Hands on History: Arms and Armour Replica Handling Session

Presented by The Society for Combat Archaeology

When: Wednesday 09 July, 19.00-20.30
Where: Michael Sadler Building: LG.19
Price: £12.50

Ever wonder what it would be like to take a museum object out of its case for a closer look? As that is not always possible, you could try the next best thing and get up close to facsimiles of museum artefacts.

This workshop will consist of both a presentation on the background of experimental archaeology, followed by a handling session of replica arms and armour from across Northern Europe during the medieval period. The session will provide insights into the evolution of arms and armour from the 5th century through to the late medieval period of the 15th century. You will have access to a ‘World of Learning’ with over 1000 years of history and advancement of weaponry and equipment, including swords, polearms, warhammers, maces, sidearms, helmets, and armour for you to handle and try on.

All the arms and armour presented are researched and referenced against archaeological finds, museum artefacts, or items based on manuscript reproductions (with a detailed breakdown of information related to each piece). Photography is actively encouraged!

The Society for Combat Archaeology (SoCA) is an international organisation committed to the advancement of knowledge about the nature of combat and conflict in the past in all of its varieties. Its mission is to research, interpret, and convey material and issues on the subject of combat and to encourage interdisciplinary interaction between researchers in a variety of fields. To this end, SoCA cooperates extensively with an international network of expertise consisting of persons with academic and practical backgrounds in subjects related to combat, most notably from archaeology and martial arts. SoCA thus draws upon a vast array of sources and critical assessments, which ensure a high level of consideration in the presented material and the maintenance of academic integrity in all its mediums of knowledge.

This workshop can only accommodate a limited number of participants. Early booking is recommended.