Monument record MCC8052 - Colchester-Oaks Drive (phase two)

Summary

There were no stratified Roman layers except in the south-west corner of the site.

Location

Grid reference TL 9890 2519 (point)
Map sheet TL92NE
Non Parish Area COLCHESTER, COLCHESTER, ESSEX

Map

Type and Period (4)

Full Description

There were no stratified Roman layers except in the south-west corner of the site. Elsewhere there was a large build up of topsoil which would appear to be disturbed during sand quarrying. The workmen reported a foundation but they thought it was certainly modern. The foreman also mentioned a patch of red burnt clay which he thought could have been a kiln. Unfortunatly both ?kiln and foundation had been covered over before observation of the site had begun. Also bones thought to be human by the workmen were noted when the foundations for number 52 were being dug. A trench was dug along the whole length of the hammer-head. In the south side was a small pit and another undetermined feature on the north side. Only the southern pit produced pottery which was all Roman. A lead coffin lining was discovered on the site of number 41 but unfortunately it had been damaged by the machine and then rolled up by workmen in readiness for delivery to a scrap yard. Presumably from the same grave was a large greyware pot (photograph only). No bones were recovered with the lining. Workmen reported two more skeletons, one south of number 52 which had a glass bead with it which is in the possession of Mr Moss, Max Cottage, Halstead Road, Aldham. The other skeleton was in the southern side of number 47. The dimensions of the lead coffin coffin were: length 1.73-1.75m, height 0.39m, width 0.39m tapering to 0.28m and was undecorated. <2>

Sources/Archives (2)

  • <1> DESC TEXT: unknown. 1960 0nwards. SMR form unknown.
  • <2> DESC TEXT: Crummy, P. 1992. Colchester Archaeological Report 6. Excavations at Culver Street, Gilberd School and other sites in Colchester. pg 344-5.

Finds (2)

Protected Status/Designation

  • None recorded

Related Monuments/Buildings (0)

Related Events/Activities (2)

Record last edited

Nov 3 2015 11:41AM

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