Clapham
Prehistory
Excavations at Ursula Taylor School, 1987

Places > Clapham > Archaeology

In 1987 an archaeological excavation took place on the site of Ursula Taylor School's new extension and car park.  2,000 square meters were stripped to reveal archaeological features from the medieval period to the Iron Age.

Two distinct phases of Iron Age occupation were found.  The earlier phase consisted of boundary ditches which marked out small field strips.  The later phase showed that the fields had been re-organised and marked by fences.  Pottery was found on the site which allowed it to be dated.  Pot types included flagons, probably for wine, large storage jars and some table ware.

Sources:

• Leaflets and pamphlets in the Local Studies Collection in Bedford Central Library

Further Reading

• Excavations at Ursula Taylor Lower School, Clapham by M. Dawson, in Bedfordshire Archaeological Journal, Vol. 18, 1988, p6-24

Excavations at Ursula Taylor School, 1987 by Bedfordshire Libraries, 2006

Page last updated: 23rd January 2014