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- Title
SAXON AND LATER SECULAR SETTLEMENT AT BARKING: EXCAVATIONS AT LONDON ROAD.
- Authors
Maher, Shane; Meddens, Frank; Gaimster, Märit; Hayward, Kevin; Jarrett, Chris; Rielly, Kevin
- Abstract
Excavations at London Road, Barking, in 2013 immediately east of the precinct of Barking Abbey and to the south of the medieval market place revealed a significant portion of the historic town. This site was a prime location for the development of secular settlement associated with the abbey. Fieldwork revealed limited evidence for Late Saxon activity followed by a significant suburban expansion from the 11th century through to the 13th century. There was a decrease in the level of activity on site during the 15th century, possibly connected with a period of economic stagnation, but from the 16th century onward there was a sustained revival. The North Street frontage was apparently occupied by a series of prosperous suburban properties, probably including at least one medieval and Tudor inn, the existence of which is inferred from the discovery of numerous ceramic vessels connected with the serving and consumption of drinks. To the rear of these properties were back yards containing quarries, rubbish pits and wells. The prosperity of these households appears to have increased after the dissolution of the abbey in 1539; this is demonstrated by the quality of the artefact assemblages including finds of imported ceramics and high status building materials, while associated faunal remains included a sparrowhawk. In 1721, four of the existing properties along North Street were converted into a parish workhouse and in 1788 a large, purpose-built workhouse was constructed on part of the site. After the workhouse closed in 1841, its premises were subdivided into numerous smaller units. Elsewhere on site before 1864 two new streets were constructed, surrounded by new residential properties and two schools.
- Subjects
EXCAVATION; ARCHAEOLOGY; STAGNATION (Economics)
- Publication
Transactions of the London & Middlesex Archaeological Society, 2018, Vol 69, p91
- ISSN
0076-0501
- Publication type
Article