It’s been archaeology galore at Waterbeach with the delivery of a number of events supported by Oxford Archaeology East over the past few weeks.
Last weekend (2/3 April), we welcomed over 300 local residents, archaeology enthusiasts and other visitors to the site for an Archaeology Open Weekend designed to share the fascinating array of archaeological findings discovered at the former Barracks site.
Visitors were given the opportunity to identify some of the finds themselves, tour the dig sites and rebuild artefacts out of clay, amongst other activities. Oxford Archaeology East also provided information around the large Roman settlement and later Saxon Hall uncovered at Waterbeach.
The archaeology team also recently welcomed over 70 Year 3 pupils from Waterbeach Primary School, who had the chance to explore the dig site and learn about some of the area’s fascinating Iron Age and Roman history. They were told about the archaeological process, how items are discovered and why archaeology is such a crucial early activity when developing strategic sites such as Waterbeach.
Kate Innes, Year 3 Leader at Waterbeach Primary, said:
“We really enjoyed the two class trips to the Barracks. The children had a fantastic time and the information they’ve learned today will hopefully continue to stimulate their ongoing interest in history, particularly in the local area.”
Clemency Cooper, Community Archaeology Manager, said.
“It’s been a busy few weeks at Waterbeach with the school and pre-school trips and, most recently, the Open Weekend, however it’s been very encouraging to see the levels of interest in the work we do.
We always welcome the chance to host schools and other visitors to our excavations where possible, and we look forward to the other events and activities we have booked in during our remaining time at Waterbeach.”
Bruce Callander, Communities, Communications and Partnerships Lead Urban&Civic for Waterbeach, added:
“While the military heritage of the Barracks is well known, the wider and deeper history of this amazing site continues to be unveiled and helps shape future plans for the development. Events like this are a great way of ensuring we connect people to the past that is all around us, and the finds and stories being uncovered will also help connect new residents to those who came before them.”
Find out more about archaeology at Waterbeach
We really enjoyed the two class trips to the Barracks. The children had a fantastic time and the information they’ve learned today will hopefully continue to stimulate their ongoing interest in history, particularly in the local area.
