Iron Age Enclosures on Sutton Common, Near Askern, South Yorkshire. Report on Geophysical Survey, June 2003
Author(s): Andy Payne
A fluxgate magnetometer survey was carried out over the two Iron Age marshland enclosures and the intervening relict stream channel on Sutton Common. The aim of the survey was to test the effectiveness of magnetic survey on the site prior to extensive excavation of the larger of the two enclosures which would provide subsequent archaeological feedback on the success of the technique at resolving archaeological features in this partially waterlogged environment. Contrary to predictions the survey proved more effective than expected, clearly detecting the peaty ditch-fills containing preserved timber defining the circuit of the smaller enclosure. The peat in-filled channel between the two enclosures was also clearly detected as a wide band of anomalous magnetic readings. The ditches of the larger enclosure were only partially mapped, possibly reflecting the severe agricultural degradation that has occurred in this area. The survey appears to have been less effective at mapping evidence of internal activity associated with the enclosures, but this could be a genuine indication that few substantial features are present. The data recorded over the larger enclosure contains numerous anomalies from small ferrous objects left over from previous excavation in 2002.
- Report Number:
- 106/2003
- Series:
- CfA Reports
- Pages:
- 13
- Keywords:
- Geophysical Survey
