P 1420
UNITED REFORM CHURCH / SALVATION ARMY HALL,
ABBEY LANE,
SAFFRON WALDEN, ESSEX
ARCHAEOLOGICAL EVALUATION BY TRIAL TRENCHING
Field Archaeology Unit
December 2005
UNITED REFORM CHURCH / SALVATION ARMY HALL,
ABBEY LANE,
SAFFRON WALDEN, ESSEX
ARCHAEOLOGICAL EVALUATION BY TRIAL TRENCHING
Prepared By: Matthew Pocock Signature:
Position: Project Officer
Date:02.12.2005
Approved By: Mark Atkinson Signature:
Position:
Date:
Document Ref. 1420Eval Report 2.doc
Report Issue Date 05 December 2005
Circulation Hibbs and Walsh Architects (x2)
Essex CC Historic Environment Management Team
Essex CC Historic Environment Records
Archive (x 2)
As part of our desire to provide a quality service, we would welcome any comments you may have on the content or the presentation of this report.
Please contact the Archaeological Fieldwork Manager, at the Field Archaeology Unit,
Fairfield Court, Fairfield Road, Braintree, Essex CM7 3YQ Tel: 01376 331470
Fax: 01376 331428
� Field Archaeolog y Unit, Essex County Council, c/o County Hall, Chelmsford Essex CM1 1LF
CONTENTS
Page
Summary 1
1.0 Introduction 2
1.1 Planning Background 2
1.2 Report and Archive 2
1.3 Abbreviations used in the report 2
2.0 Background 3
2.1 Location and Topography 3
2.2 Geology 3
2.3 History and Archaeology 3
2.4 Previous work 5
3.0 Aims and Objectives 5
4.0 Methodology 5
5.0 Fieldwork Results 5
5.1 General 6
5.2 Trench 1 7
5.3 Trench 2 8
6.0 Finds 9
7.0 Conclusions 10
7.1 General 10
7.2 Graveyard related activity 10
7.3 Pre-graveyard 11
8.0 Assessment of Results 12
8.1 Graveyard 12
8.2 Archaeology 12
8.3 Implications for grave clearance and construction 13
Acknowledgements 14
Bibliography 15
APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Fieldwork Data 16
Appendix 2: Finds Data 18
Appendix 3: Archive Index 19
Appendix 4: Essex Historic Environment Record Sheet 20
Appendix 5: 1420 Soils Report 21
FIGURES
1. Site location 29
2. Trench 1: pre-excavation 30
3. Trench 1: post excavation 31
4. Trench 2 32
5. Section 1 and 2 32
UNITED REFORM CHURCH / SALVATION ARMY HALL,
ABBEY LANE,
SAFFRON WALDEN, ESSEX
ARCHAEOLOGICAL EVALUATION BY TRIAL TRENCHING
SUMMARY
Client: Salvation Army FAU Project No.: 1420
NGR: TL 536383
Planning Application No.: UTT/0432/04 Site Code: SW46
Date of Fieldwork: 14th � 16th November 2005
The excavation of two trial trenches was undertaken in advance of proposed extensions to the church hall at the rear of United Reform Church, Abbey Lane, Saffron Walden. The evaluation revealed multiple earth-filled grave cuts, the majority of which were present to depths of c.2m below current ground surface levels. Two brick-built vaults were also exposed; one c.0.5m below the surface the other at the base of a deep earth filled cut some c.4m in depth. Roman pottery was retrieved from a ground surface/ cultivation horizon at the base of Trench 1 encountered at a depth of 1.90m below ground surface. This layer sealed apparently sterile alluvial silts. No significant remains denoting activity pre-dating the 18/19th century graves were revealed within the scope of this investigation.
The investigation has established that a higher density of post-medieval graves are present than previously thought in the vicinity of the proposed building extensions. In addition, some of these graves are of a significantly greater depth, potentially causing problems for grave clearance. The depth and density of graves signify low potential for survival of archaeological remains despite being deeply buried.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Planning Background
The archaeological work was carried out under an archaeological condition placed on the planning application (UTT/0432/04) because of its siting in close proximity to an area of known archaeological remains.
The development area is within the United Reform Church (URC) graveyard (NGR TL 536383).
The proposed development will include construction of two extensions to the Salvation Army Hall situated to the north of the Church. It has been proposed that the footprints (Areas A and B, Fig.1) are to be cleared of 18th/19th century burials prior to construction works as has been requested by the Home Office. In addition, the ECC Historic Environment Management has requested that the same areas are to be subject to archaeological invesigation in accordance with Planning Policy Guideline 16 (PPG16), (ECC HEM brief 2004).
Essex County Council Field Archaeology Unit (ECCFAU) carried out an archaeological evaluation comprising two trial trenches located in the areas to be impacted by the proposed development on behalf of the Salvation Army. Work commenced with the aim to further understand the nature and depositional sequence at these locations to inform and supplement the design of further works.
1.2 Report and Archive
Copies of this report will be supplied to the client, the Essex CC Historic Environment Management Team (HEM), the ECC Historic Environment Record (HER), and the Online Access to the Index of Archaeological Investigations (OASIS) (http://ads.ahds.ac.uk/project/oasis). The project archive will be deposited at Saffron Walden Museum.
1.3 Abbreviations used in the report
ALGAO (Association of Local Government Archaeological Officers), (ECC (Essex County Council), EAH (Essex Archaeology and History), EHER (Essex Historic Environment Record), ERO (Essex Record Office), FAU (Field Archaeology Unit), HEM (Historic Environment Management), IFA (Institute of Field Archaeologists), NGR (National Grid Reference), OS (Ordnance Survey), OD (Ordnance datum). PRO (Public Record Office), RCHM (Royal Commission on Historical Monuments), SMR (Sites and Monuments Record), UCR (United Reform Church), WSI (Written Scheme of Investigation).
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
2. BACKGROUND
2.1 Location and Topography
The site is located to the north of Abbey Lane on the western edge of Saffron Walden town centre situated within the grounds of the United Reform Church/ Salvation Army Hall (TL 536383). The investigation area comprises the footprints to proposed extensions to the Church Hall denoting an area of c.89 sq m on its southern side and a second c.50 sq m on the west.
The site occupies the north-facing slope of the valley of the river Slade. While the surrounding vicinity gently slopes down to the north, the site itself has been levelled. This has resulted in the raising of the ground surface by as much as 2.24m along the northern edge of the site. Current ground surface heights range between c. 50.4 and 49.7m OD.
Geology
The solid geology comprised a weak friable fine grained chalk (Impey, 2005). This was overlain by alluvial silts sands and gravels the uppermost of which was reached at 47.6m OD within Trench 1. 2.2
2.3 History and Archaeology
The archaeological background for this and other parts of Saffron Walden, has previously been given extensive discussion by Bassett (1982) and summarised/reviewed by Medlycott (1999). In view of this, only a summary of the most pertinent information is presented here.
The site has the potential to contain Roman, mid-late Saxon and early medieval archaeological remains. Both cemetery and occupation remains from these dates have previously been found immediately south-west of the church in the vicinity of Gibson Way and Gibson Close (Basset 1982).
