Join us for an evening with Dr Chris Caple from Durham University, as he gives a fascinating talk on how his team have helped uncover the past of a rare Viking artefact, known as the ‘The Viking Helmet’. He will discuss the science behind the discovery as well as its significance.
The corroded, damaged helmet unearthed in Yarm, in the 1960s is a rare, 10th century Anglo-Scandinavian (Viking) helmet, the first ever found in Britain and only the second nearly complete Viking helmet found in the world.
This unusual find was discovered in Chapel Yard, Yarm, by workmen digging trenches for new sewerage pipes. Known locally as the ‘Viking helmet’, it has been on loan to Preston Park Museum from Yarm Town Council for a number of decades. It had never previously been researched and the age of the helmet caused much debate until recently.
In recent years a project led by Dr Caple using the facilities and resources of Durham University, as well as other specialists, has been underway to discover new information about this artefact. Dr Chris Caple, Emeritus Reader at Durham University, and his colleagues, have used evidence from recent archaeological discoveries as well as analysis of the metal and corrosion to reveal it to be an Anglo-Scandinavian helmet probably made in the 10th century in northern England.
Event information
The talk will take place in the Fearsome Craftsmen exhibition within the museum. Places are limited so early booking is advised. Book The Yarm Helmet – a talk by Dr Chris Caple.
Doors will open from 6pm and the talk will begin at 6.30pm. The evening will finish at 8pm.
