| Abstract: |
Wessex Archaeology was commissioned by the Port of London Authority to conduct in-water archaeological observation and recording for Wreck 5204 (Pottery Wreck). This work was undertaken as part of the archaeological mitigation strategy for the DP World London Gateway container terminal development. The wreck is located east of Sea Reach No.3, only six metres from the southern edge of the existing dredged channel. This report provides a brief overview of previous fieldwork. Details of the methodology employed in carrying out in-water observation and recording, and the recording of recovered timbers, are also included. Fieldwork took place in two phases. The first phase of the diving operation was undertaken between the 11th and 13th of June 2008. Two dives were conducted, with an average dive time of 80 minutes. An airlift was used to remove sediment overburden from within and around the wreck. Major structural elements were identified, and a mixed assemblage of artefacts was recovered. The second phase was undertaken between the 22nd and 24th of June 2008. Three dives were undertaken with an average dive time of 86 minutes. The removal of sediment overburden continued, and elements of the hull structure were raised for further study. The recovered structural elements were recorded at the PLA’s passive storage facility at Denton Wharf, between June 25th and 26th. The timbers were identified, assessed, photographed, measured and drawn in order to develop an understanding of the vessel’s size, construction and date. Finds from the wreck were transported to Wessex Archaeology’s Salsibury base for specialist analysis. Approximately 282 finds were recovered during the June fieldwork, these include coal, ceramics, glass, bricks, metal, wood, bone and leather. Wreck 5204 (Pottery Wreck) is thought to be a Thames Bawley, a local fishing vessel of the type that operated in the Thames and along the east coast, fishing for prawns and small fish. The vessel probably sunk in the later part of the 19th century, based on the artefacts that were recovered. |
