NHER 52238 (Monument) - Earthworks of platforms, pits or ponds, extraction areas and channels

March 2009. Norfolk NMP.
The earthworks and soilmarks of probable clay extraction pits, platforms and drainage channels are visible on aerial photographs, possibly representing the remains of small-scale industrial activity associated with the medieval moated site of Blackford Hall (NHER 9908) to the east (S1-S2). The site consists of an area of extraction pits, assumed to be for clay, which are associated with a series of rectilinear drainage channels or drains. To the north of the site a series of low platforms are visible alongside a meandering channel. Taken as a whole these earthworks could feasible relate to the remains of small-scale industrial activity that utilises water as a component part of the process. One possibility given the probable clay extraction pits, is that the site could feasible relate to small-scale brick production. The square enclosures or building platforms (NHER 52022) could therefore represent the base for kilns or similar structures. These earthworks are located approximately 300m from the medieval moated site of Blackford Hall (NHER 9908) and it is feasible that these buildings and any associated small-scale industrial activity could be associated with supplying the requirements of this medieval household and its land.
S. Horlock (NMP), 23 March 2009.