Two investigations were undertaken in 1830 and 1876 (EHCR 451-458). These excavations revealed approximately 200 burials. Graves without orientation comprised c. 50 of the total and may have been Roman or earlier in date (Basset 1982). Occupation evidence comprised a large assemblage of Romano-British artefacts dating from 1st to 5th century AD. The exposure of several large regular ditches and retrieval of a 1st century Claudian brooch and catapult bolt have lead to speculation that this activity had military origins. In contrast, Romano-British finds have been sparsely distributed throughout the rest of the Saffron Walden (Medlycott 1998) with field systems in evidence over much of the eastern side of town (Bassett 1982).
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
The place name �Walden� (from the old English, �weala denu�) means �valley of the Britons or serfs�, indicating the towns origins whilst effectively supporting potential for an earlier settlement. The majority of burials within the Gibson excavations were aligned E-W and dated to the Saxon period. Continual occupation/ cultivation is implied with the presence of several sherds of handmade grass-tempered ware dating to around the 7th century. This is reinforced with evidence of possible sunken floored buildings beneath the excavated graves originally described and sketched as large pits within the 1876 excavation records. Evidence indicated burial continued as late as the 12th century, with pottery suggesting further site use into the 13th century.
More generally, Saffron Walden, as a town, is a medieval development; founded in the 11th century around the castle. The medieval remains found at Gibson Way/Close, however, probably relate to an earlier Saxon-Norman settlement in the Slade valley, alongside the cemetery. The Abbey Lane site was brought into the planned medieval settlement with its enclosure within the magnum fossatum (aka the Repell, or Battle Ditches), a defensive enclosure, in the second quarter of the 13th century. It is possibly this event that brought about the vicinities abandonment as a place of settlement and burial. Abbey Lane itself was a major thoroughfare heading westward out of the medieval town, exiting through a presumed gateway in the magnum fossatum some 100m west of the URC site. It has been proposed that the new town was laid out on a regular grid pattern of roughly 12 x 12 perches (c.60 x 60m) (Bassett 1982, 25-6). It is therefore possible that medieval plots extend across what was once known as Abbey Meadows, although roadside occupation does not appear to have extended this far west until the post-medieval period.
A Congregational church was established on the site, then known as �Froggs Orchard�, in 1694. There is a corpus of documentary sources at the Essex Record Office (ERO) for this and the succeeding URC (ERO ref: D/NC 16). The present URC was built in 1811 and a school (now the Salvation Army Hall) added, following further land purchase, in 1861.
The land on the north, west and east sides of the church has formerly been used as a graveyard. Although the start date of this activity has not been established, a drawing of the Congregational Church shows funerary monuments to its east and west and an 18th to 19th century period of use is assumed. Burial is understood to have ceased in the 1870s. A plan of known burial plots exists (supplied by Hibbs and Walsh architects); Area A appears to contain 19 burials and Area B a further 14. However, this may not be wholly accurate, and it is probable that at least some plots will contain multiple interments. Grave recording has been undertaken by the North West Essex Churchyard Group in 1982-5 [ERO ref: T/Z 151/14) and an earlier record made in 1843 (ERO ref: D/NC 16/2/17 and D/NC 16/2/18).
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
2.4 Previous Archaeological Works
Ground investigations, comprising 15 window sample boreholes and 2, later 4, test pits were carried out in October 2005 by Oakley Soils (Impey 2005) to inform the construction design process. The opportunity was taken to monitor these works archaeologically. This supplied insights into the nature and depth of deposits across the western and northern parts of the site, distinguishing made-ground, from archaeological and natural deposits (Pocock 2005).
The borehole results established the presence of a substantial depth of made-ground below the
more recent topsoil and turf. In northern areas of the site this was estimated to be in excess of 2.0m in thickness. To the south, on the east and west side of the church, the tops of brick-built burial vaults were observed to be present just below ground level. In addition to made-ground, possible grave fills were recorded, though distinguishing between the two is unclear. Potential archaeological deposits appeared to underlie the made ground at a depth of between c.1.2 and 1.9m. While useful information was retrieved, the investigations did not provide sufficient clarity to inform of archaeological potential or developmental considerations.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
3. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
In view of previous investigations carried out on the site archaeological work was carried out to determine the location, extent, date, character, condition, significance and quality of any surviving archaeological remains threatened by the development.
The specific objective of the archaeological investigation was to;
� Clarify the nature and sequence of deposition to inform the design of an effective
methodology during further stages of work.
4. METHODOLOGY
The evaluation comprised the excavation of two trenches position within the proposed buildings footprints. The topsoil/ overburden/ made-ground were cleared using a mechanical excavator fitted with a toothless bucket under archaeological supervision. Initial excavation was limited to the exposure of the upper limits of the grave cuts. Once a record was made, machine removal of the non-archaeologically significant deposits and grave fills continued. Excavation avoided disruption of brick-built vaults and ensured minimal impact was made on human remains. Where live services were encountered, hand-excavation exposed the limits and machining continued avoiding contact but reducing trench size.
Manual excavation took place where mechanical no longer proved feasible or where significant archaeological material or deposits were encountered. Where depths exceeded 1.2m shoring was used to support trench edges providing a safe and stable working environment.
Standard CC FAU recording and excavation methods were used. All fieldwork methods and recording conformed to the codes of practice and guidance issued by the IFA and adhered to ALGAO guidelines.
5. FIELDWORK RESULTS
5.1 General
The two trenches (1 and 2) were positioned within the footprints of the proposed building extensions to the Salvation Army Hall (Areas A and B). Trench 1 covered an area of 9.1 sq m and Trench 2, 7.8 sq m. The presence of a substantial thickness of made-ground was confirmed in both, as was the presence of post-medieval graves. The limit of this made-ground was defined
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
within Trench 1 and both graves and archaeological deposits investigated. The excavation of the
full depositional sequence encountered in Trench 2 could not be achieved due to constraints imposed by un-mapped live services and health and safety concerns associated with working at depth. The depth of the topsoil averaged 0.40m across the site. The made-ground comprised a series of levelling deposits deriving from re-deposition of natural materials and bedrock coupled with layers of imported soils from an unknown source. Grave digging resulted in the re-deposition of those soils as homogenous mixed backfill deposits within the graves. All graves encountered were aligned E-W. Those graves that were earth-filled were of a standard size, around 0.5m wide by 1.83m (6 feet) deep. Length was not established. The recorded depositional sequences are described below, followed by a summary of the collected finds. A detailed list of contexts can be found in Appendix 1 with additional finds data in Appendix 2.
5.2 Trench 1 (Figs.2, 3 and 5)
Trench 1 measured c.3.5 x 2.6 m and was located in the area to the south of the existing extension to the Salvation Army Hall within Area B (Fig.1). Initial machining uncovered the upper limits of the grave cuts at c.0.40m below current ground surface levels (c.49.3m OD). Four graves were exposed (Fig.2). These were clearly visible and cut into the upper most layer of made-ground, 21. Following the recording of the grave positions further excavation was limited to its western half to establish the nature and characteristics of two of the four grave cuts, 10, and 18. Both were found to be simple earth-filled graves.
