50 Years Ago

There is an inborn fascination ... in the discovery and unearthing of relics of life as it existed centuries ago. None of these is perhaps more generally exciting and popular than the Roman mosaic pavements ... constructed floorings in regular cubes of stones of many colours, beautifully contrived in patterns and pictures ... Proof of life as it existed in Yorkshire during A.D. 100–400, as evidenced by the discovery of two excellent examples of Roman mosaic handiwork, is furnished by the Rudstone pavement...and by one at Brantingham ... At Rudstone three mosaics were originally uncovered ... and were ultimately removed to Hull Museums ... It is indeed no boastful claim that “...these beautiful pavements are now permanently preserved for the benefit of posterity”.

From Nature 23 October 1965

100 Years Ago

The autumn number of Bird Notes and News contains much readable matter in regard to the effect of the war on bird-life in France and Flanders. Swallows returning this spring to their accustomed nesting sites only too often found them reduced to a heap of ruined masonry. In such cases huts erected for military purposes have been adopted as substitutes. This fact shows the tenacity with which these birds cling to their old haunts. Birds roosting between the lines of the opposing forces have on more than one occasion given timely warning to the sleeping men of the near approach of poison gas fumes, by the rustle of their wings and low cries as they passed over our trenches. Except, indeed, when actually within the zone of fire the birds have shown themselves strangely indifferent to the strife around them.

From Nature 21 October 1915 Footnote 1