The Timber Frame of the Hall at Tamworth Castle, Staffordshire, and its Context

Abstract

Recent consideration of the date of construction of the hall at Tamworth Castle puts the building into a medieval context. It is suggested that the structure was raised in the second quarter of the fifteenth century or earlier. With a span of over eight metres (27 feet) its impressive tie-beam and double collar roof trusses represent the full structural development of the post and truss tradition and its place in that tradition is discussed. This significant late medieval timber frame has not stirred much interest since J. C. Buckler drew part of a roof truss (B.M., M.S. 36436, p.38620) and little documentary evidence has come to light which might establish close dating of the structure. A short account of the associated domestic buildings inside the shell keep reflects the general trend from first floor to ground floor hall and the eventual abandonment of the latter as the centre of the household.