MEM22466 - Post-medieval prospecting pits on Spooners (Monument)

As part of the Exmoor Mires Project, South West Archaeology were contracted to undertake a non-intrustive walkover survey of the proposed mire restoration area on Spooners. This site likely represents mining exploration; two adjacent 'entrances' are seen to have been cut c. 1.8 metres deep into the slope. A single mound of spoil c. 1.4 metres high on the downslope side is seen to be blocking the northern entrance. The total area of the monument is 6 metres by 8 metres and two phases of use may be represented. [1] The Historic Environment Officer for the Exmoor Mires Project undertook a non-intrustive walkover survey of the proposed mire restoration area on Spooners, which included this site. Two adjacent pits with diameters of c. 5 metres were cut to an apparent depth of 1.8 metres into the slope. A single mound of spoil for both pits was located 1.4 metres high on the downslope side. The pits cover an area of 6 metres by 8 metres and two phases of work were possibly undertaken. These are considered likely to be prospecting works of 19th Century date. [2]