Digging deeper into the past

Two major projects are being planned to research Southwell’s past.

Southwell Archaeology has been awarded an Early Fabric In Historic Towns grant by English Heritage to survey and record pre-1750 structures.

It is also planning further investigations on the Burgage, which it believes contains the remains of a manor.

Remains of a medieval settlement were discovered by the group during an investigation in the summer.

The group is planning to apply to the Heritage Lottery for two years’ of funding for the Burage exploration.

The project, run with Nottingham University, Trent and Peak Archaeology and Nottinghamshire County Council, will include a further examination of records, surveying and archaeological activity.

Mr John Lock, chairman of Southwell Archaeology, said the Early Fabric project, which is launched on Saturday and runs until July, would be in two main phases.

He said: “Firstly, there will be a large-scale exercise in identifying possible candidates, including older structures hidden by later fabric. Secondly, there will be detailed surveys of three or four properties, to include some dendrochronological (dating of timber) work.

“This will give members a real opportunity to gain practical and enjoyable experience in contributing to the social and historic record of Southwell.”

The group hopes to produce a booklet on the outcome of the project, with help from Mr Matt Hurford, of Trent and Peak Archaeology.

Mr Chris King, of Nottingham University, hopes to produce an article for an academic journal.

The group wants anyone who occupies a property that could pre-date 1750 to get in touch.

“Don’t forget that older structures can hide behind later façades, so if you have any hidden timbers or older features we would love to examine them,” said Mr Lock.

Volunteers are also being sought to record information.

Anyone with a building to be examined should email Mr King at Chris.King@notting ham.ac.uk or call 0115 951 4845.

For information and membership of Southwell Archaeology email info@southwellarchaeology.org.uk or call 07786 521512

More information will be available at the project’s launch on Saturday at 10am in the Old Court House.