Our primary purpose in visiting Hector is to draw on his extensive knowledge and practical expertise to learn more about the manufacturing processes used to produce the iron artefacts from Glebe Field.
As always, Hector didn’t disappoint. He exceeded our expectations, as we arrived, Zillah noticed that he had already lit the forge. After looking at various objects Hector offered to make replicas of the needle bodkins and barbed arrowheads. Firstly, he made the needle bodkin, this 11th to 12th century armour piercing type was designed purely to kill or maim humans but could be used for hunting. Once sharpened we were in no doubt of it potential, it was deadly sharp.
The barbed arrowhead, 11th to 13th century, was unexpectedly complex to manufacture. Upon closer inspection, Hector determined that its socket and barb had been made separately and then forge-welded together—a challenging process that required precise, powerful hammering in a very small area. The images below show parts of the process. This is experimental archaeology, but accurately recreating the processes of making an object from eight hundred years ago is difficult because there are simply too many variables. Nevertheless, we all felt that the finished products were as close as possible to the originals. It was impressive the speed and consideration Hector gave to this work.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Hector for his generous contribution of time and energy, which has significantly advanced our understanding.
. 
David