Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn, Gwynedd, Wales

making sense of heritage

Strip, Map and Sample Excavation

Ref: 84611.01 January 2014

YSGOL BRO DYSYNNI, LLANEGRYN, GWYNEDD, WALES

Strip, Map and Sample Excavation

Prepared for: Gwynedd Council Council Offices Shirehall Street Caernarfon LL55 1SH

Prepared by: Wessex Archaeology Portway House Old Sarum Park SALISBURY Wiltshire SP4 6EB

www.wessexarch.co.uk

January 2014

Report reference: 84611.01

Quality Assurance

Project Code 84611 Accession Client Code Ref. Planning Ordnance Survey 259650 305100 Application (OS) national grid Ref. reference (NGR)

Version Status* Prepared by Checked and Approver’s Signature Date Approved By v01 E NMC ADC File:

File:

* I = Internal Draft; E = External Draft; F = Final

DISCLAIMER

THE MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THIS REPORT WAS DESIGNED AS AN INTEGRAL PART OF A REPORT TO AN INDIVIDUAL CLIENT AND WAS PREPARED SOLELY FOR THE BENEFIT OF THAT CLIENT. THE MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THIS REPORT DOES NOT NECESSARILY STAND ON ITS OWN AND IS NOT INTENDED TO NOR SHOULD IT BE RELIED UPON BY ANY THIRD PARTY. TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW WESSEX ARCHAEOLOGY WILL NOT BE LIABLE BY REASON OF BREACH OF CONTRACT NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE (WHETHER DIRECT INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL) OCCASIONED TO ANY PERSON ACTING OR OMITTING TO ACT OR REFRAINING FROM ACTING IN RELIANCE UPON THE MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THIS REPORT ARISING FROM OR CONNECTED WITH ANY ERROR OR OMISSION IN THE MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THE REPORT. LOSS OR DAMAGE AS REFERRED TO ABOVE SHALL BE DEEMED TO INCLUDE, BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO, ANY LOSS OF PROFITS OR ANTICIPATED PROFITS DAMAGE TO REPUTATION OR GOODWILL LOSS OF BUSINESS OR ANTICIPATED BUSINESS DAMAGES COSTS EXPENSES INCURRED OR PAYABLE TO ANY THIRD PARTY (IN ALL CASES WHETHER DIRECT INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL) OR ANY OTHER DIRECT INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL LOSS OR DAMAGE.

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

YSGOL BRO DYSYNNI, LLANEGRYN, GWYNEDD, WALES

Strip, Map and Sample Excavation

Contents

Summary ...... iii Acknowledgements ...... v

1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Project background ...... 1 1.2 Site location, topography and geology ...... 1

2 ARCHAEOLOGICAL BACKGROUND ...... 2 2.1 Introduction ...... 2 Prehistory ...... 2 Iron Age ...... 2 Roman ...... 2 Post-Roman – Early Medieval ...... 3 Post-1066 ...... 3 Medieval period ...... 3 Post-medieval and modern period ...... 3 2012 Evaluation Results ...... 4

3 METHODOLOGY ...... 4 3.1 Aims and objectives ...... 4 3.2 Fieldwork methodology ...... 4 3.3 Recording ...... 5

4 ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESULTS ...... 5 4.1 Introduction ...... 5 4.2 Natural deposits and soil sequences ...... 5 4.3 Archaeological features ...... 6 Area 1 ...... 6 Area 2 ...... 6 Area 3 ...... 7

5 ARTEFACTUAL EVIDENCE ...... 8 5.1 Introduction ...... 8 5.2 Further recommendations ...... 8

6 ENVIRONMENTAL EVIDENCE ...... 8 6.1 Introduction ...... 8 6.2 Charred plant remains and wood charcoal ...... 8 6.3 Radiocarbon Dating ...... 9 i WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

6.4 Potential ...... 9 Wood charcoal ...... 9 Radiocarbon Dating ...... 10 6.5 Proposals ...... 10 Charred plant remains ...... 10 Wood charcoal ...... 10 Radiocarbon Dating ...... 10

7 CONCLUSIONS ...... 10 7.2 Recommendations ...... 11

8 ARCHIVE ...... 11 8.1 Preparation and Deposition ...... 11 8.2 The Archive ...... 11 8.3 Copyright ...... 12 8.4 Security Copy ...... 12

9 REFERENCES ...... 12

10 APPENDIX 1: CONTEXT DESCRIPTIONS ...... 14

Tables Table 1: All finds by context (number / weight in grammes) ...... 8 Table 2: Assessment of the charred plant remains and charcoal ...... 9 Table 3: Radiocarbon Results ...... 9

Figures Figure 1: Site location plan Figure 2: Trench plan with archaeological features

Plates

Cover. Overall view of site from SW Plate 1. Area 3. SW facing section. Plate 2. Oven 5009 cutting gully 5011. Plate 3. Hearth 5026 from SE. Plate 4. NE facing section of ditch 5029.

ii WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

YSGOL BRO DYSYNNI, LLANEGRYN, GWYNEDD, WALES

Strip, Map and Sample Excavation

Summary Wessex Archaeology was commissioned by Gwynedd Council to undertake a Strip Map and Sample excavation on land at Llanegryn, Gwynedd, North Wales, centred on National Grid Reference (NGR) 259650 305100 (See Figure 1).

This excavation was undertaken to characterise the nature, extent and date of and archaeological remains within the footprint of a proposed school and the associated construction compound. The work was required by the Snowdonia National Park Authority’s Archaeologist, John Roberts, in order to mitigate the threat posed to known and anticipated archaeological remains, the potential for which was identified first by a geophysical survey by ArchaeoPhysica Ltd, an archaeological desk-based assessment (DBA) by Castlering Archaeology and subsequently by an archaeological evaluation (Wessex Archaeology 2012a).

Two areas were stripped of topsoil and subsoil deposits – the smaller area (Area 1) corresponding to the location of the contractor’s compound and the second, larger, area corresponding to the footprint of the new school and associated landscaping (Area 2). A watching brief was also carried out on the excavation of a soak away for the contractors compound (Area 3).

The Strip, Map and Sample excavation on the site has largely confirmed the results of the evaluation. The majority of the features identified on the geophysics survey and subsequently investigated in the evaluation were post-medieval in date, and largely represent former field boundaries and a probable trackway. No further evidence for Roman activity was recovered, suggesting that the small quantity of Roman material recovered during the evaluation represents a fairly localised area of activity.