Grave 18 was 1.84m deep and intruded into alluvial silts that underlay the made-ground deposit, by some 0.2m. 1.18m below the top of the grave a, presumably secondary, insertion of a child burial was located. Excavation of the grave ceased at this point and the human remains were left undisturbed. Retrieval of the name plate from the top of the poorly preserved wooden coffin has allowed identification of the burial as being that of a 9-week old by the name of James (surname unidentified), who died in 1843.
Grave 10 was cut from the same level as 18 and comparable in depth and size. It was not fully investigated as it formed part of the unstable northern trench edge and was truncated by a later grave cut.
During the excavation a further two graves were identified that were not visible within the initial machine strip. These comprised 12 and 15, both of which were different in construction and characteristics to the earth-filled graves 10 and 18.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
The end of a brick-built vault 16/17 within cut 15 was present in the western side of the trench,
c.0.4 m below the ground surface. This vault extended westwards away from the trench and its full depth was not established. Cut 12 originally appeared to be that of a simple earth-filled grave. However, a second brick-built burial vault 13 was eventually exposed deep within it. The crest of the vault was exposed 1.9m below the current ground height, at 47.7m OD. The eastern end of the vault roof was breeched during machine excavation, requiring removal of several of the bricks. This allowed limited visual inspection of the vault interior, revealing skeletal and coffin remains lying 1.2m below the ceiling of the brick structure. The floor of the structure was not visible and the full depth of the vault not established. The vault structure was sound and its interior dry. Good bone, wood and metal preservation was evident.
The made-ground (contexts 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 including 20 and 21 both un-illustrated), into which all graves were cut, comprised a succession of levelling or landscaping layers totalling a thickness of c.1.5m.
Below the made-ground, where not truncated by later graves, was a 0.44m thick layer of compacted organic silt, 3. This was probable buried ancient topsoil and therefore defined the likely original ground surface and archaeological horizon. Several sherds of Roman pottery were retrieved from 3 during manual excavation of the lower depositional sequence within the trench. The natural horizon, 2, was reached at a level of c.47.6m OD and comprised apparently sterile alluvial silts. No archaeological features were identified as cutting these natural deposits within the confines of the trench.
5.3 Trench 2 (Figs.4 and 6)
Trench 2 was located to the west of the Salvation Army Hall, within proposed building extension footprint Area A. The trench extent was limited due to the constraints imposed by the presence of a number of previously unknown services running N-S parallel with the western wall of the church hall (Fig.4). Investigation was practicably restricted to a 1.8m x 1.22m area (2.2sq m) in the northwest corner of the trench. The depositional sequence observed was broadly comparable to that seen in Trench 1, except that excavation did not reach the base of made-ground.
Within the investigated area of the trench, a single grave cut 32 was present; the top of which sat 0.52m below the current ground surface, at c.49.3m OD. As well as topsoil, this grave was overlain by a relatively thin sequence of apparent make-up deposits (028, 029, and 030) that postdate cemetery activity. Manual excavation established that this was a simple earth-filled grave with
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
the human remains lying 2.2m below the ground surface, at c.47.5m OD. Coffin handles and clasps were present, but poorly preserved, and the wood had not survived.
The sequence of made-ground deposits (022-027) cut by the grave was at least 1.7m thick, comprising re-deposition of soils both natural and imported. The restricted dimensions of the trench meant that mechanical excavation could only be carried out to a depth not exceeding 2m, at which point neither the base of the grave or natural alluvial silts had been exposed. Manual excavation beyond this was not possible on health and safety grounds.
6. FINDS
by Joyce Compton
Layer 003, in Trench 1, produced two sherds of unabraded Roman pottery, weighing 34g. A rim sherd, broken at the junction with the body of the vessel, is probably from a B2 bead-rimmed dish (Going 1987, Fig.1). The fabric and finish suggest manufacture at the Hadham pottery industry. The base sherd, in sandy grey ware, probably derives from a jar, although the external surface is particularly well-finished. A mid Roman date is suggested by both form and fabric. B2 dishes were current from the mid 2nd to the mid 3rd centuries AD in central Essex. Bead-rimmed dishes, in general, are a common mid-Roman vessel class and were produced in some numbers from c. AD120 until superseded by flanged dishes during the 3rd century.
Medieval pottery comprises a single unstratified sherd retrieved from the machined spoil from Trench 1. It is a fragment of Medieval coarse ware cooking pot rim of a type datable to c.1200. Its relatively fine sand-tempering is typical of medieval fabrics found in the town.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
7. CONCLUSIONS
7.1 General
This archaeological evaluation has clarified the depositional sequence within the proposed building extension footprints and enlarged upon the results of the monitoring of the earlier ground investigation window sampling. Two key issues have been identified comprising graveyard related activity/ made-ground and the archaeology.
Graveyard-related activity
It is now evident that the majority of levelling activity, resulting in the deposition of a 1-2m thickness of made-ground, pre-dates the insertion of burials. The apparent make-up layers overlying grave 032 in Trench 2 may simply represent the spreading of upcast from other graves rather than a major post-cemetery leveling event. None of these make-up deposits are of particular archaeological significance and presumably relate to site preparation in advance of the construction of the United Reform Church, or perhaps its predecessor chapel. 7.2
The locations of a number of 18/19th century inhumations have been identified and the presence
of interments within both simple earth-filled and brick-vaulted graves has been established. On the basis of the evaluation results, it appears that earth-filled graves can be expected to bottom at approximately 2.2m below the present ground surface. However, while some brick-vaulted graves may occur immediately below the topsoil and penetrate to a similar depth, some have been inserted at a considerably greater depth. Potentially, the bottom of grave 012 was beyond 3.5m below ground surface, its brick vault being buried under almost 2.0m of backfill and overburden.
It has not been possible to reliably ascertain the precise numbers of interments within each burial investigated. It is likely that multiple interments exist and it has furthermore been demonstrated that there are more graves present than previously recorded on the available graveyard plans. Skeletal remains and metal coffin fixtures survive well in all graves, though wooden coffin structures are likely to be better preserved in vaulted graves.
The evaluation exposed a total of seven grave cuts. Through comparison of their locations with those on the plan of known plots, it is possible to tentatively identify these as being graves LI, LII, XLX, XXX, LXXII, LXXI and either CXXXVIII or CXXXIV (Figs 2, 3 and 4). Three of these can be cross-referenced to the list of burials supplied by Hibbs and Walsh. The child burial in grave 018/LI appears to be the latest in a series of inhumations attributable to the Wedd family (1843). Initial occupation of this family plot was in 1834 and it may be presumed that a further interment
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
lies below the infant. A member of the Ling family was buried in the grave cut CXXXVIII or CXXXIV, exposed within Trench 2, cut 32. Of the two brick-built vaults in Trench 2, 016/017 (plot LXXXII) housed several burials with records showing perhaps two phases of interment. The occupant(s) of vaulted grave 012 (plot LXXXI) are not recorded on the burial list provided.
