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Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 0
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Pennine Prospects
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage Project
Report No: PP10/280717
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 1
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage
Hirst Wood, Shipley:
An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Pennine Prospects
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage Project
November 2018
Report No: PP10/280717
Compiled by Chris Atkinson BA (Hons), MA
Woodland Heritage Officer
and
Kaitlyn Keenhold BA (Hons), MA
with contributions from
Tony Woods
Pennine Prospects
Hebden Bridge Canal & Visitor Centre
Hebden Bridge
West Yorkshire
HX7 8AF
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 2
Contents
Summary 3
1.0 Introduction 4
2.0 Aims and Purpose of Assessment 5
3.0 Methodology 6
4.0 Location and Geology 9
5.0 Historical and Archaeological Background 11
6.0 Results 24
7.0 Discussion 35
8.0 Management Recommendations 36
9.0 Acknowledgments 40
10.0 Bibliography 41
11.0 List of illustrations and figures 43
Appendix 1: Survey Database
Appendix 2: Distribution Map
Appendix 3: Historic Mapping
Appendix 4: Digital Archive
Appendix 5: About the Author and Pennine Prospects
This project would not have been possible without the support of the Heritage Lottery
Fund. Thank you to all of the National Lottery players, without who projects such as
the Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage project would not be possible.
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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Summary
This report discusses the results of an archaeological woodland survey undertaken
by volunteers as part of the Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage project, a project led
by Pennine Prospects. The investigation took place within the Bradford Metropolitan
District Council owned Hirst Wood, Shipley. Across the 13.7 hectares (34 acres) of
woodland volunteers identified and recorded 64 previously unrecognised features of
archaeological interest.
Prominent features included the site of New Hirst Mill established in the early 18th
century, along with its associated workers cottages. In addition, extensive industrial
activity relating to mineral extraction (both stone and sand) was noted alongside
evidence for charcoal production, evidenced by at least two charcoal burning
platforms.
The site of a known prehistoric hut circle (PRN: 2550) within the woodlands was also
recorded and its condition assessed. Its classification as prehistoric is currently in
question due in part to it being enclosed by and closely associated with post-
medieval mineral extraction activity within the woodlands.
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1.0 Introduction
This report has been compiled as part of the Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage
project. This three year project (2016-2019) is jointly funded by Yorkshire Water,
Heritage Lottery Fund, Green Bank Trust and Newground Together and aims to
identify, record and interpret the historic environment of woodlands across the South
Pennines (National Character Area 36 – Natural England, 2014).
Led by Pennine Prospects, the project recognises, as a result of a desk-based study,
‘Hidden Heritage of the South Pennine Woodlands’ (Brown, 2013), that … “number
of sites recorded on the HER (Historic Environment Record) does not represent the
true nature of the surviving archaeological resource”. The report highlights that this
underrepresentation (and general lack of knowledge) was the primary threat to
woodland archaeology.
The Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage project therefore seeks to enhance the
historic record for woodland across the South Pennines by means of a structured
programme of archaeological walkover surveys. Where appropriate these surveys
will provide the opportunity for members of the public, heritage and youth groups to
engage and contribute towards the investigations.
Archaeological features to be recorded within areas of woodland can represent the
whole of human history and use of the landscape. Features relating to the woodland
itself can include historic or veteran trees; woodland boundaries; charcoal burning
platforms; storage platforms; cottage sites; trackways and mills. Features may also
predate the current woodland and represent prehistoric-medieval field boundaries;
settlement sites or stones such as Iron-Age cup and ring carvings.
The information collated during the field surveys will be deposited in the form of an
archaeological report (CIfA, 2014) and digital record to the landowner and the
regional Historic Environment Record. This data will not only guide future research
into the region, but also support and promote the preservation of the historic
environment as a part of any future management programmes within woodlands.
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2.0 Aims and Purpose of Assessment
This investigation forms a baseline record of the archaeological and historic features
contained within the property. The general aims of the archaeological woodland
survey described in this report were to:
1. Develop a history of land use for the property from readily available historic
and archaeological documentation.
2. Identify previously unrecorded archaeological features and sites across the
property.
3. Revisit and assess the condition of previously recorded archaeological
features and sites across the property.
4. Provide management recommendations concerning each of the historic
assets identified and recorded. This information will support any future
management works within the woodland.
5. Produce a database (Appendix 1) for use by Bradford Metropolitan Borough
Council and West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service Historic
Environment Record.
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3.0 Methodology
3.1 Geology
Property information including any digital property mapping data was obtained from
Bradford MDC. Data concerning the statutory and non-statutory conditions of land
and habitats both on and within the vicinity of the property was obtained from Natural
England and made available for commercial use under the Open Government
Licence. In addition the Natural England maintained MAGIC website was consulted.
The webpage provides authoritative geographic information about the natural
environment from across government. The information covers rural, urban, coastal
and marine environments across Great Britain.
Site geological and soil data was obtained online from the British Geological Survey
OpenGeoscience webpage. The data was downloaded and displayed using QGIS
2.18.14 'Las Palmas', an Open Source Geographic Information System (GIS). Site
maps were produced at a scale to best illustrate the full extent of the woodland under
investigation.
3.2 Historical and Archaeological Background
Previously collated historical and archaeological data concerning the site under
investigation (which includes a 200m buffer around the area) was obtained from
West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service (WYAAS) as well as a search of the
Heritage Gateway. Listed building; parks and gardens and scheduled monument
data was obtained from the National Heritage List for England and downloaded as
shapefiles from Historic England.
3.3 Map Regression
Historic map regression of woodlands will be undertaken as a means of identifying a
broad account of landscape change and use. Where possible the available map
coverage (which included 1st – 3rd Edition County Series Survey, 1st – 4th Edition
National Grid and land utilisation mapping) were georeferenced using QGIS 2.18.14
'Las Palmas' and shapefiles produced to provide site specific data to map the historic
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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development of woodlands and the immediate surroundings. The Shapefiles are
included within the digital appendix.
3.4 Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR)
Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data was consulted to support the historic map
regression and walkover survey elements. ‘Bare-earth’ Digital Terrain Model (DTM)
LiDAR tiles at a resolution of fifty centimetres were downloaded from the Survey
Open Data – Environment Agency webpage. The tiles were converted from an
American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) format to a raster
format using QGIS 2.18.2 'Las Palmas'. The tiles were merged to create a single
raster layer, a slope algorithm was then applied to create a model suitable for the
analysis of the survey area and its immediate surroundings.
Four DTM tiles were merged and analysed as part of the assessment. The ASCII
tiles consulted were:
Digital Terrain Model Tiles:
Se1237_DTM_50CM; se1238_DTM_50CM; se1337_DTM_50CM;
se1338_DTM_50CM
3.5 Level 1 Reconnaissance Survey (Field Survey)
The field survey was undertaken between the 6th and 7th January 2017. The
investigation was systematic (where possible), with each woodland parcel walked in
transects. Linear features encountered whilst walking each transect (such as relict
field boundaries and trackways) were recorded in their entirety, before continuing
along the transect.
Each archaeological feature encountered (such as quarries, platforms and relict
boundaries), was recorded in a field notebook and transcribed into an EXCEL
spreadsheet (see Appendix 1). The information recorded included:
• Grid Reference (using a handheld Garmin GPSmap 64s)
• Site Name
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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• Site Type (i.e. cottage site; quarry; charcoal burning platform; trackway)
• Description (i.e. dimensions; interpretation)
• Period (i.e. prehistoric; roman; medieval; post-medieval; modern; unknown)
• Condition/Threat (i.e. erosion caused by livestock)
• Recommendations (management suggestions)
• Reference (i.e. photographic reference; historic map reference)
• Importance (i.e. Local – Regional – National)
3.6 Field Conditions
The survey area covered 13.7 hectares (34 acres) and was undertaken during cold,
clear conditions. The survey was prohibited in certain areas due the dense nature of
the ground flora.
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4.0 Location and Geology
Figure 1: Location of Hirst Wood, Shipley in relation to the wider region. The site of Hirst Wood is
indicated by the results of the field survey.
Hirst Wood (located at NGR 412678 438200) is located within the ward of Shipley,
City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council, West Yorkshire. The woodland is
bound to the north by the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and to the south the Leeds and
Bradford railway extension from Shipley to Colne (constructed between 1847-8; the
line between Skipton and Colne closed in 1970), as well as the River Aire (which
marks the western extent of the woodland). To the east the woodland is bound by a
public carpark and Hirst Lane. The surveyed woodland covers an area of 13.7
hectares (34 acres) and was accessed by volunteers from the carpark off Hirst Lane.
Hirst Wood lies within the Community Forest of the White Rose Forest (MAGIC,
2017) and is recognised as ancient semi-natural woodland on the Ancient Woodland
Inventory (Natural England, 2017) supporting a mixed deciduous, broadleaved and
yew habitat (Land Cover Map, 2007) including holly, elder, birch, beech, oak, ivy,
sycamore and ash. More than 50% of the woodland cover within the property is
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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listed as deciduous woodland on the Priority Habitat Inventory for England as held by
Natural England (MAGIC 2017). The woodland is located within the World Heritage
Site (England) buffer zone of Saltaire (ref: 1000099; MAGIC, 2017).
Figure 2: Extent of Hirst Wood, Shipley, West Yorkshire. Previously recorded locally listed monuments
and Listed Buildings are also displayed.
