SNN104729 - Archaeological Evaluation: 21 St James' Road, Northampton

In March 2004, an archaeological evaluation was undertaken at 21 St James' Road, Northampton. The site was close to the west of the historic core of Northampton, close to the river Nene and had the potential to reveal evidence for the development of the course of the river, medieval settlement and a channel shown on Speed's map of Northampton (1610). The work revealed that natural gravels are present, covered by a layer of alluvium. Both deposits extend across the site. Areas of the alluvium are waterlogged and if they can be dated offer some potential for the study of waterlogged remains. No trace of medieval remains were found. The existence of the channel on Speed's map was not proved but an area of dark grey silty deposits in the south part of the site may have formed within a pool or extraction pit. A 19th century building or row of cottages was identified in the southwest part of the site. With the exception of the natural alluvial deposits, no evidence for activity predating the 19th century was present.