Monument record MDO28148 - Oyster shell midden, Shipwright's Arms, Hamworthy, Poole

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Summary

A borehole through the foundations of the Shipwright's Arms, Hamworthy in about 1983, revealed an oyster midden 3.4 m thick. This was dated to the 10th - 11th century by radiocarbon dating. Study of the oysters revealed knife marks and other indications that it was a deliberate dump of processed oyster shells rather than a natural accumulation of shells.

Map

Type and Period (1)

Full Description

A borehole through the foundations of the Shipwright's Arms, Hamworthy in about 1983, revealed an oyster midden 3.4 m thick. This was dated to the 10th - 11th century by radiocarbon dating. Study of the oysters revealed knife marks and other indications, such as the lack of immature oysters, that it was a deliberate dump of processed oyster shells rather than a natural accumulation of shells. (1) The top of the midden was about one metre below ground level. It is probably part of the same midden found at the nearby Sunseeker's Boatyard site. (2)

Sources/Archives (2)

  • <1> Monograph: Horsey, I P, ed K Jarvis. 1992. Excavations in Poole 1973-1983. Vol 10. 60-61, 194-200.
  • <2> Unpublished document: Watkins, D R. 1995. Archaeological Observations at: Sunseeker's Boatyard, New Quay Road, Hamworthy, Poole.

Finds (0)

Related Monuments/Buildings (2)

Related Events/Activities (1)

Location

Grid reference SZ 0076 9019 (point)
Map sheet SZ09SW

Protected Status/Designation

  • None recorded

Other Statuses/References

  • None recorded

Record last edited

Jan 17 2013 10:53AM

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