The woodland developed on a glacial till deposit created by ice and watermelt up to
2 million years ago in the Quaternary Period. The underlying bedrock consists
primarily of sandstone of the Rough Rock Flags formation developed between 319
and 320 million years ago in the Carboniferous Period when the local environment
was dominated by swamps, estuaries and deltas (BGS, 2017).
Soil across the site is described as loamy and clayey in floodplain areas with
naturally high groundwater (United Kingdom Soil Observatory; 2017).
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3.0 Historical and Archaeological Background
3.1 Historical Background
The earliest evidence for occupation/activity in Hirst Wood is the site of a hut circle of
presumed Iron Age date (WYAAS HER No. 2550). The site consists of a sub-
circular rubble-filled wall with boulder retaining walls on the inner and outer faces. In
addition a coin (find spot unknown) with badly pitted surfaces interpreted as possibly
an Antonianus of Carausius (287-293 CE) is recorded as within Hirst Wood (WYAAS
HER No. 1853).
One of the first records for the region in which Hirst Wood is located comes from the
1086 Domesday Survey and its record of the Manor of Shipley.
In 1086 the Manor of Shipley (Scipelei), located within the Hundred of Morley, was
regarded as Waste (common) held by Tennant-in-Chief Ilbert de Lacy. The manor
included an area measuring 1 league (2.4 km/1.5 miles) long by 0.5 league (1.2
km/0.75 miles) of wood pasture (Silva pastilis). Prior to the Norman Conquest the
manor was held by Rafnketill. During this period the manor included 3 carucates
(145.6 hectares/360 acres) of taxable land, large enough to support two ploughs (a
plough represents a plough team including eight oxen and the plough itself). It was
worth 10s (ed. Morris, 1986).
This change in circumstances to the manor by 1086 could be attributed to William I
‘harrying of the north’ during the winter of 1069–70, although it may similarly
represent the manor had become uncultivated or unusable.
It is understood that the name Shipley (Scipelei) derives from the Old Northumbrian
meaning ‘Forest-clearing used for sheep’ (Smith; 1961).
Thomas Jefferys County of York survey produced in 1772 provides one of the first
depictions of Hirst Wood, recording its extent as well as its location in relation to
Shipey, Cottingley and Bingley (figure 3). Of particular note is the depicted location
of New Mill (New Hirst Mill) within the southwest of the wood adjacent to the Aire
River. Of note is the ‘intended’ course of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal depicted as
to the south of its final course.
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The mixed deciduous woodland encountered today is the product of the last 100-140
years. No evidence for traditional woodland management in the form of coppicing
and or pollarding is evident (with the exception of a number of coppiced ash and lime
along Hirst Lane) at the site. Within the Rosse Archive (W.Y.A.S, Rosse (Birr)
Estate Archives), records of sale dating 1822 identifies part of Hirst Wood as spring
wood (coppice woodland) worth £113.10s.0p per annum. This, along with other
records will no doubt enhance our understanding of how the woodland has been
traditionally managed.
Figure 3: Excerpt of the County of York Surveyed in (1772) MDCCLXVII, VIII, IX, and MDCCLXX
Engraved by Thomas Jefferys (Sheet V). The site of Hirst Wood and New (Hirst) Mill are depicted in
the bend of the River Aire (centre left). Copyright © The British Library Board
New Hirst Mill was established as a fulling mill (a mill for the cleansing of cloth/wool
to eliminate oils, dirt, and other impurities, and to make it thicker) by Samuel Denison
in 1745 with permission from the Lords of the Manor Cyril and Judith Jackson. A
mortgage agreement between Samuel Denison and Robert Stansfield reads:
A ‘parcel of ground called the Silver Hills … near Hyrst Wood as is set out South of a
cartway leading from Hirst Wood to a parcel of land called the Forge Holm adjoining
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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the River Ayr, and an adjoining … parcel of ground called Old Forge Goyt with …
liberty during the term of 170 years … to widen and wall … the said Goyt … and to
start a mill dam … over (the Shipley) half of the River. And also to erect a mill … for
the fulling of cloth … upon the said dam or goyt … And with liberty to get … stones
… for any buildings and future repairs … in those woody grounds called the Hyrst’
(Hampshire; 2000).
The site of New Hirst Mill is understood to have occupied the site of a 16th century
iron smelting site, the names ‘Forge Holm’ and ‘Old Forge Goyt’ giving reference to
this. It is thought that Hirst Wood (or Shiplaye Hurste as it was known) was one of a
number of sites in Shipley where iron was made using a mix of fuel types which
included charcoal, coal, turf and peat (albeit unsuccessfully). The site at Hirst Wood
was leased by Edward Cage in the early 1590’s, before it was abandoned (Sheeran;
1984) and presumably remained derelict until the establishment of New Hirst Mill at
the site.
Figure 4: Excerpt of the Township of Shipley 1847 survey by G. T. Lister detailing New (Hirst) Mill and
the workers cottages, including the divisions between dwellings (WYAS Bradford - WYB346/1211
B15)
By 1814 the mill had developed to support two water wheels, one to power the fulling
stocks and the other for scribbling engines (Scribbling involved the coarse combining
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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of wool/cotton fibres to straighten them prior to spinning). An advertisement for
would-be tenants dated 21st November 1814 reads:
‘New Mill, to be let on lease, on the River Aire with a fall of near seven feet. The Mill
is above fifty feet square and it is intended to add a chamber over the whole and to
put in two water wheels eight feet broad, one to carry eight fulling stocks, and the
other six scribbling engines, six carders, a willey, a Jiger and a teaser, large enough
to supply six stubbing billies. If not let for woollen machinery it will be offered as a
worsted, flax or other mill to the Tenant’s choice. Also available are two houses, two
barns and about twenty acres of land near the mill’ (Hampshire; 2000).
The 1841 census indicates the number of cottages at New Hirst Mill had increased to
8, which housed 58 occupants combined. The extent of occupation is illustrated on
the 1847 Township of Shipley survey (figure 4) which details the dwellings within
Hirst Wood.
Figure 5: Excerpt of the Yorkshire 201 (includes: Baildon; Bingley; Bradford; Shipley) OS Six-Inch
map, surveyed between 1847 and 1848 and published in 1852. The survey depicts the full extent of
Hirst Wood prior to encroachment of Saltaire to the south. Copyright National Library of Scotland
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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Complementing this survey is the Yorkshire 201 (includes: Baildon; Bingley;
Bradford; Shipley) OS six-inch map (figure 5) which not only depicts the mill as a
scribbling and fulling mill but also maps in detail the network of trackways through
the woodland. Of further note is the extent of the woodland itself, which continued to
extend beyond the course of the Leeds and Bradford railway extension to the south.
The irregular pattern of enclosure between the woodland and the relatively sinuous
nature of Hirst Lane to the east is likely to represent an earlier phase of woodland
clearance for agriculture. The pattern of fields and its relation to the railway certainly
suggests the fields were laid out prior to its construction between 1847 and 1848.
The fields are therefore likely to represent medieval to early post-medieval
enclosure, formed as a result of woodland assartment. Prior to this enclosure, Hirst
Lane is likely to have marked the eastern limit of the Hirst Wood, whereas the River
Aire marked its northern and western limits. The Dowley Gap Aqueduct (Listed
Building: 1133548) supporting the canal to the northwest of the woodland is also
depicted along with the site of Hirst Lock (Listed Building: 1314200) situated to the
northeast of the woodland. By the early 20th century New Hirst Mill (plate 1) served
as a mill for wool
cleaning, prior to its
closure along with the
majority of cottages
during the 1920’s when
the property was gifted
by Sir John Roberts of
Salt's Mill to the Shipley
Urban District Council.
Plate 1: New Hirst Mill in
1890 (the glass slide was
incorrectly labelled Hurst
Mill). Originally from the
Bradford Boys' Grammar
School collection of lantern
slides. Courtesy of Mike
Short
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This included Hirst Wood itself which became open to the public (Hampshire; 2000).
The transferring of Hirst Wood along with the cottages and New Hirst Mill is apparent
on the 1922 1:2500 Second Edition First County Series Survey (figure 8) where the
mill is depicted as ‘disused’. In addition a large proportion of Hirst Wood to the east
had been felled both along the canal edge and to the south adjacent to the railway.
The latter area is depicted as an area of rough pasture/scrub on the survey and now
lies outside of the current extent of Hirst Wood. The gradual enclosure of Hirst Wood
to the south of the railway increased once Nab Wood Cemetery was established
prior to the publication of the 1908 1:2500 First Revision First County Series Survey
(figure 7). By the time of the 1934 1:2500 Third Revision First County Series (figure
9) publication the urban and industrial spread of Shipley served to restrict Hirst Wood
further. By this date only three of the workers cottages stood at the site.
Analysis of the Land Utilisation Survey of Britain coverage for Leeds and Bradford
(figure 6) surveyed between 1932 and 1937 indicates that much of the land adjacent
to the River Aire was utilised as meadow or permanent grassland (light green), in
addition isolated areas of land agriculturally unproductive (red) are noted to the south
and west of Hirst Wood. The urban development of Saltaire is also recorded to the
southeast, interpreted as housing with gardens as well as allotments (purple).
Figure 6: This work is based on data provided through www.VisionofBritain.org.uk and uses historical
Land Utilisation Survey map material which is copyright of The Land Utilisation Survey of Great
Britain, 1933-49, copyright Audrey N. Clark.