The archaeological Strip, Map and Sample excavation has established that the archaeological evaluation of the site correctly determined its archaeological potential. Most of the features excavated and recorded were either post-medieval or modern in date, or could not be dated. It was also successful in identifying four further small hearths similar to the two identified during the evaluation of the site. Assessment of samples taken from these hearths contained little in the way of charred plant remains, suggesting that they were not used for food processing, and neither was any evidence for industrial processes recovered. The most likely explanation is that these features represent the remains of a charcoal making process.

Radiocarbon dating of one of the hearths/ovens indicated that it was in use in the Early Medieval period (8th -10th century AD). Two similar features from the evaluation had previously been dated, returning a Late Roman/5th century date and an Early Medieval date (9th – 11th century) date. This clearly suggests that there is an Early Medieval phase of activity on the site associated with these hearths/ovens, although the absence of charred plant remains suggests that it may be peripheral to any associated settlement.

Evidence for Early Medieval activity in Wales is relatively rare, predominantly because of the difficulty in establishing a chronology for excavated features in a time when Wales was virtually aceramic. This makes the evidence from the site important in that it can shed some light on rural iii WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales activities in this period, and it should be considered of at least regional importance. As such, it is suggested that further analysis of the charcoal from three of the hearths/ovens (those previously radiocarbon dated) should be undertaken, leading to the publication of a short article, perhaps in Archaeology in Wales, outlining the evidence for Early Medieval activity. This will be subject to discussions with John Roberts, the Archaeologist for Snowdonia National Park.

iv WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

YSGOL BRO DYSYNNI, LLANEGRYN, GWYNEDD, WALES

Strip, Map and Sample Excavation

Acknowledgements Wessex Archaeology would like to thank for Geraint Roberts of B3 Architects who commissioned the evaluation on behalf Gwynedd Council and provided prompt support throughout. Thanks should go to for also go to John Roberts, Archaeologist for Snowdonia National Park Authority for his helpful advice and comments.

The fieldwork was undertaken by Nick Cooke, who also researched and compiled the report. The samples were processed by Nicki Mulhall and were assessed by Sarah F. Wyles & Catherine Barnett. The project was managed for Wessex Archaeology by Richard Greatorex and Nicholas Cooke. The illustrations were prepared by Rob Goller.

v WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

YSGOL BRO DYSYNNI, LLANEGRYN, GWYNEDD, WALES

Strip, Map and Sample Excavation

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Project background 1.1.1 Wessex Archaeology was commissioned by Gwynedd Council to undertake an archaeological Strip, Map and Sample excavation during initial groundworks for the construction of a new school at Llanegryn, North Wales (hereafter ‘the Site’), centred on National Grid Reference (NGR) 259650 305100 (Figure 1).

1.1.2 This excavation was undertaken to characterise the nature, extent and date of and archaeological remains within the footprint of the proposed school and the associated construction compound. The work was required by the Snowdonia National Park Authority’s Archaeologist, John Roberts, in order to mitigate the threat posed to known and anticipated archaeological remains, the potential for which was identified first by a geophysical survey (ArchaeoPhysica Ltd, 2012) and archaeological desk-based assessment (DBA) by Castlering Archaeology (Castlering Archaeology 2012) and subsequently by an archaeological evaluation (Wessex Archaeology 2012a).

1.1.3 A Written Scheme of Investigation for the excavation (Wessex Archaeology 2012b), was prepared by Wessex Archaeology and submitted to and approved by John Roberts prior to the start of the fieldwork. The excavation was undertaken in accordance with the Institute for Archaeologist's Standard and Guidance for Archaeological Excavations (as amended 2008).

1.1.4 The fieldwork was undertaken intermittently from the 28th August to the 19th September 2012.

1.2 Site location, topography and geology 1.2.1 The proposed school site adjoins the south-east end of the present village of Llanegryn in the angle between the modern alignment of the Dolgellau to Tywyn trunk road (the A493), and a minor road leading to the village. The study area and the existing settlement of Llanegryn lie in the valley of the Afon Dysynni at approximately 35m aOD (above Ordnance Datum), within the Snowdonia National Park. The field itself comprises gently undulating topography, generally sloping from North to south towards a shallow brook.

1.2.2 The underlying solid geology of the site comprises Ordovician mudstones of the Ty’r Gawen Formation, overlain by drift geology comprising a mixture of glacial deposits of the Devensian Till (BGS 1985).

1.2.3 The Site had been laid to pasture and harvested regularly for sileage. In general, little modern disturbance was noted and the potential for archaeological features was deemed to be good.

1 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

2 ARCHAEOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

2.1 Introduction 2.1.1 The archaeological and historical background of the Site, are detailed in a comprehensive desk-based assessment (Castlering Archaeology, 2012) and are reproduced here in summary form only.

Prehistory 2.1.2 No archaeological evidence for the prehistoric period has been recovered from the Site. However, extensive evidence of settlement does exist in the uplands to the north and north-east of the village.

2.1.3 The mountainous region of Snowdonia, in general, has revealed evidence of settlement dating from c. 4000BC, when Neolithic people began to settle and farm (Crew & Musson 1996, 5). In the uplands of Allt-lwyd, Twyllydarren and Pen-y-garn to the north and northeast of the Site, cairns, field systems and enclosures likely to represent ritual and settlement in the Bronze Age (c. 2,500-800BC) have been recorded (Laws 2007).

2.1.4 In close proximity to the Scheduled Monument known as Waenfach Standing Stone (PRN 4796), is an impressive and well-preserved example of a ritual monument of the Early Bronze Age period (c. 2000-1500 BC) and, as such, forms Scheduled Ancient Monument ME223. The structure stands west of the A493, c. 550m south-west of the Site, on pastureland that forms part of Waenfach farmland. Although the stone now appears as a solitary monument, it doubtless formed an important element in the wider prehistoric landscape during the Bronze Age.

2.1.5 Approximately 500m south of the Site, a pair of Neolithic stone axes was found in September 1871 when a wall was being built close to Celmi Farmhouse (PRN 4808 & Grimes 1951, 144). In addition some of the trackways, which run through the Parish, may date to the prehistoric period, since numerous cairns and hut circles are located along their routes. The route of the former foot-trail or packhorse route as it extends north-east of the village of Llanegryn is now metalled and follows the eastern edge of Cwm-llwyd (NPRN 500881).

2.1.6 South and west of the Site, and along the coast and the Dysynni valley, land has been cleared since prehistory and enclosed into networks of small fields. There is evidence of an important settlement at Bryn-Crug on the Afon Dysynni valley floor at c. 9m aOD (NPRNs 406372 & 275900; Crew & Musson 1996, 12). The most prominent features are near circular enclosures, possibly late-prehistoric settlement enclosures or earlier ritual or ceremonial monuments located in the north-eastern area of the crop-marks. The features appear to represent roundhouses, property and/or field boundaries, or alternatively ceremonial features.

