Ancient shipwreck timbers uncovered on Sanday raise urgent conservation concerns

In February of this year, significant historical timbers were discovered on Sanday, an island in Orkney, Scotland, after being washed ashore by winter storms. These timbers were found on the Sands o'Erraby beach, revealing a potential shipwreck that has sparked substantial interest among archaeologists. Following the discovery, the timbers were relocated to a freshwater conservation tank at the island's heritage centre to preserve them and facilitate further study. Recognizing the importance of this nautical discovery, Historic Environment Scotland (HES) granted £21,000 to Wessex Archaeology and Dendrochronicle to fund an in-depth analysis of the wreck. The analysis aims to understand the ship's origins, construction date, and its relevance to maritime trade in and around Orkney. The research will involve dendrochronology, a scientific method that utilizes tree-ring data to date timber accurately, conducted by Dendrochronicle, who has sampled 19 timbers from the wreck. Each sample will provide crucial information about the ship's life, including where it was built and the connections it may have had to other parts of the North Sea region. Wessex Archaeology's coastal and marine experts will take these findings and delve into the shipbuilding practices of the time, a period marked by significant advancements in ship technology. The funding not only supports the meticulous study of the wreck but also stimulates community engagement by involving local researchers and the Sanday Heritage Centre in the preservation efforts. This community-centric approach enhances the appreciation of maritime archaeology, making it more accessible to broader audiences and allowing them to connect with their local history. Susan O'Connor, head of grants at HES, expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to uncover new insights into Orkney's maritime past and its significance in trade networks. The collaboration with local historians aims to create an archive focused on wrecks around the island, further enriching the narrative of Orkney's storied maritime history. As the excavation proceeds, the teams are hopeful that the results will illuminate the development of shipbuilding in the region and provide a vital link to the maritime traditions of the North Sea. Through continued research, the Sanday Wreck can offer a poignant glimpse into the intricate tapestry of historical maritime connections that have shaped the region's identity, paving the way for a new chapter in understanding Orkney's vibrant heritage.