Hardwick Sounding House, Whitchurch on Thames.

Description

This model is comprised of 52 photos and is a rudimentary model of the site to plot the positions of 4 test pits, excavated by local resident archaeologists, Nick, Rory and Sarah, and instigated by local SOAG member Simon Smith. This site is located in the woods behind Hardwick House and is colloquialy known as The Bear Pit. It is likely the crater was the result a chalk/flint quarry, which also served as a lime kiln or an ice house, serving Hardwick House. Later augmented to become a Victorian folly, as a destination for recreational walks and theatrical performances. Excavated on 28th March 2021 as a preliminary evaluation of the archaeological potential of the site, and to assess the state of disrepair and decay since the excavations by SOAG in 1970, 1974 and 1987.