Summer of Archaeology: Excavations to begin at estate with Anglo-Saxon roots and 12th century chapel

This article originally appeared on Culture24.

National Trust to lead season of excavations at Herefordshire Estate which could have origins from as far back as Norman Conquest

A Herefordshire estate enclosing a ruined chapel built a century after the Norman Conquest will be at the centre of archaeological investigations this summer, hosting a series of excavations under the watch of two National Trust experts and the volunteers and visitors they will train in geophysics, surveying and other key talents of the trade.

Brockhampton Estate is thought to have an Anglo-Saxon name, suggesting that a settlement may have existed there before 1066. The earliest heritage within the modern grounds – the chapel site – was probably constructed during the 1180s by the Brockhampton Family, who were first recognised in a charter dated from 1166.

“The project is focusing upon the early history of the estate – in particular the origins of Lower Brockhampton House and the chapel,” says Christopher Atkinson, the Project Archaeologist for the Summer of Archaeology initiative.

“Over the course of this summer a group of organisations, along with visitors and educational groups, will be engaged with a series of meaningful archaeological activities based not only around the house and chapel but also within the wider estate.

“Volunteers will also be encouraged to contribute towards the final publication of the project, from desk-based research to GIS mapping and contributions to the written publication.

“The results of this exciting project will provide an enhanced and improved understanding of the early history of the site.

“We will ask whether there was an earlier settlement and shed light on aspects relating to the wider landscape, such as how it has evolved and been managed over time.”

Funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the search will be helped by members of the Bromyard and District Local History Society, Media Shypp and Herefordshire Mind and ECHO.

• Visitors will have their first chance to take part in the project this weekend, when two geophysics sessions will run on Saturday and Sunday (May 23-24) from 11am-4pm.

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Source: http://www.culture24.org.uk/history-and-heritage/archaeology/art527410-summer-of-archaeology-excavations-to-begin-at-estate-with-anglo-saxon-roots-and-12th-century-chapel