Iron Age 2.1.7 Approximately 2km west of the Site, the Iron Age hill fort known as Castell-mawr occupies a defensive position on a spur of land at c. 100m aOD. The oval earthworks of the fort form Scheduled Ancient Monument ME 073 GWY.

Roman 2.1.8 The Iron Age tribe, the Ordovices, are believed to have inhabited north-west Wales at the time of the Roman invasion. In the later 1st century AD, the Romans established a network of forts and roads controlling major arterial land routes and the Western Seaboard. Although there is currently no proof of a Roman road route through the Dysynni 2 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

Valley, one has long been suggested, supported by an antiquarian reference to a possible Roman building in the Llanegryn area (there is however no detailed knowledge of the nature or location of this building).

Post-Roman – Early Medieval 2.1.9 There is evidence of inscribed stones such as the pillar stone, incised with the outline of a Maltese cross built into the south wall of the Parish Church at Llanegryn. The pillar is thought to be of 7th to 9th century date and presumably associated with an early Christian church at the site (PRN 4918).

Post-1066 2.1.10 Approximately 1.5km south of the Site, the earthwork mound of Domen Ddreiniog, also known as Talybont Castle mound (NPRN 302714 & PRN 1740), is located at a former bridging point on the bank of the Afon Dysynni, downstream of the present Pont Dysynni (NPRN 24180).

2.1.11 The Parish Church of St. Egryn and St. Mary, located c.700m north of the study area and north-west of the village, dates from the mid-13th century at least (PRN 6971& NPRN 43890).

Medieval period 2.1.12 The medieval tithes of Llanegryn Parish were paid to Cymer Abbey, founded in 1198-9 near Dolgellau, under the patronage of Maredudd ap Cynan, then the Lord of Meirionydd, and his brother Gruffyd. It was colonised by a community of monks from Abbey Cwmhir in Radnorshire. The nucleus of the abbey lands was located on the banks of the Mawddach. Away from these lands the monks farmed the surrounding uplands where they established Granges to be worked by lay brothers, of which Llanegryn was one. The Abbey and the Granges survived until the Dissolution of the Monasteries after 1536.

Post-medieval and modern period 2.1.13 There is much evidence for post medieval and modern activity in the vicinity of the site. A number of grand dwellings built in the area are listed. One, a Grade II listed building at Peniarth (NPRN 28633), some 1.5km away, is referred to in a 15th century poem, whilst other notable post medieval buildings are listed in Bryncrug, some 3km to the south east, and a now-demolished house at Ynysmaengwen a similar distance to the south. The estate of Ynysmaengwen significantly affected the landscape of the Afon Dysynni, with significant land reclamation and drainage in the 18th and 19th centuries.

2.1.14 The construction of the turnpike road in the late 18th century improved communications in the area, and it was carried over the Afon Dysynni by a new bridge (NPRN 24180) to the south east of the site.

2.1.15 The Site and its environs are first mapped in the Tithe Map of 1842, when it was divided into two fields by a boundary running approximately west-east. At the time, they formed part of the Waenfach estate. These fields lay some distance to the south east of the village of Llanegryn itself, although Cefn Coch cottages, which still overlook the site, are depicted on this early map, and may have originally been built as a coaching inn to service the turnpike.

2.1.16 A magnetic resistance survey undertaken by ArchaeoPhysica Ltd, at the request of Castlering Archaeology, produced evidence for a former road/Holloway, possibly associated with a small settlement of area of intensive agricultural activity apparently

3 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

concentrated in the south-western and the south-eastern areas of the Site. A single north- west to north-east boundary recorded on a tithe map of 1842 also crosses the Site.

2012 Evaluation Results 2.1.17 The archaeological evaluation comprised the excavation of 30 evaluation trenches. The fieldwork was undertaken from the 5th to 13th March 2012.

2.1.18 This archaeological evaluation established that the majority of the features revealed by the geophysical survey of the Site are Post-medieval or modern in date, and relate to the division of the current Site into four fields and associated attempts at drainage and water management. A small number of features could not be dated. The vast majority of the anomalies identified on the geophysical survey were identified, with only a few weak anomalies not located in the evaluation trenches. The geophysical survey generally represents an accurate representation of the buried archaeological resource.

2.1.19 A small assemblage of Roman material was recovered from a single deposit in Trench 17 (layer 17006). Whilst the presence of Post-medieval and modern pottery in the same deposit suggests that this Roman material is likely to be residual, the fact that Roman artefacts were recovered from the feature is indicative of Roman activity, however limited, somewhere on the Site.

2.1.20 Two small hearths were also excavated, containing deposits of in situ burnt material. Samples taken from both of these contained no charred plant remains, but indicated that the charcoal comprised large pieces of roundwood, predominantly alder, which may have come from a coppiced source. Radiocarbon dating indicates that one of these (8003) dates to the Late Roman or early post Roman period (SUERC-39841, 1675±30, cal. AD 250-430), whilst the second (17015) is early medieval in date (SUERC-39842, 1115±30, cal. AD 830-1020). Both may represent the remains of charcoal burning features. Their presence points to some activity on the site in the Late Roman and Early Medieval periods, although this need not have been directly related to nearby settlements.

2.1.21 Although the majority of the features recorded on the Site are Post-medieval and modern in date, on the basis of the evaluation, it was clear that there was a possibility that construction works on the Site would impact on hitherto unidentified Roman remains.

3 METHODOLOGY

3.1 Aims and objectives 3.1.1 The aims and objectives for the Strip, Map and Sample excavation were set out along with the methodology for excavation in the Written Scheme of Investigation (Wessex Archaeology 2012b). The general aims of the archaeological excavation were to establish the presence or absence, location, extent, date, character, condition, and depth of any surviving remains which may be affected by the proposed works, specifically any which might be associated with (so far ephemerally) attested medieval/post-medieval development of the Site.

3.1.2 In addition to this, the project had the specific aim of establishing the nature of late Roman and early post-Roman activity on the Site and refining knowledge of the former post- medieval land unit divisions.

