Monument Type(s):

• (Alternate Type) FENCE? (Medieval to Post Medieval - 1066 AD? to 1901 AD?)
• FISH TRAP? (Medieval - 1066 AD? to 1540 AD?)

Summary

A complex of medieval posts were recorded, set into the medieval riverbank, during excavation along Water Lane, in Frankwell. They were interpreted as possibly representing a fish trap/fish weir, although they may represent a succession of fence lines.

Related records

Associated Finds: None recorded

Associated Events

• ESA5381 - 2002 evaluation of the Water Lane pumping station site (Frankwell Flood Alleviation Scheme) by Marches Archaeology (Ref: FFA 02B)

Description

A complex of medieval posts were recorded, set into the medieval riverbank, during excavation along Water lane, in Frankwell. They were interpreted as possibly representing a fish trap/fish weir. ->

-> Construction of the rows of posts started possibly as early as the second half of the 13th century, and later rows remained in use until the end of the 16th century or early 17th century. The posts seemed to have formed a relatively flimsy structure that would have required periodic remodelling. Many such fish weirs are recorded along the Severn; many apparently had medieval origins and most were destroyed in a disastrous flood in 1634 and not rebuilt. ->

-> An alternative intrepretation is that they rerpresent a much rebuilt fenceline, marking the riverside edge of a garden extending from a house on Cripplelode to the riverbank. However, this is considered likely that Speed's map shows the southern limits of these properties as much farther back from the riverbank. <1>

<01> Tavener Nick, 2002, The new pumping station, Frankwell Flood Alleviation Scheme, Water Lane, Frankwell, Shrewsbury: report on an archaeological evaluation and excavation (Excavation report). SSA21265.

Sources

Search results generated by the HBSMR Gateway from exeGesIS SDM Ltd.