EDO8094 - Kingston Maurward, Stinsford; evaluation 2021

OASIS: Project Methodology: Five trial trenches measuring between 5m and 9m in length and 1.7m wide were excavated in level spits using a backhoe excavator equipped with a toothless bucket. The trenches were located in the approximate positions proposed within the WSI using a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Trenches 5 and 6 were repositioned and amalgamated due to the presence of previously unknown services. Trench 3 was extended along the length of an exposed ditch in order to locate its terminal end, the presence of which was suggested by the preceding geophysical survey. All mechanical excavation was undertaken under constant archaeological supervision and instruction. Machine excavation proceeded until either the natural geology or archaeological horizon was exposed. A sample of archaeological features and deposits were hand excavated, sufficient to meet the aims of the evaluation. All exposed features and deposits were recorded using pro forma record sheets and a complete record of features, including drawn sections and plans to relevant scales, was made. All trenches and features were surveyed using GNSS equipment, with plans and sections tied to the OS grid. A full photographic record was also made with an associated register completed. All spoil was visually scanned for the purposes of finds retrieval. All finds were collected and bagged by context. Once completed to the satisfaction of the client and Senior Archaeologist for Dorset Council, the trenches were backfilled using excavated material in the order in which they were excavated. Trenches were left level on completion. Project Results: The evaluation confirmed the presence of a ditch previously identified during geophysical survey of the site. The ditch in Trench 4, with a 'U'-shaped profile, was found to have naturally silted up, with a single clayey deposit encountered. Pottery recovered from the fill dates to the medieval period, suggesting such a date for the ditch. A single abraded fragment of ceramic building material was also recovered and whilst particularly undiagnostic may pertain to Romano-British tegula. However, the remaining geophysical anomalies were largely found to be variations in the natural. Although a gully in Trench 3 corresponded to a linear feature of possible archaeological origin identified by the earlier survey, its ephemeral nature may suggest this also comprises a feature of natural derivation.