Archaeology and Local History at Work 87: An All-Day Event
Archaeology and Local History at Work 87: An All-Day Event
10.30 am to 5.00 pm Saturday, 24th October, 1987 at Plaxtol County Primary School, School Lane, Plaxtol, Kent: An All-Day Event by Ted Connell
by Ted Connell
Once again we are holding an archaeology and local history workshop during the Autumn and all K.A.S. members and their friends are cordially invited.
As in previous years, there will be a series of static exhibitions, practical demonstrations and study sessions on a number of subjects related to archaeology and local history.
The main emphasis this year will be on the Plaxtol area of West Kent and the meeting is a joint venture between the K.A.S. and Plaxtol Local History Society. Amongst other things, there will be an opportunity to learn more about the recent excavation of the Roman Villa at Sedgebrook, to visit Plaxtol Parish Church and to see the exterior of many houses of historical and architectural interest within the village of Plaxtol.
Roman Villa
Throughout this Spring and Summer, work has continued for a second year on this newly discovered site. Excavations have revealed more of the history of the building throughout the Roman period. Many of the finds, together with drawings, plans and photographs will be on display and it is hoped that all the visitors will take the opportunity to visit the site.
Village Trail
There will be an exhibition of the recording work done by the Plaxtol Local History Society on some of the Medieval and later buildings in the Village. Having seen the exhibition, you may then follow a village trail viewing the exterior of some of these houses.
The Church and Churchyard Survey
Whilst following the village trail you can visit Plaxtol Church built in 1648, where members of the Local History Society will be on hand to explain their work of recording the church, which lacks a dedication, the churchyard and its monuments. The Church underwent several Victorian additions and enlargements but the main roof and hammer beams remain as 17th century survivors.
Old Soar Manor
This Medieval manor house, a National Trust property, in the guardianship of English Heritage, will also be open to visitors and information about its history will be available beforehand at the workshop. Old Soar, largely built in Kentish ragstone, dates from c.1290 which in spite of some spoiling is a remarkable example of a knightly home from the reign of Edward I and a most notable survival of 13th century domestic architecture.
Farm Buildings Survey
There will be a display and video of the farm buildings survey carried out for the Kent Historic Buildings Committee in 1979 and 1980. This work by Mollie Lewis and Jayne Semple was fully written up in this Newsletter No. 4 Autumn 1983.
Kent Archives
Some staff from the Kent Archives will be present, bringing with them various documents relating to the area, which normally are so difficult to see or consult.
We hope that some or all of the above topics will be of interest to you and we look forward to meeting you on Saturday 24th October at any time between 10.30 am and 5.00 pm. Tea and coffee will be available all day. There are several noted restaurants in the locality which figure in some gastronomic guide books. However, pub lunches can be obtained locally or you are welcome to eat your sandwiches with us. Admission is free, and no tickets will be necessary.