7.3 Pre-graveyard
Where it was possible to excavate deep enough to penetrate made-ground, the former land- surface of the Slade valley slope has been demonstrated to be present directly below. Probable buried topsoil has been found overlying natural geological deposits at a depth of c.1.9m below ground surface. Although no archaeological features were identified either within or below this buried soil horizon, Roman pottery sherds were retrieved from within it. These do not necessarily provide a date for this soil, though their unabraded nature may suggest that Roman period activity occurred at this location in the Slade valley. The recovery of a further medieval pottery sherd, albeit unstratified and possibly residual in the made-ground, also suggests the potential for further remains of this date in the vicinity.
Although not apparently impacted upon by the post-medieval raising and levelling of the ground surface, it is clear that the potential for survival of any more-tangible archaeological remains present on this site is dependent upon the depth and density of later graves. The majority of the graves investigated during the evaluation penetrate to a depth of 2.2m and so the perceived archaeological horizon only survives as narrow �islands� in between them.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
8. ASSESSMENT OF RESULTS
This archaeological evaluation has substantiated the results of the ground investigation borehole results and provided reliable information about the nature of deposition in the vicinities of the two proposed extensions to the Salvation Army Hall. There are a number of pertinent issues regarding both grave clearance and archaeological potential of relevance to the planning and implementation of the proposed construction works.
Graveyard
Evaluation has established that earth-filled, brick-vaulted graves are likely to extend across the entire footprint areas of the proposed building extensions, and that the human remains that they contain occur between 1.5 and 4m below the present ground surface. Grave cuts are first apparent at a depth of between 0.4m and 0.6m below ground surface and intrude through a substantial thickness of made-ground. The positions of graves, as shown on the graveyard plan, have been found to be generally accurate. However, it should be noted that the evaluation has identified that there are more graves present than indicated on graveyard plot plans and that it is evident that at least some graves contain multiple interments. Grave clearance methodology will need to reflect this. 8.1
In accordance with Home Office requirements, all interred human remains will require clearance across the whole of the building extension footprints prior to their construction. While ECC HEM do not attach particular archaeological/historic significance to these graves, the retrieval of basic name/date/age information, such as can be gained from collection of coffin plates during clearance works, may be requested. This is perhaps most pertinent for those interments that do not feature on either the graveyard plan or are sketchily recorded on the burial list.
8.2 Archaeology
No comparable remains to those uncovered on the near-by Gibson Way site were encountered within the two trial trenches, although excavation within Trench 2 did not extend below made- ground. However, an archaeological horizon, represented by buried topsoil, is present in Trench 1, immediately below made-ground, at a depth of 1.92m below ground surface. Monitoring of boreholes 5, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 15 recorded the presence similar deposits (Pocock 2005) and it is probable that this horizon is widespread across the site and is likely to exist under made- ground in the vicinity of Trench 2. The later graves appear to generally penetrate through the made-ground and therefore adversely impact upon the underlying archaeological horizon and upon any remains associated with it. While there is clear potential for archaeological remains to be, or to
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
have been, present on this site it is judged that they will have been significantly disturbed by grave- digging activity and survive in a fragmentary and incoherent state.
It is likely that ECC HEM will request minimal further archaeological investigation of this site, particularly if grave clearance can be undertaken without the need to completely remove made- ground from above the archaeological horizon. This may take the form of monitoring and recording of any remains that are exposed during grave clearance and/or construction works.
8.3 Implications for grave clearance and construction
While the shallower graves will be relatively easily machine-excavated from the present ground surface level, it may be necessary to remove made-ground in the general footprint areas in order to reach those at greater depth (e.g. grave 012 at c. 3.5m depth). As long as this did not intrude into the underlying archaeological horizon, this could be undertaken with minimal archaeological implication. Ideally where the deeper graves impact this horizon the grave sides would be maintained for archaeological inspection.
A number of previously unknown water and gas services were encountered in Trench 2. It is recommended that steps are taken to locate and isolate these and any other such services prior to further groundworks. Should deep excavation prove necessary during either grave clearance or construction, the instability of grave fills and made-ground needs to be taken into account. Shoring of deep excavations is likely to be required.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
9. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thanks are due to the Salvation Army, who commissioned and funded the archaeological evaluation. Special thanks to Janet Hayes, of Hibbs and Walsh, for her help. Richard Havis of the Essex CC Historic Environment Management team monitored the archaeological work, which was carried out by Matthew Pocock and Chris Down. The project was managed by Mark Atkinson and finds support provided by Joyce Compton and Helen Walker.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Atkinson, M. 2005 Written Scheme of Investigation: United Reform Church / Salvation Army Hall, Abbey Lane Saffron Walden, ECC FAU.
Basset, S.R. 1982 Saffron Walden: Excavations and Research 1972-1980, Council of British Archaeology. Research Report 45.
Going, C.J. 1987 The Mansio and Other Sites in the South-eastern Sector of Caesaromagus: the Roman pottery, Chelmsford Archaeol. Trust Rep. 3.2, Council of British Archaeology. Research Report. 62
Havis, R. 2004 Archaeological excavation and monitoring at the Salvation Army / United Reform Church, Abbey Lane, Saffron Walden ECC HEM brief, Sept 2004
Impey, J. 2005 Oakley Soils and concrete Engineering LTD: Ground investigation Report � Salvation Army and United Reformed Church Halls, Abby Lane, Saffron Walden, Essex.
Medlycott, M. 1998 Saffron Walden, Historic Towns Project � Assessment Report. Essex CC.
Pocock, M. 2005 Archaeological Monitoring and Recording � United Reform Church, Salvation Army Hall, Abbey Lane, Saffron Walden, Essex. ECC FAU
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
APPENDIX 1: FIELDWORK DATA
All dimensions are given in metres.
TRENCH CONTEXT NO. TYPE DESCRIPTION DEPTH/ THICKNESS WIDTH DETAIL
1 1 Layer Topsoil 0.41
1 2 Layer Natural
1
3
Layer
Sealed ground surface
0.42
Dark black grey firm clay silt. Chalk flecks and small grits
1
4
Layer
Build-up
0.38
Mid brown firm clay. Charcoal flecks and small grits
1
5
Layer
Made-ground
0.54
Mid grey brown clay silt.
Loose to moderate consistency with large chalk fragments,
charcoal and chalk flecks
Lens of re-deposited mixed bedrock.
1 6 Layer Made-ground 0.02 Small grits and chalk flecks abundant.
Layer of mid grey moderate clay silt with
1 7 Layer Made-ground 0.1 occasional charcoal flecks, small grits and tile fragments.
Mid red-brown re-deposition of 002.
1 8 Layer Made-ground 0.06 Tile, charcoal, and chalk flecks. Small grits and gravels.
1 9 Layer Made-ground 0.38 Mid grey clay silt.
Tile flecks and fragments, grits and gravels.
