...
Bling & Body ping.
People just cant leave the dead alone it seems
Very interesting.
bookmark
From my cold dead fingers...
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Thanks BGHater. |
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Very interesting. Thanks for posting.
They are eligible to vote in 2010.
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