How Were Grand Tudor Buildings Like Burghley House Built Without Modern Machinery?
One often wonders about the engineering and craftsmanship of our ancestors in the Tudor era. Historical sites such as Burghley House showcase extraordinary architectural achievements that were accomplished without the aid of modern construction machinery or equipment. This article delves into the techniques and methods used to build such grand structures in the absence of today's advanced tools.
The Cleverness and Capability of Our Ancestors
Our ancestors were far more ingenious and capable than many may imagine. For instance, Lincoln Cathedral was once the tallest man-made structure on Earth, and it achieved this feat using principles such as wooden scaffolding, rope pulleys, and the power of human and animal labor.
Masurable Tudor Building Materials and Teams
Red bricks were a key material in the Tudor era, distinctly thinner than modern bricks. A skilled bricklayer could lay thousands of bricks in a single day. The construction process was a complex, collaborative effort involving a hierarchy of skilled tradespeople. A master mason directed the work, with skilled laborers, including bricklayers, stonecutters, and plasterers, working under their guidance. Additionally, unskilled laborers provided the manpower needed for heavy lifting and groundwork. Foundations were laid by hand, and plasterers handled the interior work.
The system was efficient, with time, money, and the extensive range of trade skills acquired over a seven-year apprenticeship being crucial factors. Often, materials would be scavenged from nearby ancient castles or abbeys, providing a sustainable way to source building materials. Pattern books and templates were used to standardize designs, but the master masons relied heavily on their experience to guide the construction process. Clients could also refer to existing buildings for inspiration, making the process even more manageable.
Manual Techniques and Tools
The answer to moving large quantities of material lies in simple, manual techniques. The same way ancient Egyptians moved massive stones for the pyramids, Tudor builders moved bricks and stones using basic tools and machinery, such as wheelbarrows, carts, cranes, and levers. Even the most massive stones were handled with relative ease, as they were not nearly as large as those used in the construction of the pyramids. Such materials were meticulously moved to the construction site using minimal equipment.
Building castles and cathedrals, as well as stately homes, relied on cut stone. Borough House, the home of William Cecil, original advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, is a testament to these techniques. The house was initially shaped like an "E," a nod to its royal patron. The grounds were designed by the renowned landscape architect, Capability Brown, further enhancing the area's beauty and functionality.
The structures were typically massive post and beam systems, with stone walls providing a solid foundation. These buildings were naturally drafty and damp, leading to cool to cold interiors, conditions that were common in the British climate. To combat this, fabulous wall tapestries were employed to improve insulation and create a more comfortable environment.