3.2 Fieldwork methodology 3.2.1 The fieldwork was undertaken intermittently from the 28th August to the 19th September 2012. All archaeological excavation was undertaken in accordance with the agreed 4 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

Written Scheme of Investigation (Wessex Archaeology 2012b). Two areas were stripped of topsoil and subsoil deposits (see Figure 2) – the smaller area (Area 1) corresponding to the location of the contractor’s compound and the second, larger, area corresponding to the footprint of the new school and associated landscaping (Area 2). A watching brief was also carried out on the excavation of a soak away for the contractors compound (Area 3)

3.2.2 All trenches were stripped of topsoil and subsoil deposits by a 360˚ mechanical excavator equipped with a toothless ditching bucket under constant archaeological supervision. Prior to machining, the trench locations were scanned by Wessex Archaeology using a cable tracing device. A metal detector sweep was undertaken prior to topsoil stripping and spoil heaps were regularly scanned by metal detector and by eye for small finds.

3.2.3 The survey was carried out with a Leica Viva series GNSS unit using the OS National GPS Network through an RTK network with a 3D accuracy of 30mm or below. All survey data was recorded using the OSGB36 British National Grid coordinate system.

3.3 Recording 3.3.1 All features of an archaeological nature were excavated by hand, with the aim of recovering sufficient information to determine date, nature and deposit quality without compromising the archaeological value of the deposits. Features of a possible archaeological nature were partially excavated to ascertain their function/origin.

3.3.2 All archaeological features, horizons and natural deposits encountered in the evaluation were fully recorded on Wessex Archaeology’s pro forma record sheets. A sample of all discrete and linear archaeological features was excavated. A full photographic (digital, 35mm black and white prints and colour transparencies), and graphic record was kept. The site drawings were drawn at an appropriate scale, typically 1:10 for sections and 1:20 for plans.

4 ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESULTS

4.1 Introduction 4.1.1 The results set out in this report represent a synthesis of the principal archaeological features investigated. A summary of the deposits encountered in each area is given in Appendix 1.

4.2 Natural deposits and soil sequences 4.2.1 In general, the sequences encountered in the trenching comprised modern topsoil, usually sealing subsoil, which in places was clearly colluvial in origin, sealing the clays of the Devensian tills. In the western half of the site these tills generally comprise sandy clays containing patches of gravels and occasional large boulders (glacial erratics) whilst on the lower lying land to the east they appear to be more alluvial in origin, comprising finer grey clays, also containing large glacial erratics. In general the archaeological features, where encountered, were cut through these tills, although in some cases later features were cut through the subsoils as well. In the earlier evaluation trenches on the site, sondages dug through the grey alluvial clays established that they did not appear to seal earlier archaeological horizons, merely sealing similar clay deposits, also containing apparent glacial erratics.

4.2.2 Area 3, the watching brief on a pit dug to contain a soakaway for the builder’s compound, provided an opportunity to record the deeper sequence in this area (See Plate 1). Here a sequence of deposits was recorded with the subsoil (5033) sealing three distinct bands of

5 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

drift geology (5034 – 5036) which in turn sealed bed of slate at a depth of some 1.80m. No archaeological features or deposits were recorded within this sequence.

4.3 Archaeological features 4.3.1 A number of archaeological features and deposits were recorded in both Areas 1 and 2, whilst a sequence of natural deposits was recorded in Area 3. Full descriptions of the features and deposits excavated can be found in Appendix 1, and a summary of the results is outlined here.

Area 1 4.3.2 Area 1 comprised a roughly rectangular area some 300m². Topsoil and subsoil were machined away, revealing three archaeological features cut into the underlying drift geology – the base of a small oven (5009, see Plate 2), a shallow gully (5011) and a small pit/posthole (5004) were all excavated and recorded.

4.3.3 Pit/posthole 5004 was a sub-circular pit, some 0.77m in diameter, with shallow slightly concave sides and a flat base. Excavation indicated that it contained a single secondary fill. No finds were recovered from this fill, and the feature could not be phased.

4.3.4 The two other features in this area had a stratigraphic relationship – oven 5009 was clearly dug into the fill of gully 5011. This oven had suffered later truncation, and only the base survived. In plan it was sub rectangular, with slightly concave sides and a concave base. Fire reddening at the centre of the feature indicated the main focus of burning, whilst the southern end of the feature showed no signs of such reddening, and may mark the site of a bellows or stokehole. The fill of the feature in this area (5008) was a well sorted secondary fill, with little evidence for burning, whilst the main chamber of the oven was filled with a very charcoal rich deposit (5007) which clearly represented evidence for in situ burning. This in turn was sealed by a dump deposit (5006), probably incorporating elements of the oven’s superstructure.

4.3.5 A sample was taken of deposit 5007, which proved rich in charcoal, and included fragments of roundwood charcoal. Two fragments of roundwood from this assemblage - one of alder (Alnus glutinosa) and one of hazel (Corylus avellana) were submitted for radiocarbon dating. These returned dates of cal. AD 780-979 (1145±34 BP, SUERC- 49171) and cal. AD 716-963 (1188±34 BP, SUERC-49172) respectively, indicating that the burning episode dates to the early Medieval period.

4.3.6 Oven 5009 was clearly dug through the only fill of a shallow gully (5011). This gully was aligned NE-SW and had moderately steep sides and a concave base. No finds were recovered from the only fill of this gully. The same gully had been previously excavated in the earlier evaluation (where it was recorded as 18004). Whilst no finds were recovered from either intervention, its stratigraphic relationship with 5009 means that this gully must be Early Medieval or earlier in date.

Area 2 4.3.7 Area 2 was a roughly triangular area of some 2,880m² within which the main area of groundworks associated with the construction of the new school took place. A number of archaeological features were recorded in this area – comprising a post-medieval ditch and associated discontinuous gullies, three hearths/ovens, a spread of modern debris and a series of modern drainage features in the south eastern corner.

4.3.8 The most substantial feature recorded in this area was a relatively modest ditch (5029) aligned NE-SW. Although almost a metre wide, this was only 0.35m deep, with steep

6 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

sides and a slightly irregular base (Plate 4). It contained both a primary fill and a secondary fill. A single sherd of post-medieval pottery was recovered from the latter. This ditch had previously been excavated during the earlier field evaluation (as 4003), when post-medieval pottery was also recovered.

4.3.9 The two stretches of gully both share the same NE-SW alignment as 5029, but lie some 15 – 18m to the north west. They may define the western edge of a trackway for which ditch 5029 is the eastern extent. Both had clearly suffered significant truncation, and may originally have been part of the same continuous feature. A singe intervention was excavated through the southern stretch of gully (5019). This was fairly wide in places (c. 0.90m) but shallow at 0.15m. A sherd of white china was recovered from the only fill. Further to the north east, a further stretch of gully, 9m long, probably represents a continuation of this feature. Investigation of both termini (interventions 5013 and 5017) indicate that these are likely to have been formed by later truncation rather than dug as deliberate terminals. Indeed, a third intervention (5015) established that this gully was extremely shallow (a maximum of 0.07m deep) along its length.

