A small charity is ambitiously reconstructing the Sutton Hoo burial ship for research by 2026 to gain insight into Anglo-Saxon life. Struggling to find suitable British oak, they appeal for donations to avoid looking abroad. Backed by historian Dan Snow, who emphasized the importance of British wood, the project aims to connect modern Britons with their medieval history. The treasure-filled ship was discovered in 1939 in Suffolk, with the burial chamber filled with riches hinting at a king, possibly Raedwald. The charity seeks specific mature oak cuts for planking, frames, and oars to recreate the ship authentically. Through sea trials, they hope to learn how the vessel operated and where it may have traveled. Controversially, they have faced challenges due to the shortage of the right type of British oak but plan to plant replacement trees for the future.
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2024/oct/04/appeal-british-oak-recreate-sutton-hoo-burial-ship