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Methodology
Update: November 2003
February 2004 Update
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Update: November 2003
Location: North Yorkshire
An update on progress of the group to November 2003
LANDSCAPE ARCHAEOLOGY
We have so far obtained copies of 23 old maps of the area, dating from 1610 – 1987, and have scanned them into our computer so that the changing pattern of settlement and farming practice can be identified. Vertical and oblique aerial photographs have also been obtained and also scanned into the computer.
This has enabled us to change the scales and superimpose maps either on to each other, or on to the aerial photographs. We have obtained a database on the 68 fields within the study area and are currently carrying out site visits to complete the record forms. These are currently being supported by historical evidence based on detailed study of changes in the maps.
The prime earthwork on the site has been the subject of a professional EDM survey and subsidiary sites are to be mapped using measured offsets from control pegs that have been properly surveyed in. Proper archaeology scale drawings are currently being drawn up.
BUILDING RECORDING
Preliminary reconnaissance of all abandon farms has been carried out.
Instruction on recording techniques has been given to team members but before starting on the main farm complexes, we have conducted a trial survey under instruction. This was done on the barn nearest to the only occupied farmhouse.
INDUSTRIAL ARCHAEOLOGY
Quantities of iron tap slag have been found in one location and the sample taken was confirmed as such by Gerry McDonald of Bradford University who thought that it was the product of a charcoal bloomery process as used from the Roman to post-medieval times. About 1 km. From this spot, and level with it, a quantity of roasted sandstone has been found within an embankment and underlying the enclosure period walls. On the other side of the valley a sample of green glassy slag has been found. Analysis at Bradford University showed it to have a high manganese content which suggests that it was not from an iron smelting process, thus raising the possibility of historic glass working. Documentary research has shown that on 31 Jan 1720, permission was given for trials for lead on one of the farms; this requires further research.
HISTORIC WOODLANDS
Both Agill and Arngill have a number of ancient coppiced alder trees. These may have been used for charcoal production for use in iron smelting. The oaks do not seem to have been coppiced in the same way. Incidentally, trees of any significance are recorded on our field sheets.
SOCIAL HISTORY
Analysis is currently being undertaken of Parish Records, churchyard inscriptions and census returns. Information has been obtained from Fountains Abbey Lease Book and from the North Yorkshire Records Office. Oral tradition has been taped by interviewing former residents of the area, some of whom went to the local school in Moorhead before it closed in 1929. A spreadsheet is in use for gathering the data, but the long-term aim is to produce a narrative text.
GEOLOGY
The project has benefited from the support of Dr. Wilson who has done some extensive mapping work on the area in the 1960s. which formed the basis for his PhD. Using the scanned maps and AP it has been possible to superimpose the geological map of the area on both the working map and the AP. This has greatly aided the tracing of the various exposures on the ground. At present, our most important task is to identify the source of the iron ore used for the smelting. It is of interest that three of the disused farms and two of the samples came form on, or very near tom Cayton Gill Beds. It is also noted that some coal is present in Arngill, about 1 km. From where the iron tap slag can be found.
FIELD WALKING
A number of fields in the study have been recently ploughed and formal field walking parties have been undertaken under the guidance of a Mesolithic specialist. Some of the more interesting finds include late Mesolithic microlith and a blue glass bead, the date of which has not been established. These are currently being evaluated.
COMMUNITY INTERFACE
This month the group has also been concentrating on preparing a display for the Masham Library and Masham Christmas Fair - which will be held in the Masham Community Hall in Masham on Saturday 13th December. You are all most welcome to come along and see the display and meet up with the team.
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