Longthorpe 1972-4

A scatter of Neolithic flints, and Bronze-Age Ring Ditches preceded an Iron-Age Farm. comprising two yards. This was annexed by the Roman Army to provide a works pottery for the Longthorpe Vexillation Fortress soon after A.D. 43.

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A variety of pottery was made, including, thin-walled beakers, white-ware flagons, bowls and jars together with platters in imitation of Pompeii red-ware. 3 deep kilns were excavated, and the impressions of up to 30 surface-built kilns were recognised.

 

Pieces of military equipment and weaponry from the site strongly suggest that the workforce was supervised by soldiers, if not operated by them. It is likely that work stopped c. A.D. 60. The area reverted to civilian us by c. A.D. 150. and was used as a Roman Farm.

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G.B.Dannell, J.P.Wild, Longthorpe II: The Military Works-Depot: An Episode in Landscape History, Britannia Monograph 8,1987