4.3.10 Three small burnt features, almost certainly representing the remains of hearths/ovens were also excavated in this area (5022, 5024 and 5026). Oven/hearth 5022 comprised a slightly irregular oval cut comprising two interlinked oval hollows. The north-western of these two hollows had suffered much fire reddening, suggesting it was the seat of a fire, whilst the south-eastern may have been used as a bellows or rake-out pit. The lower fill of this pit, 5021, represented the remains of an episode of in situ burning. Charcoal was recovered from a sample taken from this deposit, although no charred plants or processing waste was recorded, suggesting that the feature was not used for food processing. This was sealed by a secondary full which probably incorporated material from the collapsed structure of the hearth/oven.

4.3.11 Hearth/oven 5024 was a simple bowl shaped feature, slightly oval in plan, with shallow regular siders and a concave base. It contained a single fill (5023) containing much charcoal. This, combined with the reddening on the sides of the cut suggests in situ burning.

4.3.12 The third hearth/oven, 5026, was oval in plan, with shallow concave sides and a concave base (Plate 3). This too contained a single deposit, likely to the result of in situ burning. As with samples from 5021 and 5023, charcoal was recovered from this deposit, but without any evidence for associated charred plant remains. None of these appear to have been used for food processing, and it may be that they served some industrial purpose or were perhaps built for the creation of charcoal itself.

4.3.13 In the eastern corner of the area a spread of modern material (layer 5030) was recorded. Modern window glass was recovered from this deposit, which sealed a very regular gully aligned NE-SW (5032). Excavation revealed that this gully had moderately steep sides and a slightly concave base. It contained a single fill, from which no finds were recovered. This feature was also investigated in the evaluation (as 8004), but no finds were recovered at that time either. A number of other linear features in this area (a series of parallel cuts filled with stone rubble) clearly belong to a modern drainage system and cut through the fills of this feature.

Area 3 4.3.14 Area 3 comprised a small trench some 6m by 2m dug to house a small soakaway. Topsoil and subsoil (5033 and 5034) were removed, revealing an undisturbed sequence of glacial till deposits (5035, 5036 and 5037, see Plate 1). No archaeological features or deposits were recorded in this excavation. 7 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

5 ARTEFACTUAL EVIDENCE

5.1 Introduction 5.1.1 A small quantity of finds was recovered, comprising pottery and window glass, all of post- medieval/modern date (probably 18th-20th century). This material was not retained; quantities by material type are given in Table 1.

5.2 Further recommendations 5.2.1 This is a very small assemblage, comprising post-medieval and modern finds, and there is no value to their retention. No further analysis is required.

Table 1: All finds by context (number / weight in grammes)

Context Pottery Window glass 5018 1/4 5027 1/23 5029 1/7 1/9

6 ENVIRONMENTAL EVIDENCE

6.1 Introduction 6.1.1 Four environmental samples were taken during the course of the Strip, Map and Sample excavation, all from the charcoal rich fills of small hearths/ovens (layer 5007, cut 5009, layer 5021 from cut 5022, layer 5023 from cut 5025 and layer 5025 from cut 5026. Samples of these were taken for the identification of charcoal to species, the recovery and identification of possible charred plant remains. Identified pieces of charcoal from 5009 were also submitted for AMS radiocarbon dating to elucidate the chronology of the Site.

6.2 Charred plant remains and wood charcoal 6.2.1 The bulk samples were processed by standard flotation methods; the flot retained on a 0.5 mm mesh, residues fractionated into 5.6 mm, 2mm and 1mm fractions and dried. The coarse fractions (>5.6 mm) were sorted, weighed and discarded. Flots were scanned under a x10 – x40 stereo-binocular microscope and the preservation and nature of the charred plant and wood charcoal remains recorded in Table 2. Preliminary identifications of dominant or important taxa are noted below, following the nomenclature of Stace (1997).

6.2.2 The flots were generally very large with low numbers of roots and modern seeds that may be indicative of stratigraphic movement and the possibility of contamination by later intrusive elements. Charred material was comprised varying degrees of preservation.

6.2.3 No charred plant remains were observed within the samples.

6.2.4 Wood charcoal fragments >4mm were recovered in very large quantities from one of the features and in high numbers from another two. The wood charcoal appeared to be best preserved in samples from pit/hearth 5009. A rapid scan of the assemblages from these features indicates the majority of pieces are of well preserved, firm, fresh, large roundwood and it may be there is a good deal of consistency in terms of age and diameter amongst these assemblages. A few pieces were identified in order to select suitable material for radiocarbon dating. Of the five pieces identified for 5009 <100>, four were of

8 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

alder and the other hazel (Corylus avellana). While it might be tentatively suggested that there is a dominant type (alder), there are clearly other species within the assemblages too.

6.2.5 The samples contained no other material, such as slag or pottery, to provide information on either the date or function of these features.

Table 2: Assessment of the charred plant remains and charcoal

Vol Flot Roots Charred Charcoal Analysis Trench Feature Context Sample (L) size % Grain Chaff Other > 4/2mm Ovens/hearths 1275/500 WB 5009 5007 100 9 2375 1 - - - ml 300/175 WB 5022 5021 101 7 640 8 - - - ml WB 5024 5023 102 2 75 1 - - - 20/15 ml 450/300 WB 5026 5025 103 7 1500 1 - - - ml

6.3 Radiocarbon Dating 6.3.1 Two pieces of wood charcoal were chosen from the fill of hearth 5009 and submitted to SUERC for AMS radiocarbon dating. The returned radiocarbon determinations were calibrated using OxCal 4.1.7 (Bronk Ramsey 2001; 2009) and the IntCal09 calibration curve (Reimer et al. 2009) and are quoted in the form recommended by Mook (1986) with the end points rounded outward to 10 years (Table 3).

6.3.2 The dates show that hearth 5009 is Early Medieval in date, and broadly contemporary with the later of the two hearths radiocarbon dated during the evaluation - hearth 17015 was early medieval or date (SUERC-39842, 1115±30, cal. AD 830-1020) whilst hearth 8003 was Late Romano-British or post-Roman in date (SUERC-39841, 1675±30, cal. AD 250-430).

