SDO13986 - Wall behind Wadham House, 50 High West Street, Dorchester, Dorset. An Archaeological Watching Brief

‘Context One Archaeological Services (COAS) carried out an archaeological watching brief during the demolition of a section of walling at the rear of Wadham House, 50 High West Street, Dorchester, Dorset (the ‘Site’), between December 2012 and June 2013. The project was commissioned by Gordon Bush Contractors on behalf of Dorset County Council. The purpose of the watching brief was to make a preliminary assessment of the wall, to inspect it for evidence of its construction and repair/re-use of materials, and additionally, to advise on any archaeologically relevant issues. Observations confirmed that the wall was constructed during the post-medieval period and had been subject to modern repairs. The facing material incorporated some re-used stone which may be Roman in origin although this could not be proven. Following the removal of the wall and observations during the excavation of two test pits it was discovered that the foundations were constructed within undisturbed natural chalk with no evidence for an earlier phase.’