Monument record MYO4323 - Possible fish pond

Summary

Large ditch/feature whose dimensions, environmental evidence and the presence of wooden structures suggest its use as a fish pond. Created and backfilled in the 14th century.

Location

Grid reference Centred SE 6165 5137 (75m by 3m)
Map sheet SE65SW
Unitary Authority City of York, North Yorkshire

Map

Type and Period (1)

Full Description

Large ditch/feature believed to be associated with St Nicholas Hospital. Seen during investigations at Laurens Manor (2006) and Bootham Engineering (2000) on Lawrence St. Evidence suggests it was created in the early 14th century and was backfilled by the late 14th century at Laurens Manor and by the 15th century at Bootham Engineering. Although it doesn't seem to have formed an absolute boundary little activity was identified beyond it during the Laurens Manor excavations. The fill consisted of fine clay-based silts laid down in water. Wooden structures associated with feature were noted at Bootham Engineering.

Interpretation is problematic. It is assumed to exceed 60m in length, exceeds 7.5m in width and is 2.5m deep. It seems unlikely to be a defensive feature and appears it was intended to hold w ater for a specific purpose. In both samples of the feature wooden structures were identified .These can be tentatively associated with the farming and breeding of young stock fish. The association with the monastic institution makes the suggestion of a fish-ditch more likely.


Mike Griffiths & Associates, 2000, Bootham Engineering Lawrence Street WSI (Unpublished document). SYO627.

FAS, 2006, Laurens Manor Lawrence Street, p31 (Unpublished document). SYO959.

Sources/Archives (2)

  • --- Unpublished document: Mike Griffiths & Associates. 2000. Bootham Engineering Lawrence Street WSI.
  • --- Unpublished document: FAS. 2006. Laurens Manor Lawrence Street. p31.

Protected Status/Designation

Related Monuments/Buildings (0)

Related Events/Activities (0)

Record last edited

Mar 16 2018 3:54PM

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