1 10 Cut Grave Cut
1 11 Deposit Grave Backfill
1 12 Cut Grave Cut 0.84
1 13 Structure Vault 0.66 Brick-built (minimum 1.19m in height)
1 14 Deposit Grave Backfill 0.84
1 15 Cut Grave Cut 1.14
1 16 Structure Vault (element) 1.14 Brick-built - forms the N/S wall to the vault
Brick-built (Full extent not realised)-
1 17 Structure Vault (element) 0.24
forms the E/W wall to the vault
1 18 Cut Grave Cut 0.5 1.65
1 19 Deposit Grave Backfill 0.5 1.65
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
Dark greyish-brown clay silt, Chalk and charcoal flecks and
1 20 Layer Made-ground 0.64
small gravels present.
1 21 Layer Made-ground 0.42 Re-deposition of mixed chalk bedrock
2 22 Layer Made-ground Mid to dark grey firm clay silt. Charcoal and tile flecks.
Thin layer of re-deposited chalk
2 23 Layer Made-ground 0.02
2 24 Layer Made-ground 0.32 Mid grey-brown moderate clay silt containing chalk fragments
2 25 Layer Made-ground 0.04 Re-deposition of archaeological horizon, (alluvial silts)
2 26 Layer Made-ground 0.46 A mixed deposit
with predominant component mid brown clay silt
2 27 Layer Made-ground 0.26 Mid grey firm clay silt containing chalk grit and gravels.
Rubble
2 28 Layer Made-ground 0.1
Dark humic firm material
2 29 Layer Made-ground 0.19
Mid brown grey topsoil mix
2
30
Layer
Made-ground
0.14
2
31
Layer
Topsoil
0.45
2
32
Cut
Grave Cut
0.78
2
33
Deposit
Grave Backfill
0.78
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
APPENDIX 2: FINDS DATA
Context Feature Count Weight Description Date
Unstrat n/a 2 18 Pottery; medieval coarse ware B4 cooking pot rim c.1200
3 Layer 2 34 Pottery; rim sherd, B2 dish ?HAR; base sherd, ?jar GRS Mid Roman
N.B. The pottery has been retained in the archive.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
APPENDIX 3: ARCHIVE INDEX
SITE NAME SW46
Index to the Archive
File containing:
1. Introduction
1.1 Brief for Evaluation
1.2 Specification for Evaluation
2. Research Archive
2.1 Evaluation Report
2.2 Analytical Reports
2.3 Catalogues
3. Site Archive
3.1 Context Index
3.2 Context Record Register
3.3 Original Context Records 1 to 33
3.4 Drawing Registers 3.4.1 Plans Register 3.4.2 Sections Register
3.5 Levels Register
3.6 Survey Data
3.7 Photographic Register
3.8 Site Photographic Record
3.9 Miscellaneous maps and plans 3.10 CDR (Compact-Disc Recorder)
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
APPENDIX 4: EHER SUMMARY SHEET
Site Name/Address: United Reform Church/ Salvation Army Hall, Abbey Lane, Saffron Walden
Parish: Uttlesford
District: Saffron Walden
NGR: UTT/0432/04
Site Code: SW46
Type of Work: Evaluation
Site Director/Group: Essex CC FAU
Date of Work: 14th � 18th November 2005
Size of Area Investigated: 139 m�
Location of Finds/Curating Museum: Saffron Walden Museum
Funding Source: The Salvation Army
Further Work Anticipated? Not Known
Related EHCR No.s:
Final Report:
Periods Represented: Roman, Post-medieval SUMMARY OF FIELDWORK RESULTS:
Essex County Council Field Archaeology Unit (ECCFAU) carried out an archaeological evaluation comprising two trial trenches located in the areas to be impacted by proposed development. The two Trenches (1 and 2) were positioned within the footprints of the proposed building extensions to the Salvation Army Hall at the rear of the United Reform Church, Abbey Lane. Trench 1 covered an area of 9.1 sq m and Trench 2, 7.8 sq m
The evaluation exposed multiple earth-filled graves of a standard size, around 0.5m wide by 1.83m (6 feet) deep cutting a substantial thickness of made-ground across the site. The majority of the earth- filled graves were present to depths of c.2m below current ground surface levels. Two brick-built vaults were also exposed one 0.5m below the surface the other at the base of a deep earth filled grave some c.4m in depth. The limit of the made-ground was defined within Trench 1 at a depth of 1.9m below the turf level. This sealed a ground surface/ cultivation horizon that contained Roman material which sat above the alluvial silts deposited on the Slade valley slope. No significant features denoting activity pre-dating the graves were revealed within the scope of this investigation, despite close proximity to the Roman, Saxon and Medieval site at Gibson Way
The investigation has enlarged upon the results of the monitoring of the earlier ground investigation window sampling establishing that a higher density of post-medieval graves are present than previously thought in the vicinity of the proposed building extensions. In addition, some of these graves are of a significant depth, potentially causing problems for grave clearance. The potential for the survival of archaeological remains within the URC graveyard id judged to be low, given the likely high degree of disturbance of the burial soil horizon by the 18/19th century graves
Previous Summaries/Reports:
Pocock, M.J.
United reform Church/ Salvation Army Hall, Abbey Lane, Saffron Walden , Essex: Archaeological Monitoring and Recording of Ground Investigations, 2005
Author of Summary:
Date of Summary:
Matthew Pocock
21/11/2005
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
APPENDIX 5: 1420 Soils Report
United Reform Church / Salvation Army Hall Abbey Lane, Saffron Walden, Essex
Archaeological Monitoring and Recording
Client: Hibbs and Walsh Associates FAU Project No.: 1420
NGR: TL 536383
Planning Application No.: UTT/0432/04 Date of Fieldwork: 05/09/05 to 07/09/05
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. The proposed development area is within the URC graveyard (NGR TL 536383). It has been proposed that the footprints of two extensions to the Salvation Army Hall (Areas A and B, Fig.1) are to be cleared of 18th/19th century burials as has been requested by the Home Office. In addition, ECC Historic Environment Management has stipulated that the same areas are to be subject to archaeological excavation (ECC HEM brief 2004).
1.2. Although not currently an active place of burial, the graveyard is known to contain a relatively high density of graves of 18th and 19th century date.
1.3. The site has the potential to contain Roman, mid-late Saxon and early medieval archaeological remains. Both cemetery and occupation remains of this date have previously been found immediately south-west of the church in the vicinity of Gibson Way and Gibson Close.
1.4. Since burial ceased in the 1870s, the site has been cleared of grave markers, built-up, levelled and soft-landscaped.
1.5. As part of the preliminary planning of the development works, a ground investigation has
been commissioned by the client, in order to supply information on the nature of soil and geological structure and inform the construction design. With the agreement of the client and of ECC HEM, the ground investigations works, undertaken by Oakley Soils, were monitored by an ECC FAU archaeologist. This observation was intended to gain an insight into the stratigraphic sequence / make-up of the site and into the potential presence and depth of both archaeological remains and later graves.
2. METHODOLOGY
2.1 Archaeological monitoring was undertaken on the ground investigations contractor�s 15 window sampling boreholes. Two test pits, excavated to establish the extent of existing structural foundations and footings, were also observed. The locations of these are shown in figure 1.
