Timber supply through time - Copenhagen waterfronts under scrutiny

Area of Science:

• Archaeological Science
• Environmental History

Background:

• Dendrochronology provides precise dating for historical timber but is often limited in commercial archaeology by cost.
• Complex wooden structures require extensive sampling for detailed chronological analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the potential of high-precision dendrochronological dating through extensive timber sampling.
• To advocate for wider adoption of comprehensive sampling strategies in archaeological research and commercial practice.
• To highlight the insights gained into construction processes, structural duration, and timber trade networks.

Main Methods:

• Extensive sampling of well-preserved wood remains from archaeological sites.
• Detailed tree-ring analysis to achieve annual chronological resolution.
• High-precision provenance identification of timber.

Main Results:

• Annual chronological detail was achieved for complex wooden structures.
• Insights into building processes and the lifespan of past built environments were gained.
• High-precision identification of timber provenance and mapping of bulk structural timber trade routes were accomplished.

Conclusions:

• Extensive tree-ring analysis can unlock unprecedented chronological precision in archaeology.
• Wider, systematic sampling strategies are crucial for maximizing the potential of dendrochronology.
• Tree-ring studies offer significant insights into historical construction, resource management, and interregional connections.