Monument record 2483/1 - Possible Medieval Farmstead, Benefield

Earthworks that appear to be contemporary with surrounding ridge and furrow, therefore likely to be medieval/post-medieval.

{1} Settlement (earthworks). A small earthwork site that fits in with ridge and furrow; presumably medieval. Unknown function.

{2} Site 'A'. A plough ridge immediately outside the site on the east runs down to the track, and this might suggest that the earthworks were set on earlier ridge and furrow. However the evidence of the terminal mounds shows that the site was in use when the ridges immediately to the south of it were being ploughed; and the presence of plough ridges running east-west in the field to the west on a different alignment from these, shows that the site was placed on land which lay at the junction of two different open field furlongs. There is no evidence for date beyond the fact that the boundary is shown on a map of 1747 (with no internal features). It had gone by 1824 when Benefield was enclosed. Earthwork plan.

<1> Hall D.N., 1960-1999, Rockingham Forest Project: Archaeological Sites Recorded by David Hall, Benefield/Site 18 (unchecked) (Database). SNN102279.

<2> Brown A.E.; Johnston A.G., 1996-7, Earthworks at Benefield, p.197-198 (checked) (Article). SNN104079.

<3> 1747, NRO Map 5539 original from Biggin Hall of Benefield, (unchecked) (Map). SNN102434.

Record last edited

Apr 1 2025 4:14PM