2.2 The position and depth of each borehole and test pit were recorded. Representative sections were drawn at a scale of 1:20 and digital photographs documented the monitoring, including materials and deposits encountered.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
2.3 All archaeologically significant artefacts were recovered by hand during the course of the excavation of boreholes and test pits. The type and position of the artefacts were recorded in the representative section drawings. Finds were bagged and labelled, but were not processed (i.e. not washed, marked, catalogued).
2.4 Detailed descriptions of each borehole are given below including information pertaining to potential levels of archaeologically deposits and material that could indicate significant archaeological horizons. Measurements are given from existing ground surface levels though inherent faults and inconsistencies within the sampling process could not be accounted for. A summary of this information is presented in Appendix 1.
3 MONITORING RESULTS
3.1 Borehole 1
3.1.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 2.97m below the current ground level with a
potential archaeological horizon encountered 0.35m beneath the surface. The sequence was sealed by a 0.14m-thick topsoil deposit.
3.1.1 Natural chalk bedrock was recorded at a depth of 2.21m below current ground surface levels. Overlying the chalk was a band of compacted red clay 0.12m thick, of unknown origin. Potential archaeological layers are denoted by the following deposits. Above the red clay was a layer with a light brown clay silt matrix, 1.45m thick. It was a chalk-rich material with rounded and sub-rounded chalk grits and fragments comprising flint nodules of a variety of sizes. The next layer in the sequence is denoted by a 0.30m-thick mid brown clay silt within a predominantly chalk matrix much as the layer below. A 0.20m-thick layer of made-ground seals the chalk-rich materials. This contains small brick/ tile fragments and flint gravels >3mm in size.
3.2 Borehole 2
3.2.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 0.40 m below the current ground level.
Presence of a below-ground brick-built structure halted the borehole investigation. Topsoil was 0.12m thick.
3.2.2 A mid brown/grey clay silt contained brick/ tile fragments and sealed a brick-built structure measuring approximately 0.80m in width and 2.5m deep situated 0.60m from the western edge of the current church building. A substantial void was encountered within the brick structure, which is likely to be an 18th/19th century burial vault.
3.3 Borehole 3
3.3.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 2.52m below the current ground level with a
potential archaeological horizon 1.50m beneath the surface. Excavation was halted due to inability of the drilling rig to further penetrate the soils. Topsoil was 0.14m thick.
3.3.2 The basal layer of the sequence was denoted by a well-mixed coarse deposit 0.42m thick.
It contained flint gravel, chalk and charcoal flecks in a matrix of mid brown clay of moderate consistency. This was sealed by dark grey clay silt 0.60m thick with abundant charcoal flecks and fragments >2mm in size. Flint and chalk flecks and fragments were also present. Flint was angular and >5mm in size.
3.3.3 Made-ground lay above the deposits likely to represent the archaeological horizon and was indicated by a 1.35m-thick mid grey clay silt of moderate consistency with chalk, tile and flint fragments. It was comparable to material seen at this level within other boreholes across the site.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
3.4 Borehole 4
3.4.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 4.50m below the current ground level with a
potential archaeological horizon 1.98m beneath the surface. Problems occurred observing depositional events within the sequence. Deposits were predominantly indistinguishable to a depth 2.37m below the surface. 0.10m of topsoil sealed this sequence.
3.4.2 Natural sands were encountered at a depth of 2.92m. These overlay clay gravels and chalk bedrock evident at the lower limit of the borehole sequence. Sealing the natural sand was a layer of rich-orange brown clay silts, 0.36m thick, with sparsely distributed chalk flecks. This deposit could denote possible alluvial clays. This graduated into a darker layer 0.17m in thickness, denoting a further stage of alluvial deposition. Sealing the potential alluvial evidence was the material previously discussed in section 3.3.3. Although it appeared to be an homogeneous layer of made-ground, a slight colour change could have been present 0.40 m above the latest alluvial deposit.
3.5 Borehole 5
3.5.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 4.05 metres below the current ground level.
There are potentially two archaeological horizons within the borehole sequence the initial level exists 1.18 m beneath the surface and is defined by a reduction in inclusion size and abundance. The second was a further 0.70 m in depth. The sequence was sealed by only 0.04m of topsoil in this location.
3.5.2 Natural chalk gravels formed the basal deposit in the borehole sequence overlain by layers
of chalk and flint gravel overlain and then by sands. Overlying the natural deposits was a 0.63m-thick layer consisting of red/ brown clay silts with sparsely distributed flint and chalk inclusions of sizes below 0.03 m. This material denotes potential alluvial deposition in the area. Dark grey clay silts, 0.18 m thick, with moderate consistency overlay this alluvial material. Charcoal and chalk flecks were present defining the lower part of this potential archaeological horizon. Defining its upper limit was a mid grey brown clay silt with few inclusions of notable size. Characteristics were similar to the made-ground towards the top of the borehole sequence, but inclusions were smaller and less frequent.
3.6 Borehole 6
3.6.1 Investigation intruded to a depth 3.55m below the current ground level with potential
archaeological horizon 1.21m beneath the surface.
3.6.2 Natural chalk gravels formed the basal deposit in the borehole sequence proceeded by layers of chalk and flint gravel overlain by sands. Above the sands existed material with archaeological potential with a thickness of 1.22m. This was a mixed depositional event of mid brown grey clay silt of moderate consistency. A variety of inclusions were present. Angular flints and chalk fragments > 0.05 m in size were dispersed sparsely with flecks of tile/ brick, chalk and charcoal throughout.
3.6.3 Made ground seals those previous layers at a thickness of 1.00 m and is comparable to that seen across the site. All materials and deposits within the sequence were sealed by topsoil 0.21 m in thickness.
3.7 Borehole 7
3.7.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 3.93m below the current ground level with a
potential archaeological horizon 2.02m beneath the surface. 1.80m of made-ground occupied the uppermost portion of the bore hole and was overlain by 0.22m of topsoil.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
3.7.2 Natural chalk was struck at a depth of 3.56m within the borehole. This was overlain by chalk and flint gravels 0.25m thick. A pale grey clay was recorded overlying the gravels 0.14m thick. A potential archaeologically significant deposit 0.58m thick was located above the pale clay. It contained fragments of well-preserved bone at the top and bottom limits of the layer. It was not dissimilar to the made-ground that overlay it with the exception of brick and tile frequency. Both contained charcoal flecks, chalk and angular flint gravels.
3.8 Borehole 8
3.8.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 4.30m below the current ground level, with a
no discernable significant archaeological horizon.
3.8.2 Natural chalk was struck at a depth of 4.30m within the borehole sequence. This was overlain by layers of sand, chalk and flint gravels, 1.50m thick. Vibrant-orange brown sandy clay was recorded overlying the natural sands 0.50m in thickness. An archaeological layer of low potential overlay the sandy clay and was denoted by a mid brown clay silt, 1.28m thick, with chalk and flint fragments, charcoal and tile flecks.
