Archaeological Dig Uncovers 6,000 Years of History in Lincolnshire

An archaeological dig at the West Deeping quarry in Lincolnshire has unveiled a treasure trove of historical artifacts, revealing a continuous timeline of human activity and settlement that spans 6,000 years. The excavation, conducted by the Cambridge Archaeological Unit, has provided remarkable insights into the region's past, showcasing evidence from the Neolithic, Bronze Age, Roman, and even Saxon periods.

Among the significant discoveries is a Bronze Age burial mound, alongside a Roman settlement that adds depth to the historical narrative of the area. The oldest artifacts unearthed include pottery that would have been used for cooking and dining, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the people who inhabited this landscape.

Hannah Barrett, a project officer with the Cambridge Archaeological Unit, highlighted the site's historical significance: "This site isn't just Neolithic, Bronze Age, or Roman; we have all of the periods right through to the Saxon era in the 6th Century. Each of these periods is represented, and every single one has a captivating story to tell."

Notably, the excavation revealed evidence from the later Neolithic period, including "the largest assemblage" of pottery ever discovered in East Anglia and the East Midlands. The team also uncovered animal bones and environmental samples of seeds and grains, shedding light on the hunting and agricultural practices of the time. Barrett noted that the ancient landscape would have been wild, inhabited by creatures such as wild boar and bears, making the survival of these early communities particularly impressive.

“They must have been very tough people to live there,” she remarked. “And yet, they crafted sophisticated flint tools and pottery, which required considerable skill.”

The archaeological findings also include the foundations of a Roman barn and a carved stone figure representing Mars, the Roman god of war, depicted in a tunic with a shield and spear. These artifacts provide valuable context about the Roman influence in the region.

Maggie Ashcroft, chair of the West Deeping Heritage Group, expressed her excitement about the exhibition, stating, "It is a real privilege to see some of the archaeologists’ finds before they go into storage and to learn about their discoveries before the final report is published."

A free exhibition showcasing some of these fascinating finds will take place at the West Deeping village hall on Saturday from 13:00 to 17:00 BST, inviting the community to engage with their rich historical heritage.