Speaker: Dr Rachel Ballantyne, University of Cambridge

This talk outlines – from sampling to the laboratory – the diverse methods used to reveal microscopic and molecular evidence for home life at Must Farm. Results illustrate the preparation and storage of ingredients, the remains of different meals, and the organisation of household space. Although the pile-dwelling settlement was built over a fen waterway, a significant proportion of the plant and animal resources were brought from dry land elsewhere. When combined, these strands of evidence give an unprecedented insight into Bronze Age life, both at home and in the wider landscape.

Dr Rachel Ballantyne is an environmental archaeologist whose career has frequently spanned both the academic and developer-funded spheres of archaeology. During her time at the University of Cambridge, Dr Ballantyne has worked on many collaborations with Cambridge Archaeological Unit. and she led the scientific strategy for the excavation and analysis of the Must Farm pile-dwelling settlement.
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Part of the events programme alongside the Introducing Must Farm, a Bronze Age settlement exhibition.

Following the publication of the final report on the Must Farm settlement (excavated in 2015-16), hear from the archaeologists and specialists involved in the excavations and post-excavation research to discover the most up-to-date research and theories about the site. The first time all these experts have been brought together in one series, these talks are not to be missed!