Beadnell Point lime kiln (Beadnell)
A lime kiln was partially exposed on Beadnell Point by storms on the mid to late 1980s. It was first surveyed by Fowler in 1992. The structure was suffering continued coastal erosion and the decision was made to excavate it in order to record it an establish its function and any possible relationship it might have with the chapel complex (NU 22 NW 7). Excavation took place in September 1994 and revealed a well constructed stone lined lime kiln which had filled with tumbled stone and windblown sand. Two flues were found, the northern one was a substantial arched flue which had collapsed inwards, and the eastern one was blocked with two stone slabs. On the west there was evidence of an earlier flue subsequently blocked by stone lining of the kiln. Behind this flue were indications of a possible working pit filled with a mixture of sand, ash, lime and charcoal. Large lumps of lime were found in both flues. The kiln was built on to bedrock which had discoloured with yellow, red, black and white rings of burning probably reflecting the intensity of heating inside the kiln.
Archaeomagnetic analysis was carried out by GeoQuest who obtained 20 samples from the stone lining and base. Analysis confirmed that heating had taken place and produced a date of AD 1480-1510 for the last firing. The kiln may have been in use for some time before this date and may be contemporary with St Ebba's Chapel (NU 22 NW 7). (1)
[Full publication]. (2)
Assessed as part of MPP Lime, Cement and Plaster industries. Recommended monitoring of erosion and maintain scheduled status. (3)
Additional reference (4a)
Archaeomagnetic analysis was carried out by GeoQuest who obtained 20 samples from the stone lining and base. Analysis confirmed that heating had taken place and produced a date of AD 1480-1510 for the last firing. The kiln may have been in use for some time before this date and may be contemporary with St Ebba's Chapel (NU 22 NW 7). (1)
[Full publication]. (2)
Assessed as part of MPP Lime, Cement and Plaster industries. Recommended monitoring of erosion and maintain scheduled status. (3)
Additional reference (4a)
N5813
EXCAVATION, Beadnell Point 1994
ARCHAEOMAGNETIC SAMPLING, Lime kiln at Beadnell 1995; English Heritage
FIELD OBSERVATION, Lime Kilns in the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 2010; The Archaeological Practice Ltd
ARCHAEOMAGNETIC SAMPLING, Lime kiln at Beadnell 1995; English Heritage
FIELD OBSERVATION, Lime Kilns in the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) 2010; The Archaeological Practice Ltd
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