A Later Prehistoric Enclosure Complex at Longnewton, Near Ancrum, Borders

Abstract

The Longnewton enclosures, first recorded as cropmarks in 1978, were recently investigated by AOC Archaeology. A hypothetical sequence of four possible periods of enclosure has been identified and tentatively phased as following square, rectilinear and roughly circular plans with a final curvilinear annexe. Radiocarbon dating evidence indicates that these ditches were in use between the 2 nd century BC and the later 1 st century AD. No internal features were encountered and the finds consisted solely of animal bones and a single sherd of late 1 st century AD Samian Ware. The results from the limited excavation of the interior suggest that the enclosures primarily performed a pastoral function, perhaps the corralling and/or processing of cattle or sheep. Other similar sites in the area have benefitted from more extensive excavations and provide useful comparanda for further speculation on the function of these enclosures.