MMO1611 - Medieval strip field east of Selworthy (Monument)

Summary

Evidence for strip field cultivation, probably of medieval date, is visible as linear earthworks on aerial photographs of 1946, in an irregularly shaped field to the east of Selworthy village.

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Type and Period (1)

Protected Status

Full Description

Evidence for strip field cultivation, probably of medieval date is visible as linear earthworks on aerial photographs of 1946, in an irregularly shaped field to the east of Selworthy village, centred on circa SS 9238 4645. On the 1946 photography the earthworks appear somewhat eroded, most likely during post-medieval agricultural improvement rather than for cultivation, with widths varying between 3 and 10 metres. Their shape reflects that of the curvilinear field boundaries visible in 1946 and marked on the 1st Edition Ordnance survey map of 1889, a pattern probably fossilising the patterns of medieval strip field cultivation. The removal of these field surrounding boundaries for more intensive arable cultivation had begun by 1970, and was complete by 1976. Evidence for the strip field land organisation continues to be visible as cropmarks in 1976 but ground inspection in July 2007 confirms that they survive only as slight earthworks in the current field's northern boundary. [1-6]

Sources/Archives (6)

  • <1> Aerial photograph: Various. Various. Vertical Aerial Photograph. RAF 106G/UK/1655 3104-5 (11 July 1946).
  • <2> Map: Ordnance Survey. 1868-1901. County Series; 1st Edition 25 Inch Map. 1:2500. 1889.
  • <3> Aerial photograph: Various. Various. Vertical Aerial Photograph. NMR OS/70066 015-16 (3 May 1970).
  • <4> Aerial photograph: Various. Various. Vertical Aerial Photograph. MAL 76046 112 (25 June 1976).
  • <5> Unassigned: Hegarty, C.. RCHME/EH Aerial Photographers Comment. Site visit, 5 July 2007.
  • <6>XY Archive: 2007-2009. Exmoor National Park NMP: SS 94 NW. MD002167. [Mapped feature: #32543 ]

External Links (1)

Other Statuses/References

  • Local List Status (Unassessed)
  • National Monuments Record reference: SS 94 NW216
  • NRHE HOB UID (Pastscape): 1460080

Map

Location

Grid reference Centred SS 9238 4645 (136m by 163m) Aerial Survey
Map sheet SS94NW
Civil Parish SELWORTHY, WEST SOMERSET, SOMERSET

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Record last edited

Oct 18 2021 3:12PM

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