Medieval barns were built by hand using a set of simple tools and a few lifting machines. The logs were rolled up onto a pair of trestles (1).
The carpenter stabilised the log with iron dogs and then marked it out using a plumb line, a set square and a chalk line (2).
He then cut notches in the side of the log
with a broad axe, using the chalk line as a guide (3)
The sections of wood between the notches
were removed using a side axe (4). This was repeated on the other three sides of the log.
Joints were cut with a hammer and chisel, They were held together by wooden pegs driven into hole made with an auger. Posts and beams were hauled into place using block and tackle.