3.8.3 Made-ground overlay this and contained a modern water-pipe. The made-ground in this borehole was comparable to that seen across the extent of the site and appeared in the sequence 0.68m below the current ground surface. All materials and deposits within the borehole were sealed by topsoil 0.22m in thickness.
3.9 Borehole 9
3.9.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 4.40m below the current ground level, with a
well-defined stratigraphic sequence evident. 0.24m of topsoil overlay all other deposits.
3.9.2 Natural chalk was struck at the lower limit of the borehole sequence. This was overlain by layers of sand, chalk and flint gravels 1.08 m thick. Vibrant orange brown sandy clay was recorded overlying the natural sands 0.50 m in thickness, comparable to material seen in BH 8. This was sealed by a mid brown clay silt 0.50 m thick of moderate consistency containing very few charcoal flecks and chalk grits. This was overlain by a 0.13m-thick dark grey layer, with few visible inclusions. Next came a 0.88m thick light brown layer, with virtually no visible inclusions. This was sealed by a grey/ brown clay silt which in turn was overlain by a band of orange brown friable clay silt containing fragments of chalk and brick. Above this sat a mid brown clay silt of moderate consistency 0.52 m thick containing a piece of vertebra. This was sealed by a rubble layer 0.26 m thick.
3.10 Borehole 10
3.10.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 4.86m below the current ground level, with a
well-defined stratigraphic sequence apparent.
3.10.2 Natural chalk was struck at the limit of the borehole sequence. This was overlain by layers of sand, chalk and flint gravels 1.30m thick. A 0.5m-thick light grey firm clay containing no visible inclusions, sealed the natural deposits. Overlying this possible alluvial material was a sequence seen elsewhere within the boreholes and which is suggestive of a buried topsoil and subsoil horizon. These occupied 0.84m within the sequence. The possible buried topsoil was overlain by a pale brown clay 0.16m thick, that in turn sat beneath a 0.48m thick mid grey/ brown moderate clay silt with charcoal flecks, tile and brick fragments and chalk and flint angular gravels. A band of orange/ brown sandy silt was sandwiched between this deposit and one similar above.
3.10.3 Made ground appears 1.12 m below the current ground surface and all materials and deposits within the sequence were sealed by topsoil 0.22 m in thickness.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
3.11 Borehole 11
3.11.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 3.50m below the current ground level. Chalk
bedrock was not reached. The sequence was sealed by 0.20 m of topsoil.
3.11.2 At the base of the sequence were chalk and flint gravels 0.24m thick. Overlying this was a
layer of dark grey clays with small chalk and charcoal flecks present. A 0.57m thickness of light grey clay overlay this. A 0.23m-thick darker grey clay layer containing charcoal and chalk flecks of 0.23m overlay the pale clay. This changed to light clay again above, but this was much more silty and contained what appeared to be shell fragments. The clays became siltier upwards. A 0.6m-thick light brown silty clay appeared next in the sequence. This contained pieces of clay pipe as well as flint, chalk and tile fragments. Dark brown/ black clay silt overlay this and was in turn overlain by made-ground extending from 0.20m below ground surface to 1.15m.
3.12 Borehole 12
3.12.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 3.57m below the current ground level. The
sequence was sealed by topsoil 0.18m in thickness.
3.12.2 Natural chalk was struck at the lower limit of the recorded borehole sequence. This was overlain by layers of sand, chalk and flint gravels 1.30m thick. Overlying these natural deposits was a vibrant orange brown layer. A 0.35m-thick mid grey clay silt, with large charcoal flecks, seals the clearly-defined orange layer and this is itself potentially sealed by made-ground existing from a depth 0.18m below the surface to 1.46m.
3.13 Borehole 13
3.13.1 Investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 4.08 metres below the current ground level.
3.13.2 Natural chalk was encountered at the lower limit of the borehole sequence. This was overlain by layers of sand, chalk and flint gravels, 1.00m thick. A 0.72m thickness of mid brown clay silt of moderate consistency overlay the natural deposits. This was overlain by a dark grey clay, 0.20m thick and containing chalk and sizable charcoal fragments. On top of this was a mid grey clay silt with occasional chalk, charcoal and tile flecks. This was sealed by a 0.90m-thick deposit of orange brown clay that was subsequently overlain by topsoil.
3.14 Borehole 14
3.14.1 Investigation intruded to a maximum recorded depth of 0.50m below the current ground
level. A limited sequence was observed due to presence of a below-ground brick-built structure that was not penetrated. The structure comprised three courses of London brick lain on a yellow sand mortar bed. This effectively tied it into a vaulted red brick structure with lime mortar. This was overlain by a fine mid yellow brown sandy clay that contained chalk flecks, grit, brick and tile fragments. All inclusions were small no larger than 0.02m and the depth of the layer was not fully established. This was sealed by 0.10 - 0.22m of topsoil.
3.15 Borehole 15
3.15.1 This borehole investigation intruded to a recorded depth of 4.30 metres below the current
ground level.
3.15.2 Natural chalk was encountered at 3.83m within the borehole sequence. This was overlain by layers of sand, chalk and flint gravels, 1.40m thick. A 0.66m-thick dark grey brown firm clay silt sealed these natural deposits. It contained charcoal and tile flecks, brick, chalk and flint fragments > 0.04 m in size. Lighter clay silt overlay the darker deposit and contained
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
bone fragments. This occupied a level of between 1.48 to 1.80m below the current ground surface. A 0.33m-thick mid brown grey clay silt sealed the material containing bone which was subsequently overlain by a similar, 0.70m-thick, deposit containing evermore frequent and larger inclusions of brick, tile and chalk. This sequence was sealed by 0.22m of topsoil.
3.16 Test-pits 1 and 2
3.16.1 Only two of the test pits excavated by the ground investigations contractor were observed.
These revealed only apparent foundation back-fill deposits associated with the construction of the existing walls of the hall. As such, they supply no further insights regarding grave or archaeological deposits. Further test pits were not monitored.
4 ASSESSMENT OF RESULTS
4.1 General
4.1.1 The monitoring of the ground investigation works has produced very useful information that
supplies insights into the nature and depth of deposits across the western and northern parts of the site. It has been possible to attempt to distinguish between relatively recent made-ground, archaeological, and natural deposits. However, it should be noted that such distinctions are generally tentative and the constraints of deducting such information from the borehole material appreciated. It is particularly difficult to discern 18th and 19th century grave fills from potentially-earlier archaeological soils.
4.2 Made-ground
4.2.1 The observed boreholes have established that the graveyard site contains a substantial deposit of made-ground, generally below c.0.10-0.20m of topsoil and turf. This material has clearly been brought onto the site as levelling material, used to counter the south to north down-slope to that previously existed. Made-ground is minimal at the south end of the site, at only c.0.2m thickness (BH 1-2), increasing to as much as 2.0m thickness at its north. It may be estimated that up to 2.0m of modern material exits in Area A and between 0.85- 1.15m in Area B.
4.3 18th and 19th century graves
4.3.1 Although very difficult to discern as such in most of the sequences, a number of boreholes
have produced information about the location and nature of the 18th-19th century burials.
