Community archaeological dig uncovers further evidence of Tamworth’s rich history
24 April 2023
- Archaeological dig at Holloway draws in crowds
- Site uncovered items unlocking Tamworth’s history from mid 1800s – early 1900s
- Further evidence of historic mill wheel is discovered
Tamworth Borough Council has uncovered some fascinating historical finds thanks to the community archaeological dig which took place from 18 March to 22 March.
The dig project, ‘Revealing Castle Mill’, took place thanks to £9,450 funding from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and was led again by archaeologist William Mitchell, a lecturer in Archaeology at Staffordshire University.
This dig has progressed further thanks to the successful dig that took place in October 2022 over five days on the area near to Holloway in the Castle Grounds. The site is known to have housed an historical mill potentially dating back to the Medieval period.
Archaeologists were looking for the survival of any key historical remains that could shed further light upon the early development of Tamworth and the mill.
This free event was open to the public to view and help with the checking process, plus school groups were able to book a visit on two of the dig days. The team were overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response from the public and were joined every day by crowds of adults and children, all keen to help uncover the hidden history beneath our feet.
More than 480 people aged from two years to 70 years old, booked on timed slots to help with the dig process; and over 150 people turned up to watch or view the findings.
Plus, 180 school children joined the dig with school visits. Local students also came outside school hours to get involved.
Amongst the exciting finds the foundations of the castle mill were again revealed, exposing evidence of where the wheel would have been. Other items uncovered included a wide range of glass, ceramics, animal bones, buttons and a knife. These will be cleaned and fully documented by Staffordshire University students.
The castle is now planning a ‘talk day’ to discuss the findings on 17 June 2023. This will be delivered by William Mitchell, lecturer in Archaeology at Staffordshire University and dig leader, Shane Kelleher the county archaeologist and Teresa Gillmore, the Finds Liaison Officer.
William Mitchell, Lead Archaeologist said:” Our second dig revealing the Tamworth Mill has been very successful and well received by all. We had an overwhelming turn out from the public, plus six school classes assisted in the digging.
“Excitingly, the well-preserved remains of the 18th century water-wheel pit was exposed, confirming that there is excellent survival of the mill foundations. Above this we recovered lots of Edwardian artefacts, thrown in after the mill was demolished. This dig has again shown the potential for this type of archaeological project in bringing varied groups together and taking learning out into our community.”
Anna Miller, Assistant Director of Growth and Regeneration for Tamworth Borough Council, said: “Following the recent success and incredible response to the dig last year, we are very lucky to have further funding for this second dig to take place.
“The area around the bottom of the motte and near to the river, is believed to have been a significant site for milling. This site was removed and filled during the late 1800s – early 1900s and it was amazing to see so many items uncovered from this period.
“The public response to this dig has once again shown great community engagement with so many adults and children attending and helping uncover the finds.
“Thank you to everyone who helped and volunteered. We look forward to delivering the bespoke talks later in June this year.”
If you took part in the dig, we'd really like to know about your experience. Your feedback will help us plan future Tamworth Castle events and activities. If you could fill in this short online survey, we'd really appreciate it: www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/TamworthDig/
