week 2 (down the pits)

Week 2, saw the targeting of 10 test pits right across the ward, but concentrating on Beryl's garden due the excellent catering.

 TP 13 within the church grounds revealed evidence for the made ground which was characterised by at least two tipping episodes.

 TP 15 was significant as it encountered a dog burial which we were able to confirm, after detective work within the local community, was called ‘Chippy’.  Also still lurking in the TP15’s garden is a ‘Blue Peter’ time capsule so a possible target for next year?

 

TP15: ‘Chippy’ RIP

The Finds comprised mainly of brick and tile associated with house construction with pottery and glass, iron and glass slag.  Some pits we found evidence for clay pipes. Clay pipes survive as either round fragments of stem or the actual bowls many of which were decorated.  The presence of clay pipes probably related to the areas agricultural fields during the 19^th century with farmers stopping for a smoking break.  On a more modern note across many of the pits small quantities of asbestos were encountered, evidence of the original garden sheds erected at each property.