Animals and Humans in Post-medieval York: A View From Hungate

Summary

Excavations at Hungate, in the centre of the city of York, have yielded a substantial assemblage of faunal bone, of which a significant proportion derives from a time period from the 16th century through to the early years of the 20th century. Reworking and residuality of bone pose a significant problem at Hungate, owing to the large quantities of underlying medieval faunal material. This paper will demonstrate that a combination of zooarchaeological, taphonomic and historical approaches provide insights into various aspects of the human-animal relationship. Evidence exists for the rearing of animals (pigs, chickens and rabbits), the keeping of pets (cats, dogs and birds), and the presence and control of scavenging rodents in the specific Hungate area. In addition, the site provides evidence for the disposal of butchery and craft-working waste, offering insights into the use of animal products from the city in general.    

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Animals in the Urban Environment AD 1500 - 1900   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2013

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Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 301