Abstract

The interpretation offered here seeks to explain some of the otherwise inexplicable aspects of the evidence. We have to understand the relationship between two forms of cruck construction – true and base crucks – and their different patterns of usage, including low-status buildings in the case of the former and better houses for the latter. The papers argues thati instead of seeking to find the fabled origin of cruck building, this form of construction should not be regarded purely as a technological discovery. Rather, it was an idea which was taken up in different ways and in different places. The study draws upon the evidence of excavated buildings to suggest an extended period of development of the idea.