Table 3: Radiocarbon Results

Feature, context, Material Dated Laboratory Code Date Cal. BC (2 sigma) Period sample no. BP 95.4% Hearth 5009 (5007 Alnus glutinosa roundwood SUERC-49171 1145±34 cal. AD 780 - 979 Early Medieval <100> charcoal Hearth 5009 (5007 Corylus avellana roundwood SUERC-49172 1188±34 cal. AD 716 - 963 Early Medieval <100> charcoal

6.4 Potential Wood charcoal 6.4.1 The analysis of the wood charcoal from the three richest pit/hearth features has the potential to provide information on the range of species and the management and exploitation of the local woodland resource, notably the presence of similar age and size roundwood may be indicative of coppice management in the area. The paucity of artefactual material, the possible dominance of alder and used of coppiced roundwood together hint at the possibility that these features relate to charcoal making (cf. Edlin 1949). Quantification by diameter would investigate the possibility of rotation management. Analysis would be required to explore this hypothesis further, and may assist in determining the likely function or settlement activity represented by these features. 9 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

Radiocarbon Dating 6.4.2 The dates already obtained have provided the required chronological information for the best samples.

6.5 Proposals Charred plant remains 6.5.1 No further work is proposed.

Wood charcoal 6.5.2 It is proposed to analyse the wood charcoal assemblages from pit/hearths 8003, 17015 and 5009.

6.5.3 Identifiable charcoal will be examined greater than 2mm. Larger richer samples will be sub-sampled. Fragments will be prepared for identification according to the standard methodology of Leney and Casteel (1975, see also Gale and Cutler 2000). Charcoal pieces will be fractured with a razor blade so that three planes can be seen: transverse section (TS), radial longitudinal section (RL) and tangential longitudinal section (TL). They will then be examined under bi-focal epi-illuminated microscopy at magnifications of x50, x100 and x400 using a Kyowa ME-LUX2 microscope. Identification will be undertaken according to the anatomical characteristics described by Schweingruber (1990) and Butterfield and Meylan (1980). Identification will be to the lowest taxonomic level possible, usually that of genus and nomenclature according to Stace (1997), individual taxon (mature and twig) will be separated, quantified, and the results tabulated. Some quantification by diameter will be undertaken.

Radiocarbon Dating 6.5.4 No further work is proposed.

7 CONCLUSIONS

7.1.1 The Strip, Map and Sample excavation on the site has largely confirmed the results of the evaluation. The majority of the features identified on the geophysics survey and subsequently investigated in the evaluation were post-medieval in date, and largely represent former field boundaries and a probable trackway. No further evidence for Roman activity was recovered, suggesting that the small quantity of Roman material recovered during the evaluation represents a fairly localised area of activity.

7.1.2 The most significant evidence recorded during the Strip, Map and Sample excavation comprised a number of small hearths/ovens. Four of these were excavated, in addition to the two identified in the evaluation. The absence of charred plant material or any industrial waste in association with these features makes them difficult to interpret, and it is possible that the primary function was to produce charcoal. The presence of roundwood in some of the samples might support this interpretation. Interestingly, the main species within the charcoal is alder, which may have grown in the wetland at the base of the slope, and thus been very close at hand.

7.1.3 Three of these hearths have been radiocarbon dated (one from the Strip, Map and Sample excavation and two from the evaluation). The dates obtained suggest activity in the Late Roman period or early post-Roman period (for hearth 8003 excavated in the evaluation) and in the Early Medieval period (Hearth 5009 from the Strip, Map and Sample excavation and 17015 from the earlier evaluation). The latter are both broadly contemporary. These radiocarbon dates provide important evidence for Early Medieval

10 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

activity in the area, activity which is likely to have been peripheral to a contemporary settlement,

7.2 Recommendations 7.2.1 The archaeological Strip, Map and Sample excavation has established that the archaeological evaluation of the site correctly determined its archaeological potential. Most of the features excavated and recorded were either post-medieval or modern in date, or could not be dated. It was also successful in identifying four further small hearths similar to the two identified during the evaluation of the site. Assessment of samples taken from these hearths contained little in the way of charred plant remains, suggesting that they were not used for food processing, and neither was any evidence for industrial processes recovered.

7.2.2 The most likely explanation is that these features represent the remains of a charcoal making process. The wood used appears to be dominated by alder, which may have grown in nearby areas of swampy ground, and may well have been coppiced. The assessment of the charcoal from these features has indicated that there is potential for full analysis of this assemblage to further understand the purpose of these hearths, and to determine the nature of the woodland resource being exploited to make the charcoal. Radiocarbon dating of one of the hearths/ovens indicated that it was in use in the Early Medieval period (8th -10th century AD). Two similar features from the evaluation had previously been dated, returning a Late Roman/5th century date and an Early Medieval date (9th – 11th century) date. This clearly suggests that there is an Early Medieval phase of activity on the site associated with these hearths/ovens, although the absence of charred plant remains suggests that it may be peripheral to any associated settlement.

7.2.3 Evidence for Early Medieval activity in Wales is relatively rare, predominantly because fo the difficulty in establishing a chronology for excavated features in a time when Wales was virtually aceramic. This makes the evidence from the site important in that it can shed some light on rural activities in this period, and it should be considered of at least regional importance. As such, it is suggested that further analysis of the charcoal from three of the hearths/ovens (those previously radiocarbon dated) should be undertaken, leading to the publication of a short article, perhaps in Archaeology in Wales, outlining the evidence for Early Medieval activity. This will be subject to discussions with John G Roberts, the Archaeologist for Snowdonia National Park

8 ARCHIVE

8.1 Preparation and Deposition 8.1.1 The complete project archive will be prepared in accordance to Wessex Archaeology’s Guidelines for Archive Preparation and accordance with Guidelines for the preparation of excavation archives for long-term storage (UKIC 1990). Details of the Archaeological Evaluation will also be entered into the online “Oasis” database maintained by the Archaeological Date Service (ADS).

8.2 The Archive 8.2.1 The Archaeological Evaluation project archives consists of:

• One A4 file containing the paper records

• Digital data (site photographs, drawings, Word and pdf files).

11 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

8.2.2 The archive is currently held at the offices of Wessex Archaeology in Salisbury under the project code of 84610. On completion of the project, it is anticipated that the archive will be deposited with the Gwynedd Museum and Art Museum, Bangor, along with the archive from the evaluation.

8.2.3 The complete site archive will be prepared to comply with guidelines set out in Guidelines for the preparation of excavation archives for long-term storage (Walker 1990).

8.3 Copyright 8.3.1 The full copyright of the written/illustrative archive relating to the Site will be retained by Wessex Archaeology Ltd under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 with all rights reserved. The Museum, however, will be granted an exclusive licence for the use of the archive for educational purposes, including academic research, providing that such use shall be non-profit-making, and conforms to the Copyright and Related Rights regulations 2003.

