Site Event/Activity record ECH5195 - Excavations in the Deanery Field, Chester in 1922-1923 Phase 1 (Deanery Field Site)

Excavations at the Deanery Field by Newstead and Droop were carried out between 1922 and 1935 in several phases. The first phase in late 1922 to 1923 (ECH5195) was restricted to a small area occupying a central position on the south side of the field, the second phase (ECH2802) took place between 1924 and 1926 over a more extensive area with a substantial extension to the west of the earlier trench and recorded more extensive foundations of the barracks blocks here. The third phase (ECH2803) took place between March and May of 1928 encountering the northern end of barracks and the Centurial quarters. The final phase of excavation was carried out between 1933 and 1935 on two sites, one at Abbey Green between 1933 and 1934 (ECH2837) and one in the Deanery Field between 1934 and 1935 (ECH4961). Emergency recording of a section of the wall and adjoining area in 1933 recorded evidence of an interval tower and rampart building, possibly the one previously recorded in 1884 (ECH3101). Evidence of structural remains were recorded on this small site with rubble foundations noted and several floor surfaces. Finds included mortaria, pottery with potter's stamps, a coin mould, a military badge and some armour. There was evidence for continuous occupation from the start of the Flavian period to the end of the 4th century (1).