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The Great Fire at Little Ropers Farm
Excavation of the Destroyed Farmhouse- Part 1

At the end of July 2016, Ellie and her husband Andrew are in the process of excavating the land to see if they can find any evidence of the original farmhouse.


Day 1.

For the past 15 years, the land has been taken out of production due to EU regulations.

The task is to complete this excavation before September, which leaves only 6 weeks before the land is ploughed back for arable usage.

In September the site was partially backfilled. Two test pits have been left open for another season of digging, but a barley crop has been drilled around the features. 
It is hoped to complete the excavation in 2017.

The Excavation Summary was submitted by Ellie Mead, the land owner and dig consultant.

This map indicates the site of the original farm.

Posts inserted by local Diviner
may indicate the area of the farm buildings

Ellie Mead in charge of the dig
Site of possible Cellar - extracted bricks from that excavation ( dated 24th June)

Display of "finds" taken from the Cellar position dig. The tray to the right clearly shows the clay pipes, animal bones and nails

Latest trench has uncovered evidence of the fire
ie black soil
Trench excavation by CAG volunteer
A further trench directly in line with the one on the left,
has unearthed brick foundations ( dated 24th July )
One week later, but still no clue as to its purpose (dated 31st July)
The two walls do not appear to be keyed together

Photographs taken 21/07/2016 with the assistance of Ellie Mead
Updated photos 23/07/2016
Updated photos 31/07/2016