Recent talk on Hillforts

One of the measures of a good talk is the extent to which the speaker opens up new worlds to the audience.  Danny Garner, archaeology project leader with CW&C and a local resident, gave a fascinating insight into modern archaeology. Danny described the work being carried out to better understand the six hillforts that dot the 'sandstone ridge' from Frodsham south to Bickerton.  Surprisingly little is known about these ancient constructions. Field studies, using modern techniques such as LiDAR, have extended the knowledge from earlier 20th century excavations.  This  research has provided evidence that some of these sites were constructed and occupied from the Neolithic, through the Bronze and Iron Ages, and to medieval times. The sites are all found on high points and make use of natural escarpments which were then protected by stone and earth ramparts. The sites have not fared well over the years. The construction of Beeston Castle, farming, removal of stone for building, and even World War 2 training have caused much damage. Field studies have disappointingly found few artefacts and our understanding of the life and culture of the earlier occupants is still very limited. However Danny noted a recent discovery from Eddisbury. This site has been the most studied; it is close to a Roman road and several Roman items were found. The most relevant find has been a Roman Christian Chi-Rho copper 'coin'. This is the first example of Roman Christianity in Cheshire.

A well attended and illuminating talk. 

For those like me who were intrigued to learn of the different geophysical research techniques, the English Heritage site has some excellent articles.