Title: |
An Archaeological Watching Brief at Kensington Palace, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea |
Series: |
Pre-Construct Archaeology Ltd (London) unpublished report series
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Downloads: |
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Licence Type: |
ADS Terms of Use and Access
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DOI |
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Publication Type: |
Report (in Series)
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Abstract: |
Three test pits were monitored in this phase of works. Test Pit 1 revealed a complex archaeological sequence consisting of structural and other remains that pre-dated the retaining light well wall, believed to be part of the remodelling of the original property carried out in 1690. The walls recorded in Test Pit 1 dated to the second half of the 17th century but had been built above a horizon of demolition debris that contained building materials and other objects dating to earlier in that century. A sequence of intercutting pits that apparently pre-date the earliest construction on the site was recorded at the base of the archaeological sequence. Test Pits 2 and 3 revealed foundations that support the current standing building, these were also probably parts of the 1690 rebuild but brick samples could obviously not be removed from the fabric of the building for dating. However, the materials used appeared to be consistent with the retaining wall examined in Test Pit 1. Although no structures that might be part of the Jacobean mansion erected in 1605 were encountered, it is highly likely that demolition debris derived from the building was found in Test Pit 1. This was suggested by a moulded brick depicting a 17th century musketeer that was recovered from the levelling layers found below the walls in Test Pit 1. The style of dress suggests a mid 17th century or earlier date as figures of this sort are typical of the Civil War period in England and can be seen on earlier 17th century European documents and artefacts. |
Author: |
Douglas Killock
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Publisher: |
Pre-Construct Archaeology Limited
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Other Person/Org: |
Historic England (OASIS Reviewer)
Greater London HER (OASIS Reviewer)
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Year of Publication: |
2009
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Locations: |
Site: |
Kensington Palace |
Parish: |
KENSINGTON AND CHELSEA |
District: |
Kensington and Chelsea |
County: |
Greater London |
Country: |
England |
Country: |
England |
Grid Reference: 525920, 180020 (Easting, Northing)
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Subjects / Periods: |
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Identifiers: |
OASIS Id: |
preconst1-68862 |
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Note: |
A4 bound report, blue cover
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Source: |
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Relations: |
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Created Date: |
25 Nov 2016 |