NEWTON LONGVILLE: Hangman's Hill
Location/Address
None recorded
Type
Other site, structure or landscape
Assets that cannot fit any of the other categories. This category includes sites of archaeological interest, where the original form and function may not be apparent without the use of archaeological techniques and interpretation.Description
Hangman's Hill, mound which may have been constructed as a motte, but in later centuries has been used a windmill site, gallows and cemetery
Length 32m, width 22m, height 1.3m.
Mound called Hangman's Hill. On old crossroads, one of highest points in parish, in field called Hangman's Piece. Mound appears to be a motte of early 12th century. Section put across mound which found ditch; primary ditch fill of 12th century, other 12th century - 14th century sherds from fill (B3).
Mound and ditch dug 12th century; occupation short-lived, in 13th century windmill built on summit? Mound has remains of splayed tail or ramp, SW side; suggestive of a mill mound. Windmill may have burnt down in 14th century. Trial-trenched 1962, excavated and bulldozed 1966. Burials found in 1962 originally thought to be medieval, but sherds observed in gravefill suggest a 17th century date. Perhaps these are the graves of criminals hanged here, & buried near the gallows? Area then abandoned and ditch silted up. Nothing to suggest was ever a motte; no trace of ditch (B4,B6).
Statement of Significance
Asset type
Hangman's Hill, mound which may have been constructed as a motte, but in later centuries has been used a windmill site, gallows and cemetery
Date Listed
n/a