8.4 Security Copy 8.4.1 In line with current best practice, on completion of the project a security copy of the paper records will be prepared, in the form of microfilm. The master jackets and one diazo copy of the microfilm will be submitted to the RCAHMW in Aberystwyth; a second diazo copy will be deposited with the paper records at the Gwynedd Museum and Art Museum, Bangor, and a third diazo copy will be retained by Wessex Archaeology.

9 REFERENCES

ArchaeoPhysica Ltd, 2012, Llanegryn, Gwynedd, Geophysical Survey Report. Unpublished client report, February 2012.

British Geological Survey of Great Britain (England and Wales),

Bronk Ramsey, C, 2001, Development of the radiocarbon calibration program OxCal, Radiocarbon 43, 355-63

Bronk Ramsay, C, 2009, Bayesian Analysis of Radiocarbon Dates, Radiocarbon 51(1), 337-360.

Butterfield, B G and Meylan, B A, 1980, Three-Dimensional Structure of Wood. An Ultrastructural Approach, London and New York: Chapman and Hall.

Castlering Archaeology, 2012, Proposed Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llenegryn, Merionethshire: Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment, Report 375.

Crew, P. and Musson, C., 1996, Snowdonia from the Air, Patterns in the Landscape. SNP & RCAHMW

Edlin, H.L. 1949. Woodland Crafts in Britain. An Account of the Traditional Uses of Trees and Timbers in the British Countryside. London: BT Batsford

Gale, R and Cutler, D, 2000, Plants in Archaeology, Westbury and Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Grimes, W.F., 1951, The Prehistory of Wales, Cardiff

12 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

Institute for Archaeologists, 2008, Standards and Guidance for: Archaeological Excavation, Watching Brief and Evaluation.

Laws, K., 2007, Llanegryn Archaeological Survey: RCAHMW Uplands Initiative 2007. Engineering Archaeological Services Ltd.

Leney, L and Casteel, R W, 1975, Simplified Procedure for Examining Charcoal Specimens for Identification, Journal of Archaeological Science 2, 53-159.

Mook, W.G., 1986, ‘Business Meeting: recommendations/resolutions adopted by the twelfth international radiocarbon conference’, Radiocarbon 28, 799.

Reimer, P. J., Baillie, M. G. L., Bard, E., Bayliss, A., Beck, J. W., Blackwell, P. G., Bronk Ramsey, C., Buck, C. E., Burr, G. S., Edwards, R. L., Friedrich, M., Grootes, P. M., Guilderson, T. P., Hajdas, I., Heaton, T. J., Hogg, A. G., Hughen, K. A., Kaiser, K. F., Kromer, B., McCormac, F. G., Manning, S. W., Reimer, R. W., Richards, D. A., Southon, J. R., Talamo, S., Turney, C. S. M., van der Plicht, J., & Weyhenmeyer, C. E. (2009). IntCal09 and Marine09 radiocarbon age calibration curves, 0-50,000 years cal BP. Radiocarbon, 51(4), 1111-1150.

Schweingruber, F H, 1990, Microscopic Wood Anatomy (3rd edition), Birmensdorf: Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research.

Stace, C, 1997, New flora of the British Isles (2nd edition), Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Walker, K., 1990, Guidelines for the preparation of excavation archives for long-term storage, UKIC Archaeology Section.

Wessex Archaeology, 2012a, Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn, Gwynedd, Wales: Archaeological Evaluation Report, unpublished Client report, Ref: 84610.01

Wessex Archaeology, 2012b, Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn, Gwynedd, Wales: Written Scheme of Investigation for a programme of Strip, Map and Record Sample Excavation in areas of development impact, unpublished Client report, Ref: T16338.01

13 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

10 APPENDIX 1: CONTEXT DESCRIPTIONS

All depths are below ground level. The order in which the deposits are listed represents their stratigraphic position, except where noted.

Context Category Description Depth (m) Dark Grey brown silt loam containing occasional small and medium angular and sub angular slate frags. Root 5000 Topsoil 0 – 0.25 disturbed. Dark reddish brown silt loam containing occasional small and medium angular and sub angular slate frags. A 5001 Subsoil. 0.25 – 0.45 poorly sorted colluvial subsoil. Mixed orange brown silty clay (with occasional grey patches) containing very occasional large sub rounded slate 5002 Natural geology boulders, occasional outcrops of bedded slate and occasional patches of frequent small and medium sub angular 0.45+ and angular slate fragments. . Dark orange brown silty clay containing very occasional small and medium angular and sub angular slate frags. 5003 Fill of 5004 0.45 – 0.58 Secondary fill 5004 Small sub-oval pit/posthole Sub circular posthole with shallow slightly concave sides and a flat base. Half sectioned. 0.45 – 0.58 5005 Number not used Orange brown clay silt containing occasional small and medium angular and sub angular slate frags. Probably a 5006 Upper fill of 5009 0.45 – 0.48 dump deposit, possibly incorporating elements of collapsed superstructure Dark brown clay silt containing occasional small and medium angular and sub angular slate frags. Very charcoal 5007 In situ burning within 5009 rich as a result of in situ burning. Visible roundwood amongst the charcoal. Thicker towards the southern end of 0.48 – 0.52 the feature. Sample No 100 Dark yellowish brown clay silt containing occasional small and medium angular and sub angular slate frags. Fairly 5008 Lower fill of 5009 0.52 – 0.55 well sorted deposit –only in southern end of feature. Secondary fill Sub rectangular with shallow slightly concave sides and a concave base. Remains of the base of an oven with a 5009 Oven base firing chamber and an oven. The centre of the feature is scorched pink and red and appears to have held the seat 0.45 – 0.55 of the fire. Half sectioned. Cuts 5010. Orange brown clay silt containing occasional medium and large rounded and sub rounded slate fragments. 5010 Fill of 5011 0.45 – 0.73 Secondary fill. Cut by oven base 5009. 5011 Gully aligned NW-SE Narrow linear gully on a NW-SE alignment with moderately steep sides and a concave base. 1m intervention 0.45 – 0.73 Dark yellowish brown silty clay containing very occasional small and medium angular and sub angular slate frags. 5012 Fill of 5013 0.45 – 0.50 Secondary fill. Same deposit as 5014 and 5016. Terminus of a linear gully on a NE-SW alignment with shallow concave sides and a concave base. Half section of 5013 Terminus of gully 0.45 – 0.50 NE terminus. Same as 5015 and 5017. Dark yellowish brown silty clay containing very occasional small and medium angular and sub angular slate frags. 5014 Fill of 5015 0.45 – 0.51 Secondary fill. Same deposit as 5012 and 5016. Linear gully on a NE-SW alignment with shallow concave sides and a concave base. 1m intervention. Same as 5015 Gully 0.45 – 0.51 5013 and 5017. Dark yellowish brown silty clay containing very occasional small and medium angular and sub angular slate frags. 5016 Fill of 5017 0.45 – 0.52 Secondary fill. Same deposit as 5012 and 5014. Terminus of a linear gully on a NE-SW alignment with shallow concave sides and a concave base. Half section of 5017 Terminus of gully 0.45 – 0.52 SW terminus. Same as 5013 and 5015. Dark greyish brown silty clay containing very occasional small and medium angular and sub angular slate frags. A 5018 Fill of 5019 0.45 – 0.60 single small sherd of white china was recovered from this fill. Secondary fill