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Figure 7
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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Figure 8
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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Figure 9
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3.2 Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR)
The available OpenSource LiDAR Digital Surface Model (DSM) and Digital Terrain
Model (DTM) data obtained from the Survey Open Data – Environment Agency
website provided complete coverage of Hirst Wood and its immediate surroundings
at a resolution of 50cm. This data was not only useful for understanding and
mapping the historic environment features within the woodland, but it also supported
the Level 1 Reconnaissance Survey; helping to enhance the accuracy of GPS
readings obtained and to support the interpretation of known and previously
unrecorded features of archaeological significance.
Figure 10: LiDAR 50cm DSM slope model detailing the extent of coverage across Hirst Wood survey
area. Also presented are the sites identified during the field survey.
Despite the presence of a woodland canopy, the DSM was surprisingly useful, as the
LiDAR survey was presumably undertaken in Autumn/Winter when the tree canopy
was clear. With the exception of areas covered in dense, understory vegetation
such as holly, features of archaeological interest are identifiable on the DSM. The
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DTM served to complement the DSM, although similarly in areas, where ground
vegetation is dense, the survey is truncated.
Figure 11: LiDAR 50cm DTM slope model detailing the extent of coverage across Hirst Wood survey
area. Also presented are the sites identified during the field survey.
The network of historic trackways within the woodland are well documented in the
available historic mapping and the LiDAR only serves to confirm its presence, extent
and survivability. What is particularly useful is the extent to which the LiDAR
highlights areas of past mineral extraction. From the large sandstone quarry within
the northwest of the woodland to the smaller pits scattered through the woodland
centre, both the DSM and DTM indicate how the network of tracks served to provide
access to these areas of activity.
Two charcoal burning platforms within the southwest of the woodland are also
discernible, located upon the south-facing slope overlooking the River Aire. Both
appear to measure between 5.0m and 6.0m in diameter. The sites are serviced by
the network of tracks within the woodland, which not only connect them to Saltaire to
the east, but the site of New Hirst Mill and the workers cottages immediately to the
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west. It is not implausible that these features serviced the mill and indeed the earlier
iron industry at the site.
Figure 12: LiDAR 50cm DTM Slope Model depicting the site New Hirst Mill (Site No. 60), the workers
cottage site (Site No. 21) and nearby charcoal burning platforms (Site No. 10 and 27) within the
southwest of Hirst Wood. The network of holloways and terraced tracks is particularly clear along
with the area of stone extraction represented as pitting to the northeast.
3.3 Archaeological Background
Prior to this investigation, 7 monuments had been recorded within and immediately
outside of the Hirst Wood survey area. The monuments consisted of 2 Grade II
Listed Buildings under statutory protection and 5 locally listed monuments recorded
by West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service Historic Environment Record. No
Scheduled Monuments, Registered Parks and Gardens or Battlefield Sites exist
within the survey area.
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Table 1: List detailing the known archaeological records on and immediately around the property.
SAM: LB No: NT HBSMR: HER: Name: Type:
2550 Hut Circle, Hirst
Wood
Non-designated
monument
1853
Roman coin with
badly pitted
surfaces. May
possibly be an
Antoniaus of
Carausius (AD 287-
293). Found August
1950, find spot
unknown.
Find Spot
4253
Iron Working site at
place name ‘Cinder
Hills
Non-designated
monument
9136
Leeds and
Liverpool Canal:
Hirst Lock
Non-designated
monument
4029 Bone Awl, found in
Bull Copy Wood Find Spot
1133548
Leeds and
Liverpool Canal,
Dowley Gap
Aqueduct
Grade II Listed
Building
1314200
Leeds and
Liverpool Canal,
Hirst Lock
Grade II Listed
Building
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6.0 Results Figure 13: Distribution of features of archaeological interest recorded during the woodland survey.
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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During the survey 64 features of archaeological interest were recorded across the
property, of which 63 had not previously been recorded. The following serves to
summarise the findings of the survey by period. A detailed dataset, including feature
specific management recommendations for each of the recorded features can be
found in Appendix 1.
6.1 Prehistoric
Prehistoric activity within Hirst Wood is represented by the sub-circular hut circle
marked by boulder-walling (WYAAS HER No. 2550; Site No. 40; plate 2). The site is
located upon the gentle east-facing slope of the glacial till on which Hirst Wood is
located, within an area of young and sapling beech woodland. A single collapsed
birch lies across the feature.
Plate 2: The possible late Iron Age hut circle (WYAS HER No. 2550) viewed from the west. The line
of boulders in the fore-ground represents the outer-face of the boulder walling marking the western
face of the hut circle (Scale is 2.0m; Photograph: P1030974). Copyright Pennine Prospects
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6.2 Romano-British
No evidence for Romano-British activity was identified during the survey.
6.3 Medieval
No evidence for Medieval activity was identified during the survey.
6.4 Post-medieval
The majority of features identified during the survey are thought to relate to post-
medieval activity within the woodlands. This is exemplified by the site of New Hirst
Mill (Site No. 60), its associated cottages (Site No. 21) and extensive evidence of
mineral extraction.
6.4.1 Settlement
The site of the New Hirst Mills workers cottages (Site No. 21; plate 3) is located
within the southwest of Hirst Wood, overlooking the mill site and River Aire to the
south. The original lane which provided access to the cottages and mill (as
illustrated on the available historic map) continues to serve as a footpath.
Plate 3: Volunteers stood within the remains of the mill workers cottages. The wall represents the
rear of the cottages (Photograph Ref: IMAG4101). Copyright Pennine Prospects
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The 1847 Shipley Township map (figure 4) indicates the row of cottages (orientated
northwest-southeast) to have been subdivided into 10 compartments. Each of which
was accessed from a lane to the south. Although many of the subdivisions are now
absent following the 1920’s demolition, foundations can be found amongst the
undergrowth along with the rear retaining wall standing up to c.2.0m. The interior of
each structure is littered with structural debris.
Each compartment measured between 3.0m and 7.0m long (northwest-southeast)
and, in a number of cases, individual window frames and thresholds were identified.
The cottages were constructed of largely dressed sandstone and gritstone and
bonded with mortar. The interior walls themselves also preserve evidence of
plastered surfaces. The width of the cottages (northeast-southwest) is less clear as
the south-face of the cottages have been almost entirely removed. Clearance of the
dense vegetation on the feature would likely reveal further foundations.
Immediately upslope (north), running behind the row of cottages is a narrow
trackway which not only serves to provide access, but also serves as a barrier
between the cottages and hill slope, thus preventing damp.
At the northwest end of the row of cottages is a trapezoidal enclosure interpreted as
a garden. The site is terraced into the south-facing slope and is enclosed by an
irregular drystone wall. The soils within the enclosure are dark, organic rich and of
considerable depth (at least 1.0m). Within the northeast corner of the garden are the
foundations of a possible shed or outhouse.
6.4.2 Industrial Infrastructure
Within the southwest corner of Hirst Wood is the site of New Hirst Mill (Site No. 60),
a fulling mill established in the mid-18th century before it was extended and
converted to a fulling and scribbling mill in the early 19th century. Located on the
north bank of the east-flowing River Aire few standing remains relating to the mill
survive, following its demolition in the early 20th century.
Though overgrown and silted, the site of the goit/leat remains visible at the site.
Upon its southern end, the remains of the brick and stone lined sluice/wheel pit
survive (plate 4) along with an upright iron post likely to have formed part of a
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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turbine. Within the immediate vicinity of the sluice remains of the cobbled surface
marking the ground floor of New Hirst Mill survive.
The remains of the weir and site of stepping stones are also visible within the River
Aire to the south of the mill site.
Plate 4: Silted wheel pit at the site of New Hirst Mill, note the remains of a turbine located to the left of
the upright 1.0m scale (Photograph: IMG_7939). Copyright Pennine Prospects
The mill structures today have been greatly affected by the elements and vegetation.
Where there is any sign of structures, the ruins are largely eroded and overgrown.
One of the earliest maps depicting the mill structures is recorded on the 1847 Six-
Inch Ordnance Survey (figure 5). The site was accessed via the main
trackway/holloway (Site No.2) which winds its way generally east-west through the
woodland. The buildings that made up the cottage settlement, as well as the mills,
have been largely removed (with the exception of small traces of foundation walls
and hillslope retaining walls). At the site of New Hirst mill, the location of the now
largely silted goilt/leat remains partially visible, along with the foundations of the
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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eastern-face of the mill. To the south, constructed into the riverbank, is a c.2.0m tall
retaining wall (presumably a foundation wall of the mill itself), beyond which lies the
remains of a weir. Constructed into the south-facing slope and marking the northern
edge of the mill are short sections (originally a single feature) of retaining wall formed
of dressed local sandstone (plate 5). Ares of cobbled ground floor surface are also
exposed at the site.
Plate 5: The site of New Hirst Mill (Site No. 60) is almost entirely in ruin. Freestanding walls and
retaining walls constructed of dressed and cut stone survive protruding from the south-facing slope of
the hill and river bank (Scale is 1.0m; Photograph: IMG_7940). Copyright Pennine prospects
6.4.3 Charcoal Industry
Evidence for charcoal production survives in the form of two charcoal burning
platforms (Site No. 10 & 27). The features are located within the southwest of the
woodland and appear as oval platforms, cut into the south-facing slope. Each
measures approximately 9.0m (east-west) by 12.0m (north-south). A potential third
platform was identified near the northwest corner of the woodland (Site No. 58; plate
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6) located immediately west of the Sandstone Quarry (Site No. 57; plate 7). Each of
the features are located close to well established routes of communication. The
concentration of the platforms within the west of the woodland may indicate their role
in supplying the sites of New Hirst Mill (originally a fulling mill for the removal of oil
and dirt. This process may have included wool combining and the use of charcoal),
its associated cottages (domestic use of charcoal) as well as the earlier 16th century
forge site.
