Dendrochronological sampling by English Heritage, on timbers from the belfry of All Saints Church, Doddinghurst, Essex, 2002 - EEX53744

NRHE data transfer: Dendrochronological analysis of five Essex bell frames is described. Seventeen bell frames had previously been assessed for their suitability for dendrochronological analysis (Tyers 1993a; 1995a), and three had already been analysed (Tyers 1995b). 57 samples were obtained from a further five bell frames that were selected for extensive sampling and analysis. The analyses were commissioned as part of a wide-ranging survey of surviving bell frames in the county. Dates were obtained for timbers from the primary phase of one bell frame, the primary phase of one belfry, and the later modification phases of two bell frames. The results have helped illuminate the developmental sequence of surviving bell frame types. This study has reaffirmed that tree-ring dating of timbers from buildings in Essex is difficult. This appears primarily due to the use of fast growing young trees which are less suited to the technique. A particular problem with this study has been the limited numbers of trees used to build most extant bell frames. Nevertheless, data have been produced which will add to the research currently underway to create a long, well replicated, county based chronology, and which may help to date more bell frames in the future.