Reasons for Designation
Kerbed cairns are prehistoric funerary monuments dating to the Bronze Age (c.2000-700 BC). They were constructed as stone mounds defined by an outer kerb of upright stones or walling covering single or multiple burials. These burials may be placed within the mound in stone-lined compartments called cists. In some cases the cairn was surrounded by a ditch. Often occupying prominent locations, kerbed cairns are a major visual element in the modern landscape. They are a relatively common feature of the uplands and are the stone equivalent of the earthen round barrows of the lowlands. Their considerable variation in form and longevity as a monument type provide important information on the diversity of beliefs and social organisation amongst early prehistoric communities. They are particularly representative of their period. Despite partial early excavation or stone robbing, the kerbed cairn called Hangman's Barrow survives well and will contain archaeological and environmental evidence relating to its construction, longevity, territorial significance, social organisation, funerary and ritual practices and overall landscape context.
Details
The monument includes a kerbed cairn, situated on the summit of a prominent hill, overlooking the valley of the River Cober. The cairn survives as a massively-constructed circular stony mound composed of large stone blocks and measuring approximately 30m in diameter and 3m high. There is a partial kerb visible on the south eastern side standing up to four courses high. The centre of the mound is uneven. In 1851 Thomas recorded the cairn stood on a platform of approximately 0.4m high, and this may still be visible to the north east.
Legacy
The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system.
Legacy System number:
CO 974
Legacy System:
RSM - OCN
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