Barrow at Hameldon Pasture
Located on the western edge of the moorland plateau at Hameldon Pasture, this historical site is believed to date back to the Late Neolithic period. The structure is classified as a Bowl Barrow, which is a type of burial mound often constructed during prehistoric times. Positioned 320 metres above sea level, the remains of the barrow are still visible and hold significant archaeological value.
Barrow Structure and Dimensions
The barrow at Hameldon Pasture is roughly oval in shape, with dimensions measuring approximately 21.5 metres in length from north to south, and 17 metres in width from east to west. The height of the remaining stones is about 0.5 metres. While much of the original structure has been eroded or robbed over time, these dimensions provide insight into the scale of the burial mound in its prime.
Archaeological Discoveries
In the late 19th century, specifically in 1886, an archaeological excavation was carried out on the site, revealing key findings that shed light on the barrow's purpose. Beneath a layer of earth and stones, the excavation uncovered a cist grave—an ancient burial chamber made of stone. This cist was originally covered by two large flagstones, with additional stone slabs placed around the edges. However, when the grave was opened, it was found to be empty, suggesting that previous disturbances had occurred. Despite the absence of human remains, several arrowheads and flint tools were recovered during the excavation, indicating the site's use for ritualistic or ceremonial purposes.
The Larger Barrow (Hameldon Pasture I)
The largest of the two barrows at the site, known as Hameldon Pasture I, stands at a height of 0.3 metres and has a circumference of approximately 21 metres (around 69 feet). Unfortunately, much of the barrow has been destroyed over time, and it is now difficult to distinguish in the surrounding grass. Originally, this tumulus (burial mound) was bowl-shaped, consisting of a mix of earth and stone. Many of the stones have been removed for use in nearby construction, particularly in the walls further down the slope.
At the centre of Hameldon Pasture I, there is a hollowed area measuring 5 metres by 4 metres (16 feet by 13 feet). Within this area lie two weather-worn gritstone boulders, with one of them exhibiting small cup marks on its surface—potential evidence of prehistoric carving. A third, smaller boulder rests nearby, possibly another element of the original burial structure.
Hambledon Pasture II
The monument consists of a round cairn situated on the western edge of a moorland plateau on Hambledon Pasture. It is classified as a round barrow, potentially dating from around 2000-700 BC. The cairn features a circular mound of earth and stones, measuring 13 metres in diameter and rising to a height of up to 0.3 metres.
There are several shallow hollows within the mound, varying in depth, with dimensions of 2.5 metres by 1.5 metres and a depth of 0.3 metres. These hollows are the result of earlier excavation attempts by a local antiquarian in 1843. During these excavations, an undecorated urn was discovered within a stone cist at the centre of the mound. The urn contained the charred remains of both an adult and a child, suggesting the site had a ritualistic purpose.
Conclusion
The barrows at Hameldon Pasture offer a fascinating glimpse into the burial practices of the Late Neolithic period. Although much of the site has been eroded or disturbed over time, the archaeological findings from the 1886 excavation, along with the barrow's distinctive features, continue to captivate researchers and visitors alike.
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