Monument record 1835/1 - Aldford Roman Fort

Possible Roman Fort at Aldford. Dr Foote Gower reported 'evident marks of a Roman intrenchment adjoining to the exterior boundary of the Norman Castle'. A mansion was erected by the modern proprietors within the Roman lines which altered and defaced the original works. According to the Rev J Stones of Coddington, the fort contained c.18 acres. The most undefaced part 'is that side which has extended from the NE boundary of the castle in a parallel direction with the northern fence of the churchyard' (1). OS failed to trace this earthwork. Extending parallel with the north wall of the churchyard from the north-east boundary of the castle is a ditch which appears to be the 'undefaced part' described by Watkin. This is a modern ditch dividing two pasture fields (2).

<1> Thompson Watkin W. T., 1886, Roman Cheshire: A Description of Roman Remains in the County of Chester, /299-300 (Book). SCH2878.

<2> Ordnance Survey, 1870-1982, Ordnance Survey Archaeological Record Card, SJ45NW3/1959 (Index). SCH2487.

<3> Harris, B.E. (ed), 1987, Victoria County History - A History of the County of Chester: Volume I, 1/229 1987 (Book). SCH3556.