Monument record MDO7078 - Medieval occupation at Salterns Copse, Arne

In 1989 geophysical survey for the Wytch Farm Oilfield development revealed a series of anomalies. Test pits dug to investigate these revealed complex soil profiles containing fired clay, slag and medieval pottery, waster pottery, interpreted as evidence of medieval salt making activity.

Medieval occupation at Salterns Copse. Geophysical survey detected a series of anomalies across arable fields north of Slepe Moor. Trial pits showed a deep, humic soil build-up. Archaeological levels were recorded in the form of complex soil profiles containing fired clay, slag and medieval pottery. The unusually deep soil profile is directly associated with extensive archaeological activity. (1)

Plot19/20

<1> Cox, P W, and Hearne, C M, 1989, Wytch Farm Oilfield development. Infield Flowlines: Wellsite G - Gathering Station. Archaeological Assessment, February 1989 (Unpublished document). SWX8184.

<2> Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society, 1990, Proceedings of the Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society for 1989, 111 (Serial). SDO89.

'3) Near Saltern's Copse, Arne, SY 96168670. Evidence was found for possible saltowrking in the form of substantial tips of burnt clay and fuel ash slag immediately north west of Slepe moor. Medieval pottery evidence suggests a date of 12-13th century for the activity.'

Record last edited

Aug 16 2021 12:07PM