Unearthing the Past: Bronze Age and 18th Century Lives Revealed on Cornwall’s Coast

In a remarkable discovery along the scenic coast of Cornwall, the remains of two individuals, dating back to the Bronze Age and the 18th century, have offered profound insights into the region’s ancient past.

Found near Trevone, Padstow, and during a beach clean at Sennen in Penwith, these findings not only enrich our understanding of Cornwall’s history but also highlight the enduring legacy of its coastal landscapes.

A Glimpse into the Bronze Age

The skeleton found at Sennen Cove, identified through meticulous analysis by the Cornwall Archaeological Unit (CAU), dates back approximately 3300 years, placing it firmly in the Middle Bronze Age. Ann Reynolds, Senior Officer for the Rural Historic Environment at Cornwall Council, shared insights into the discovery, suggesting the location was likely a grave site, now exposed by the erosive forces of time and weather. The condition of the remains, represented only by a skull, suggests an individual of middle age, potentially male, though the evidence points to the challenges in determining precise details due to the erosion of time.

The Life of an 18th Century Mariner

The discovery at Trevone provides a more detailed account of an individual’s life in the 18th century, likely a male aged between 25 and 40. The analysis, indicative of a life filled with heavy manual labour, suggests the person was a mariner, accustomed to the rigorous demands of seafaring life. Signs of physical strain, injuries, and a lifestyle marked by persistent labour paint a vivid picture of the hardships faced by sailors of that era. The compact nature of the burial, coupled with the loss of the lower limbs, narrates a story of an improvised final resting place, possibly following a shipwreck.

Connecting with Cornwall’s Seafaring Heritage

Martyn Alvey, the portfolio holder for Environment and Climate Change at Cornwall Council, reflected on the significance of these discoveries, emphasising their contribution to understanding Cornwall’s rich seafaring history. The investigations, underpinned by modern science and forensics, not only reconnect us with those who lived and died along these shores but also underscore the importance of maritime heritage to the Cornish identity.

The Role of Community in Preservation

The involvement of Beach Guardian, particularly co-founder Emily Stevenson, who stumbled upon the remains during a conservation effort, underscores the critical role of community engagement in uncovering and preserving historical sites. These discoveries serve as a poignant reminder of the significance of protecting our coastal environments, not only for their ecological value but also as gateways to our past.

Reporting Discoveries: A Community Responsibility

The findings also highlight the importance of responsible reporting. Discoveries of human remains are subject to strict protocols to ensure respectful handling and investigation. The collaborative effort between archaeologists, local authorities, and the community in these instances demonstrates the collective responsibility in preserving our shared heritage.

In conclusion, the discovery of human remains from the Bronze Age and the 18th century along Cornwall’s coast offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of individuals who once inhabited these landscapes. As investigations continue, these findings enrich our understanding of Cornwall’s historical tapestry, bridging the past with the present and future.