More information : (TF 125074 derived from OS 1:10000) The multi-period site at
Maxey was discovered by Dr. J.K.St. Joseph from aerial
photography (see TF 10 NW 1 for an outline of the main features).
Circular cropmarks at Maxey were plotted in the 1956 RCHME survey
of archaeological sites on river gravels. (1)
In early 1965 topsoil was stripped from the northern half of the
field centred on TF 126075 in preparation for gravel quarrying.
The Welland Valley Research Committee undertook selective
excavations in advance of gravel extraction. Aerial photographs
showed a number of features including a sub-rectangular enclosure
(RCHME Site 67). The enclosure measure 97.5m x 76.25m overall
and lies in the east angle of a T junction of two roadways
defined by their side ditches. At the centre is a small sub-
rectangular ditched enclosure measuring 19.8 x 21.3m with the
entrance to the south-east, possibly a drip gully. In the north-
east angle of the main enclosure aerial photographs showed pits,
post-holes and shallow trenches.
A section of the enclosure ditch and four pits were excavated.
Finds included animal bones, fragments of daub and pottery. From
the surface of the enclosure, particularly over the ditch, was
a large quantity of pottery dated to the late 1st to mid 2nd
centuries AD and two bronze brooches. Fragments of human bone
found on the surface was interpreted as representing a late 1st
century AD burial in the upper ditch fill which had been damaged
during the removal of topsoil.
Site 67 was interpreted by the excavator as an example of an
enclosed settlement of farmstead of Iron Age or early Roman date.
Occupation seems to end in the late 2nd century AD in contrast
with the two settlements to the north-west which are Iron Age
in origin and continue to the end of the Roman period.(2)
General reference. (3) |