Experts Unearth the Past

Aug 20, 01:17 PM

Current Headlines: MARITIME archaeologists in Saltburn have unearthed more about the area's history.

A team, helped by volunteers, has carried out its third season of survey work on the foreshore below Saltburn Cliffs.

The aim of the week-long survey was to record a series of rutways linked to the area's industrial past.

The ruts are cut into the bedrock and are believed to have been associated with the local alum and ironstone industries between the 17th and 19th centuries. Alum is an ingredient used in dyeing textiles.

It is believed the rutways were cut to take the wheels of the Yorkshire carts which were used to load and unload the ships involved in those industries.

The team comes from Tees Archaeology, the Nautical Archaeology Society North-east and the Teesside Archaeological Society.

Rachel Grahame, Tees Archaeology's project officer, said: "Over 100 years of constant coastal erosion has totally erased many of the rutways.

"It is important that we take every opportunity to record what is left of a fast-disappearing aspect of Saltburn's industrial heritage."

Gary Green, regional co-ordinator of the Nautical Archaeology Society North-east, added: "Although we can only work safely for a few hours either side of low water, we have had some excellent results, uncovering an impressive network of rutways stretching round to Skinningrove."

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