Site Event/Activity record ECH6500 - Archaeological Excavation Report: Forge Mill Congleton

An archaeological excavation was undertaken in 2016 and 2017 at Forge Mill, Forge Lane, Congleton to investigate the potential remains of a former silk mill, as depicted on a plan of 1865. Specific aims included the investigation of the nature and development of technological innovation and industrial production; approaches to architecture and the use of space to address landscape and social impacts of industrial development and new forms of community living; revealing the history and lifestlyes of the workers of the mill by investigation of their accommodation. The results of this work have provided insights into the construction techniques employed in the buildings of the mill complex, also detail on the organisation of machinery in the mill Carding Room. Examination of the the gas tank provided information on the technology enabling its operation. Additionally the excavation of terraced cottages and associated outbuildings produced a small but interesting assemblage of domestic waste. The botanical and faunal remains suggest a higher status of living than expected with evidence for consumption of red deer, grapes and figs. The pottery assemblage has allowed for dating of features and deposits. (1)