The Prometheus Project

It seems only fair that a new blog should start with a new project so I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you all to 'The Prometheus Project'.
'The Prometheus Project' is the posh name I am giving to my research into the building techniques of prehistoric log boats or dug out canoes.
The log boat is one of man's earliest forms of water transport and their use can be traced back over 7,000 years. It is thought by many that the construction of prehistoric log boats was done without the aid of fire as there is no evidence of its use in the archaeological record. Despite this there is a wealth of evidence of the use of fire in constructing log boats by more modern cultures around the world. This made me think about why our ancient ancestors did not use fire in the construction of their boats.

An engraving by Theodor de Bry of Native Americans making a dug out canoe using fire and sea shells dating to 1590.

'The Prometheus Project' aims to discover if it is possible to build a log boat using fire but without leaving any evidence that would remain in the archaeological record. This will be done by building a log boat from a c.3m long half oak trunk using fire to burn the inside of the boat and using replica bronze tools to remove the charred wood. Bronze tools are being used as the Bronze Age marks a high point in the construction of log boats in Britain.

The project has only just began and will be slow progress as I get used to all the new techniques and technologies I will need! I hope it will also be exciting though so keep posted for more updates as they happen!