HS2 Unearths Local History Editor's note: This article and its accompanying photos were originally published on https://mediacentre.hs2.org. uk/news/hs2-uncovers-iron-age-murdervictim-and-timber-stonehenge-styleformation-during-excavations-at-wellwickfarm-bucks
At Wellwick Farm, archaeologists believe the Bronze Age and Iron Age saw the addition of some domestic occupation with at least one roundhouse identified and possible structures such as animal pens and pits used for disposing food. During the Roman period, this occupation may have moved to the current location of Wendover but Archaeologists working on the the Wellwick Farm HS2 project in Buckinghamshire site was still used for have discovered a skeleton burials. In a square believed to be a murder victim enclosure on the from the Iron Age. site, archaeologists discovered a skeleton During the excavation work in a coffin that was at Wellwick Farm near lined with lead, with Wendover, archaeologists the outer coffin discovered a skeleton of an likely made of wood. adult male buried face down The Iron Age burial A r c h a e o l ogists in a ditch with hands bound believe that the buried individual must together under his pelvis. The unusual burial have been someone of high status as they position suggests the iron age man may had the means to pay for such an expensive have been a victim of a murder or execution. Osteologists are currently examining the method of burial. skeleton for further evidence of foul play.
The section of the HS2 route is being prepared to build the Wendover Green Tunnel and the Wendover North Cutting. The archaeology programme is a central part of HS2’s ground preparation works for Phase One of the project - London to Birmingham. HS2, its contractors and supply chain are well underway with a programme of work, clearing sites, ahead of main construction.
The archaeological works have revealed a wealth of archaeology with evidence of human activity dating from the Neolithic to the Medieval period, a time spanning around 4000 years. The land to the west of Wendover seems to have been persistently used for ceremonial activity as archaeologists also uncovered a large circular monument of wooden posts 65 meters in diameter with features aligned with the winter solstice, similar to The Neolithic wooden circle Stonehenge in Wiltshire.
Commenting on the archaeological work, Dr. Rachel Wood, Project Archaeologist said: “We already knew that
Buckinghamshire is rich in archaeology but discovering a site showing human activity spanning 4,000 years came as a bit of a surprise to us. “The death of the Wellwick Farm man remains a mystery to us but there aren’t many ways you end up in a bottom of a ditch, face down, with your hands bound. We hope our osteologists will be able to shed more light on this potentially gruesome death. “The large wooden ceremonial structure, the Roman lead burial and the mystery of the skeleton at Wellwick Farm helps bring alive the fact that people lived, worked and died in this area long before we came along.“ Mike Court, HS2 Lead Archaeologist said: “Before we build the lowcarbon highspeed railway b e t w e e n London and The Roman burial Birmingham, we are uncovering a wealth of archaeology that will enrich our cultural heritage. “Our discoveries will be shared with communities and the public through virtual lectures, open days and in an upcoming BBC archaeology documentary. “The sheer scale of possible discoveries, the geographical span and the vast range of our history to be unearthed makes HS2’s archaeology programme a unique opportunity to tell the story of Buckinghamshire and Britain.”
K Collins Roofing Ltd Roofing specialist
• • • • • • • •
Building works Carpentry Plastering Painting & Decorating Plumbing Electrical works CCTV & Alarm services Handyman services 01494 702099 hello@conciergepropertymaintenance.co.uk www.conciergepropertymaintenance.co.uk
14
Wendover News August 2020
LocaL business, RoofmasteR appRoved, estabLished 1969
Flat, felt and rubber roofing We also do slate and tiling repairs, pvc fascia boarding and chimney repointing
call today for a free estimate 01296 655526 / 07831 465501 www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk email: kenny.collins@btinternet.com
Please mention Wendover News when responding to adverts
