Monument record 2416/6/5 - Saxon and medieval occupation, Gascoigne Building

Archaeological evaluation identified Saxon and medieval features likely to represent high-status domestic habitation and associated iron working activities of Saxon and medieval date.

{1} Three trial trenches were excavated to the north and south of the western side of the Gascoigne Building at Oundle School. Saxon and medieval features were found in all three trenches including ditches, pits, probable structural features such as postholes and a possible beam slot and the remains of two walls.

Most of the features represented habitation and associated domestic and iron working activity, both smelting and forging, dating to the early to middle Saxon period (c AD 450-850). Much of this appears to relate to timber structures but the presence of crude stone walls in Trenches 2 and 3, both of which remain undated but could be contemporary with the post-holes, is unusual and quite rare for Saxon structures. Animal bones and charred plant remains are well-preserved, including evidence for red and white meat, birds, eggs and fish, and show a diverse diet, typical of a high-status site.

Crank, N. (Editor), 2021, South Midlands Archaeology (51), p. 70 (Journal). SNN113326.

<1> Naisbitt, C, 2020, An Archaeological Evaluation at The Gascoigne Building, Oundle School, North Street, Oundle, Northamptonshire, PE8 4AL (Report). SNN112547.

Record last edited

May 12 2022 9:08AM