Horse rearing and trading networks in medieval London
This study reports an isotopic investigation of medieval horses, shedding new light on their origins and in-life mobility both regionally and internationally. The investigated individuals were discovered in Elverton Street, Westminster, London, at an unusual horse cemetery site used during the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries AD. Strontium, oxygen and carbon isotope analysis were applied to 22 teeth from 15 individuals, providing information about likely place of birth, diet, and mobility during the first approximately five years of life. The results include measurements of the most radiogenic fauna yet discovered in Britain and show that at least seven horses had origins outside of Britain in relatively cold climates, potentially Scandinavia, the Alps, or elsewhere in continental Europe. Ancient DNA sexing data indicate no consistent patterning between the movements of males and females, although three of the five females came from exceptionally highly radiogenic regions, while another female with very low mobility is suggested to be a breeding mare that remained sedentary throughout the period of tooth growth. Our results provide direct and unprecedented evidence for a variety of horse movement and trading practices in the Middle Ages and highlight the importance of international trade in securing high-quality horses.