More information : (TF 127074 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 an adjacent field in preparation for gravel quarrying. The Welland Valley Research Committee undertook selective excavations on the site. Aerial photographs showed a loosely scattered group of about 35-40 pits. Four pits were completely excavated (Site J), these were oval or circular, measuring from 0.91 to 2.13m in diameter and were 460-910mm deep. The pit fill contained much pottery, animal bones, pot boilers and charcoal. The pottery from pits 1, 3 and 4 dated to the late Bronze Age.
Two further pits containing late Bronze Age pottery were excavated on the site of the adjacent small henge (TF 10 NW 60). Simpson interprets the pits and the finds within them as representative of a late Bronze Age unenclosed settlement. (2)
General reference. (3) |