Tree-Ring Dated Changes in Gloucestershire’s Vernacular Timber-Frame Traditions

Abstract

A main component of the Gloucestershire Dendrochronology Project was the systematic recording and accurate dating by tree-ring analysis of 50 buildings in Newent, Tewkesbury and Gloucester. Together with 128 previously published tree-ring-dated buildings, this has allowed date ranges for 42 stylistic features of vernacular timber-framing in Gloucestershire to be established. Two periods of rapid change from the 1380–1400s and the 1520–50s are shown. The first period is marked by the use of the crown-strut truss, the rise of open-hall decoration and the use of passing braces and close studding. The second period sees the increased use of first-floor flooring, smoke control, on-edge joists and small square panels, and both windbraces and wall braces change shape from curved to straight.