Plate 6: Possible charcoal burning platform (Site No. 58) viewed from the east (Scale is 2.0m;
photograph IMG_7934). Copyright Pennine Prospects
6.4.4 Mineral Extraction
The site of Hirst Wood has been the subject to a high level of mineral extraction.
Much of the extraction may be attributed to the construction of New Hirst Mill and
cottages in 1745 by Samuel Denison, as it is known he was given the right to extract
stone from Hirst Wood by the Lords of the Manor (see 3.1 Historical Background).
The largest of the quarries (Site No. 57; plate 7) within Hirst Wood is located within
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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the northwest, adjacent to the Leeds and Liverpool canal. The 1847-48 Yorkshire
201 (includes: Baildon; Bingley; Bradford; Shipley) OS Six-Inch map (figure 5) labels
the site as a sandstone quarry. The quarry supports an exposed sandstone face up
to 10.0m tall and covers an area of c.30.0m diameter. By 1872 the quarry is
depicted as not working on a Countess of Rosse map, although the Smith-Gotthardt
(1895-96) Statement of Account indicates that despite this Benjamin Firth extracted
stone from Hirst Wood Quarry for £19.6s.8d as well as stones in Hirst Wood for £10
(W.Y.A.S, Rosse (Birr) Estate Archives). The latter reference to the extraction of
stones in Hirst Wood is in part likely to relate to the extensive areas of shallow pitting
across the woodland. These, often shallow, pits represent locations where more
readily available surface stone was extracted.
Plate 7: Large sandstone quarry (Site No. 57) traversing the north-facing slope at the northwest point
of Hirst Wood (Scale is 2.0m; Photograph: IMG_7933). Copyright Pennine Prospects
Within the east of the woodland, immediately north of the woodland entrance is a
large hollow, likely to represent the location of an extraction site. Due to the form of
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the feature and absence of any surface stone or exposed bedrock the site may
represent a sand pit (Site No. 64). This site may represent that recorded in the
Smith-Gotthardt (1895-96) Statement of Account in which James Bairstow extracted
sand from Hirst Wood at the cost of £21.15s.0d.
6.4.5 Land Divisions
Plate 8: Drystone wall (Site No. 2) constructed of irregular and regular dressed stone serving to mark
a division in woodland ownership (Scale is 1.0m; Photograph: P1030984). Copyright Pennine
Prospects
Two drystone wall boundaries were identified during the survey. Both features (Site
No. 2 (plate 8) & 59) are recorded on the 1893 1:2500 First County Series Survey
map. Identified as Site No. 2, the boundary was constructed of both regular cut and
irregular sandstone represents the most extensive boundary within the woodland.
There is some question concerning its heritage and purpose, however the current
understanding is that it represents a property boundary. The boundary serves to
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demarcate a narrow strip of woodland located immediately north of the railway
cutting and is perhaps related to the railway’s construction in the 1870’s.
Within the west of Hirst Wood and located north of New Hirst Mill and west of the
cottages is an irregular dry-stone (Site No. 59). The boundary is orientated east-
west and stands in a poor condition, measuring up to 0.30m wide and 0.70m tall.
The feature can be traced for approximately 16.50m, marking the northern edge of a
holloway (Site No. 11), before it ends (to the east) at a large fallen stone, at the
juncture between a number of trackways. The stone in question appears to represent
a collapsed gatepost which controlled access to the cottage sites from the west.
6.4.6 Routes of Communication
Plate 9: The main track through Hirst Wood (Site No. 11) consists of a holloway which winds its way
around the woodland serving to connect with New Hirst Mill, the workers cottages and the areas of
stone extraction (Scales are 1.0m; Photograph: P1030940). Copyright Pennine Prospects
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The principle track through Hirst Wood is a holloway (Site No. 11, plate 9), the
feature is well documented in the available historic mapping and continues on the
whole to serve as a public footpath through the woodland. In addition, two terraced
tracks were identified; both serve as branches off the main network of holloway. Site
No. 24 represents a subtle track which traverses the south-facing slope serving to
connect the charcoal burning platform Site No. 27 as well as a neighbouring stone
extraction pit (Site No. 28) with the mill complex to the west via the holloway (Site
No. 11). From the centre of the woodland and extending east along the ridge top is,
what appears to be a later terraced track (Site No. 63). To the west the track
connects with a holloway (Site No. 11), whereas to the east the feature appears to
terminate at the western edge of the possible sand pit site (Site No. 64).
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7.0 Discussion
Although not exhaustive, the archaeological survey of Hirst Wood undertaken by
volunteers has enhanced the understanding of the woodlands historic use and
development significantly. Prehistoric activity on the site has been long suggested in
the form of the locally listed hut circle (PRN: 2550), however its close proximity to
what was intensive and extensive stone extraction during the post-medieval and
possibly medieval periods may question this categorisation. What is certain is Hirst
Wood played a significant role in the local industrial narrative of Shipley and the
features recorded during the survey evidence this.
The remains of both New Hirst Mill established in the 18th century, and the row of
cottages which housed the workers survive, albeit in a poor condition as a result of
seasonal flooding and root action. Mineral extraction is also well represented in the
form of pitting, a quarry as well as a possible sand pit. Each of the sites, which
includes at least three charcoal burning platforms, are not located in isolation but
interlinked by a network of well-established holloways and terraced tracks of
potentially medieval origins.
Combined, these features represent a palimpsest of activity at Hirst Wood relating to
potential early settlement (Prehistoric/Roman), medieval iron working, post-medieval
mineral extraction and the cotton/wool industry as well as the charcoal industry. As
a well-used recreational area, there is perhaps an opportunity to enhance the visitor
experience whilst enhancing local knowledge and a sense of place through some
form of trail or interpretation. One suggestion could be to link the woodland trails to
the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and the neighbouring World Heritage Site of Saltaire.
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8.0 Management Recommendations
As a part of this survey, identified features were assessed in regards to condition;
this information has been used to formulate management recommendations. The
recommendations cover only those features identified within woodland areas.
8.1 General Guidelines
Forestry operations can be detrimental to both upstanding archaeological remains
and below-ground archaeological deposits. Guidelines which meet the requirements
of the United Kingdom Forestry Standard (UKFS) have been published by the
Forestry Commission (Forestry Commission; 2011). The reader is advised to refer
to this document for further information.
The guidelines recognise:
1. Forests should be designed and managed to take account of the historical
character and cultural values of the landscape.
2. Windblown trees located upon features of archaeological interest can cause
considerable damage due to the uplift of root plates. Any upstanding walls or
structures may also be crushed as a result of windblown trees. General root
action can also be disruptive to both below and above ground archaeological
features.
3. Although low-level woodland browsing can control woody vegetation within
woodland pastures and clearings; overgrazing by introduced livestock can
cause significant erosion to upstanding earthworks and structures. Additional
measures such as fencing may be required to protect the ground around
individual sites of historic importance/interest.
4. Forest operations and civil engineering activities involve heavy machinery and
earth-moving equipment. These can unintentionally destroy or damage
archaeological remains and veteran trees directly, or in-directly due to soil
vibration, compaction and erosion.
5. Ground disturbance and with that potential damage or destruction to
archaeological features and below ground deposits can also be caused as a
result of habitat restoration projects. This can involve the pulling out of tree
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stumps and the inverting of soil layers to reduce surface nutrient content.
Alternatively, restocking can lead to new or additional damage to
archaeological features and below-ground deposits.
6. There is considerable public interest in cultural heritage and the historic
environment and interpretation of theses aspects of woodlands can provide a
focus for visitors (using the public rights of way through the woodland). This
could be achieved as part of a wider access or recreation strategy. Historic
environment features can be linked by heritage trails and explained through
the use of interpretative panels, leaflets or maps. However these would need
to be managed to avoid negative impacts on the historic environment, such as
increased erosion.
In 2018 ancient woodland, including ancient semi-natural woodland and
plantations on ancient woodland received specific legislation as part of the
National Planning Policy Framework (Chapter 11. Conserving and enhancing the
natural environment) concerning their protection. The reader is advised to refer
to this document prior to any management or development activities.
The guidance states:
1. Direct impacts of development on ancient woodland or veteran trees include:
damaging or destroying all or part of them (including their soils,
ground flora, or fungi)
damaging roots and understorey (all the vegetation under the taller
trees)
damaging or compacting soil around the tree roots
polluting the ground around them
changing the water table or drainage of woodland or individual trees
damaging archaeological features or heritage assets
2. Nearby development can also have an indirect impact on ancient woodland or
veteran trees and the species they support. These can include:
breaking up or destroying connection between woodlands and
veteran trees
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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reducing the amount of semi-natural habitats next to ancient
woodland
increasing the amount of pollution, including dust
increasing disturbance to wildlife from additional traffic and visitors
increasing light pollution
increasing damaging activities like fly-tipping and the impact of
domestic pets
changing the landscape character of the area
Legislation states: ‘planning permission should be refused for development resulting
in the loss or deterioration of irreplaceable habitats, including ancient woodland and
the loss of aged or veteran trees found outside ancient woodland, unless the need
for, and benefits of, the development in that location clearly outweigh the loss …’
(Chapter 11, Paragraph 118, NPPF, 2018).
