The first book written for both a popular and learned audience on the archaeology of ancient buildings in the UK.
Why do we know so little about the buildings which surround our everyday lives?
How can a nation so obsessed with history have missed so many ancient buildings?
Britain should be proud of its approximately 500,000 listed buildings – yet as many as 60 per cent may have been identified incorrectly. Behind a Victorian façade hides a Tudor house; underneath a Georgian frontage lies a mediaeval cottage; what is now a farm was once a castle. Many centuries-old buildings are missing from the list entirely.
Drawing on his extensive field experience, James Wright explores the ways in which historic architecture has been observed, studied and conserved. The Buildings Archaeologist acts as a field guide to the written records, tree-ring dating and archaeology that help us to investigate the age, development and social history of ancient buildings from houses, castles and churches, to mills, factories and warehouses – all hidden in plain sight.
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‘The Buildings Archaeologist provides a fascinating insight into the life and career of a rather unique individual. James Wright shows us the highs and lows of the business, from building a career, through working in television, debunking myths and the stresses and strains of self-employment in a pandemic. James Wright's ingenuity, perseverance and love for his craft, at once, entertains, exasperates and enlightens the reader. I love it!’
" - author and fellow of the Royal Historical Society
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‘An authoritative and fascinating fusion of history, memoir and practical handbook by today's leading expert in the field, the Buildings Archaeologist is essential reading.’
" - author of
Echolands"
‘Following James's excellent first book, Historic Buildings - Mythbusting, his new publication, The Buildings Archaeologist comprises a fascinating read for anyone interested in the archaeology of buildings, building recording and the history of the subject. The book is part personal memoir, part potted history of building recording, and part handbook for recording standing structures, which is very accessible, contains some excellent case studies, and is definitely going on my reading list for my Cultural Heritage related courses as essential reading.’
" - Professor of Archaeological Practice at University of Bristol
