| Abstract: |
J T Smith's compilation was used as a basis for more detailed county surveys of England and Wales, plus Dumfriesshire, by VAG members. The introduction discusses cruck definitions, the organisation of the data received from contributors, and the categories of information listed. Although the catalogue is intended to stimulate further work, it has already revealed much new information, principally on distributions of true crucks (2045 in number) and jointed crucks (365). Maps were computer-plotted from the basic record of 80 column-punched cards and the catalogue text was film-set from computer tape. On current evidence, the cruck truss appears to have originated in W Britain, perhaps as early as 11th century. Revisions to the master list are invited, particularly since fieldwork has been uneven. |
