Random article ( of 1089 ) Latest updates

User Tools

Site Tools


content:history:folkton_drums

Wikenigma - an Encyclopedia of Unknowns Wikenigma - an Encyclopedia of the Unknown

The Folkton Drums

The Folkton Drums are decorated solid chalk 'drums' form the neolithic period, The first example was found in 1889 in the northern UK, and since then others have been unearthed in the south. All are now in the British Museum. ( ref. with photos )

The 5,000 year-old 'drums' are around 140cm in diameter, and, despite their name, are not thought to have had any musical use (being solid chalk). They seem to be largely un-worn, suggesting they were well looked after, or little used.

It's not known what function they may have had. One theory, from the University of Manchester and UCL Institute of Archaeology suggests they may have been measuring devices ( ref.)

THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT USE TRACKING, ADVERTISING, OR ANALYTICAL COOKIES OF ANY KIND. All essential cookies (for login status etc) are automatically deleted at the end of the session . . . full details here

Show another (random) article

Suggestions for corrections and ideas for articles are welcomed : Get in touch!


Further resources :