8.2 Mitigation
1. At the earliest stage, in advance of any management operations within areas
of woodland, the organisation commissioning the works should consult with
the regional historic environment authority, in this instance West Yorkshire
Archaeology Advisory Service (WYAAS): http://www.wyjs.org.uk/archaeology-
advisory-service/; and Natural England. Due to the proximity of the
woodlands to buildings of historical significance (Listed Buildings), and due to
aspects of the woodland and recorded features as part of this survey, it is
advised that the organisation commissioning the works contact Historic
England.
2. Where an operation next to a historical feature is unavoidable, clear routes
and exclusion areas should be marked out to provide protection to the
monuments. Contractors could be provided with a ‘cab-card’, detailing in
bullet-point and map format information concerning the heritage, exclusion
zones and routes to and from site.
3. Regular visits to heritage sites to monitor the condition will identify any new
threats or damage to the feature.
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4. Trees and shrubs either on or within the immediate vicinity of archaeological
sites/features should be managed to limit the extent and establishment of
woody vegetation. It should be considered that large trees vulnerable to
windthrow be removed or crowned to reduce the weight of the tree canopy.
However, veteran trees should be retained where possible.
8.3 Specific Guidelines
Specific management recommendations for each feature recorded as part of the
survey can be found in Appendix 1.
8.3.1 Boundaries
Boundary walls recorded during the survey (Site No. 11 & 29) are relict and in a poor
to fair condition. Deterioration of the features is caused principally by root action.
Each boundary should be monitored to ensure ground vegetation and tree saplings
do not establish themselves on the stonework and cause damage/erosion. Mature
trees within close proximity of all of the boundaries recorded during the survey
should also be monitored and, where appropriate coppiced/pollarded, crowned,
thinned or removed to prevent windthrow damage to the features.
As relict boundaries (no longer in use), the landowner should seek to preserve the
feature, acting to prevent further erosion by means of reducing ground vegetation
and preventing the establishment of tree saplings on the feature.
8.3.2 Structures
Multiple structures relating to New Hirst Mill (Site No. 60) and the workers cottages
(Site No. 21) were identified within areas of woodland during the survey. Both sites
are significant in their representation of the regions early industrial heritage
(particularly when considered alongside the neighbouring World Heritage Site of
Saltaire and Salts Mill). In order to prevent further deterioration and damage at the
sites of New Hirst Mill and the workers cottages, scrub vegetation and sapling trees
should be removed and prevented from establishing on the masonry. Mature trees
within close proximity of all of the features recorded during the survey should also be
monitored and, where appropriate, coppiced/pollarded, crowned, thinned or removed
to prevent root or windthrow damage to the features.
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9.0 Acknowledgments
Pennine Prospects would like to thank the Department of Place, City of Bradford
Metropolitan District Council, in particular Colin Whitfield, Bob Thorp and Andrew
Cutts for their permission, support and enthusiasm of the Celebrating Our Woodland
Heritage Project.
We would also like to thank the staff of West Yorkshire Archaeological Advisory
Service Historic Environment Record for their provision of data relating to Hirst Wood
and the wider West Yorkshire area.
Of course our biggest thanks go to all of the volunteers who supported, participated
and undertook the survey of Hirst Woods in January 2017. It was a pleasure to meet
and work with you all.
Thank you:
Alister Bowis, Caroline Perry, Chris Marshall, David Starley, Derek Barker, Gavin
Edwards, Jane Robinson, Jill Campbell, John Bromley, Joy Smith, Julie Wilson,
Maggie Fleming, Norman Alvin, Roger Pollard, Sharon Snaylam, Simon Duncan,
Tony Woods
I would like to thank in particular Kaitlyn Keenhold, Tony Woods and Derek Barker
for their help both in the field as well as in compiling this report.
This project would not have been possible without the support of the Heritage Lottery
Fund. Thank you to all of the National Lottery players, without who projects such as
the Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage project would not be possible.
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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10.0 Bibliography
Online Resources
British Geological Survey, Geology of Britain Viewer Accessed: 08/12/2018
URL: http://mapapps.bgs.ac.uk/geologyofbritain/home.html
Heritage Gateway Accessed: 06/11/2018
URL: http://www.heritagegateway.org.uk/gateway/
MAGIC geographic information Accessed: 06/11/2018
URL: http://www.magic.gov.uk/MagicMap.aspx
United Kingdom Soil Observatory Soils map viewer Accessed: 06/11/2018
URL: http://mapapps2.bgs.ac.uk/ukso/home.html
Published Resources
Ainsworth, S; Bowden, M; McOmish, D & Pearson, T, (2007). Understanding the
Archaeology of Landscapes: A guide to good recording practice. Swindon, English
Heritage
CIfA, (2014). ‘Standard and Guidance for Archaeological Field Evaluation’.
Chartered Institute for Archaeologists, University of Reading
Forestry Commission, (2011). ‘Forests and historic environment: UK Forestry
Standard Guidelines’. Forestry Commission, Edinburgh
Hampshire, Bill (2000). The Water Mills of Shipley. Shipley Local History Society
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 42
King William I, (1086). Ed John Morris, (1986). Domesday Book, Yorkshire (Part
Two). Phillimore, Chichester
Natural England, (2014). ‘National Character Area Profile: 36 Southern Pennines’.
Natural England
Sheeran, George (1984). Village to Mill Town, Shipley and its Society 1600-1870,
p5, pp15-16; J S King: Heaton the best place of all (2001), pp17-18.
Smith, A. H. (1961). The Place-Names of the West Riding of Yorkshire. English
Place-Name Society. Cambridge University Press
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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11.0 List of illustrations
Tables
Table 1: List detailing the known archaeological records on and immediately around the property
Figures
Figure 1: Location of Hirst Wood, Shipley in relation to the wider region.
Figure 2: Extent of Hirst Wood, Shipley, West Yorkshire. Previously recorded locally listed monuments
and Listed Buildings are also displayed.
Figure 3: Excerpt of the County of York Surveyed in (1772) MDCCLXVII, VIII, IX, and MDCCLXX
Engraved by Thomas Jefferys (Sheet V). The site o Hirst Wood and New (Hirst) Mill are depicted in
the bend of the River Aire (centre left). Copyright © The British Library Board
Figure 4: Excerpt of the Township of Shipley 1847 survey by G. T. Lister detailing New (Hirst) Mill and
the workers cottages, including the divisions between dwellings (WYAAS Bradford - WYB346/1211
B15).
Figure 5: Excerpt of the Yorkshire 201 (includes: Baildon; Bingley; Bradford; Shipley) OS six-inch
map, surveyed between 1847 and 1848 and published in 1852. The survey depicts the full extent of
Hirst Wood prior to encroachment of Saltaire to the south. Copyright National Library of Scotland
Figure 6: This work is based on data provided through www.VisionofBritain.org.uk and uses historical
Land Utilisation Survey map material which is copyright of The Land Utilisation Survey of Great
Britain, 1933-49, copyright Audrey N. Clark.
Figure 7: 1908 1:2500 First Revision First County Series Survey. © Crown Copyright and Landmark
Information Group Limited (2018). All rights reserved. (1908) An Ordnance Survey/Edina supplied
service.
Figure 8: 1922 1:2500 Second Revision First County Series Survey. © Crown Copyright and
Landmark Information Group Limited (2018). All rights reserved. (1922) An Ordnance Survey/Edina
supplied service.
Figure 9: 1934 1:2500 Second Revision First County Series Survey. © Crown Copyright and
Landmark Information Group Limited (2018). All rights reserved. (1934) An Ordnance Survey/Edina
supplied service.
Figure 10: LiDAR 50cm DSM slope model detailing the extent of coverage across Hirst Wood survey
area. Also presented are the sites identified during the field survey.
Figure 11: LiDAR 50cm DTM slope model detailing the extent of coverage across Hirst Wood survey
area. Also presented are the sites identified during the field survey.
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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Figure 12: LiDAR 50cm DTM Slope Model depicting the site New Hirst Mill (Site No. 60), the workers
cottage site (Site No. 21) and nearby charcoal burning platforms (Site No. 10 and 27) within the
southwest of Hirst Wood. The network of holloways and terraced tracks is particularly clear along
with the area of stone extraction represented as pitting to the northeast.
Figure 13: Distribution of features of archaeological interest recorded during the woodland
survey.
Plates
Plate 1: New Hirst Mill in 1890 (the glass slide was incorrectly labelled Hurst Mill). Originally from the
Bradford Boys' Grammar School collection of lantern slides. Courtesy of Mike Short
Plate 2: The late Iron Age hut circle (WYAS HER No. 2550) viewed from the west. The line of
boulders in the fore-ground represents the outer-face of the boulder walling marking the western face
of the hut circle (Scale is 2.0m; Photograph: P1030974). Copyright Pennine prospects
Plate 3: Volunteers stood within the remains of the mill workers cottages. The wall represents the
rear of the cottages (Photograph Ref: IMAG4101). Copyright Pennine Prospects
Plate 4: Silted wheel pit at the site of New Hirst Mill, note the remains of a turbine located to the left of
the upright 1.0m scale (Photograph: IMG_7939). Copyright Pennine Prospects
Plate 5: The site of New Hirst Mill (Site No. 60) is almost entirely in ruin. Walls made with dressed
and cut stone survive protruding from the south-facing slope of the hill and river bank (Scale is 1.0m;
Photograph: IMG_7940). Copyright Pennine prospects
Plate 6: Possible charcoal burning platform (Site No. 58) viewed from the east (Scale is 2.0m;
photograph IMG_7934). Copyright Pennine Prospects
Plate 7: Large sandstone quarry (Site No. 57) traversing the north-facing slope at the northwest point
of Hirst Wood (Scale is 2.0m; Photograph: IMG_7933). Copyright Pennine Prospects
Plate 8: Drystone wall (Site No. 2) constructed of irregular and regular dressed stone serving to mark
a division in woodland ownership (Scale is 1.0m; Photograph: P1030984). Copyright Pennine
Prospects
Plate 9: The main track through Hirst Wood (Site No. 11) consists of a holloway which winds its way
around the woodland serving to connect with New Hirst Mill, the workers cottages and the areas of
stone extraction (Scales are 1.0m; Photograph: P1030940). Copyright Pennine Prospects
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Appendix 1: Survey Database
Site No.
