Forum Yorkshire 1 (The Archaeological Forum Journal)

The paper offers a preliminary assessment of Mesolithic lithic material from an upland site located in the central Pennines and excavated by Francis Buckley. A typological and technical analysis of the microliths, blades and cores from the assemblage was carried out. An assessment of the raw material had been undertaken in 1964; the original material was re-examined and the impact of raw material on novice participation in lithic activities was assessed. A hypothesis was developed that novice activity would have been limited to recycled material or material not normally used in lithic production. Pebble cores deposited at the site were proposed as practice material for novices.

This paper investigates the Iron Age rectilinear enclosure features, known as 'ladder settlements', of the Yorkshire Wolds and their position in the context of an expanding Roman world. It focuses in on the contextual landscape of the Wolds, examining such settlements in relation to linear features, field systems and Bronze Age barrows. Finally, an attempt is made to address why there appears to be minimal Roman influence on the sites as well as analyse quite how much the settlements evolve as a result of Roman expansion.\r\nLadder sites, previously the facilitators of socio-economic systems relating to rural organisation and the farming economy, were superseded by Roman villas, many of which evolved virtually atop previous ladder complexes. Occupation and development of ladder sites continued subsequent to the Roman advance; although the Roman occupation did eventually have a major impact upon the Wolds, this was far later than in many other areas of Britain. The article briefly offers some explanations as to why an immediate overhaul in the Iron Age settlement pattern is lacking. The work highlights problems in the current study of ladder settlements and outlines resulting implications for further work and study. It does not go very far in this respect, but is more concerned with highlighting the status quo regarding current debates and perceptions of ladder sites.

Archaeological Services WYAS investigated surface remains along the route of the Blackstone Edge Road in the South Pennines. The road has previously been considered to have Roman origins, but an alternative origin as an early 18th century turnpike road has been suggested. The archaeological evidence examined during the present survey indicated that an origin as part of a turnpike scheme was unlikely. Instead, the scale of the construction works suggests a level of engineering skill, planning and use of resources only normally associated with Roman roads.

Report on the wide range of archaeological features recorded whilst monitoring drainage works in the roadway adjacent to Easby Abbey, a Scheduled Monument. These included features associated with the abbey gatehouse, remains of two further medieval buildings and a number of burials. The information that could be gained from the excavated features was limited due to the narrow width of the pipe trench, and very little dateable material was recovered. However, a narrative based on interpretation of the location and form of features is suggested, with some perhaps representing an earlier phase of the abbey's development. The monitoring exercise demonstrated a potential for further significant buried remains to be present in the vicinity of the abbey and church. Au/LD

This article is a selective summary of a project undertaken by Upper Wharfedale Heritage Group investigating the archaeology and history of a former cotton mill with its associated hamlet. Built in 1795, Whitfield Syke Mill was typical of small rural mills throughout the late 18th and 19th centuries in the Yorkshire Dales. The study included topographical, geophysical, botanical and documentary research to provide a surprisingly complex history of the site from the medieval period to the early 20th century. The article highlights the significance of the only standing building left on the site. Originally a cotton warehouse, the building was used by the Navvy Mission Society during construction of the Embsay Reservoir in the early 20th century. Au/LD

A complex multi-period landscape is being investigated by the annual Dales Heritage Field School, which provides practical experience for students and members of the public. Radiocarbon determinations are particularly important in providing chronological reference points for this project. The dates obtained so far are presented in detail in this article and issues of context and calibration are briefly discussed. The results indicate occupation from the late prehistoric to early medieval periods.

Summaries of three projects undertaken as educational exercises, two for primary schools and one for an adult group. Projects comprised: excavation at the site of Victorian back-to-back housing in Leeds; clearance to expose part of an early 19th century road surface along a hollow way at Upper Denby; excavation of a former pond site at Gildersome. LD