SDO14019 - Melbury Bubb Manor, Melbury Bubb, Dorset. A programme of Historic Building Recording and Archaeological Monitoring and Recording.

'Context One Archaeological Services Ltd (COAS) carried out a programme of archaeological works at Melbury Bubb Manor, Melbury Bubb, Dorset. The historical building recording was carried out on 13 November 2013 followed by observations during dismantling on 4 December 2013. Monitoring and recording in the grounds was carried out over three days between 20 January 2014 and 5 June 2014. The building is Grade II* Listed (List entry number: 1154078). The project was commissioned by Mr Bruce Yoell (Chartered Architect) and funded by Mr Alan Clinton. The manor is a small gentry house which is essentially 17th century in character and appearance, incorporating a medieval core. The historic building recording was required by Mr Francis Kelly (Inspector of Historic Buildings and Areas, English Heritage) and related to part of the south gable wall which was leaning outwards and therefore required dismantling and rebuilding. Monitoring and recording within the grounds of the manor was agreed with Mr Steve Wallis (Senior Archaeologist, Dorset County Council (DCC)) and related to landscaping and the installation of services. The historic building recording concluded that the south gable probably marked the southern extent of the medieval hall-house, a clear rise at eaves level relating to the installation of a new roof as part of 17th century alterations. Observations carried out during dismantling of the wall confirmed the line of the roof heightening. They also facilitated inspection of the relationship between the later chimney and the 17th century wing. Accurate recording of the wall prior to dismantling and an archaeological presence during the dismantling process ensured that the re-constructed wall replicated the original fabric, including preservation of various alterations. Monitoring and recording during groundworks exposed a series of small post-medieval deposits to the east of the south wing. These mixed deposits were probably associated with construction, demolition and horticultural activities. The small assemblage of finds typifies domestic refuse and is of no further research value. Excavations for a septic tank did not expose any archaeological features or deposits. A small quantity of post-medieval and modern artefacts were noted within a gravel layer but were not collected.'