HER No.
Designation
Easting
Northing
Site Name
Site Type
Sub-category
Description Period Condition/Threat Recommendation
Reference
Importance
1 412937
438182
Pit Slag Pit?
Hollow 7 m in diameter. Cut into the South-facing slope. It is up to 80 cm deep on S side and 1.80 cm deep on N side. At the Southern side is brick and stone building material as well as a deposit of iron slag. The feature may represent a slag pit.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes holly, elder and birch.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9611, DSCF9612, DSCF9613, DSCF9615, P1030987
Local
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2 412700
438110
Boundary
Irregular Drystone Wall
Irregular drystone wall standing up to 1.0m, 0.60m wide. The feature is in a gradual state of decline, serving to enclose an area of woodland immediately to the north of the railway cutting. The feature is recorded on the 1893 1:2500 First County Series Survey and earlier historic maps, and is understood to represent a land ownership boundary. At the northwest corner of the boundary a narrow entrance (1.0m wide) was identified. The site of the entrance/gate is recorded on the available historic mapping. The wall supports angular copping stones and shows evidence the wall has been repaired using mortar to bond the stone work in places.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a poor condition. Vegetation includes sapling and mature beech and holly as well as brambles. Large proportions of the wall have either collapsed or been robbed of material. The site is in a gradual state of decline due to natural root action and windthrow damage.
The feature should continue to be monitored and maintained as a relict boundary. Scrub and sapling tree vegetation should be monitored and where necessary reduced upon the feature to prevent erosion. Young and mature trees upon or within the immediate vicinity should be coppiced/pollarded or felled in order to prevent windthrow damage.
Map Ref: 1893 1:2500 First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: DSCF9616, DSCF9617, DSCF9618, DSCF9619, DSCF9620, DSCF9621, DSCF9622, P1030984, P1030985, P1030986, P1220050, P1220051
Local
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3 412690
438169
Pit Stone extraction pit 3.0m to 3.50m in diameter and 1.50m deep. It is 3 m across running East to West and 3.50m across running North to South. The bottom of the hollow is covered in a deep layer of leaf litter.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation includes holly and overgrowth.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9626
Local
4 412685
438181
Pit Stone extraction pit 6.0m in diameter and 1.0m deep. Holly and saplings grow around the perimeter and birch is in the centre.
Post-medieval
The feature is a fair condition. Vegetation includes holly with birch in the centre.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9627
Local
5 412683
438172
Pit Stone extraction pit 5.0m in diameter amongst dense holly overgrowth with a fallen tree across it.
Post-medieval
The feature is a fair condition. Vegetation includes dense holly cover with a fallen tree across the site.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9628
Local
6 412681
438172
Pit Stone extraction pit 3.0m in diameter and 80 cm deep. There is a mature oak on the South side as well as sapling tree growth.
Post-medieval
The feature is a good condition. Vegetation includes saplings growing around the hollow with mature oak.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9629
Local
7 412689
438166
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 3.0m across running North to South and 2.0m across from East to West. Young beech and oak surround the hollow with some holly. A exposure of gritstone protrudes from
Post-medieval
The feature is a fair condition. Vegetation includes holly, beech oak, and saplings.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9630
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 48
the North side.
8 412622
438096
Pit Linear stone extraction pit orientated east-west. It extends west for 13.50m from the drystone wall boundary. The depression is approximately 3.0m wide and up to 0.60m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is a fair condition. Vegetation includes some beech saplings and holly bush.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9631
Local
9 412641
438077
Pit Hollow 3.50m to 4.0m in diameter and 0.90m deep. It is 3.50m across running North-South and 4.0m across from East-West.
Post-medieval
The feature is a fair condition. Vegetation includes holly and mature oak.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9632
Local
10 412542
438114
Charcoal Burning Platform
Platform measures 9.0m south-north by 11.0m east-west. The platform was constructed into the southwest facing slope. Fragments of charcoal are exposed on its surface. The platform stands up to 2.0m on its southern edge.
Post-medieval
The feature is a fair condition. Vegetation includes beech, bramble and ivy.
The feature should continue to be monitored and managed. Sapling and young tree vegetation should be controlled and where necessary removed to prevent above and below ground disturbance.
Photograph Ref: P1030961, P1030962
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 49
11 413015
438183
Trackway
Holloway
Historic carriageway in the form of a sinuous holloway orientated east-west. The holloway measures up to 3.0m wide at its foot and up to 5.0m wide at its summit. It measures up to 1.50m deep. Within the centre of the woodland the carriageway is less pronounced as it traverses the north-facing slope. The majority of the feature continues to serve as a public footpath.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation includes mature and sapling holly in isolated locations as well as sapling and mature oaks. Dense areas of holly prohibits access to the carriageway in a number of locations.
The feature should continue to be monitored and maintained as a public footpath through the woodland. Sapling and young tree vegetation should be controlled and where necessary removed to prevent above and below ground disturbance to the feature.
Map Ref: 1893 1:2500 First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: IMG_7045, P1030940, P1030941, P1030942, P1030943, P1030944
Local
12 412791
438184
Pit Stone extraction pit located within the northeast of Hirst Wood. The feature measures c.1.50m diameter and 0.20m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030948
Local
13 413054
438229
Veteran Tree
Beech Veteran coppiced beech measuring up to 3.60m in diameter and c.30.0m tall.
The tree is in a good condition.
The tree should be monitored and as a veteran. In order to prevent limb collapse or windthrow the tree canopy may require
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 50
crowning and the removal of deadwood.
14 412895
438288
Pit Stone extraction pit cut into the north-facing slope overlooking the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. The feature is orientated southeast to northwest. On the north side of the hollow is a heap/mound. The hollow is 6.50m long and 9.0m wide. The maximum depth is 0.40m.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes brambles.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030950
Local
15 412904
438283
Pit Stone extraction pit located to the south of the canal and measuring 5.80m in diameter and 0.30m deep.
Post-medieval
Fair. Vegetation includes brambles.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030951
Local
16 412871
438304
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 2.50m long, 2.0m wide and 0.20m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation includes brambles.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030952, P1030953
Local
17 412663
438177
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 8.30m in diameter and 1.50m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes laurel, holly, beech, and birch.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030954, P1030955
Local
18 412627
438183
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 3.50m diameter, 0.80m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation includes holly and beech. Circular erosion.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030959
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 51
19 412633
438158
Pit Linear stone extraction pit consisting of two interlinked pits measuring 9.0m in length. Each of the pits measure 2.60 and 5.0 diameter respectively.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a good condition.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030956, P1030957, P1030958
Local
20 412632
438154
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 4.0m in diameter and 0.15m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation includes beech.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030960
Local
21 412422
438163
Structure
Cottage Site
Structural remains of a row of cottages located within the southwest of Hirst Wood. The cottages were constructed to house the workers of New Hirst Mill, established in 1745. By 1841 the census indicates the row of cottages included 8 dwellings, housing 58 occupants at the time of the survey. The site was demolished in the 1920's. The row of cottages extended for c.60.0m (northwest-southeast) and measured up to 6.0m wide. Access to the dwellings was from the south via now overgrown and largely reduced lane. At the eastern end of the row were at least two store or garage areas
Post-medieval
The feature is in a poor condition. Vegetation includes dense brambles and ivy, sapling ash, birch and sycamore, and mature sycamore, birch and beech. The site is in a gradual state of decline due to natural root action and windthrow damage.
The structure should be monitored and maintained. Scrub and sapling tree vegetation should be monitored and where necessary reduced upon the feature to prevent erosion to upstanding and below ground archaeological features and deposits. Young and mature trees upon or within the immediate
Map Ref: 1893 1:2500 First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: P1040004, P1040005, P1040006, P1040007, P1040008, P1040009, P1040010, P10400
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 52
whereas on the western end was a sub-rectangular garden and outhouse, bound by a track and drystone wall to the south, west and north. Only the rear walls (north-face) of the row of structures survive to any great height (up to 1.70m tall), in a number of locations the remains of individual windows and recesses survive. In addition a number of the partition walls survive, although these stand no more than 1.0m tall and a largely truncated. The front of the cottages (south-face) are absent, with the exception of some areas of foundations which protrude from the scrub vegetation and the structural debris that covers the interior and dwellings. The stone work is a mixture of mortared dressed and irregular gritstone and sandstone. The walls also preserve evidence of rendering.
vicinity should be coppiced/pollarded or felled in order to prevent windthrow damage. Any works at the site will likely require archaeological intervention.
