The Weird-Wobbly-Wednesday-Dip has kicked in full force. People were tired, and when we arrived on site it was hot and muggy, which did not help the situation in any way. The temperature dropped considerably after the thunderstorm which arrived around midday, which was much appreciated. The archaeology has not slowed down in any way though, and we have recovered numerous objects.
Lightning near Mont de Lion. Photo credits to James Earley
In the killing zone, Eva’s team is excavating the fire pit. It was thought to be reenactor, which wouldn’t have surprised us, given past experiences. However, 19th century pottery has been found in it, as well as a roofing tile. It is possibly post battle, but it might relate to the repair of the wall.
The fire pit in the killing zone
There have been some great discoveries in the last trench in the killing zone. Gary and Stu were sweeping the area just to make sure that there was nothing there, and came across another musket repair tool and a spur.
The spur
Sam has finished excavation of the pit in the potato field. It is nothing more than a field clearance pit, as suspected. Directly underneath it was a button from the battle, which means that the pit post-dates the battle. Apart from the button, the team has also recovered a grapeshot and a musket ball.
In the courtyard, the trenches are coming on amazingly. Emily’s and Sats’ trenches are coming to an end, and have raised more questions than answers, but a few questions have been answered.
The trenches in the courtyard
Phil’s trench near the North Gate has proven to be incredibly interesting and has proven itself to be worthy of more investigation. Next year, the plan is to extend the area of excavation along that wall. The team has found very deep traces of demolition and fire deposits. To top all of the finds, the team discovered a Coldstream Guards button, which seems to be, most likely, from the period, and has some fire damage. In the same location, silver thread was found, which was used to embroider the epaulets of the Coldstream guards’ uniforms. This was an amazing discovery on top of the musket balls that were found there. The courtyard has surpassed expectations. It already looked promising last year, and it has continuously proven itself.
The button
The silver thread
James’ team up on Mont Saint Jean will hopefully be finished by tomorrow. They have accomplished a lot today, and will continue to wrap up things up there.
Finally, the French metal detectorists who came in on Tuesday have found a number of interesting objects in the pond area beyond the north gate. They have found a Grenadier’s badge, which came off of a French ammunition pouch.
