Monument record 8070/1 - Roman timber building at Watergate House

Archaeological investigations in and around Watergate House have recorded evidence of Roman structural remains. The first phase of activity comprised a timber structure built in the late first century.

Investigations in 1959 identified several beam slots and post holes in the western end of the excavations and although dating evidence was limited, pottery sherds and a bronze ‘dolphin’ brooch indicate a period of use dating to the late first century.

Although further evidence of a drain and cement lined tank previously identified in 1949 were again recorded (CHER 8075), they do not appear to have been associated with the structure. (1)

<1> Kelly D.B, 1965, Excavations at Watergate House, Chester, 1959 (Article in Journal). SCH5878.

<2> Harris, B.E. (ed), 1987, Victoria County History - A History of the County of Chester: Volume I, p176 (Book). SCH3556.

<3> Society for the Promotion of Roman Studies, 1911-Present, Journal of Roman Studies (Journal/Periodical). SCH1519.

<4> Ordnance Survey, 1870-1982, Ordnance Survey Archaeological Record Card, 1981 SJ46NW72 (Index). SCH2487.

<5> Mason, D. J. P., 1978, The Extramural Area, p36-37 (Article in Journal). SCH6313.

<6> Newstead, R (Prof.), 1948, Records of Archaeological Finds VI (Article in Journal). SCH5761.