Monument record 726/0/52 - Roman pit

A pit containing many finds, especially samian ware, dating to the end of the 2nd century

{1} A pit containing late 2nd century pottery was recovered just inside the north corner of the defences. Info: Wood

{3} Located 1m north of the north corner of 164 Watling Street's privy was a large pit, probably a soakaway or latrine pit some 1.8m wide and 1.3m deep. It narrowed at the base into a silt channel some 0.45m wide which was packed with large quantities of stone potsherds, in particular many large amphora sherds to assist the drainage. At least 40 vessels of coarse ware were found including parts of two Brockley hill mortaria. As much again of fine wares (Samian), some four glass vessels. The impression was very distinctly that of a well-to-do establishment. An Antonine date, and probably towards the end of the 2nd century, seems likely for this pit.

<1> Royal Commission on The Historical Monuments of England, 1982, An Inventory of The Historical Monuments in The County of Northampton, p.154/Site 3 (checked) (Series). SNN77382.

<2> Ordnance Survey, 1950s/1960s, Ordnance Survey Record Cards, (unchecked) (Index). SNN443.

<3> Woodfield, C., 1976?, Towcester- Anglian Water Authority Sewer Trench, February to October 1976, Site 2/ p. 3-4 (Uncertain). SNN51901.

Record last edited

Nov 10 2016 2:00PM