Monument record 1984/0/1 - Probable Roman double-ditched enclosure (Morphed Aerial Archaeology Interpretation)

Cropmarks of a double-ditched enclosure have been identified on aerial photographs. Fieldwalking has produced a scatter of Roman pottery and other finds in the vicinity.

{1} Cropmarks of a large double-ditched enclosure with associated features;
NCCAP:SP8565/11-13+15-18(+);

{2} Plan; air photos show what appears to be a large rectangular double-ditched enclosure, a long section of linear ditch and other associated features. However, the presence of extensive frost-wedging makes the extent and nature of this site uncertain. Fieldwalking has produced a scatter of limestone, Roman pottery, including samian, red clay tesserae, large tiles and a rotary quern. A small coin of the late 3rd century and a glass bead have also been discovered. There is a large quantity of worked flints in this area.

[8} A brass coin of Crispus (317-326 AD)

{10} Hollowell noted cropmarks in 1964. Local tradition said this was the site of lost village- probably prompted by the considerable stone scatter. Fieldwalking has produced sherds of much coarse and fine grey ware, colour coated and samian ware and castor ware, tesserae (all red) and roof tiles. A small coin of the 3rd century was found in 1967 and a glass bead.

<1> FOARD G.R., ORAL REPORT TO SMR, (unchecked) (Uncertain). SNN51301.

<2> Royal Commission on The Historical Monuments of England, 1979, An Inventory of The Historical Monuments in The County of Northampton, p.109/Site 7 (checked) (Series). SNN77380.

<3> Brown A.E. (Editor), 1978, Archaeology in Northamptonshire 1977, 13/181 (Journal). SNN2192.

<4> Royal Commission on The Historical Monuments of England, 1982, An Inventory of The Historical Monuments in The County of Northampton, p.200/Site 7 (unchecked) (Series). SNN77382.

<5> Northampton Museum Topographical Index, (unchecked) (Index). SNN1470.

<6> Northamptonshire SMR Collection of Aerial Photographs, NCCAP:SP8565/11-13+15-18 (Aerial Photograph(s)). SNN104822.

<7> Callis W.G., 1988, Ancient Mears Ashby, (unchecked) (Report). SNN47171.

<8> Brown A.E. (Editor), 1977, Archaeology in Northamptonshire 1976, 12/213 (Report). SNN723.

<9> Ordnance Survey, 1950s/1960s, Ordnance Survey Record Cards, SP86NW19 (checked) (Index). SNN443.

<10> Brown A.E. (Editor), 1971, Archaeology in Northamptonshire 1970, p. 10 (Journal). SNN100525.

Record last edited

Mar 24 2025 2:10PM