The Barland's Farm Romano-Celtic Boat, (RR 138), 2004, 320 p., 150 ill. -

This report provides a comprehensive description and analysis of the remains of a remarkably well-preserved Romano-Celtic boat and of the environment in which it was used. Barland's Farm is in a previously agricultural part of the Gwent Levels, the coastal plain on the northern shore of the Severn Estuary in south-east Wales. Survey and excavation work in advance of construction work on that site revealed the bows, the lower hull, and much of one side of an oak-built boat. Following in situ recording, the remains were dismantled and recovered for detailed recording of individual timbers prior to conservation. The Barland's Farm boat exhibits many features characteristic of the Romano-Celtic boatbuilding tradition and has provided important insights into craft techniques and use of materials. Palaeoecological research has led to an environmental context for the boat and thrown light on the wider environment including agricultural activity. Analysis of associated finds and the reconstruction of the boat's original shape and structure indicate its likely uses.