New book explores ancient Anglo-Saxon burial grounds at RAF Lakenheath

A new book with details of an ancient burial grounds in Suffolk has been published.

‘The Anglo-Saxon Cemeteries at RAF Lakenheath, Eriswell, Suffolk: Excavations 1997-2008’ written by Jo Caruth and John Hines explores the 1,500 year-old burial grounds at the military base, including that of the famous Lakenheath Warrior.

The book offers a look at life on the Suffolk Fen-edge during the Early Saxon period – including new research into glass and metal-working technologies, the sourcing of the materials of everyday life, as well as the forms of burial, the human skeletal remains, and the grave goods.

Authors Jo Caruth and John Hines, said: “The excavations that began at RAF Lakenheath in 1997 came to reveal a closely spaced group of burial sites, very close in date, that have delivered a wealth of archaeological data.

“In compiling this book, we were able to build upon highly professional recording and recovery in the process of excavation with a range of cutting-edge post-excavation studies, reflecting complementary expertise in the study of human remains, artefacts and features.

"The result is deep insight into the lifestyles, resources and horizons of a Fen-edge population from the 5th to 8th centuries AD, including personal connections and choices made within that community.”

The Saxon burials were first discovered at RAF Lakenheath in the 1950s during work on the Lakenheath hospital and other finds in the book include 427 graves, six men buried with swords (two accompanied by horses), three minstrels (men buried with lyres), one man buried with a quiver of arrows and others.

The book has been produced across two volumes, published by Suffolk County Council Archaeological Service (SCCAS) and Cotswold Archaeology, and funded by the Ministry of Defence.

To find out more or to order your copy, click here.

The Lakenheath Warrior, his horse and some of the objects from the cemeteries are on loan to Mildenhall Museum where they can be viewed by the public.

Richard Osgood, senior historic advisor for Defence Infrastructure Organisation, said: “I am thrilled to see this important publication – not only is it lavishly illustrated, it is a hugely important addition to our understanding of the Early Medieval period in England.

“The site itself is located on a military base, host to American forces, and perhaps illustrates both the cross-generational presence of ‘warriors’ and also the commitment of Defence to the highest archaeological standards.”