Hook with Rivet
The excavations also revealed a massive cache of archaeofauna.[1] Remains from hundreds of cattle, pigs, and sheep along with thousands of fish indicate that Hrísheimar was a significant settlement. This knowledge lends significant context to the recovered hook. Carbon and volcanic dating of the faunal remains indicates that the hook was likely deposited sometime between 871 and 930 AD, meaning that it may have been brought by some of Iceland’s very first Norse settlers. The Landnámabók (“Book of Settlements”) describes in thorough detail the discovery and settlement of the new island during the 9th and 10th centuries.[2]
A simple hook likely had a multitude of uses. However, this one—and many others—were made of iron. They were made to last. This fact, plus the riveted design, would support the conclusion that the hook was permanently attached to another object—perhaps a house, boat, or drying rack.
Iceland rose to an important station over the years, producing famous Norse figures such as the skaldic poet Snorri Sturluson. As this hook demonstrates, those who chose a new life in Iceland brought with them every possible advantage from the mainland. This preparation demonstrates a clear intent by the Norse to settle the island, rather than an occupation of convenience by raiders looking for a base of operations.
