Preserved in Peat

Peatlands preserve organic archaeological remains rarely encountered elsewhere, from prehistoric trackways to bog bodies. Not only can they preserve the materials that normally rot away, but the peat itself holds the secret of past environments and climates. In the case of bog bodies, we can use this evidence to build detailed pictures of the ‘crime scene’ associated with their deaths.

Join us at this free, interactive event as we investigate the curious case of three bodies found in the bog at Whixall Moss using environmental forensic methods. From peat cores to pollen sampling and microscope work we will show you how to understand the story of this peatland.

Find out how you can get involved and help us investigate.

Booking is essential and places are limited

These partnership events are led by Dr Michelle Farrell (Coventry University) and Prof Henry Chapman (University of Birmingham). The project is funded by the British Academy, the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Royal Society, with generous support from the Leverhulme Trust.