11, P1040012, P1040013, P1220052, P1220053, P1220054, P1220055, P1220056, P1220057, P1220059, P1220060, P1220061, P1220062, DSCF9652, DSCF9653, DSCF9654, DSCF9655, DSCF9656, DSCF9657, DSCF96
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 53
58, DSCF9659, DSCF9660, DSCF9661, DSCF9662, DSCF9663, DSCF9664, DSCF9665, DSCF9666, DSCF9667, DSCF9668, IMAG4101, IMAG4102, IMAG4105, IMG_7086
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 54
22 412535
438161
Pit Large pit cut into the south-facing slope. The feature is located immediately south of a well established track and was likely excavated for the purpose of extracting gritstone. The pit measures up to 8.0m wide (east-west), 10.0m long (north-south) and was cut to a depth of 3.0m.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation consists of sapling beech, mature birch and holly.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9650, DSCF9651
Local
23 412558
438162
Socketed Stone
Large, elongated boulder oriented east-west upon the southern edge of a track. The boulder measures c.3.0m long, 2.0m wide and 1.30m tall. At its eastern end on its north face is a 0.16m diameter socket measuring up to 0.15m deep. It is understood the feature relates to past stone extraction activity within the vicinity.
Post-medieval
Feature is in a good condition. Vegetation includes moss and lichen.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9641, DSCF9642
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 55
24 412482
438148
Trackway
Terraced Track
Subtle terraced track traversing the south-facing slope overlooking the Aire River. To the west the track connects with a charcoal burning platform, to the east it steadily descends the hill slope before becoming lost with scrub woodland. The track measures up to 2.0m wide.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of dense holly.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9649
Local
25 412724
438109
Structure
Irregular drystone wall foundations of a structure constructed against the south-face of an east-west oriented woodland boundary. The purpose of the structure is unknown, although it is likely to represent a more recent recreation structure utilising collapsed stone from the wall it is constructed against. The feature measures up 4.20m long (east-west) by 2.20m wide (north-south).
Modern Vegetation includes a mature ash and holly.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9635, DSCF9636, IMAG4098, P1220048
Local
26 412697
438080
Pit Oval pit attributed to stone extraction within the woodland. The pit measures up to 3.0m diameter and 0.80m deep. Around the edges of the pit are a number of boulders.
Post-medieval
Vegetation includes small saplings, birch, ivy, oak, and ash.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9637, DSCF9638
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 56
27 412474
438156
Charcoal Burning Platform
Charcoal Burning Platform cut into the south-facing slope and measuring 6.40m diameter. The platform stands c.1.80m tall and is cut into the natural slope to a depth of 1.0m. Fragments of charcoal were noted on the surface. The platform was accessed by a subtle trackway from the east and west.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation includes beech saplings, an oak tree stump, holly, ivy and mature sycamore birch and beech.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9643, DSCF9644, P1050959, P1050960, P1050961
Local
28 412486
438157
Pit Semi-circular hollow cut into the southwest-facing. The feature measures up to 2.0m deep, 6.30m long (north-south) by 9.75m wide (east-west). Surface stone was noted during the survey. The feature was accessed from the south via a northwest-southeast orientated track.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a good condition. Vegetation includes beech and birch on the outside edges, small holly growing just below the rear bank.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: DSCF9646, DSCF9647
Local
29 412634
438240
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 0.70m deep, 4.0m diameter. Spoil heap located 2.0m to the south.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes veteran oak and brambles.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030988
Local
30 412641
438248
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 0.80m deep, 9.0m long and 6.50m wide. Spoil heap to the North measuring 4.0m by 2.0m.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes young holly and brambles.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030989, P1030990
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 57
31 412627
438239
Platform Possible platform orientated east-west for 8.50m by 7.0m (north-south). Southern edge of the feature is lined with unworked stone. The soil is notably dark and appears to contain carbonised material.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes sapling beech and young ash.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030991, P1030992
Local
32 412618
438229
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 1.0m deep and 4.0m in diameter. A large gritstone boulder is located on its eastern edge. The boulder appears to have been split.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes saplings holly and beech.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030993
Local
33 412622
438235
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 0.50m deep, 2.80m long by 2.0m wide. Spoil is located on is eastern edge.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes sapling beech and fern.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030994
Local
34 412622
438240
Pit Interlinked network of stone extraction pits and spoil. The sinuous network is oriented roughly northwest to southeast and extends a distance of c.30.0m. The pits measure up to 1.0m deep and 4.0m wide. Exposed gritstone is visible at numerous location within the edges of the pits.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes young holly and beech.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030995, P1030996
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 58
35 412614
438246
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 9.50m long, 8.50m wide and 0.50m deep. Gritstone boulders including a large boulder on its southern edge.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes mature ash, sapling beech, young holly and fern.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030997, P1030998
Local
36 412605
438240
Pit Stone extraction pit and spoil heap orientated north-south. The pit measures 6.0m long, 4.50m wide and 0.50m deep. The spoil heap measures 4.0m long by 2.0m wide.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes young holly and beech.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030999
Local
37 412590
438234
Platform Possible platform measuring 5.50m in diameter.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes young holly and beech.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1040002
Local
38 412605
438248
Pit Stone extraction pit and spoil heap. The pit measures 5.0m diameter and 0.50m deep. Some surface stone located on the edges of the pit.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes young holly and beech.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1040003
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 59
39 412754
438101
Ditch Drainage ditch oriented northeast-southwest. The feature measures up to 2.0m wide, 0.30m deep and extends a distance of c.50.0m. To the south the ditch peters-out as it approaches the railway cutting, to the north it peters-out next to a public footpath. The feature is overlain at a right-angle by an irregular drystone wall.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Local
40 2550 412708
438162
Hut Circle, Hirst Wood
Hut Circle
Site of a possible prehistoric hut circle. The feature was excavated in the 1951 and 1966 although no datable evidence or artefacts were retrieved. The feature measures up to 15.0m diameter and is marked by a truncated rubble filled drystone wall measuring up to 1.50m wide. The outer and inner face of the wall is marked by orthostats. One of the stones along the southern edge of the feature was noted supports a 0.11m diameter, 0.06m deep socket. The interior of the circle is gently sloping, forming a level based bowl c.0.40m deep. Although interpreted as
Prehistoric
The feature is in a poor condition. Vegetation consists of ferns, brambles, moss, sapling beech, young holly and beech. A collapsed mature birch lies across the centre of the feature. The feature is in a gradual state of decline due to natural root action and windthrow damage.
The monument should be monitored and maintained. Scrub and sapling tree vegetation should be monitored and where necessary reduced upon the feature to prevent erosion to upstanding and below ground archaeological features and deposits. Young and mature trees
Photograph Ref: IMG_7046, IMG_7047, IMG_7048, IMG_7049, IMG_7050, IMG_7051, IMG_7052, IMG_7063, IMG_7064, IMG_7065, P1030972,
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 60
prehistoric, its position within an area of general stone extraction may indicate it is significantly later in date.
upon or within the immediate vicinity should be coppiced/pollarded or felled in order to prevent windthrow damage. Any works at the site will likely require archaeological intervention.
P1030973, P1030974, P1030975, IMAG4090
41 412706
438169
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 6.50m (north-south) by 4.20m (east-west). The feature is up to 0.75m deep. The pit is located adjacent to the east of a possible prehistoric hut circle.
Post-medieval
Feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes holly and fern in the centre, with young birch and beech around the edge.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: IMG_7053, IMG_7054, IMG_7055, IMG_7056
Local
42 412699
438173
Pit Circular stone extraction pit measuring up to 1.0m deep at its centre. It measures c.5.0m diameter. Surface gritstone boulders mark its southern edge, along with a single mature oak.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes mature oak, sapling beech and young holly.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: IMG_7057, IMG_7058, IMG_7059, IMG_7060, IMG_7061, IMG_70
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 61
62
43 412699
438173
Socketed Stone
Located immediately northwest of a stone extraction pit is a socketed gritstone of unknown date and purpose. The socket measures 0.11m in diameter and 0.08m deep. The feature is likely attributed to relate to stone extraction activity.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes mature oak on West side.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: IMG_7062, IMG_7063, IMG_7064, P1030982
Local
44 412712
438148
Veteran Tree
Beech Veteran beech, measuring 4.90m in circumference. The tree stands c.30.0m tall. Above 2 m there are vertical branches, perhaps indicating it was once managed as a coppice. Graffiti exists up to 5.0m high.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition.
The feature should continue to be monitored. In order to prevent the risk of windthrow and deadfall the canopy should be managed and dead limbs removed as necessary.
Photograph Ref: IMG_7071, IMG_7072
Local
45 412687
438129
Pit Linear extraction pit located on the northern edge of a track. The feature measures 8.0m (east-west) long by 2.0m wide. It measures up to 0.30m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes holly, beech, oak, and birch.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: IMG_7073, IMG_7074, IMG_7075
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 62
46 412686
438125
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 3.20m (north-south) by 5.50m (east-west). The feature measures up to 0.30m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes holly and beech.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: IMG_7076, IMG_7077
Local
47 412666
438120
Pit Stone extraction site located immediately north of an east-west orientated irregular drystone wall. The pit measures 4.0m in diameter and 0.50m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes holly.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: IMG_7079, IMG_7080
Local
48 412739
438137
Ditch Possible drainage ditch extended northeast-southwest. The feature underlies an irregular drystone wall, petering out to the north on the edge of a footpath and to the south within an area of young scrub woodland. The ditch is no more than 0.20m deep and 2.0m wide.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation to the south of the wall consists of scrub holly, brambles and ivy. To the north open mature beech woodland.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Local
49 412530
438076
Pit Small pit measuring 4.50m diameter and up to 1.0m deep.
