Source/Archive record SCH6795 - Land off School Lane, Hartford, Cheshire: Archaeological Monitoring of Metal Detecting Survey

Wessex Archaeology was commissioned by CgMs to undertake archaeological monitoring during a metal detecting survey, by a local approved group, on land off of School Lane, Hartford, Cheshire, encompassing six fields centred on NGR 364565 371808. The survey was requested by Mark Leah (Development Control Archaeologist at Cheshire West and Chester Council) to assess the archaeological potential of the Site, particularly in relation to the possibility of Romano-British activity, indicated by a desk-based assessment of the Site (CgMs 2011). The survey was undertaken in line with a Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI) produced by CgMs (2012). This summary report presents a brief description of the fieldwork, methodology and results, a brief catalogue of the material and an interpretation of the findings. In total 621 objects (618 metal) were recovered during the survey, comprising 183 objects from Field 1, 165 objects from Field 2, 168 objects from Field 3, 62 objects from Field 4, 26 objects from Field 5 and 17 objects from Field 6. Considerably more material was recovered from the three fields to the west of the site, perhaps a reflection of the increased time spent in this area. No dense concentrations of artefacts were noted during the survey. The majority of objects are post-medieval and modern in date. A number of undatable objects, mainly lead, were also recovered. The earliest artefacts are tentatively identified as three Roman coins. Twelve objects have been identified as medieval including eight decorated spindlewhorls, two coins and two buckles. Two further buckles and a finger ring have a broad medieval to post-medieval date range. Post-medieval finds of note include musket balls and belt mounts. The objects reflect a wide functional range: coins and tokens, personal items, craft and industry, agriculture, household equipment, military equipment, transport and structural fixtures and fittings.