Lövkärr iron working site

Authors

• Päivi Maaranen National Board of Antiquities

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33355/tw.109305

Keywords:

iron working site, osmond iron, limonite

Abstract

There are only some iron working sites of preindustrial type in southernmost Finland. This paper comprises knowledge gained by surveys of the sites in the Uusimaa region including the Lövkärr site. In addition, it compares the Lövkärr site to excavated sites that are locating mainly on southernmost Finland.  Local histories and historical maps are in use to investigate historical context of the Lövkärr site. As conclusion it appears that the site seems to date back to the early historical times according to its archaeological remains. However, historical maps could imply iron working during the 17^th and 18^th centuries. On the other hand, historical sources and knowledge allow a connection between needs of iron production and blacksmith work during 1540s concerning the nearby Raseborg Castle. Finally, it seems that there is need for archaeological excavations to reveal true nature and dating of the Lövkärr site.