4.3.2 Boreholes 2 and 14 unequivocally demonstrate that brick-built burial vaults exist in-tact on this site; in places only a short distance below the present ground surface. BH 2 shows that these may enclose voids some 2.5m deep. Old photographs of the URC church show that substantial above-ground monuments stood to both the east and west of the church in some quantity. It is possible that the majority of the graves were of this type. The photographs inspected do not depict the rear (northern) part of the site.
4.3.3 Bone fragments, probably human, were recovered from deposits in boreholes (BH) 7, 9, 10 and 15. A fragment of vertebra was retrieved from a position 0.52m below the ground surface in BH9. Further bone fragments were recovered from depths of between 1.44-2.2m in the other borehole sequences. Bone occurring high-up could be disturbed and residual; a jaw bone was recovered from the topsoil in BH 8, substantiating this.
4.4 Archaeological remains
4.4.1 Several Boreholes indicate the possibility of buried archaeological soils with preservation of
ground surface horizons. These deposits were located in BH 9, 10, 13, and 15 and show the horizon dropping in height from 1.8 m in BH 15 to 2.24 m in BH 10. This may be the original land surface, sloping down to the Slade.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
4.4.2 If, as believed, the 18th and 19th century graves have been cut from more-or-less this same sloping, ancient, land surface, it is likely that the intensive cemetery activity will have significantly impacted upon any archaeological remains present on this site.
4.4.3 No significant archaeological artefacts were collected from the borehole material that can be dated to before the post-medieval period. Although the extent of the borehole works was very limited, it might perhaps be reasonable to expect to encounter at least a small quantity of residual finds in such deposits as grave fills if a significant archaeological site is indeed present at this location.
5.0 IMPLICATIONS FOR DEVELOPMENT AND EXCAVATION STRATEGY
5.1 The west side of church is likely to contain brick-built burial vaults. This would therefore not
be a suitable location for digging a trench in which to re-inter human remains excavated from Areas A and B.
5.2 Made-ground in Area A is possibly 2.00m thick. In Area B this is likely to be in excess of 1.00m. This is a substantial quantity of soils to excavate and muck-away from site.
5.3 Potential archaeological deposits appear to underlie this made ground. In Area A these may be 1.2m thick and as much as 1.6-1.9m in Area B. However, it is conceded that some parts of these deposits could be 18th or 19th grave fills.
5.4 Either way, total excavation depths could reach between 2.4 and 3.5m in area A, and between 2.5-3.0m in Area B. As well as constituting large quantities of arisings to be either removed from site or stored, the practicalities and health & safety implications of excavating at such depth need to be considered.
6.0 RECOMMENDATIONS
6.1 It is recommended that, given the deeply-buried nature of both later graves and potential archaeological remains within Areas A and B, the excavation strategy is reconsidered.
6.2 If present, any significant archaeological remains are likely to be deeply buried and at low
risk of extensive damage/destruction by the proposed development. While deposits that look to have archaeological potential have been identified, no clear artefactual evidence has been obtained from the boreholes to confirm this.
6.3 If the later graves pre-date the raising and levelling of the ground surface, these too are
likely to survive at a significant depth. On the grounds of practicability and cost, perhaps mitigated by the implementation of a foundation construction design that minimised the negative impact to below ground remains, it may be possible to build without wholesale removal of burials across the entire footprints of the two extensions.
6.4 It is recommended that the appropriate construction design is considered to facilitate this and discussions had with the Home Office and ECC Historic Environment Management to establish whether or not a reduced programme of excavation/investigation is therefore appropriate. An approach of grave clearance and archaeological excavation only within the limits of foundation trenches/pits, undertaken under an archaeological monitoring brief, could reasonably be pursued.
Archaeological Evaluation
Prepared for the Salvation Army
APPENDIX 1:SUMMARY OF DEPTHS OF RECORDED DEPOSITS IN BOREHOLES
(All depth measurements in metres from present ground surface level) BOREHOLE TOPSOIL/ GRAVE/ARCHAEOL NATURAL NOTES
MADE-GROUND DEPOSITS DEPOSITS
1 0.00 - 0.35 0.35 - 2.08 2.08 - 2.97+
2 0.00 - 0.40 0.40 - 2.90+ - BRICK VAULT PRESENT
3 0.00 - 1.50 1.50 - 2.52+ -
4 0.00 - 1.98 1.98 - 2.38 2.38 - 4.5+ MADE GROUND = GRAVE FILL?
5 0.00 - 1.18 1.18 - 2.06 2.06 - 4.05+ ALSO A LOWER ARCHAEOL
DEPOSIT AT 2.06 � 2.70 DOWN?
6 0.00 - 1.21 1.21 - 2.44 2.44 - 3.55+
7 0.00 - 2.02 2.02 - 3.14 3.14 - 3.93+ BONE AT 2.06 AND 2.56 DOWN
8 0.00 - 0.68 0.68 - 1.94 1.94 - 4.30+ SERVICES AT 0.45 DOWN. POSS
GRAVE FILL AT 0.66-1.94 DOWN?
9 0.00 - 1.14 1.14 - 2.78 2.78 - 4.40+ BONE FRAGS IN MADE-GROUND
10 0.00 - 1.12 1.12 - 3.56 3.56 - 4.86+ MADE-GROUND = FOUNDATION
BACKFILL?
11 0.00 - 1.15 1.15 - 3.06 3.06 - 3.57+
12 0.00 -1.46 1.46 - 2.44 2.44 - 3.56+
13 0.00 - 0.98 0.98 - 3.00 3.00 - 4.08+ GRAVE FILL BETWEEN 0.98 - 2.10?
14 0.00 - 0.12 0.12 - 0.50+ - BRICK VAULT DIRECTLY BELOW
TOPSOIL
15 0.00 - 0.85 0.85 - 2.45 2.45 - 4.30+ BONE APPROX 1.6M DOWN
Essex
Saffron Walden Site
#
Chelmsford
Saffron Walden
N
Trench 2
Salvation Army/ URC Hall
Area A Trench 1
s e Area B
s e '
i m
P r United Reform Church
King Edward VI's Almhouses
bbey Lane
A
Site of Anglo- Saxon burial ground 0 40m
Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of HMSO. Crown copyright. Licence no.LA100019602.
Fig.1. Site location
N
21
LX
10
12
XXX
LXXI
18
LI
LII
0 2m
Fig.2. Trench 1: pre-excavation
N
�TL 53610,38367
section 1
12
13
18
grave 15 seen in section
�
TL 53607,38363
0 2m
Fig.3. Trench 1: post-excavation
N
TL 53591,38375 Hall
�
section 3
32
g a w a
s
p i t e r
CXXXVIII or CXXXIV p e p i p e
wat er pipe
�
TL 53588,38371
0 2m
Fig.4. Trench 2
SSE NNW
1
9 12
8
7
16 6
17
5
14
15
11
4
3 13
2
edge of vault
position of human remains
0 2m
Fig.5. Section 1
SSE NNW
31
30
28 29
27
26
33
25
26
24
23 24 25
23
22 32
22
position of human remains
0 2m
Fig.6. Section 3