Uncovering the Secrets of Poppleton: Exploring the Origins of a Medieval Village

:mag:Poppleton village exhibits a mix of modern and Victorian houses, with some dating back to the 17th century.

:church:The village layout follows a traditional medieval design, with a main street leading to the church and various smaller plots branching off.

:book:Written records from the Doomsday Book mention that Poppleton had two and a half carucates of land, around 300 acres, in 972.

:pottery:Excavations have revealed pottery fragments dating back to the 12th century, suggesting human activity in that period.

:baby:A child burial was discovered in one of the test pits, likely a common practice in the past.

What is the significance of the village's layout?

—The traditional medieval layout, with a main street leading to the church and smaller plots branching off, suggests a long history and adherence to established village planning principles.

Why are pottery fragments important for dating the village?

—Pottery fragments can provide valuable clues about human activity in a specific period. The discovery of 12th-century pottery suggests that people were living in Poppleton during that time.

What does the child burial indicate?

—The child burial is a poignant reminder of past practices and the importance placed on burying loved ones in consecrated ground, even in challenging circumstances.

Are there any records of earlier settlements in the area?

—While written records only mention Poppleton from 972, the Saxon origins of the village are suggested by the Saxon elements in its name and the presence of a Saxon-era saint associated with the church.

What methods are being used to explore Poppleton's history?

—Various methods are being employed, including test pits, geophysics surveys, and analysis of written records. These approaches help build a comprehensive picture of the village's age and development.

00:00Poppleton village showcases a mix of modern, Victorian, and older houses, with some dating back to the 17th century.

01:25The village layout exhibits a traditional medieval design, with a main street leading to the church and smaller plots branching off.

02:05Records from the Doomsday Book indicate that Poppleton had two and a half carucates of land, roughly 300 acres, in 972.

04:14Excavations have uncovered pottery fragments from the 12th century, providing evidence of human activity during that period.

08:16The church in Poppleton, believed to be from the 11th century, may have earlier structures associated with a Saxon settlement.

10:45Test pits across the village aim to uncover artifacts and structures that can shed light on its origins and age.

12:01A child burial discovered in one of the test pits highlights past burial practices and the significance of consecrated ground.

13:35Efforts are made to expedite communication and analysis of discoveries to ensure a comprehensive understanding of Poppleton's history.