14 WA Report No 84611.01

Ysgol Bro Dysynni, Llanegryn Gwynedd, Wales

5019 Gully Linear gully on a NE-SW alignment with shallow straight sides and a concave base. 1m intervention. 0.45 – 0.60 Yellowish brown clay silt containing very occasional small and medium sub rounded to sub angular slate frags. 5020 Upper fill of 5022 0.45 – 0.48 Secondary fill A greyish brown clay silt containing frequent charcoal flecks, some fire reddened clay and very occasional small 5021 In situ burning within 5022 0.48 – 0.51 and medium sub rounded to sub angular slate frags. Sample 101 Slightly irregular oval cut with shallow straight sides and a flat base. The area of fire reddening is concentrated 5022 Hearth/oven base 0.45 – 0.51 within the north western half of the cut. Dark greyish brown clay silt containing very occasional small rounded and sub rounded slate frags. Much charcoal, 5023 In situ burning within 5024 0.45 – 0.49 probably from the final use of the hearth/oven. Sample 102. 5024 Hearth/oven base Small oval hearth/oven with shallow straight sides and a slightly concave base. No fire reddening 0.45 – 0.49 Dark greyish brown clay silt containing very occasional small and medium sub rounded to sub angular slate frags. 5025 In situ burning within 5026 0.45 – 0.52 Much charcoal, probably from the final use of the hearth/oven. Sample 103. Sub oval hearth/oven with shallow slightly concave sides and a concave base. Fire reddening of the sides and 5026 Hearth/oven base 0.45 – 0.52 edges was confined to the northern and north eastern area of the cut Orange brown silt loam containing very occasional small and medium sub rounded and sub angular slate frags. 5027 Upper fill of 5029 0.45 – 0.67 One sherd of brown glazed post-medieval pottery recovered. Secondary fill Dark orange brown clay containing patches of light grey clay containing very occasional small sub rounded slate 5028 Lower fill of 5029 0.67 – 0.80 frags. Primary fill 5029 Ditch aligned NE-SW Linear ditch aligned NE-SW with straight steep sides and an irregular base. 1m intervention. 0.45 – 0.80 Spread of modern debris – Dark greyish brown clay silt containing occasional small and medium sub rounded and 5030 Deposit 0.45 + sub angular slate frags. Also contains charcoal, china and modern glass. Grey clay silt with yellowish brown patches containing very occasional small angular and sub angular slate 5031 Fill of 5032 0.45 – 0.58 fragments. Secondary fill 5032 Gully aligned NE-SW Linear gully aligned NE-SW with moderately steep straight sides and a concave base. 0.45 – 0.58 5033 Subsoil Dark reddish brown clay silt containing occasional small and medium sub rounded and sub angular slate frags 0 – 0.20m Light grey clay with yellow patches/mottling. Moderately stiff. Contains occasional small and medium sub rounded 5034 Drift geology 0.20 – 0.80m and sub angular slate frags. Dark yellowish brown clay silt containing moderate small and medium small and medium sub rounded and sub 5035 Drift geology 0.80 – 1.05m angular slate frags. Dark yellowish brown clay silt containing moderate small and medium small and medium sub rounded and sub 5036 Drift geology 1.05 – 1.80m angular slate frags 5037 Bedded geology Beds of slate at base of trench – probably the natural bedrock 1.80m+

15 WA Report No 84611.01

260000 270000 260000

310000

The Site

300000

Area 2

Area 1

Area 3 305000

A493

0 500 m

Site location

Date: 10/01/14 Revision Number: 0 Wessex Scale: 1:8000 @A4 Illustrator: KJF/RG Archaeology Path: Y:\PROJECTS\84610\Drawing Office\Report figs\Strip_map_sample\2014_01_10\84610_master.dwg

Site location plan Figure 1 Area 2 5026

5013/15/17

5024

5030 5029

5022 5032

5019

Site outline

Strip, map and record area

Archaeological feature

Disturbance

5009 Charcoal

Area 1 5011

5006 5004 5010

Date: 10/01/2014

5006 Revision Number: 0 5008 5010 Scale: 1:400 @ A3 5009 5007 5011 0 10 20 m Illustrator: RG 0 1 m Path: Y:\PROJECTS\84610\Drawing Office

\Report figs\Strip_map_sample\2014_01_10\84610_master.dwg

Plan of Areas 2 and 3 with inset showing feature 5009, plan and section. Figure 2 Plate 1: Area 3, SW facing section.

Plate 2: Oven 5009 cutting gully 5011.

Date: 10/01/14 Revision Number: 0

Scale: n/a Illustrator: RG

Path: Y:\PROJECTS\84610\Drawing Office\Report figs\STrip_map_sample\14_01_10\84610_Pl_01.ai

Plates 1 & 2 Plate 3: Hearth 5025 from SE.

Plate 4: NE facing section of ditch 5029.

Date: 10/01/14 Revision Number: 0

Scale: n/a Illustrator: RG

Path: Y:\PROJECTS\84610\Drawing Office\Report figs\STrip_map_sample\14_01_10\84610_Pl_02.ai

Plates 3 & 4 salisbury rochester sheffield edinburgh Wessex Archaeology Ltd registered office Portway House, Old Sarum Park, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 6EB Tel: 01722 326867 Fax: 01722 337562 [email protected] www.wessexarch.co.uk

Wessex Archaeology Ltd is a company limited by guarantee registered in England, company number 1712772. It is also a Charity registered in England and Wales, number 287786; and in Scotland, Scottish Charity number SC042630. Our registered office is at Portway House, Old Sarum Park, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 6EB.