Post-medieval
Fair condition. Vegetation includes holly.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: IMG_7080
Local
50 412634
438077
Pit Circular stone extraction pit measuring 3.0m diameter and 0.40m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes brambles.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: IMG_7081
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 63
51 412644
438075
Pit Elongated stone extraction pit measuring 6.70m long (east-west) by 3.50m wide. The feature measures 0.60m deep.
Post-medieval
Feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes holly and birch.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: IMG_7082, IMG_7083
Local
52 412645
438067
Pit Stone extraction pit truncated by a modern fence line and foot path. The feature measures 2.70m east west by 3.0m north-south.
Post-medieval
Feature is in a poor condition. Vegetation includes ivy and bramble. A fence and path cut the feature on an east-west axis.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1220042
Local
53 412647
438085
Pit Stone extraction pit with a mound at its centre. Feature measures 6.20m wide, 9.50m long and 0.70m deep.
Post-medieval
Feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes holly, beech saplings, and ferns.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: 1220043, 1220044
Local
54 412651
438091
Pit Circular stone extraction pit measuring c.4.0m diameter, 0.50m deep.
Post-medieval
Feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes honeysuckle and ash saplings with holly on South side.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: 1220045
Local
55 412653
438093
Pit Stone extraction pit measuring 3.50m (east-west) by 2.20m (north-south) and 0.20m deep.
Post-medieval
Feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes mature oak, sapling beech and holly.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: 1220046
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 64
56 412645
438100
Pit Hollow circle measuring 3.9 m in length at the North-South side and 3.3 m in width on the East-West side. Depth of hollow goes to presence of leaf mould at about 0.75 m. No vegetation in hollow outside of 3 beech trees and an oak circling the hollow. A few rocks circle the hollow as well. Photo shows feature looking North.
Post-medieval
Feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation includes young beech
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: 1220047
Local
57 412411
438248
Sandstone Quarry
Quarry Large sandstone quarry running East-West, facing North, measuring at least 9-10 m tall and 13 m wide. This feature can be seen on the 1893 First County Series Survey right along the canal. Coordinates taken at the centre of feature. The quarry today is a modern recreation area with seating, a place for fires, as well as graffiti and mirrors upon the feature itself. Photos show the feature facing South at ground level.
Post-medieval
Quarry is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of ferns, grass and brambles. Mature and sapling sycamore, beech, oak alder and holly. Some collapse of the exposed bedrock face was noted.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Map Ref: 1893 1:2500 First County Series Survey; Photograph Ref: IMG_7932, IMG_7933
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 65
58 412367
438225
Charcoal Burning Platform
Possible site of a charcoal burning platform located c.20m west of a substantial sandstone quarry. The platform is cut into the south-facing slope just off the summit of the glacial till. The oval platform measures 9.10m (east-west) by 13.0m (north-south).
Post-medieval
The condition of the feature is good. Vegetation includes ferns, grass, moss, mature trees and saplings including oak, beech, and ash. 0% erosion.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: IMG_7934
Local
59 412362
438206
Boundary
Irregular Drystone Wall
Irregular dry stone wall orientated east-west. The feature stands as a south-facing retaining wall marking the northern edge of a well established track. The wall stands 0.30m wide 0.70m tall, and can be traced for c.20.0m. The boundary includes a collapsed gritstone gatepost towards its eastern end. The gatepost measures c.2.0m long, 0.60m wide, and 0.20m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a poor condition. Vegetation includes sapling and mature sycamore as well as brambles and ivy. The site is in a gradual state of decline due to natural root action and windthrow damage.
The feature should continue to be monitored and maintained as a relict boundary. Scrub and sapling tree vegetation should be monitored and where necessary reduced upon the feature to prevent erosion. Young and mature trees upon or within the immediate vicinity should be coppiced/pollarded or felled in order to
Photograph Ref: IMG_7935, IMG_7936
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 66
prevent windthrow damage.
60 412411
438140
New Hirst Mill
Structure
Mill Site Standing remains of New Hirst Mill established on the site of an earlier iron workings site in 1745 by Samuel Denison. Very little of the structure remains following its demolition in the 1920's. Aspects of the mill survive in the form of sections of retaining wall along the south-facing slope as well as the standing, or the foundations of walls which supported the mill house. In addition the leat, sluice and weir survive along with areas of cobbled surface. Much of the site has become silted due to annual flooding. Where upstanding walls survive, they consists of dressed stone bonded with mortar.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a poor condition. Vegetation includes ivy, grass, fern, bramble, mature and sapling sycamore, beech, ash, alder. The feature is susceptible to root, soil and water erosion.
The site should be monitored and maintained. Scrub and sapling tree vegetation should be monitored and where necessary reduced upon the feature to prevent erosion to upstanding and below ground archaeological features and deposits. Young and mature trees upon or within the immediate vicinity should be coppiced/pollarded or felled in order to prevent windthrow damage. Any works at the
Photograph Ref: IMG_7937, IMG_7939, IMG_7940, P1050962, P1050963
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 67
site will likely require archaeological intervention.
61 412360
438159
Leat The site of the leat which fed New Hirst Mill and the earlier iron industry in Hirst Wood survives. The remains of the sluice survive to the east where it was fed from the River Aire, along with site of a turbine. To the west of the mill site, the leat curves to the north, traversing the foot of the hill on which Hirst Wood is located. To the north the leat runs under the Dowley Gap Aqueduct before reconnecting with the River Aire. The leat is largely silted and overgrown although continues to carry water. The feature measures up to 3.0m wide and 1.50m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a poor condition. Vegetation includes ivy, fern, Himalayan balsam, brambles, sycamore, beech, ash and alder.
The feature should continue to be monitored and managed. Scrub and sapling tree vegetation should be monitored and where necessary reduced.
Local
62 412868
438307
Marker Stone
Located on the northern edge of the woodland on the bank of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. The marker stone stands c.0.60m tall, 0.40m wide and 0.10m deep.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Photograph Ref: P1030953
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 68
63 412862
438240
Trackway
Terraced Track
East-west oriented terraced track extending east from an early holloway within the woodland. The track follows the ridge within the woodland and appears to link with a possible sand pit to the east. The feature measures c.3.0m wide and can be traced for c.250.0m.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Local
64 413011
438214
Sand Pit Possible site of a sand pit. The feature is located within the east of the woodland and consists of a c.50.0m diameter hollow up to 5.0m deep. The hollow is surrounded by what may represent spoil heaps.
Post-medieval
The feature is in a fair condition. Vegetation consists of young and mature holly, beech, oak and sycamore.
The feature should continue to be monitored.
Local
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 69
Appendix 2: Distribution Map
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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Appendix 3: Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR)
Figure 10:
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 71
Figure 11:
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 72
Figure 12:
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
Report No: PP10/280717 73
Appendix 4: Digital Archive
Included in this report is a CD-Rom which contains a digital archive for use by the
landowner and regional Historic Environment Record.
The digital archive includes:
PDF digital copy of this report – PP10-280717 BMDC Hirst Wood Report
Excel survey database – PP10-280717 Archaeological Survey Database
Digital photographic archive – PP10-280717 Archaeological Survey
Photographs
GIS Shapefiles of historic mapping data – PP10-280717 Archaeological
Survey Shapefiles
Celebrating Our Woodland Heritage, Hirst Wood, Shipley: An Archaeological Woodland Survey
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Appendix 5: About the Author and Pennine Prospects
At the time of this reports production, the author Christopher Atkinson was in
employment with Pennine Prospects as part of the Celebrating Our Woodland
Heritage Project. As Woodland Heritage Officer, Chris was tasked with carrying out
a programme of archaeological woodland surveys across the South Pennines. Chris
has been in full time employment as an archaeologist since 2006, during which time
he has been employed by Herefordshire Council’s archaeology service as
Community Archaeologist (2006-2013); Project Officer for the National Trust (2015)
and self-employed (2013-2016). He is experienced in landscape survey, site
excavation, geophysical survey, desk-based assessment, use of GIS techniques
(including MapInfo Professional; ArcGIS and QGIS) and the production of
management plans for clients such as Natural England and Historic England.
He holds an undergraduate degree in Archaeology from the University of Wales
Lampeter (2004) and a Masters with distinction in Landscape Archaeology from the
University of Sheffield (2015).
Pennine Prospects is a unique rural regeneration company created in 2005 as a
champion for the South Pennines, the dramatic upland landscape that stands
prominently above the urban centres of Greater Manchester, the Lancashire valleys
and West Yorkshire. It is an award-winning partnership organisation that has
attracted over £5 million of national and European funding to deliver a wide range of
projects aimed at promoting, protecting and enhancing the built, natural and cultural
heritage of the South Pennines.
Pennine Prospects lies at the heart of a well-established partnership bringing
together six local authorities, two water companies, government agencies and the
voluntary sector. The company is strongly committed to sustainable development
and enables partner organisations, local residents and businesses to maximise the
benefit of the area’s rich natural, cultural and heritage assets.
Through its activities, Pennine Prospects supports the economy of the South
Pennines by uncovering, highlighting and promoting all that is special about the area.
In addition, the company develops community projects, promotes access to the
uplands and waterways and connects people with their landscape.