Ancient Workers' Timekeeping and Records

In 1998, archaeologist Elina Poin Groter discovered a limestone fragment with a sketch by ancient tomb builders, revealing insights into their work and daily life. The sketch depicted tomb construction activities, similar to modern restoration methods. Limestone flakes served as notepads, showing a well-organized work setup with detailed records by a scribe. The workers operated in two gangs, using oil lamps for timekeeping. Attendance records provided personal life details, offering a comprehensive view of the builders' lives.

What did Elina Poin Groter discover in 1998?

• A map of the valley

• A treasure chest

• A fragment of limestone with a sketch

• A new tomb

What did the sketch on the limestone fragment depict?

• A battle scene

• A festival

• A family gathering

• Tomb builders at work

What were the stone huts identified as?

• Storage rooms

• Houses for tomb workers

• Temples

• Marketplaces

What were some of the sketches found in the area used for?

• Astrological charts

• Architectural plans and decoration dry runs

• Cooking recipes

• Weather predictions

What were limestone flakes used for by the ancient workers?

• As makeshift notepads

• As jewelry

• As currency

• As weapons

What did the scribe keep detailed records of?

• Visitor logs

• Weather conditions

• Supplies and daily progress

• Animal sightings

How did the ancient workers keep track of time?

• By listening to the birds

• With oil lamps and wicks

• By observing the stars

• Using sundials

What indicated it was time for lunch for the workers?

• The wick burning down

• The sound of a bell

• The sun's position

• A whistle from the foreman

What kind of records did the scribe maintain?

• Trade agreements

• Weather logs

• Attendance records

• Religious texts

What were some reasons for workers' absences noted in the records?

• Learning a new skill

• Building a new house

• Attending a feast or illness

• Traveling abroad