02-19-2012, 04:16 PM
There's an interesting image in Osprey's "British Forts in the Age of Arthur" (I know - bear with me :wink: ) which shows the conversion of a larger building at Bridoswald fort, but that is after the Roman occupation. What it doesn't explain, however, is whether this was a new method of joint eating arrangements or one which was there when the fort was re-occupied after the Wall was abandonned.
This is, of course, very late in Roman terms. Excavations of barrack blocks indicates a hearth in each contubernium allocated space is probable so the assumption must be the tent mates fed themselves.
I am sure, too, that Paul Elliott's book The Last Legionary dealing with fifth century Britain recognises these feeding arrangements too (and his photographs of the reconstructed barrack block at Arbeia are better than mine!)
As for an 'Officers' Mess - I am not sure of the hard evidence but if all the officers ate there it would have been a large building which should have been identified by excavation. It also brings with it the implied tasks of cooks, waiters etc to service it be they slaves or otherwise and I think there would have been more evidence for this in the written sources and archaeologically.
This is, of course, very late in Roman terms. Excavations of barrack blocks indicates a hearth in each contubernium allocated space is probable so the assumption must be the tent mates fed themselves.
I am sure, too, that Paul Elliott's book The Last Legionary dealing with fifth century Britain recognises these feeding arrangements too (and his photographs of the reconstructed barrack block at Arbeia are better than mine!)
As for an 'Officers' Mess - I am not sure of the hard evidence but if all the officers ate there it would have been a large building which should have been identified by excavation. It also brings with it the implied tasks of cooks, waiters etc to service it be they slaves or otherwise and I think there would have been more evidence for this in the written sources and archaeologically.
Moi Watson
Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, Merlot in one hand, Cigar in the other; body thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and screaming "WOO HOO, what a ride!
Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, Merlot in one hand, Cigar in the other; body thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and screaming "WOO HOO, what a ride!
