Digging into Bevendean’s fascinating past

Bevendean residents became amateur sleuths this week, joining archaeologists and local historians to dig into the past and discover the history of their local area and its inhabitants.

The residents are taking part in a week-long Archaeological Community Excavation Project at Farm Green, Bevendean.

Funded by the National Trust’s Changing Chalk Community Grants Scheme, the project is being led by Felicity Thompson and Gemma Ward of Brighton Young Archaeologists’ Club, along with members of Brighton & Hove Archaeological Society and Bevendean History Group.

The archaeologists are excavating four 2m x 5m test pits to investigate the area southwest of Bevendean Primary School, formerly Lower Bevendean Farm. 

Their findings will build on a geophysical survey previously carried out in 2019.

Domesday Book

The settlement of Bevendean is first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the Manor of Bevendene, known to be worth £6 and owned by William de Warenne.

County Historic Environment Records show that the site lies in an Archaeological Notification Area associated with a medieval manorial site and post-medieval farm complex.

From the late 19th century, the farm was split between 7 different tenants and had a total area of about 691 acres. Brighton Corporation purchased Lower Bevendean Farm in 1919.

Most of the farm buildings were pulled down before 1959, but the 16th century corn, hay and straw barn remained in use during the 1950s as a church. 

In the 1970s, an order was raised for the demolition of the remaining buildings.

Historical maps

Using geophysical survey results and historical maps, the test pits will target structural features relating to Carter’s Cottages and the barn. 

The aim is to clarify, where possible, the existence, character, extent and date of these features.

The test pits are being excavated entirely by hand, with spoil sorted and sieved. A metal detector is being used to help find metal objects.

Exciting and unique

Councillor Birgit Miller, Cabinet member for Culture, Heritage and Tourism, said: “It’s fantastic to see Bevendean residents enjoying such an exciting and unique, hands-on opportunity to experience archaeological fieldwork and learn about their local heritage. 

"I’d like to thank the Changing Chalk project for making this happen

“I’m sure the volunteers, students and groups taking part will thoroughly enjoy learning more about their heritage, while becoming part of Bevendean’s history themselves as excavation studies will be recorded and stored for future generations.”

Open Day

The project ends with a local heritage Open Day event on Saturday (28th June), from 10am to 3pm, at the park in Farm Green, when visitors can enjoy displays, talks, performances and local stalls.

Grace Walker, project manager at Changing Chalk, said: “We are delighted that the Changing Chalk Community Grants Scheme funding has helped this archaeological community excavation project at Farm Green, Bevendean, to go ahead.

“The aim of the Community Grants Scheme, run by the National Trust and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, is to support grassroots, community-led initiatives that will help to bring local histories to life, restore lost habitats and provide new experiences in the outdoors.

Fantastic opportunity

“The excavation is a fantastic opportunity for residents to collaborate with archaeologists and local historians, delving into the past to unearth the rich history of the area and its inhabitants. The discoveries made here will enlighten and inspire future generations.”

A full photographic record will be made of the project, along with specialist reports of any artefacts recovered. A report on the results of the fieldwork will be available within three-four months following completion of the community project.

Changing Chalk

Led by the National Trust, Changing Chalk is a multi-partner project connecting people, nature and heritage in the eastern South Downs. 

This includes The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere for which Brighton & Hove City Council is the lead partner.

It is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery players. Together we are working towards creating a sustainable future – restoring lost habitats, bringing histories to life and providing new experiences in the outdoors.

Other Changing Chalk projects in Brighton & Hove include Wilding Waterhall and Greening the Cities