MMO2931 - Post-medieval peat cutting on Burcombe (Monument)
Summary
Please read the Exmoor National Park Historic Environment Record caveat document.
Type and Period (1)
Protected Status
Full Description
A large area of peat cutting, of probable post-medieval date, is visible on aerial photographs as numerous small pits and irregular earthworks covering an area of approximately 14 hectares on Burcombe, Exmoor. The earthworks are centred on SS 7553 3798 and are of a variety of shapes and sizes, from square pits measuring 8 metres across, to less regularly shaped, curved pits up to 63 metres across. Due to the vast number of pits visible on aerial photographs, only a representative sample has been transcribed, indicating distribution and form. Peat cutting is known to have continued on Exmoor until very recently, and may continue in places. Similar areas are visible to the east on Deer Park and Little Halscombe. [1-3] A study of the archaeology and history of peat exploitation on Exmoor’s moorlands provides additional background on the practice and sites. [4] This record was enhanced as part of the National Record of the Historic Environment to Exmoor National Park Historic Environment Record data transfer project. [5]
Sources/Archives (5)
- <1> SMO4068 Aerial photograph: Various. Various. Vertical Aerial Photograph. NMR OS/73087 618-19 (17 April 1973).
- <2> SEM7230 Monograph: Burton, R.A.. 1989. The Heritage of Exmoor. Roger A. Burton. 232-3.
- <3>XY SMO7573 Archive: 2007-2009. Exmoor National Park NMP: SS 73 NE. MD002190. [Mapped feature: #38952 ]
- <4> SEM8135 Report: Riley, H.. 2014. Turf Cutting on Exmoor: An archaeological and historical study - project report.
- <5> SEM7987 Digital archive: Historic England. Various. National Record of the Historic Environment (NRHE) entry. 1487431, Extant 23 November 2021.
External Links (1)
- http://www.pastscape.org.uk/hob.aspx?hob_id=1487431 (Original Monarch entry: 1487431)
Other Statuses/References
- Local List Status (Unassessed)
- National Monuments Record reference: SS 73 NE134
- NRHE HOB UID (Pastscape): 1487431
Location
Grid reference | Centred SS 7552 3803 (507m by 479m) Aerial Survey |
---|---|
Map sheet | SS73NE |
Civil Parish | EXMOOR, WEST SOMERSET, SOMERSET |
Finds (0)
Related Monuments/Buildings (0)
Related Events/Activities (1)
Record last edited
Nov 23 2021 1:27PM
Feedback?
Your feedback is welcome. If you can provide any new information about this record, please contact us.