SWX8528 - Bestwall Quarry Archaeological Project, Phase 7 - 1998

This report covers work completed in Fields C, F and G during 1998 and early 1999. The work entailed a subsoil search for finds and excavation of all exposed subsoil features. Random metal detector surveys were conducted at topsoil, subsoil and reinstated levels. Excavated features and artefact evidence support the following sequence for activity in these fields. Mesolithic and Neolithic (6000-2000 BC) A small amount of worked flint could be assigned to the Mesolithic. Two Neolithic arrowheads were identified. It is likely that a small proportion of the flint assemblage is Neolithic in origin. Bronze Age (2000-800 BC) Evidence of activity spanning the greater part of the Bronze Age was located in all areas investigated. Of particular note in Field G were two pit-deposits of Early Bronze Age Beaker pottery. A rare ceramic ‘pulley object’ was also of this date. An area of intense burning in Field C was interpreted as a ‘firing floor’ used during pottery production. A number of features, which may also have been associated with pottery production, were noted in Field G. As in previous years, large quantities of flint in the form of tools and waste were retrieved from features and surface collections. Burnt flint and heathstone was also abundant as surface scatters and pit fills. Copper slag hints at small-scale metal working and quern stones and spindle whorls imply agrarian activity. A single bronze gouge may have been a ritual deposit. Iron Age and Roman Period (800 BC- AD 400) A number of ditches and gullies were plotted, continuing the sequence of field boundaries and enclosures noted in previous years. Industrial activity is implicit in the random occurrence of charcoal-filled pits and other pits containing heathstone, shale and mudstone. Pottery finds support the continuity of use of the site throughout this long period. Medieval Period (AD 400- 1500) There were no features or finds from this period. Post-Medieval Period (1500-to date) An east-west linear feature underlay the modern track way to the north of Field G, this produced large quantities of 17th century ceramic material