Sunday 25 February 2007

Archaeologists Bid to Unravel Mystery of Thornton Abbey


English Heritage archaeologists are bidding to unravel the turbulent post-dissolution history of Thornton Abbey, near Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire.

A major project is underway as part of the £4.5m South Humber Bank Heritage Tourism Initiative to tap the site’s potential as a visitor attraction and also carry out conservation work and further archaeological investigation.

A key aim for the team of investigators is the task of unravelling the mystery of the site’s fate after it was suppressed by Henry VIII in 1538. Built in the 14th century after the Peasant's Revolt, the abbey was one of England’s wealthiest Augustinian monasteries and boasts the nation’s best preserved monastic gatehouse.

In common with many medieval abbeys its heyday is well documented while its post dissolution history is shrouded in mystery.

“It’s a big mistake to believe history stood still after the monks left,” explained English Heritage Archaeological Investigator Al Oswald. “Thornton has never been intensively studied and because the site has escaped modern development, there’s a great deal still to discover. The information we glean will be used to create exciting new interpretation panels and displays.”

The site will open to the public in June 2007.

(24 Hour Museum - 5 February 2007)

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